Renovation subsidies for high earners scrapped in new Flemish budget
As part of its search for 1.5 billion euros in budget savings, the Flemish government has scrapped home renovation subsidies for the highest income groups. Only those on low and middle incomes will now receive subsidies.
Subsidies are provided by the Flemish government to help owners improve the quality, safety and energy performance of their homes. They are designed to support works such as structural repairs, roof replacement, electrical and plumbing upgrades, insulation and heating system improvements.
From 1 January 2026, people with the highest incomes will no longer be eligible. The government had previously decided to reduce the subsidy percentage for the highest earners from July 2025. Research shows that people in this category would renovate their properties even without support.
Health insurance premium
Ministers reached an agreement on next year’s budget on Sunday evening. One of the sticking points was an increase in health insurance premiums. These compulsory premiums are paid by every resident of Flanders over 26 for Flemish Social Protection, which offers financial assistance to people requiring long-term care.
This year, the standard premium is 64 euros. It will rise to almost 100 euros in 2026. Green party Groen described it as “yet another attack on families’ wallets”.
"The increase in healthcare premiums ... is yet another bill that this government is placing on the kitchen tables of Flemish families,” said Mieke Schauvliege, Groen’s leader in the Flemish Parliament.
"This government is piling bill upon bill, while at the same time spending billions on airport shares and arms companies"
“After scrapping the childcare discount, rising drinking water bills, bus tickets that are 18 per cent more expensive and sharp price increases in adult education, families are now being hit again,” she said. “This government is piling bill upon bill, while at the same time spending billions on airport shares and arms companies.”
Policy priorities
The budget was agreed ahead of the September Declaration, the annual policy statement delivered by the minister president to the Flemish Parliament, usually on the fourth Monday of September.
The statement presents the budget, outlines the government’s assessment of the region’s social and economic situation, and sets out the policy priorities for the coming year.
#FlandersNewsService | Illustration © PHOTO IMAGEBROKER
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