Shape the future of affordable essentials in remote communities
Have your say on the remote stores Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme
The Australian Government is seeking feedback on the delivery of the Low‑Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme which aims to make food and essentials cheaper and has been rolled out in over 100 remote community stores since July 2025.
If you live or work in a remote community or have an interest in remote stores and food security, we want to hear from you.
Your input will help shape the Subsidy Scheme into the future. Have your say by completing the survey or providing a written submission.
The consultation closes 11:59pm Monday 16 March 2026.
Low‑Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme
The Australian Government has a new initiative to help lower the cost of living and support better health outcomes in remote First Nations communities.
The Low‑Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme aims to reduce the prices of 30 essential everyday products in participating stores. The Government’s commitment to this initiative reinforces its broader efforts to support economic participation, improve health outcomes, and ease cost‑of‑living pressures for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in some of Australia’s most remote communities. Find out more on the NIAA's Food Security page.