Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to ease cost of living pressures in remote First Nations communities, with 100 stores now enrolled in the Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme.
From Wirrimanu, in Western Australia's Kimberley region, to Lajamanu on the edge of the Tanami Desert in the Northern Territory, from Indulkana in South Australia's Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands to Boigu Island, the most northerly inhabited island of Queensland, communities will see the benefits of cheaper groceries and household staples.
Under the Scheme, the cost of 30 essential items has been reduced, so they are comparable to prices in urban areas. The expected savings for remote consumers is up to 50%.
Food items that have been made cheaper include tinned vegetables, canned fruit, pasta and rice, along with everyday items including nappies, soap and toilet paper.
Administered by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, the Scheme is delivered by Outback Stores, a not-for-profit Commonwealth company.
Participating stores are required to sign up to the new National Code of Practice for Remote Store Operations which includes minimum standards aimed at improving capability in three key areas - governance, operations and health.
Once approved for the Scheme, stores can begin ordering stock from the list of 30 essential items to meet the needs of their community.
The Albanese Government is investing $50 million over four years to improve remote food security, including reducing the cost of essential items. The Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme will be capped at 152 participating stores.
