[ad_1]
Thousands of apprentices and trainees will be eligible for a cash boost of $250 to support them as they complete their studies in Canberra.
One time payment comes as ACT Government is trying to offer more help to low-income households in its budget.
Apprentices and trainees tend to earn slightly above the threshold to qualify for federal financial assistance, but still have lower incomes than others in Canberra, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
Get the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today 
Around 5,700 local apprentices and trainees will get a boost under the scheme.
Apprentices and trainees must be currently enrolled and live in the ACT to be eligible and will be contacted by the Government by the end of September.
Other cost-of-living initiatives outlined in the budget include “targeted” relief to ease pressure on households through the Territory Government’s Utilities Concession, which will be increased from $750 to $800 a year to help more than 40 000 low income households.
Households will also benefit from the federal government’s $300 energy bill relief vouchers.
When combined, the relief means one in five Canberra households will receive $1100 in help with their energy bills.
The grounds’ rent relief fund will also be expanded, while an additional $1 million will be used to expand the Education Equity Fund, which helps families with student education costs.
Barr said the budget aimed to reduce spending where possible and provide financial support to Canberrans who need it most.
“While our economy is on track for a 34th consecutive year of growth, the pace of growth will be slower and we know parts of our community are still experiencing cost-of-living pressures,” he said.
“Recognizing these challenges, we are working to help Canberra by increasing the target cost of living.”
[ad_2]
