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Biggest winners and losers of the 2024-25 Federal Budget

The unveiling of the federal budget by Treasurer Jim Chalmers was marked by a dual focus on addressing cost-of-living pressures and strategically investing in Australia's future – and was predictably met with both praise and criticism. Reflecting a delicate balancing act between providing immediate relief to vulnerable segments of society and ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability, the measures to alleviate cost-of-living pressures and support key sectors appear commendable, yet concerns persist regarding the adequacy of support for welfare recipients and the potential implications of immigration policies on international education. Read on for the high points, the low points, and all the biggest winners and losers of the federal budget for 2024-25. BIGGEST WINNERS: Low and Middle-Income Earners: At the core of the budget lies a commitment to alleviate the financial strain on low and middle-income earners. With the implementation of stage three tax cuts, Australians can anticipate a welcome increase in their take-home pay. These cuts, announced earlier in the year, are projected to inject an average of $36 per week into taxpayers' pockets by 2024-25. Notably, this initiative is expected to benefit 84% of taxpayers and 90% of women, signalling a targeted effort to support those most in need. Parents: In a move towards greater gender equality and financial security, the government has extended superannuation payments to parents on paid leave. This initiative aims to bridge the superannuation gap and provide approximately 180,000 families annually with additional financial support during crucial early parenting stages. Households and Small Businesses: Acknowledging the escalating energy costs, a $300 rebate on energy bills was announced for more than 10 million households. It was this facet of the budget that drew ire from Jacqui Lambie, Federal Senator for Tasmania, who was furious over the "bizarre" decision, which sees funds being spent on high-income earners such as herself at a time of rising inflation. 'We don't need $300, I can assure you,' she said to a post-budget panel on ABC's Insiders on Tuesday night. "That [funding] should have been passed forward. I find it bizarre." Additionally, small businesses stand to benefit from a $325 boost to alleviate power bill pressures. The extension of the instant asset write-off and the abolishment of 457 nuisance tariffs signal the government's commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth. Aged Care Workers, Renters, Women, Last-Minute Travellers, Music Festivals, and PBS Patients: The budget also addresses various sectors of society, including aged care workers, renters, women, last-minute travellers, music festivals and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme patients. Measures such as wage increases, rent assistance, healthcare subsidies and support for cultural events underscore the government's multifaceted approach to addressing societal needs. Students: Recognising the financial challenges faced by students, the government has taken steps to ease the burden of student debt. By wiping out $3 billion in student debt and overhauling the indexation of HECS debt, thousands of Australian students stand to benefit. Moreover, the introduction of payments for compulsory work placements acknowledges the financial strain faced by students pursuing vocational and tertiary education. BIGGEST LOSERS: International Students: In response to concerns about housing shortages and migration pressures, the government has signaled a crackdown on the influx of international students. Universities will be required to match enrolment growth with adequate housing infrastructure, potentially limiting opportunities for international students seeking education in Australia. Welfare Recipients: Despite calls for a significant increase in JobSeeker and Youth Allowance payments, the budget falls short of implementing substantial changes in welfare support. While some targeted assistance is provided to individuals facing barriers to employment, broader calls for income support reform remain unaddressed. High-Income Earners: While the budget aims to provide relief to low and middle-income earners, high-income earners may experience a less substantial boost to their incomes compared to previous projections. This recalibration reflects the government's commitment to a fair and equitable distribution of resources. Image: ABC

Money & Banking

The hilarious winners of the Comedy Pet Photography Awards

The finalists of the annual Comedy Pet Photography Awards have been announced, with the winnings photographs showcasing a hilarious selection of animals in unusual predicaments. The competition runs each year and is open to photographers of all level of skill and ability, giving pet owners the chance to share the personalities of their furry friends. According to the website for the competition, the annual contest is designed to "promote positive awareness of animal welfare issues and celebrate the incredible and valuable contribution that pets can and do have on our lives.” "Behind the funny images and videos of the competition, there is a very serious and fundamental message to help, respect and care for our animals in the most humane way possible. And every year as our competition gets a little bigger, the message is getting a little louder and we can help more animals." This year's finalists come from all over the world, and show pets buried in snow, captured in mid-air, caught in the middle of cheeky destructions, and even a horse with no head. Fans can <a href="https://www.comedypetphoto.com/peoples-choice-award/vote-peoples-choice-award.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vote</a> for their favourite picture, with the ultimate fan favourite winner taking home a cash prize. Image credits: Comedy Pet Photography Awards

