Big Changes from January 1
As the fireworks signaled the start of a new year, a host of new laws, guidelines and price changes quietly came into effect. These are the big changes kicking in for millions of Aussies from January 1 2026.
Toll price increase: QLD
Tolls for travel on AirportlinkM7 in Brisbane will increase in line with indexation, with the highest minimum toll point for class 1 vehicles at Bowen Hills – Kedron, and Bowen Hills – Toombul ($3.58).
PBS script price cap
The maximum price of a Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme prescription will be capped at $25 for those without a Commonwealth concession card, down from $31.60.
Pensioners will still only have to pay $7.70 per script.
1800MEDICARE
A new nationwide health advice line 1800MEDICARE launched on January 1.
Free for all Australians, users will be able to seek expert health advice or reassurance from registered nurses, who will refer users to relevant health authorities like a general practitioner, the local hospital or a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.
If users need urgent GP care that can’t wait for a regular GP to be available, they can be connected to a free telehealth session with a 1800MEDICARE GP via phone or video, available all weekend and weeknights between 6pm and 8am.
Essential goods cash mandate
From January 1, 2026, retailers who sell groceries or fuel will be forced to accept cash under a new national mandate.
It will apply to in-person transactions of $500 or less between 7am and 9pm, with major grocery retailers like Coles and Woolies set to implement the change.
Small businesses with annual turnover under $10m will be exempt except if they share a trademark with a bigger retailer.
Energy rebate cancelled
Starting 1 st January 2026, households will no longer be entitled to claim Labor’s energy bill rebate scheme.
The National Energy Bill Relief package had provided a $150 rebate to households and eligible small businesses after being extended in July 2025 – this expired on December 31, 2025.
Passport prices to increase
The cost of applying for an Australian passport is adjusted annually in line with the Consumer Price Index.
The application fee for a 10-year passport will increase by $10 to $422.
The updated fees will apply to new applications lodged on or after 1 January 2026 and may vary depending on the length of the passport’s validity.
Childcare subsidy changes
Under the federal government’s 3-day guarantee, families eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) will be entitled to at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per fortnight, replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) activity test.
Eligible families will be able to access the entitlement from January 5.
Author
May Aung