Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will reveal detailed plans to support families and ease the costs of raising children at Singapore’s 61st National Day Rally on August 23, 2026 [1, 2].
The government is conducting a comprehensive review of family support across all life stages, responding to concerns from parents feeling stretched by multiple demands, not limited to marriage and parenthood [1, 3, 2]. Wong said, "We hear these concerns in Singapore too," noting that family life is under strain globally and locally as parents juggle giving children a good start, caring for ageing relatives, and managing work [1].
The review is led by an inter-ministry Marriage and Parenthood Reset Workgroup, announced in April 2026 amid Singapore’s record-low total fertility rate [1, 2]. The government is re-examining issues such as the costs of raising children, access to affordable infant care and childcare, and other measures aimed at lightening the load on families [1, 3, 2].
PM Wong stated, "We are taking a fresh look at issues like the costs of raising children, access to affordable infant care and childcare, and other ways to lighten the load on families. I will share more about these plans at the National Day Rally." He added, "Ultimately, economic growth and technological progress must translate into better lives for all Singaporeans. We want Singapore to be a place where everyone can pursue their aspirations with confidence, raise families with peace of mind, and look to the future with hope." [1, 3]
The government also plans to harness technology and implement stronger safeguards to help children navigate the digital world safely, addressing parental concerns over harmful effects of excessive social media use on youth mental well-being and development [1, 3, 2]. Wong said, "As technology evolves, we will continue to shape it in ways that serve our people and strengthen our society." [3]
PM Wong highlighted family challenges in his August 8 National Day message, outlining the government’s ongoing review of support for families amid societal changes [1, 3, 2]. The detailed policy proposals will be disclosed at the National Day Rally on August 23, marking a critical step in addressing pressures facing Singaporean families today [1, 2].
