How Recent Policy Changes Could Boost Your Financial Growth

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From superannuation tweaks and wage increases to homebuyer support and energy rebates, a wave of recent policy changes is reshaping the financial landscape for everyday Australians. Whether you're aiming to manage your budget more effectively, plan for the future, or take your first step into the property market, these updates offer some timely advantages.

In this blog, we’ll unpack the key changes and explore how they could support your journey toward greater financial stability.

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Higher Wages Mean More Savings Power

If you're earning minimum wage in Australia, you’re now entitled to a pay rise. As of 1 July 2025, the national minimum wage has increased by 3.75%, lifting the hourly base rate to $24.95. For full-time employees working a standard 38-hour week, this equates to $948.10 per week (before tax).

If you’re a casual worker, your minimum rate is higher to account for the lack of leave entitlements. With the 25% casual loading, your new hourly minimum is $31.19.

Over the course of a year, this boost adds up to approximately $1,605 extra in gross income, a meaningful difference that can help ease pressure on essentials like rent, groceries, or utilities. It could also be redirected toward paying down debt or building long-term savings through tools like high-interest savings accounts or micro-investing platforms.

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What You Should Do Now:

• Check your payslip: Make sure your employer has applied the updated rate from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025.
  
• Verify your entitlement: Use the Fair Work Pay Calculator to ensure you’re receiving the correct minimum wage, especially if you’re under an award or agreement.
  
• Review your budget: This is a great time to adjust your financial plan and decide how best to allocate the additional income.
  
  

A small pay rise might not seem like much, but over time, small changes can lead to significant financial progress, especially when paired with informed money decisions.

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Centrelink Support Increases

If you receive government benefits, a 2.4% indexation adjustment means a higher payout starting this financial year.

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Some key increases include:

• Family Tax Benefit A: Up to $227.36 per fortnight (or $295.82 for children 13+ to 19)
• Family Tax Benefit B: Up to $193.34 (or $134.96 for kids 5+ to 18)
• Newborn Supplement: Up to $2,052 for your first child and $685 for each one after, paid over 13 weeks.
• Multiple Birth Allowance: $196.56 (triplets), $261.94 (quadruplets+)

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Income and asset thresholds for pensions like the Age Pension and Carer Payment have also increased, meaning more households could qualify. Even small adjustments can ease financial pressure if you're renting or managing rising expenses.

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Paid Parental Leave Now Comes With Super

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Paid Parental Leave (PPL) now includes super contributions, helping you grow your retirement savings while caring for your child. Starting July 1, 2025, recipients will receive super payments on top of up to 24 weeks of paid leave.

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Here’s what to know:

• Contributions are paid by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), not counted as income
• Paid as a lump sum after the financial year
• Shared between parents if leave is split

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To qualify, ensure your details match across the ATO, Services Australia, and your super fund. This move makes it easier to maintain long-term wealth, even while stepping back from work.

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Slash Power Bills with Battery Rebates

The new Cheaper Home Batteries Program offers a 30% upfront discount on eligible solar batteries (5kWh–100kWh). This can save you 50–80% on electricity bills over time.

Program highlights:

• Open to households, small businesses, and community facilities
• Works with new or existing rooftop solar
• Can be combined with state rebates or finance options

By storing solar energy, you reduce peak demand reliance and create long-term energy independence. If you're planning a property upgrade or want to add value to an investment, this is a great opportunity.

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More Help for First Home Buyers

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1. 5% Deposit, No LMI

From January 1, 2026, the First Home Guarantee will remove income limits and increase property caps, allowing eligible buyers to purchase a home with just a 5% deposit and no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

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2. Shared Equity = Smaller Loans

The expanded Help to Buy scheme lets eligible buyers purchase with the government contributing up to 40% of the home’s value. This reduces mortgage repayments and allows gradual buyout of the government’s share.

These initiatives aim to make homeownership more attainable. Consider combining both schemes to speed up your entry into the property market—especially in growth suburbs.

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Home Modifications & Assistive Tech Support

Need help modifying your home for mobility or independence? The Assistive Technologies and Home Modifications Scheme provides funding of up to $15,000 for eligible Australians.

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This includes:

• Ramps, handrails, and lifts
• Communication and vision tools
• Bathroom upgrades and safety improvements

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This support empowers you or your loved ones to remain comfortable and independent at home.

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Turn Policy Into Progress With Search Property

Understanding these policy changes is only half the battle. The next step? Turning them into action.

At Search Property, we help you translate opportunities into smart moves, whether that’s rentvesting, using a 5% deposit scheme, or identifying suburbs primed for growth. Ready to make the most of these updates?

 Book your FREE strategy call today and let’s map out your next move.