Family & Pets

New claim from Mexican criminal cartel over murdered Aussie brothers

A member of the Sinaloa Cartel has claimed that they were the ones who handed the robbers accused of <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/i-killed-them-major-twist-in-slain-aussie-brothers-case" target="_blank" rel="noopener">murdering two Aussie brothers</a> and their American friend over to police. The city of Ensenada, near where the murders occurred, is under the control of a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, and now they have debunked <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/doesn-t-add-up-new-theory-emerges-in-perth-brothers-deaths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">previous theories </a>that believed the cartel were involved somehow. “They were low-level robbers acting alone,” a member of the group, who chose to remain anonymous, told The Daily Beast. “But we handed them over. We learned that the cops were looking for the gringos and also began looking for those who were responsible. We called the authorities to let them know where to find them.” The cartel member added that the group was afraid of "unwanted attention" from Mexican authorities. Callum Robinson, 33, Jake Robinson, 30, and their friend Jack Carter Rhoad, 30, were all killed in what police have characterised as a bungled robbery while they were camping in the Baja California region during a surfing trip. The trio were reported missing on April 27 after they failed to check-in at their next accommodation. Their bodies were discovered in a well over the weekend with <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/tragic-new-details-emerge-over-aussie-brothers-missing-in-mexico" target="_blank" rel="noopener">gunshots </a>to the head, around seven kilometres from where they were killed. Three people have been arrested, with the alleged ringleader charged with “forced disappearance”. He has not yet entered a plea and charges are expected to be upgraded to murder in the coming days. Image: Instagram/ 7NEWS

Legal

"I killed them": Major twist in slain Aussie brothers case

The girlfriend of the man who allegedly killed Perth brothers Callum and Jake Robinson has reportedly "flipped" on her partner, becoming the star witness in the case. Ari Gisel García Cota was arrested earlier this week, along with her partner Jesús Gerardo Garcia Cota and his brother Cristian Alejandro Garcia, after the bodies of the Robinson brothers and their friend were found on Saturday in a desolate section of Santo Tomas in the Baja California region. According to Mexico police, the three men were killed as a result of a failed robbery, after locals attempted to steal the tyres from their pick-up truck. The bodies of the three men were recovered from a 15-metre deep well, with each man having fatal gun shot wounds to the head. In a major twist to the case, prosecutors revealed to court on Wednesday that Ari Gisel García Cota had become a key witness in the case after turning on the "ringleader" of the crime. “She has flipped on the ringleader and the evidence she’s provided to the prosecution will lead this case going forward,” Nine News correspondent Alison Piotrowski, who was in the courtroom, told 2GB’s Ben Fordham on Thursday. “What’s alleged is that Jesús Gerardo was driving her car that night when he went out to that remote campsite. The prosecution is saying what we’ve been talking about for the last couple of days has potentially happened, that the two Aussies and their American friend were ambushed.” Prosecutors allege Jesús Gerardo “killed them, took their tyres, put the tyres on her car and drove back”. When he went back to their house, the court heard he allegedly told Ari Gisel, “I f**ked up three gringos (English-speaking foreigner).” “She said to him, ‘What do you mean by that?’ And he told her, ‘I killed them’, and then showed her the vehicle with Jake, Callum and Jack’s tyres on her car,” Piotrowski said. “Ari was arrested later that day, she had fled to her mother’s house to get away from him. When the officers arrested her they said, ‘You have the right to remain silent’, and she said, ‘I don’t want to be silent, I want to tell you what I know. I’m a victim of domestic violence, I want to protect my four-year-old so let me help you with this case.’ So she has spectacularly turned on him and will now be crucial in this case moving forward.” Piotrowski added that the stunning revelation explained why Mexican officials “have been able to put him behind bars so quickly and also how they found the bodies”. “This conversation that he had with his girlfriend is pretty damning,” she said. So far only Jesús Gerardo Garcia Cota has been charged in connection with the deaths of the three men, and only with forced kidnapping, while Ari Gisel García Cota and Cristian Alejandro Garcia have only been charged with drug possession. Piotrowski said the kidnapping charges may not be upgraded to murder until the next court hearing, although the judge has more questions about how the three men were killed. “The judge did say that he can’t understand how one sole person could have done this, essentially kidnap and kill three men and take their tyres, it seems like too much,” she said. “He suggested that the prosecution needed to look into more suspects, that they needed to broaden their investigation because it couldn’t have been done by one man alone.” Image credits: Instagram / State Commission of the Penitentiary System of Baja California

