This month, one million Australian households are set to benefit from greater government assistance as part of a new effort to alleviate the nation’s cost of living pressures.

On Saturday, the federal government announced a significant boost to its Commonwealth Rent Assistance scheme, increasing the benefit by 10% from September 20.

This increase is part of a broader package of new measures aimed at supporting struggling Australians amidst rising financial pressures.

The rent assistance scheme targets low- and moderate-income households, helping them manage escalating rental costs.

As housing affordability continues to be a pressing issue, this increase represents a much-needed lifeline for many tenants grappling with high rents. Renters across the country, particularly those in urban areas where prices have surged, are expected to feel the impact of this boost, which will put extra money in the hands of those who need it most.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the importance of these measures in easing the financial burdens that Australians face daily.

“We understand that people are struggling, which is why we’re committed to providing genuine cost of living relief, such as more affordable medicines,” he said. “This is tangible support that puts more money back into people’s pockets.”

Health Minister Mark Butler announced that starting September 1, a total of 300 medicines will be available in 60-day prescriptions. These include commonly used medications for acne, asthma, depression, reflux, Parkinson’s disease, glaucoma, and more.

Asthma Australia’s Director of Health Knowledge, Anthony Flynn, stated that the initiative could help people “save time, money, and improve their condition management.”

“Australia has one of the highest asthma rates in the developed world,” Flynn said.

“Among the 2.8 million Australians living with asthma, regular use of inhaled preventer therapy is recommended for most. The 60-day prescription option has the potential to assist millions of Australians in better managing their asthma.”