More than 17,000 early childhood educators across Australia will enjoy a significant pay rise starting this week, thanks to a 15 percent wage increase introduced by the federal government. This historic boost is part of a broader initiative to address the chronic underpayment in the early childhood sector and encourage more workers to remain in Continue reading
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Australia to Tax Big Tech Over News Revenue: A Push to Support Journalism
December 11, 2024 – The Australian government has unveiled plans to impose a new tax on large digital platforms, such as Meta, Google, and ByteDance, if they fail to share revenue with Australian news organizations. The proposed tax, set to take effect on January 1, 2025, aims to encourage tech giants to strike revenue-sharing agreements Continue reading
Telstra Fined $3 Million Over Triple-Zero Network Outage: What Went Wrong?
Telstra, Australia’s national operator of the Triple Zero emergency call service, has been hit with a hefty $3 million fine following a critical failure in March that disrupted emergency call handling. The incident, investigated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), revealed 473 breaches of emergency call rules, shedding light on vulnerabilities in a Continue reading
Plan Ahead: All Statutory Holidays in Canada for 2025
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to start planning your time off in 2025. Whether you’re thinking of a getaway or simply preparing to relax at home, knowing the statutory holidays across Canada can help you maximize your breaks. Keep in mind that not all stat holidays are observed Continue reading
Government Benefit Cheques Coming in January & February 2025: Key Dates and Amounts You Should Know
As we approach the new year, many Canadians can expect to receive government benefit cheques in January and February 2025. These payments aim to provide financial relief, especially with the holiday season in full swing and rising costs affecting many households. Here is an overview of key benefits, payment dates, and maximum amounts for eligible Continue reading
Australians Hit Hard by Health Insurers’ Secret Premium Hikes: A Loophole Exposed
Millions of Australians are being overcharged for private health insurance as companies exploit a loophole that circumvents government regulations on premium increases. A report from the Commonwealth Ombudsman reveals the widespread use of a practice called “product phoenixing,” which allows insurers to raise costs for certain customers while avoiding scrutiny. How Insurers Exploit the System Continue reading
Reserve Bank of Australia Holds Cash Rate Steady at 4.35% in Final 2024 Decision
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has wrapped up 2024 with its final monetary policy decision, announcing that the cash rate will remain unchanged at 4.35% for the ninth consecutive month. This decision, made at the Board’s meeting on Tuesday, keeps the rate at a 12-year high, a level maintained since November 2023 to combat Continue reading
Hidden Treasures: 6 Rare Canadian Dollar Coins Worth $500k
Canada’s dollar coins have a fascinating history, with many designs that go beyond their face value. While today’s Loonie is a staple of Canadian currency, older coins—especially those crafted in silver—have become valuable collector’s items. Some rare coins even fetch thousands of dollars at auction, making it well worth your time to examine your collection Continue reading
Credit Karma Lawsuit 2024: FTC Issues $2.5 Million in Payments to Victims of Misleading Pre-Approval Claims
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun distributing 50,994 payments, totaling over $2.5 million, to individuals who filed valid claims in connection with deceptive “pre-approved” credit offers from Credit Karma. This marks the resolution of a settlement addressing claims that Credit Karma misled users, causing them to waste time and suffer potential credit score damage. Continue reading
Smart Strategies to Maximize Your CPP Benefits and Increase Retirement Income
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) forms a cornerstone of retirement income for Canadians. However, as the CPP Investment Board (CPPIB) emphasizes, the CPP is intended as a foundation, not a full retirement plan. While some Canadians may qualify for maximum CPP benefits, the majority do not. Here’s how you can maximize your CPP benefits and Continue reading