Low-cost essentials subsidy scheme to be expanded

The Federal Government plans to deliver more cost of living support for remote First Nations communities by expanding access to the Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme.

Under the Scheme, the cost of 30 essential items has been reduced, so they are comparable to prices in urban areas. Remote consumers are seeing savings of up to 50 per cent.

Food items that have been made cheaper include canned fruit, tinned vegetables, rice and pasta, along with everyday items including nappies, soap and toilet paper.

Additional $27.4 million

“Our investment is about delivering cost of living relief to more remote communities and making sure more families can access cheaper essential items,” Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said.

“Demand for the Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme has been strong since it opened to applications last July.

“113 remote stores have already signed up to the scheme in the Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland. Now, even more remote stores will be able to sign up and pass on lower prices to their communities.”

The government’s additional $27.4 million investment means an estimated 225 remote stores across Australia can apply to join the Scheme, it will also support independently managed stores to sign-up.

Independently managed stores make up approximately 50 per cent of remote stores and provide an essential service to communities.

To access the Scheme, eligible stores are required to sign up to the new National Code of Practice for Remote Store Operations which includes minimum standards aimed at improving capability in three key areas – governance, operations and health.

Impact out bush

Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour said the government was committed to building up communities but it’s difficult for family to thrive if they can’t afford to eat good quality food.

“This program has made a huge impact out bush and I am delighted that we will be expanding it so more people can access the essentials their families need at a price that is affordable,” she said.

The Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme is a part of the Government’s commitment to improving food security and health outcomes in remote First Nations communities as part of Closing the Gap.