Legal

Legendary Aussie soap star dies just weeks before birthday

Brian Wenzel has died aged 94. The beloved Aussie actor, known for his role on A Country Practice, passed away peacefully in an Adelaide nursing home, just weeks away from his 95th birthday. “It is with great sadness that we remember the life of beloved Australian actor Brian Wenzel,” the soap star's agent, Jennifer Hennessy confirmed in a statement. “His iconic and revered performances spanned multiple Australian generations with his wit and humour shining through to the end. “A passionate family man and devoted Carlton supporter leaves an irreplaceable mark on the Australian film and television industry.” Born on the 24th of May in 1929, Wenzel began his acting career at the age of just 17. He became a popular figure on Aussie TV in the 60s and 70s, starring in shows like Homicide, Division 4, and Matlock Police. He then scored his most memorable role as Frank Gilroy, an old-fashioned and uptight sergeant who was the heart of A Country Practice for 12 years. The show ran from 1981 to 1993, with a whopping 1,058 episodes, and he also briefly appeared on Neighbours after the show ended. Wenzel's role as Gilroy earned him a Logie Award for Best Actor in 1981. His final role on-screen was in 2014 for John Doe: Vigilante. In 2018 the actor had suffered two mini strokes that made him unable to walk unaided. “It’s terrible to not be able to walk and I can’t sing anymore, which is terrible. I’m hoping against all hope that I can get it all back again," he said at the time. Four years later, he was marred by his tragic battle with dementia and entered nursing care which he shared with his beloved wife Linda. Image: news.com.au/ Michael Marschall

Caring

Tragic new details emerge over Aussie brothers missing in Mexico

Authorities have recovered three bodies in the Baja California region of Mexico, believed to be those of brothers Callum and Jake Robinson and their American friend who went missing while on a surfing trip. The Perth siblings and their American friend Jack Carter Rhoad went missing last week after they failed to show up at their planned accommodations. Mexican Authorities believe that the brothers were attacked in a robbery gone wrong, and fought back, prompting gunfire from the alleged thieves. The three bodies had gunshots to the head, execution-style, and were found 10 metres down a well outside Santo Tomás about 2km away from what is believed to be the men's campsite. While officials are waiting for DNA results, they believe that there is a "very high probability that it is them". "They were in a state of decomposition. That is why we have to run the genetic tests," Baja California Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade Ramírez told 9News. Police have also said that shell casings were found at the scene. <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/arrests-made-over-aussie-surfers-missing-in-mexico" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Two men and one woman</a> have been arrested in connection with the attempted robbery, after they were found in possession of methamphetamines and one of the missing men's phones. Ramírez also said evidence found along with the abandoned tents was linked to the three people being questioned about the missing foreigners. Local TV network Milenio reported that the suspects appeared to have stolen the surfers’ truck and some of its parts were found in another truck belonging to one of the suspects. "A working team (of investigators) is at the site where they were last seen, where tents and other evidence was found that could be linked to these three people we have under investigation," Ramírez said on Thursday. "There is a lot of important information that we can't make public." A fourth body was also found deeper down the well, but Ramirez confirmed that it had no connection to the investigation. Image: Nine

