The ACT Greens are pushing for urgent cost-of-living relief and long-term economic reform, warning that Canberra households are being squeezed by rising fuel and food prices with insufficient government support.

In a letter to Chief Minister Andrew Barr, the party outlined a suite of proposals it wants prioritised in the upcoming 2026-27 ACT Budget. The Greens argue these measures are essential not only to ease immediate financial pressure, but to prepare the territory for ongoing economic and climate-related challenges.

At the centre of the proposal is targeted support for low-income households, including reinstating programs that help residents transition to electric appliances and vehicles – seen as a way to permanently reduce energy and transport costs.

The party is also calling for financial incentives to boost uptake of e-bikes and e-scooters, alongside making public transport free for the duration of the current fuel crisis. According to the Greens, these steps would provide immediate relief while reducing reliance on increasingly expensive petrol.

Further recommendations include stronger tax incentives for low and zero-emissions vehicles, accelerated investment in electric buses and light rail, and a faster transition toward all-electric homes with a phase-out of the fossil fuel gas network.

ACT Greens transport spokesperson Andrew Braddock is set to introduce a motion in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday aimed at helping Canberrans shift to cheaper and cleaner transport options.

“Canberrans are feeling the pressure, at the bowser and in the supermarket, and desperately looking for any way to reduce their household costs,” Braddock said.

“Public transport, EVs and e-bikes offer a clear, cheaper alternative to fuel-hungry cars. This crisis is already pushing many people to make the switch, and this motion aims to support those who need help to do so.”

Braddock criticised the ACT Labor government’s response as too slow and cautious, arguing that both immediate relief and long-term planning are lacking.

“Right now, the system is fundamentally broken. When people can’t afford the basics and aren’t given real alternatives, it’s everyday households who pay the price,” he said.

“But it doesn’t have to be this way. The Greens have practical, cost-effective solutions ready to deliver real relief – Labor just needs to say yes.”