Australia Increases Welfare Payments for Youth

Australia's DRIVEN program aims to support electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure by providing $40 million in rebates for the purchase and installation of EV chargers at dealerships and repairers over the next four years. Eligible businesses can receive up to $2,500 per charger and $20,000 per site, with applications accepted annually until funds are exhausted. Concurrently, over a million Australians will see an increase in their Centrelink payments starting January 1, with a 3.8% boost that surpasses current inflation rates. In Victoria, new regulations allow homes to connect to gas but with associated fees, while New South Wales bans certain single-use plastics. Additionally, stricter penalties for employers who underpay workers are being implemented, alongside pay raises for aged care staff. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to enhance welfare support and environmental initiatives in Australia.