Caring

Nine-year-old Aussie ballet prodigy scores full New York scholarship

A talented nine-year-old is heading to New York City, after scoring a full scholarship to a prestigious ballet school. Malcolm Doyle's dad Nick said he and his wife knew their son had a talent for dance from a young age, and could not be more proud of the international attention his dancing has garnered. "He's been doing really well here in Australia and since last year, there's been a bit of a focus from overseas," Nick told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/today/aussie-billy-elliot-nine-year-old-ballet-prodigy-scores-scholarship-to-prestigious-new-york-academy/4e3fdf08-3fb7-41a4-89df-eb6ee4b58095" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Today</a>. "He got brought in to do an audition for Chicago's A and A Ballet, who were doing a world broadcast for auditions and from there, we just started to get a bit of interest." "And then this year, we let him do the auditions for the Royal Ballet and he ended up in Hong Kong over Easter." From there, Nick said the American Ballet Theatre in New York got in contact and offered Malcolm a scholarship. Malcolm ultimately turned down the offer and signed with another NYC school, the Ellison Theatre, who offered the youngster a full ride. The family are currently saving up to buy flights over to the US to check out the school, with Nick saying they will do anything and everything to support their son's dream. "It's taking quite a bit of the funds out of my bank account, but the love he's got for dancing, you can't stop him and even if we wanted to, I mean we get home after he's had a full day of dance and he's still dancing around the house," Nick said. Malcolm's dad has a performing arts background and his mum is also a classically trained ballerina and teacher, so Nick said Malcolm was either going to inherit the genes or "end up having three left feet". "He went and saw a production by the Queensland Ballet on the weekend, which he had never seen before and he walked out with half the choreography memorised in his head and trying to reproduce it.," Nick said. After being dubbed "Australia's own Billy Elliot", the Today hosts asked Malcom what it is he loves so much about dancing. "It makes me feel really excited and it's so amazing for me, the feeling I get when I dance," Malcolm said. Image credits: Today

Music

Arrests made over Aussie surfers missing in Mexico

Police in Mexico have arrested two men and one woman in connection to the disappearance of two Aussie brothers who went missing while on a surfing trip. Jake and Callum Robinson, originally from Perth, were travelling with an American friend in Baja California in Mexico's north-west, near the city of Tijuana when they were last seen. The trio failed to check into their accommodation in the city of Rosarito, as their mother put sounded the alarm on social media to help find her boys. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"They have not contacted us since April 27 … they are travelling with another friend; an American citizen," she wrote on a local Baja Facebook group. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"Callum is a Type 1 diabetic so there is also a medical concern. Please contact me if you have seen them or know their whereabouts." <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">In the days after news of their disappearance broke, Baja California Attorney-General María Elena Andrade Ramírez has confirmed that three people have been arrested in connection to the case. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">A 23-year-old woman was arrested along with two men, as one of the brother's mobile phones was found in the woman's possession. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"That is actually how [the three people] were found," local journalist Oliver Quintero told <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-05-03/missing-surfers-jake-callum-robinson-mexico/103799272" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABC Radio Perth</a>. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"The police were able to track the GPS on one of the phones and that's how they got the lady – she was the one who had the phone and was with the other two gentlemen." <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">The car the trio had been travelling in was also found burnt out on a ranch south of the city of Ensenada, where they had been camping out close to a popular surfing spot. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was hopeful a local search would result in a positive outcome. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"We certainly hope these brothers are found safely but there is real concern about the fact that they've gone missing," he said. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">While Baja California is one of the most dangerous areas of Mexico due to organised crime and rampant presence of drug cartels, there is no evidence that the brothers' disappearance is linked to organised crime. <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">Image credits: Facebook

