Families are at the centre of a new set of measures designed to support them through every stage of life, from starting a family to helping children build their own future.

A key highlight is stronger family leave. Maternity leave will extend to 26 weeks, while fathers will benefit from a full month of paternity leave. Parents will also have access to six months of Government-paid parental leave, along with an additional 28 days of flexible leave that can be shared. This gives families more time and flexibility when it matters most.

Financial support is also being reinforced. A €5,000 Birth Bonus will be introduced for each child, with payments starting during pregnancy. At the same time, Children’s Allowance and In-Work Benefits will increase, with a stronger focus on supporting lower-income households. Continued investment in IVF services will help more families achieve their dream of having children.

Housing remains a key priority. Through the ‘Our Next Home’ scheme, families with more than one child will be supported to move into larger homes and can benefit from the scheme more than once as their needs change. Those facing relationship difficulties will also be supported, with the opportunity to once again qualify as first-time buyers for stamp duty purposes when starting afresh.

Renters will benefit from a more gradual Housing Benefit system. Instead of losing support suddenly, assistance will be reduced over two years, offering greater financial stability and peace of mind.

To learn more about the accommodation measures, you can watch this reel.

There is also a strong focus on children’s development. Parents will receive up to €400 annually in tax refunds for their children’s participation in sports, arts and cultural activities, including football academies. Free swimming lessons for children aged three to five will continue to expand, while access to museums and heritage sites will be widened, building on the success of the Heritage Malta passport.

Watch this reel for more information on proposals designed with families in mind.

Looking ahead, families will receive more support when planning for the future. Higher exemptions on property transfers will make it easier for parents to help their children purchase their first home. VAT refunds on property works will reduce costs for families investing in their children’s future. Changes to succession laws will lower tax burdens for children inheriting a home, while parents inheriting from their children will also be exempt from stamp duty.

Watch this reel for more details on inheritance.

Together, these measures create a more supportive and flexible system, giving families the confidence, stability and opportunities they need to move forward.