When a State Budget is announced, it can feel like a flood of numbers, political jargon, and headlines that don’t really answer the question single mother families are asking: “How will this help me?”
For single mothers already stretching every dollar, rising living costs aren’t abstract economic issues; they’re the daily reality of getting children to school, paying for petrol, managing bills, and trying to stay afloat.
That’s why we paid close attention to the Victorian State Budget handed down last week. Among the announcements, there are a few measures that could bring some practical relief to single mother families.
1. A little relief at rego time
We’ve been speaking for months about the pressure rising fuel costs are placing on single mothers. For many mums, a car isn’t a luxury, it’s how you get to work, school drop-offs, daycare, medical appointments, and the supermarket, often all in the same day.
While petrol prices have eased slightly in recent weeks due to the current cut to fuel excise, experts expect prices could climb again once the relief ends on 30 June.
In response to cost-of-living pressures, the Victorian Government is offering a 20 per cent rebate on car registration this year.
With annual registration sitting at around $930, that could mean about $186 back in your pocket, money that could go towards groceries, school expenses, or simply easing the pressure a little.
Eligible vehicle owners can apply through Service Victoria from 1 June, with claims open until 31 July. Find out more here.
2. Cheaper public transport
We know many single mothers are increasingly relying on public transport as the cost of driving continues to rise.
The government had already announced free public transport across Victoria until 31 May. Now, the Budget confirms that from 1 June, public transport fares will be half-price until the end of the year (and remains free for kids under 18). Find out more here.
Also, don’t forget to download the Servo Saver app, to find the cheapest fuel near you!
3. A pause on rising fines
Parking fines and traffic infringements are rarely intentional. Sometimes all it takes is a tired, stressed mum trying to get three things done at once and missing a sign.
Many families have been concerned about proposed changes that would have increased the cost of fines and added higher fees for overdue payments.
The good news is that the Victorian Government has decided not to proceed with those increases. Existing fine amounts and fee settings will now remain in place until July 2029. Find out more here.
These measures won’t solve the broader cost-of-living crisis facing single mothers, but practical supports like these can make a small difference when every dollar counts.
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