Labor Unveils Cost-of-Living Relief: Energy Rebates, Student Debt Cuts, and Childcare Protections
July 20, 2025
The Coalition plans to challenge Labor on foreign policy issues, especially concerning the repercussions of US trade policies under Donald Trump.
Education Minister Jason Clare will introduce legislation to strengthen protections at childcare centers, prompted by recent child abuse charges against a former worker.
Labor also intends to legislate a two-week increase in Paid Parental Leave and improve superannuation benefits linked to this leave.
The government aims to significantly reduce student debt, proposing a 20 percent cut and the eventual abolition of HECS and HELP debts following their electoral victory.
The repayment threshold for student debts will be lowered from $56,156 to $67,000, with reduced repayment rates for earners around $70,000, saving about $1,300 annually for some borrowers.
Despite opposition from the Coalition, education spokesman Jonno Duniam expects Labor’s education reforms, including the proposed Bill, to pass due to strong public support.
The Labor government has announced a series of cost-of-living relief measures, including a $150 energy rebate, discounts on home batteries, and financial support for essential workers like nurses, teachers, social workers, and midwives.
While the Coalition, now holding 43 seats in the Lower House, remains open to legislative collaboration, it cautions that their support will not be unconditional.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley criticized Labor's proposed superannuation tax on balances over $3 million and has called for greater transparency on new taxes proposed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers.
Starting June 1, 2025, new policies will reduce the average HELP debt of $27,600 by approximately $5,520, easing the financial burden on students.
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news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines • Jul 20, 2025
Huge cost-of-living move coming this week