Australian federal and state governments offer a wide range of rebates, concessions, and grants in 2026 — many of which go unclaimed because eligible Australians simply don't know they exist. From energy rebates to healthcare concessions and first home buyer grants, here is how to maximise every government rebate available to you in 2026.
Energy Bill Relief in 2026
The federal Energy Bill Relief Fund provides direct bill credits to eligible households and small businesses. In 2025-26, households on Commonwealth concession cards or receiving family payments receive credits applied automatically by their electricity retailer. In Queensland, the credit is $1,000 for eligible households; in NSW $250-$500; in Victoria $250. Check with your state energy retailer to confirm what has been applied to your account.
Solar and Battery Rebates 2026
- Federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): Every solar installation generates STCs based on the system size and location. These are typically assigned to the installer and used to reduce the upfront cost — your solar quote should already reflect this discount. A 6.6kW system in Sydney generates approximately $1,800-$2,200 in STC value.
- Victorian Solar Homes Program: Up to $1,400 rebate on solar panel systems for eligible Victorian homeowners; separate $2,500 rebate for solar hot water systems; battery storage rebate up to $2,500 with interest-free loan component
- QLD Battery Booster: $4,000 rebate toward home battery storage systems
- SA Home Battery Scheme: Subsidised loan program for battery storage
Healthcare and Medical Rebates
- Medicare Safety Net: Once your out-of-pocket medical expenses exceed the threshold ($770.30 for singles in 2026), Medicare pays 80% of subsequent out-of-pocket costs for out-of-hospital services
- PBS Safety Net: Once your PBS co-payments reach the threshold (~$1,636 for general patients), medicines become $7.70 each for the rest of the calendar year
- Private Health Insurance Rebate: Government rebate on private health premiums based on age and income — applied as a premium reduction or claimed through your tax return as the Private Health Insurance Tax Offset
Family and Childcare Payments
- Child Care Subsidy (CCS): Up to 90% of childcare fees subsidised for families earning under $80,000; tapers as income increases; applied directly to your childcare provider
- Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A and B: Income-tested payment for families with children under 16 (or 19 if in study)
- Parenting Payment: Income support for primary carers of children under 8 (partnered) or under 14 (single)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I claim government rebates in Australia?
Most federal rebates are claimed through Services Australia (myGov) or directly in your tax return. State rebates vary — energy rebates are applied automatically by retailers for eligible customers, while solar rebates require an application through state government portals. A tax agent can ensure all tax-related rebates (private health offset, offsets for low-income earners) are correctly applied in your return.
Are government rebates taxable income?
Generally no. Most Commonwealth and state government rebates, concession payments, and energy credits are not assessable income. However, some business grants ARE taxable — particularly JobKeeper (now closed) and state COVID grants were assessed as ordinary income. Always check with your accountant when receiving a business grant.
Want to ensure you're claiming every rebate and offset available to you? Contact AWTS — our team reviews your personal circumstances to maximise your refund and entitlements.