Kiran says more than 107,000 people set to benefit through key social welfare programs

More than 107,000 people are set to benefit from this National Budget through key social welfare programs like the Family Assistance Scheme, Social Pension, Disability Allowance, and Transport Assistance with a 10% bus fare subsidy that will also help beneficiaries travel further at no extra cost.

This was highlighted by the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran while supporting the 2025-2026 National Budget.

Kiran says the government has unveiled a people-focused 2025–2026 National Budget, with over $207 million allocated to the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, an increase of $8.4 million from last year.

Kiran adds there is a 20% increase in social protection allowances in the past two years, a 25% rise for pensions for the elderly aged 70, with VAT now reduced to 12.5% and 25 essential items VAT-free, recipients will get more value from their assistance.

She says in a landmark move, the government has set up the Department of Children, and introduced two major laws to better protect children — the Child Care and Protection Act and the Child Justice Act.

The Minister for Women and Child highlights that the funding includes $3.9 million for child protection, and $480,000 to build a new Child Well-being Centre for street children, alongside rehabilitation support to tackle rising drug use and exploitation.

She says to support elderly citizens, the government will renovate and expand aged care homes in Lautoka while Suva has already been upgraded to house 31 elderly residents from the termite-damaged Golden Age Home.

Kiran adds people with disabilities will benefit from a new community-based disability policy, backed by $1.6 million in funding, while a major review of the National Aging Policy and support systems for the elderly is also underway.

She says the government is also putting a spotlight on gender equality with funding for women’s shelters, safe houses, and the launch of a Women’s Emporium in Suva to promote local artisan products.

She adds that the Women’s Economic Empowerment Plan will help women access jobs, start businesses, and gain skills.

The Minister says a review of the outdated 1999 Poverty Strategy will guide a new national plan to tackle poverty, with better data and targeted support to reach those most in need.

Kiran highlights this budget shows a strong commitment to protecting the vulnerable, supporting families, and ensuring no Fijian is left behind.