Caring

Why millions of Aussies are falling behind on superannuation savings

Millions of Aussies are falling behind on their superannuation savings, with nearly one in two Australians on track for a grim retirement. According to research from superannuation and investments company Vanguard, this huge number of Australians have no idea how much they are playing in fees to their super funds, which can greatly impact how much you have in savings when your retirement day comes. “We are coming up against a stubborn statistic in our retirement research again this year — almost one in two Australians still don’t know what they pay in super fees,” Vanguard Investments Australia managing director Daniel Shrimski said. Also adding to the confusion of how much is needed for comfortable gold year is different companies sharing conflicting numbers on what figures to strive for in your superannuation. Superannuation consultancy company Australian Retirement Trust’s latest research shows the average superannuation balance for someone age 35 to 44 is $92,700, however this should be closer to $156,000 to be on track for a “comfortable retirement”. The average worker aged 55 to 64 has $285,900 in super but a 60-year-old needs close to $453,000 in retirement savings, ART said. “In the past 12 months, only one in five of us has checked our super balance,” Australian Retirement Trust executive general manager Anne Fuchs said, adding 70 per cent of Australians feel they don’t have enough money to retire on. “We talk to members all the time who have reached the end of their working life full of regret, wishing they had done something earlier. Australia has a monster problem whereby not enough of us are engaging with our super." “The earlier you start paying attention and understanding how your money is invested ... then you’ll really be able to finish work and put your feet up.” Financial consultancy Link Wealth director and financial adviser Joshua Lee told <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/new-research-shows-aussie-superannuation-savings-falling-short-of-retirement-needs--c-14507773" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a> that one of the most important tips for Australians is to take notice and understand their superannuation payments and what they pay in fees. “Take notice of what your account is doing,” he said. “Look at your statement when it comes in every year so you can understand what fees are being deducted from your account because that will have an impact on how much money you have come retirement.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Retirement Life

Peter Stefanovic slammed for "harsh" question to young million-dollar winner

Peter Stefanovic has been slammed online for bringing up a past crime committed by the 19-year-old, who had his life change overnight when he won $1 million. Keegan Payne was fishing in the Northern Territory when he <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/travel/domestic-travel/this-is-crazy-teenager-goes-fishing-and-emerges-a-millionaire" target="_blank" rel="noopener">caught</a> a barramundi worth $1 million, that was part of a years-long fishing competition in the Top End. While dong the media rounds to celebrate his life-changing win, Keegan spoke with Stefanovic on Sky News, who chose to focus on a petty crime Keegan committed when he was just 16-years-old, cutting the joy of his win short. "There is a claim online that you stole a Polaris Ranger and Polaris quad that you and your friends stole and damaged from a business a few years back, first of all, is that true?" Stefanovic asked from his <a id="mol-c0669630-0788-11ef-a01a-6393dcd80371" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/sydney/index.html" target="_self">Sydney</a> studio during the live interview. Payne, who was speaking from the Darwin, simply answered, "Yes". "So, what happened?" Mr Stefanovic pressed. Payne explained he and his friends "were young", and "weren't thinking at the time" but having come up with the idea they "went for it". Stefanovic asked Payne if he regretted the act and he said he did "big time". Social media users were quick to condemn Stefanovic's line of questioning to the teenager, saying he chose to cut him down on live TV, rather than celebrate his success. One person wrote online, "Reporter hears good news. Does everything they can to dig up dirt and be negative. He made a mistake and took the fall out for it and was forgiven way before this win!" Another simply said, "S***ty reporting as usual", while others asked why people couldn't "just be happy for this kid?" "No one's perfect, but to shame him on tv? Talk about rip the carpet from beneath him! Stop kicking people back down when they move forward!" another added "Shows the mentality of dipsh*ts who like ruin other peoples happiness!" Another simply called Stefanovic a "grub", and said he was being "unfair" on the teenager. Image credits: Sky News / Million Dollar Fish

