Budget cuts end insurance welfare support

Fiji's Insurance Scheme for social welfare recipients will be discontinued from August 1, as no funding was allocated for its continuation in the upcoming 2026-2027 National Budget. The Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection confirmed the scheme, administered by the Ministry of Finance, will cease at the start of the new financial year.

The scheme offered one-off financial assistance to eligible recipients for specific needs such as funeral support, fire compensation, and accident-related claims. While the dedicated insurance scheme is ending, the Ministry stated that support in these areas will still be available through existing government programs and relevant agencies.

The government remains committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families through various initiatives, including the Family Assistance Scheme, Child Protection Allowance, Disability Allowance Scheme, Social Pension Scheme, Transport Assistance Programme, and the Allowance for Rural Pregnant Mothers. The Ministry indicated it will continue to review the effectiveness and sustainability of its social protection programs.

Officials added that the Insurance Scheme for social welfare recipients might be reconsidered in future policy and budget discussions. Any changes or reinstatements would be communicated to the public.