Budget 2026 Measures Aim to Boost Affordability for Nova Scotians
On November 9, 2026, Minister Sean Fraser outlined Budget 2026 initiatives in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, including grocery benefit top-ups, a federal fuel tax pause, heat pump rebates, and caregiver credit changes. ACOA also announced over $14 million in funding for 27 local businesses.
On November 9, 2026, Minister Sean Fraser highlighted measures in Budget 2026 intended to increase affordability for residents of Nova Scotia during an event in Dartmouth. The initiatives target costs related to groceries, gasoline, and home heating.
Under the budget, recipients of the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit will receive a one-time top-up equal to 50% of their benefit in the new year. This measure could provide up to $339 more for an individual and up to $679 for a family of four.
The federal government has also placed the fuel tax on hold until the new year. This pause allows Nova Scotians to save up to 10 cents per litre on gas, which amounts to approximately $5 every time a driver fills up their tank.
For home heating, the National Heat Pump Rebate helps cover the costs of switching from oil, propane, or electric baseboards to heat pumps. The program is estimated to yield average savings of $120 a month.
Additionally, proposed changes to the Canada caregiver credit would allow eligible caregivers who owe no income tax to receive up to $1,260 for 2027.
Beyond household affordability, support for local businesses was also addressed. In September, Minister Fraser announced more than $14 million in funding through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) for 27 businesses across Nova Scotia to help them navigate U.S. tariffs.
The announcement was framed alongside broader national economic data. Canada's economy grew by 3.3% in the second quarter, described as the fastest pace in the G7. Over the past year, the country added 214,000 jobs in private employment while the unemployment rate fell to 6.5%. Furthermore, Canada attracted $98 billion in foreign direct investment in 2025, marking its highest level in nearly two decades.