Budget 2026 – What it Means for You
The 2026 Budget is a “steady as we go” one — focused on tightening spending rather than big changes. But there are still some key updates worth knowing:
Cost of living support
Around 150,000 families will receive an extra $50 per week in support
A $450m fund has been set aside in case fuel prices stay high
Tax & income changes
No major tax cuts – most tax settings stay the same
Some targeted tweaks to simplify rules and improve fairness
FBT changes coming to simplify how motor vehicles are treated
Foreign investment rules eased (higher $100k threshold)
Business & sustainability
New support for businesses to transition away from gas, including government-backed loans to reduce energy costs
Ongoing investment in infrastructure and resilience (roads, flood protection, etc.)
Building & growth
Continued focus on housing and infrastructure, including more social housing and major projects
Policy direction aimed at supporting housing supply and development, rather than direct cash incentives
Not-for-profits (NFPs)
Membership fees and subscriptions confirmed as non-taxable
Compliance relief with the tax-free threshold increasing from $1,000 to $10,000
Other points to be aware of
Ongoing public sector spending cuts as the Government aims to return to surplus by 2028/29
More funding for Inland Revenue compliance activity (expect continued focus on tax debt and enforcement)
Bottom line:
No big surprises — this Budget is about careful spending and long-term stability, not quick wins.
If you’d like to understand how these changes affect your business, investments, or cashflow, get in touch with the Blackburne Group team.
