From 1 July the national minimum wage rose by 3.3 percent, lifting the hourly rate for most workers. Parental leave entitlement stretched to 26 weeks, giving families more time after a birth or adoption. The new payday super rule forces employers to send super contributions every pay cycle, not just at year end. Childcare subsidies increased for low- and middle-income families, cutting the cost of early care. Small businesses with turnover up to $50 million now face lower company tax rates under the new rules.
The energy price cap stays in place, but many households say bills are still painfully large and relief is sparse.