Temporary 50% boost for social welfare recipients

More than 130,000 social welfare recipients will receive a temporary 50 per cent top-up to help cushion rising living costs amid the fuel crisis situation impacting the country.

The $24 million support package, approved by Cabinet, will be rolled out across all six social protection programmes over the next three months, with payments starting on April 28.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran urged families to use the additional funds wisely, including investing in food security measures such as home gardening.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka earlier said the measure formed part of a broader $56 million Government response to the global fuel crisis, funded through reallocations within the existing 2025–2026 Budget.

He said the support was aimed at “protecting livelihoods, maintaining essential services, and supporting the most vulnerable” during a period of rising costs.

Public transport support

Government has set aside $4 million to support bus operators and prevent service disruptions. From April 1 to July 31, it will absorb an additional 10 per cent fare increase on top of existing fares, alongside the current 10 per cent subsidy. A fuel rebate of 20 cents per litre will also be provided to bus companies.

“This support ensures that our buses continue to operate and that ordinary Fijians can continue to travel affordably to work, school, and essential services," PM Rabuka said.

Power supply stabilised

To maintain electricity supply, Government will provide fuel rebates to Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) for four months — 20 cents per litre on diesel and 12 cents per litre on heavy fuel oil. “This support will stabilise electricity generation and ensure that homes, businesses, and essential services continue to have reliable power during this period.”

Support for farmers

Government has allocated $28 million for a sugar cane price top-up for the 2025 crop season to support farmer incomes and production. Funded from savings All measures will be funded from savings within the current budget due to delays in some projects. Ministries and agencies have also been directed to cut costs. Mr Rabuka urged Fijians to conserve fuel and electricity and consider carpooling and public transport. “Fuel is available. Government is acting. And Fiji is prepared.”