2026 isn’t just about tax and super, there are significant household and community changes coming as well.
Cheaper Medicines
From 1 January 2026, the maximum price for medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) will drop from **$31.60 to $25. This is expected to save Australians around $200 million per year on prescription costs.
Pensioners and concession card holders will continue paying just $7.70, at least through 2030.
Expanded Childcare Subsidies
From 5 January 2026, eligible families will receive a guarantee of up to three days of subsidised childcare per week, regardless of the hours they work, removing a key barrier for families on the income cap up to $530,000.
Centrelink Payment Increases
Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, Youth Disability Support and Carer Allowance payments will all rise in 2026. For example, maximum fortnightly Youth Allowance for a single person will increase to $684.20.
Energy Rebates Ending & Solar Sharer Scheme
Federal energy bill rebates that helped households cover quarterly bills will end in 2026, possibly increasing electricity costs for many. However, a new Solar Sharer program will provide three hours of free electricity daily for qualifying households in NSW, south‑east Queensland and South Australia from July 2026.
New Australian Centre for Disease Control
From 1 January 2026, Australia will launch a permanent Centre for Disease Control (CDC), enhancing surveillance and responses to public health threats.
