The ACT government will make a one-off $250 payment to apprentices and trainees in its cost-of-living concessions in the 2024-25 budget.

The government says it will also expand the Future of Education Equity Fund, with an additional $1m. The fund supports students and families in need with education costs.

The Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate will be increased to $800 a year, which will affect 40,000 households.

The budget cost-of-living concessions also include:

• Expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300.
• Extending the Rent Relief Fund.
• Expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card.
• Additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters.
• Additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services.
• Increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users.
• Increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.