NTCOSS releases latest Cost of Living report, renews calls for solutions to address remote food and fuel prices, and increase to Newstart.

The 13th Cost of Living Report released by the Northern Territory Council of Social Service (NTCOSS) today highlights continuing financial pressures faced by many Territory families.

The 13NTCOSS Cost of Living Report No. 13 CPI-update reveals that insurance (+4.5%), health (+4.3%) and education costs (+3.5%) have all risen over the past year. There was no overall movement in the generic CPI for Darwin (0.0%), in contrast to the national CPI which increased 1% over the past year. Jonathan Pilbrow, NTCOSS Policy Advisor said, “While a low rate of inflation over recent years may seem like good news, not all Territorian households are enjoying the benefits of this” “A low generic CPI for Darwin does not necessarily lead to low prices for all of the goods and services that households require, it simply reflects that there have been price rises in some areas, and decreases in others” Despite rent prices having fallen over the past year, rents have been historically very high, and continue to place strain on low income families.

Mr Pilbrow continued, “In addition, challenges remain across the NT in terms of high food and fuel prices in remote areas – which are not reflected in Darwin CPI figures” “High costs and price increases in critical expenditure areas continue to place great strain on lower income households, items represent a greater proportion of weekly income for these household, and action is required to address these issues”

The NTCOSS Cost of Living report also highlights the inadequacy of Newstart and other allowance payments, which continue to lag behind Pension payments. Newstart is currently $167 below the pension rate, per week. A new Northern Territory government in power presents an ideal opportunity for a renewed approach to tackle cost of living pressures and underlying poverty and disadvantage in the NT. There is an opportunity for the Northern Territory to develop new solutions to address remote food and fuel prices as well as concessions and subsidies for electricity and rent. NTCOSS also continues to highlight the need for a rise in the rate of Newstart by $50 per week, to ease cost of living pressures to ensure that the NT continues to be a great place to live for all Territorians. Read the NTCOSS Cost of Living Report No. 13 CPI-update Read NTCOSS’ Recommendations to the Northern Territory Government (also found in the CoL Report)

For media information contact Jonathan Pilbrow, NTCOSS Policy Advisor
0403 611 815