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
WA Households to Receive $350 Cost of Living Boost: Here’s What You Need to Know
As part of ongoing efforts to combat cost-of-living pressures, households across Western Australia (WA) are about to benefit from a $350 electricity credit. This subsidy marks the second instalment of the state’s two-part electricity relief program, which aims to ease financial burdens on families and individuals during the holiday season. What is the $350 WA Continue reading
Trudeau Holiday Tax Break Sparks Debate Over Grocery Taxes in Canada
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent announcement of a temporary GST/HST holiday tax break has stirred significant public reaction. Social media users and experts have raised concerns, prompting clarification on the nature of grocery taxation in Canada and the potential consequences of the proposed measure. The Holiday Tax Break: What’s Included? Starting December 14, 2024, Canadians Continue reading
Dollarama $2.6 Million Class-Action Settlement Approved: Eligibility & Payout
Canadian shoppers are eligible for compensation following a $2.6-million settlement in a class-action lawsuit against Dollarama over improperly displayed environmental handling fees. If you purchased certain products from Dollarama between 2019 and 2023, you might be entitled to an Interac e-transfer of up to $10. Here’s everything you need to know about the lawsuit, eligibility, Continue reading
Who is Eligible for the Alberta $5000 Grant for Seniors: Apply and Appeal Process
If you’re a senior homeowner in Alberta with a low income, you may qualify for the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) grant to help with essential home repairs. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, qualifying repairs, and how to apply. What is the SHARP Grant? The SHARP grant provides financial assistance Continue reading
Bank of Canada Announces Another Rate Cut and Updates Mortgage Rules
In the final interest rate announcement of 2024, the Bank of Canada reduced its benchmark rate by 50 basis points (bps), bringing it down to 3.25%. This rate cut, which follows a similar reduction in October, is being made amidst a slight uptick in inflation. The Bank’s decision marks its fifth consecutive rate cut, signaling Continue reading
Alberta Senior Benefit Payment Dates 2025: Eligibility & Appeal Process
The Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB) program provides financial assistance to low-income seniors in Alberta. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the program, including the payment schedule, eligibility requirements, how benefits are calculated, application steps, and the appeals process. Payment Schedule for 2025 The Alberta Seniors Benefit operates on a fiscal year Continue reading
City Tax Hike Remains at 2.65% After Monday Review
Overview of the Proposed Tax Levy Increase Owen Sound’s city council has reviewed its draft operating budget, which includes a proposed 2.65% increase in the tax levy. While the draft budget remains close to the initial proposal, several changes were made during the council meeting held on Monday. These adjustments, including additional funding and contract Continue reading
How Canada Post Strike Affects Alberta Seniors Benefit Dec 2024
As a Canada Post strike looms in December 2024, the Government of Alberta has implemented a contingency plan to ensure critical payments, including the Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB), are delivered without interruption. Here’s what you need to know to stay informed and prepared. Government Plan for Uninterrupted Payments To safeguard timely delivery of vital government Continue reading