Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent announcement of a two-month GST exemption has sparked mixed reactions across Canada, especially in provinces with the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). From December 14 to February 15, Canadians in Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island will benefit from reduced tax burdens on major items Continue reading
The Trudeau Liberals Are Running Out of Solutions
Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government has not technically lost the upcoming election yet, but in the broader battle of ideas, it increasingly seems like they’ve already surrendered to the Conservative Party of Canada. The GST Pause and Desperation Politics In a move that raises concerns about their political strategy, the Liberal government recently announced a temporary Continue reading
Torontonians Need $26 Per Hour to Meet Living Expenses, Report Finds
Though minimum wage just increased, it is still not enough to be considered a living wage, according to a new report. At the start of October, the minimum wage in Ontario rose to $17.20 per hour, marking a 3.9 per cent increase from the previous rate of $16.55 per hour. But, the Ontario Living Wage Network Continue reading
Alberta Health Care Worker Voices Concerns Over AHS Reorganization
A front-line worker in Alberta’s healthcare system is raising concerns about the government’s proposed changes to Alberta Health Services (AHS). Known as Elizabeth (a pseudonym for fear of retaliation), she believes that dismantling AHS and creating four separate health agencies—primary care, acute care, continuing care, and Recovery Alberta—will negatively affect patient care. Impact of Siloing Continue reading
Marc Miller Announces Further Reforms to Immigration and Asylum System
OTTAWA — Immigration Minister Marc Miller has confirmed that further reforms to Canada’s immigration and asylum systems will be proposed in the coming weeks. This follows recent changes, including a significant reduction in the number of permanent residents targeted for admission to Canada over the next two years and stricter regulations regarding temporary worker permits. Continue reading
Updated Ontario Living Wage Rates for 2024 Across All Regions
The Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN) has recently updated the living wage rates for 2024 across the province, revealing significant disparities between these figures and the provincial minimum wage. These new rates shed light on the financial difficulties many workers face in Ontario, where the cost of living continues to rise. What is a Living Continue reading
International Students in Canada Can Now Work 24 Hours a Week Off-Campus: What You Need to Know
In a significant change for international students, Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has officially announced that international students in Canada can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while classes are in session. This update, effective as of November 15, 2024, marks a departure from the previous 20-hour weekly Continue reading
Canada vs. Australia: Which is the Better Option for International Students Pursuing Immigration?
If you’re considering studying overseas with the goal of eventually immigrating, both Canada and Australia are top destinations that offer high-quality education and clear pathways to permanent residency. With recent changes to immigration policies in both countries, it’s essential to understand your options before making a decision. In this guide, we’ll highlight key differences and Continue reading
Student Discounts and Special Offers for International Students in Canada
International students in Canada have plenty of opportunities to save money on goods and services. From everyday essentials like groceries and school supplies to mobile plans and even luxury items, there are numerous discounts and offers aimed specifically at students. This guide will help you find great savings as you begin your journey in Canada. Continue reading
New Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Payments to be Sent Nationwide on November 27
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a crucial element of Canada’s social safety net. In 2024, the maximum monthly benefit for CPP recipients is $1,364.60, but only for those who have contributed the maximum amount throughout their careers. Average Monthly CPP Benefit On average, Canadians receive approximately $816.52 per month from CPP, highlighting the importance Continue reading