The government has announced new policy measures targeting newborns, children, pensioners, vulnerable families and public service integrity under the 2026-2027 Budget.

The measures were outlined by the Minister of Finance, Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molioo, in the Budget Address tabled in Parliament under the theme “AIGA - Accelerating Inclusive Growth and Access.”

A key announcement is the new Child Wellbeing Benefit, with the government allocating $20 million for children from birth to 35 months (two years, 11 months). Under the scheme, eligible children will receive $100 a month. A one-off baby bonus of $200 will also be provided.

The programme will take effect from 1 July 2026, but the first payments are expected in January 2027. According to the budget, the Samoa National Provident Fund (SNPF) and the Ministry of Family and Social Affairs will be able to complete legislative amendments, system upgrades, and beneficiary registration and verification.

Pensioners aged 70 and above will also receive an increase in their monthly payment from $300 to $500, effective 1 July 2026. The budget stated that 7,285 pensioners are expected to benefit from the increase.

According to the budget address, support for vulnerable families has also been increased, with shelter financing rising to $2 million. The government, in its address, said the funding aims to improve access to safe and adequate housing for vulnerable families and low-income households.

In the justice sector, the government has increased legal aid funding to $600,000. It has also allocated $4 million for the first phase of construction of a courthouse and judges’ residence in Savai‘i; in earlier reports, the prime minister announced the construction would cost $16 million. The budget also includes a new public service integrity measure. According to the budget, the cabinet has approved the Drug Testing Procedural Guide 2025 for the public service, which will be gradually extended across the wider public sector.