Western Australia's Treasurer Rita Saffioti has handed down a $3.5 billion surplus in the 2026 state budget, unveiling a surprise $100 fuel voucher for every licensed driver as part of a $1 billion cost of living relief package.
Fuel Handout and Student Payments
The $100 'extraordinary' fuel voucher, which Saffioti described as a measure to keep WA moving through difficult times, will be paid to every holder of a WA driver's licence but can be spent on anything. However, it is not enough to fill an average diesel tank. The Treasurer laughed off suggestions that the Reserve Bank would not appreciate the handout amid rising inflation, stating, 'Well, I didn't like their interest rate increase.'
A third round of student assistance payments has also been announced, worth $150 for primary school students and $250 for high school students. 'It's a significant amount when you add all of those things together,' Ms Saffioti said. 'This means a family of four with two kids in high school would be eligible to receive $700.'
Concessions and Charges
Assistance for concession card holders will increase by 10 per cent to help cover electricity and water charges, which are rising by 2.5 per cent — below the inflation rate. However, motor vehicle charges will increase by 3.4 per cent, and there will be a 5 per cent increase to the emergency services levy added to council rates.
Household Savings
The Government's modelling claims that the 'representative' household will save $221.89 in 2026 — if students catch public transport every day and parents leave the car at home three days a week.
Ms Saffioti emphasised that the budget addresses household challenges in balancing their budgets, particularly since the recent global economic upheaval.
