The NSW Budget 2018-19 was released this week, focusing on initiatives to help NSW residents with the rising cost of living. 

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said that the upcoming budget focused on putting people first. 

“Despite revenue pressures, we have kept expenses under control, pursued bold reform, and made better use of our resources,” Mr Perrottet said. 

NSW household could save up to $1,000 per year on their energy bills. This is with the Service NSW’s new free ‘One-Click Energy Switch’, as it will check a household’s energy usage, search the market for available plans, and assist in changing the providers for the best energy deals. 

$6 billion investment was introduced to fund more than 170 new and upgraded schools over the next four years. 110 major school infrastructure projects have already begun, and 60 more projects will commence soon. 

Moreover, the funding will include providing 1000 public schools with new or replacement air conditioning. 

$200 million has been invested to early childhood education, as families will be able to save an average of $825 a year. The NSW Government will subsidy two years of preschool, as all three-year-olds who are enrolled in community preschools will be eligible. 

From 1 January 2019, the new Creative Kids Rebate will be introduced to support families $100 per school child with the cost of creative extra-curriculum activities. This is an addition to the $100 Active Kids voucher. 

100,000 free apprenticeships for high-demand industries will be offered over the next four years to remove financial pressures on apprentices and employers. 121 different apprenticeships courses will be offered, including industries in construction, aviation, and cooking. 

$8 billion over the next four years will be funded for 40 new and upgraded hospitals across NSW. 

For more information on the NSW Budget 2018-19, visit: https://www.budget.nsw.gov.au/