From 1 July the national minimum wage rose by 3.3 percent, boosting the hourly rate for most workers. Parental leave entitlement extended by 26 weeks, providing 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 went up for low- and middle-income families, easing early care. Small businesses with turnover up to $50 million now enjoy lower company tax rates under the new rules.
The energy price cap remains in place, but many households say bills are still painfully large and relief is sparse.