Putin and Biden File Photo SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks very much. And thanks, everybody. So while this call took place at the government of Russia’s request, it’s consistent with our view that head of state engagements, particularly between these two countries, and particularly going into the intensive period of diplomacy that is to come, not next week but the week after, is appropriate and the best way of moving forward on the very serious situation that we face. The tone of the conversation between the two presidents was serious and substantive. They each framed their positions as they’ve done in previous calls and also as they have done publicly. President Biden laid out two paths, two aspects of the U.S. approach that will really depend on Russia’s actions in the period ahead. One is a path of diplomacy leading toward a de-escalation of the situation, and the other is a path that’s more focused on deterrence, including serious costs and conse...
Centrelink Payments pittance Increase for pensioners, JobSeekers in a cost of living crisis
Pensioner struggling to buy food in Supermarket Photo by Gemini AI Centrelink Payments Are Increasing in 2025: What You Need to Know In a move to provide financial relief amid rising living costs, the Australian Government is increasing Centrelink payments through its regular indexation process . This will provide a welcome boost to millions of Australians, including pensioners , students , and job seekers . Payment Overview A number of key Centrelink payments are set to increase in 2025. These increases are part of the government's commitment to ensuring social security payments keep pace with the cost of living. The increases are being implemented in two stages: on March 20, 2025, and again on July 1, 2025. The payment increases are not a one-off "cash boost" but rather an ongoing adjustment to fortnightly payment rates. This aims to provide sustained support for those who rely on these payments to cover essential expenses. Who is Eligible? The payment increases will ...