Western Australia launches $100 fuel support payment for drivers

The Western Australian budget introduced a one‑off $100 "fuel support payment" for holders of a driver's licence, a measure expected to cost about $210 million and cover roughly 2.1 million residents. Treasury Minister Rita Saffioti said the payment was a direct response to the fuel‑price pressure stemming from the Iran war.

Critics argue the payment is too broad. Louise Giolitto, chief executive of the West Australian Council of Social Service, warned that “a single parent with three children will get $100, another household with two parents will get $200… it’s not fair, and it’s not targeted.” The benefit may also be diluted by a $35 increase in vehicle and licensing fees introduced in the same budget, effectively reducing the net gain for many motorists. The payment can be spent on any expense, prompting concerns that it may not reach those most affected by rising fuel costs.

The scheme is part of the state’s broader cost‑of‑living relief package, which has drawn mixed reactions regarding its effectiveness and fairness.