In Short:

• Rebate Ends: The $300 federal energy bill discount and the additional $150 subsidy officially expired on 31 December 2025.
• Cash Guaranteed: For the first time, grocery stores and petrol stations are legally mandated to accept cash, a major win for our remote areas with spotty internet.
• Health Savings: PBS medicine co-payments are now capped at $25, and kids' dental support has increased to $1,158.

Energy rebate ends and households brace for power bill shift, but other benefits increase

Residents across the region are being warned to prepare for a jump in their next electricity statement as the federal government’s energy bill relief officially expires.

The $300 power bill discount, which was rolled out to curb cost-of-living pain, has not been renewed for 2026. An additional $150 subsidy that kicked in last July has also ended. Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed that while the measures were much-needed during the peak of inflation, the government will not extend the relief beyond the December 31, 2025, cut-off.

For many locals, this marks a significant shift in the monthly budget, especially as we enter the peak summer months across the Back Country.

In a move that will be welcomed by many on remote stations and in our smaller townships, the national cash mandate for essential retailers also begins today.

Under the new rules, businesses that sell fuel and groceries, including local supermarkets and service stations, must accept cash payments. This mandate ensures that even when the system is down due to unreliable telecommunications, or for those who simply prefer physical currency, access to life-essentials remains guaranteed.

Healthcare and Family Support

While energy costs may rise, the cost of the family medicine cabinet is coming down:

PBS scripts: The general patient co-payment for medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) is now capped at $25, down from $31.60.

Dental care: The Child Dental Benefits Schedule now covers $1,158 every two years for eligible families, a $26 increase to help cover basic dental services for those under 17.

Childcare: From January 5, eligible families will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per fortnight, regardless of their working hours.

More than a million Australians will see an increase in their bank accounts today as indexation hits Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, and Carer Allowance.

On the roads, the NSW government has made the $60-a-week toll cap permanent for those commuting into the city, alongside a permanent demerit point reward program for safe drivers. However, those planning to head overseas will notice a price hike; a 10-year adult passport has risen to approximately $422 this year.

2026 Snapshot: What's Up and What's Down