As the calendar flips to 2025, a range of new laws and regulations are coming into effect across Australia. From pay rises for aged care workers to higher passport fees, here’s an in-depth look at the key changes you need to know starting January 1.
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Aged Care Workers Receive a Pay Boost
Workers in the aged care sector will see an increase in their pay packets in recognition of their vital contributions. This change applies to:
- Direct care workers under the Aged Care Award, including nursing assistants.
- General care workers under the same award.
- Aged care employees covered by the SCHADS Award.
While the exact pay rise will depend on the applicable award, workers can determine their new rates by consulting the Fair Work Ombudsman’s online pay and conditions tool or the latest pay guides on its website.
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Centrelink Payments Get a Slight Bump
Young Australians receiving Centrelink support will notice modest increases in their payments due to indexation. These include:
- Youth Allowance
- Abstudy
- Austudy
- Disability Support Pension (for those under 21 with no dependent children)
For example, individuals aged 18 or older living away from home without children will see their Maximum Basic Rate rise by $24.30 per fortnight. A full breakdown of these changes is available on the Department of Social Services website.
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Freeze on PBS Medicine Costs
Good news for Australians relying on medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS):
- Prices for PBS medicines will not increase in 2025, as per the 2024 federal budget.
- Concession cardholders will enjoy an extended freeze for five years, with a maximum co-payment of $7.70.
- Other Medicare cardholders will see their maximum co-payment held at $31.60 for the year.
This measure is aimed at easing healthcare costs for millions of Australians.
Intentional Underpayment of Workers Becomes a Criminal Offense
Deliberate underpayment of employees is now a criminal act, bringing tougher penalties for employers. Key points include:
- Maximum penalties for individuals: Triple the underpayment amount or $1.65 million, whichever is higher.
- Maximum penalties for companies: Triple the underpayment amount or $8.25 million, whichever is higher.
- Courts can impose up to 10 years in prison for offenders.
While honest payroll mistakes won’t attract criminal charges, the Fair Work Ombudsman will be closely monitoring compliance.
Big Emitters to Report Climate Risks
Large companies and major carbon emitters will now need to disclose their climate-related risks and opportunities.
This requirement applies to entities with:
- A consolidated revenue of $500 million or more.
- Consolidated gross assets exceeding $1 billion.
- Over 500 employees.
Reports will be due annually, highlighting the increasing focus on environmental accountability.
New Standards for Vehicle Efficiency
From January 1, Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will hold car manufacturers to account:
- Manufacturers will face average carbon dioxide targets for vehicles they sell.
- Companies exceeding these targets must offset them by selling more efficient cars or trading credits.
This policy is part of the government’s push to reduce emissions and promote cleaner transportation.
Passport Fees on the Rise
Applying for a passport will now cost Australians more, reflecting inflation adjustments.
- A 10-year passport for adults (18 years and older) will cost $412, up $14 from last year.
Ensure your travel plans account for this increase if you’re planning to renew or apply for a new passport.
Victorian Short-Stay Levy Introduced
Victorian property owners offering short-term rentals (less than 28 consecutive days) will face a new levy:
- A 7.5% tax on total booking fees, including cleaning fees and GST.
- Exemptions: The levy does not apply to owners renting out their principal place of residence.
For more details, visit the Victorian State Revenue Office website.
2025 Federal Election on the Horizon
Australia will head to the polls this year to decide the nation’s federal government for the next three years.
While the election date has not yet been set, it’s time to start thinking about how the major parties’ policies will shape the country’s future.
What These Changes Mean for You
These updates reflect a mix of support for vulnerable groups, stricter accountability measures, and steps towards a sustainable future. Whether it’s understanding your rights as a worker or preparing for additional costs, staying informed will ensure you start 2025 on the right foot.
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