Starting June 2025, the South African government is rolling out five new social assistance programs focused on reducing inequality and supporting vulnerable communities. These initiatives are part of a broader reform plan to provide financial relief and long-term support to individuals and families in need. By expanding existing grants and introducing fresh pilot programs, the government aims to bridge economic gaps and improve living standards across the country.
One of the major highlights includes expanding the Child Support Grant to cover older children still in school or training. Alongside this, a new Basic Income Grant pilot will provide direct support to unemployed adults with no other form of assistance. These steps are expected to bring immediate relief to struggling households while also offering a framework to test sustainable poverty reduction models.
Additional efforts include extending the Disability Grant to more individuals, launching an Employment Stipend Program to help young jobseekers, and increasing housing subsidies for first-time homebuyers. These changes reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and empowering more citizens through financial and social support mechanisms.
Five New South African Government Benefits Rolling Out in June 2025
1. Expanded Child Support Grant
The Child Support Grant is getting a major boost. For the first time, it will now cover children up to the age of 21—if they are still in school or enrolled in training programs. This change helps families support older children who are continuing their education. The monthly grant amount has also been increased to match inflation, helping families cover basic needs like food, transport, and school supplies.
2. Basic Income Grant Pilot Launch
The government is launching a Basic Income Grant (BIG) pilot, one of the most anticipated social welfare initiatives. This program is designed for unemployed adults aged 18 to 59 who are not receiving any other type of government support. The pilot will begin in select regions to test how effective this kind of monthly support can be in reducing poverty and boosting employment opportunities.
3. Improved Disability Grant Access
Big changes are coming to the Disability Grant as well. The application process will be simplified, making it easier and quicker for people with temporary or partial disabilities to apply and qualify. The grant will also now include better access to medical support and continued social worker assistance, ensuring individuals not only receive financial help but also ongoing care and guidance.
4. Youth Employment Stipend Program
To support youth employment, the government is introducing the Employment Stipend Program. This initiative encourages companies to hire young workers under 35 by offering wage subsidies. At the same time, employees will receive transport and meal allowances for the first six months of employment. The goal is to reduce youth unemployment while helping companies expand their workforce with government support.
5. Housing Subsidy Increase for First-Time Buyers
The Housing Assistance Program is also being updated to better support middle-income families. The income threshold to qualify for a subsidy has been more than doubled, allowing more people—especially first-time homebuyers in cities and semi-urban areas—to access financial support for purchasing a home. This adjustment opens the door for many working families who were previously excluded.
The introduction of these five social benefits in June 2025 marks a major step forward in South Africa’s efforts to create a fairer and more supportive society. By targeting critical areas like child welfare, unemployment, disability support, youth employment, and housing, the government is aiming to improve both the present and future lives of its citizens. These initiatives represent not just temporary relief, but also a long-term investment in the country’s social and economic well-being.
