Fireworks welcomed the new year at the stroke of midnight on Wednesday, 2026. As Australians celebrated the start of the year, a wave of new laws and price changes officially came into effect across the country. From cheaper medicines to more expensive passports, here’s a quick guide to what’s changing from today, January 1.
Lower Medicine Prices and Help for Families
If you’re filling a prescription, your next trip to the chemist could be lighter on your wallet. The maximum you’ll pay for medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) has dropped from $31.60 to $25 per script. For pensioners and concession card holders, the cost remains low at $7.70.
Big changes are also coming for families. A new “3 Day Guarantee” means most families are now entitled to 72 hours of subsidised childcare every fortnight. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children may receive up to 100 hours. Although the rules start being processed now, the full change will apply to everyone by January 5.
Changes for Workers and Businesses
For apprentices, payment structures are shifting. The government is introducing new $5,000 grants for employers who hire apprentices in “priority” industries like clean energy and housing. However, other apprenticeship payments have been halved, from $5,000 to $2,500.
There’s also a new rule for retail. Large businesses such as supermarkets and petrol stations must now accept cash payments. Smaller businesses earning under $10 million a year are exempt, so they can still choose to operate as “card-only.”
Higher Costs and New Bans
Not every change brings savings. Australia’s already world-leading passport fees have risen again, a 10-year adult passport now costs $422 (up $10 from 2025), while 5-year children’s passports now cost $213.
In Sydney, a new gas ban has begun. Newly built homes and apartments in the city can no longer include gas cooktops or heaters. This is part of the city’s goal to become “all-electric,” reducing emissions and improving indoor air quality.
Entertainment and Energy Bills
If you love streaming, expect to see more local content. From this week, major platforms like Netflix and Disney+ must invest 10% of their Australian revenue into producing local shows, documentaries, and children’s programs.
However, there’s some bad news for household budgets: the government’s energy rebate program has ended. Since 2023, many families have received $75 off each quarterly power bill, but with the rebate finished, electricity costs are expected to rise from this month.
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