The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has expressed enthusiastic support for the recently unveiled 2025–2026 National Budget, describing it as “very pragmatic.” Executive Director Vani Catanasiga commended the government for addressing key public concerns, specifically noting the budget’s focus on measures to benefit ordinary citizens.
One of the highlights of the budget is a 3 percent pay increase for civil servants, which is anticipated to inject approximately $115 million directly into household incomes starting in August 2025. This increase, alongside previous raises ranging from 7 to 20 percent announced in earlier budgets, will amount to an overall pay rise of 10 to 23 percent for civil servants within just one year.
Additionally, the government will implement a 10 percent bus fare subsidy for all citizens, costing around $10 million, aimed at alleviating transportation expenses. Catanasiga remarked that these initiatives, including salary hikes and zero-VAT items, are set to have a significant positive impact on the daily lives of average citizens, emphasizing the importance of the budget’s implementability.
Moreover, the budget allocates increased funds to the Rural Development Ministry for critical infrastructure projects such as roads and footpaths, aligning with FCOSS’s submissions to the government. Catanasiga acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation of monitoring measures for the successful implementation of these initiatives.
The emphasis on community needs and the proactive engagement with citizen feedback reflect a broader commitment by the government to create a responsive governance model. This collaborative approach not only aims to address immediate concerns but also sets the stage for longer-term development, promising a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s citizens.
Overall, the new budget is seen as an important step toward improving living standards and fostering sustainable growth as the nation navigates economic challenges.
Leave a comment