Published on 1 July 2021
This year’s federal budgets have been under scrutiny by the public eye, but what does it all mean? Deciphering the budget terminology can be confusing, so we’ve put together an article on key facts and budgets that affect children and families over the next few years.
1. Childcare
Changes are happening to the Childcare Subsidy Scheme, but they won’t come into effect until July 2022. Changes include:
- If you have one child in childcare, the subsidy stays at 65 per cent but if you have two or more, it's 95 per cent for each child.
- The annual $10,560 cap on households with an income of more than $189,390 will be abolished.
2. Preschool
- The funding agreement still has to be worked out with the states and territories – however at least 15 hours a week of preschool should be covered.
3. Pregnancy/Birth
- More than $47 million is being put toward depression services for pregnant women and new mothers
- $95.9 million on screening of embryos during IVF
- $13.7 million to reduce pre-term birth rates, especially among Indigenous communities.
4. Women’s Health
- Funding for further education on endometriosis and additional screening for breast (beginning from 40years) and cervical cancer
5. Domestic Violence
$998 million is dedicated over the next four years towards reducing domestic and family violence, and supporting survivors. Including:
- A new trial program which gives women fleeing violent relationships up to $5,000 in assistance, split into a $1,500 payment and $3,500 in expenses like rent, legal fees and furniture.
6. Single Parents
- A new four-year scheme will offer 10,000 single parents who have dependent children, assistance to buy a home with as little as a 2 per cent deposit.
For further information on the federal budget visit the official Budget Website. To find out more regarding the state budget and some of the exciting options available click here.