Legal

Aussie cruising fanatics share their top cruise tips

An Aussie couple who are dedicated to cruising have shared their top tips to keep in mind before setting sail. Marty and Jessica Ansen are about to set off on their 130th cruise and have made headlines around the world for their devotion to spending most of their lives at sea. Together they have sailed roughly 770,000 nautical miles over more than 2,300 days on board, which equates to more than six years spent at sea. The Brisbane grandparents, both 77, have just headed off on their tenth trip around the globe, which is also their 52nd consecutive cruise adventure. During all their time spent at seas, the Ansens have learned a thing or two about life onboard, and have shared their top ten tips to make time on a cruise ship as smooth sailing as possible. Their number one tip for cruise travellers is to take a backup credit or debit card, as Marty told <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/cruising/cruise-tips-couple-princess-cruises-marty-and-jessica-ansen-australia/c61281dd-c47a-41bf-b166-608b581eccdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Travel</a>, "Replacing a lost or stolen card while overseas is not for the fainthearted." The Ansens recommend making a clear and legible copy of your passport, as consulates find it a lot easier if you can provide a copy ready to go when you disembark. After all their years at sea, Marty and Jessica are pro-packers, and recommend wearing all your heaviest clothing when you check in to better adhere to a strict weight limit. "Jessica and I have one piece of luggage, usually under 20kg," Marty said. "We also each have one bag of hand luggage. Going on board, regardless of weather, I wear my heaviest clothing." When it comes to packing, they also advise leaving your toiletries at home. "Leave consumables like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and any creams and potions at home as Princess (cruise line) provides basic toiletries and anything you do need can be bought at the first port," Marty said. Marty and Jessica also recommend packing all your essentials in your hand luggage, as it can often take a while for your checked bags to arrive in your cruise ship cabin. "Place all jewellery, passports, visas, medication money and credit/debit cards in your hand luggage for easy retrieval," Marty said. Marty said one thing every traveller must check before setting sail is what electrical connection is used onboard. "Check what electrical connection is used onboard and have the right adapter ready to charge your devices,' Marty said. Many ships have American and European plug points, while newer ones may have USB connections too. When it comes to bringing medications, the Ansens said you should always bring extras, as well as the required paperwork. "As an extra precaution carry copies of scripts so that if you do run out or lose your medications it will be easier to prove what you need to overseas pharmacies or doctors," Marty said. Lastly, like any overseas adventure, the Ansens said it is important to always have travel insurance, and to make copies of your policy. Image credits: X (Twitter)

Cruising

Tragic update on young Aussie Taylor Swift fan

Nine-year-old Scarlett Oliver travelled all the way to Sydney from Perth to see Taylor Swift live, and to her surprise, she was chosen to receive gifts and a hat from the pop star as part of the iconic performance of her hit single 22. The two even shared a big hug and the sweet moment went viral on social media. Scarlett was living with an aggressive form of brain cancer known as high-grade glioma, and now, just weeks after meeting her favourite singer, Scarlett’s father took to social media to share a devastating update. “My Angel, so strong, so brave, so beautiful," Paul announced his daughter's passing on Instagram. "Nothing will ever be the same again. "Don’t forget me and please find a way to let me know you are OK. "Goodnight baby, I love you – Dad." "It’s just not fair,” he concluded the post. Scarlett died just days away from her 10th birthday on May 7. Earlier this month, Scarlett's father shared that his “beautiful” daughter was not doing well and likely had “weeks rather than months” left. He shared that she had spent most of her school holidays in hospital due to complications with her feeding tube, vomiting and "extreme tiredness". “Last night after discharge from hospital she suffered a significant seizure and was rushed to hospital via ambulance,” he wrote. Tributes are flowing in from fellow Swifties who shared their condolences on Instagram. “You were bigger than the whole sky …” one fan wrote, quoting the lyrics to a Taylor Swift song. “We all grieve for you and with you. May she rest in peace, free of pain and illness,” wrote another. “She touched so many hearts,” added a third. Image: Getty/ Don Arnold

Caring

"Big one for shenanigans": Aussie larrikin paddles a giant pumpkin down a river

In potentially the most Aussie story ever and a suspected world first, one bloke has pinched his mate's award-winning pumpkin to turn into a paddle boat and sail down the Tumut River. The enormous pumpkin was grown by farmer Mark Peacock, who grew the vegetable to a whopping 407kg and would regularly post updates on the gourd's growing progress on Facebook. The pumpkin even earned a fitting name, Tormund after a character in Game of Thrones, and was used to feed his livestock. After the pumpkin had served its purpose, Peacock's friend and local canoe club commodore Adam Farquharson saw a once in a lifetime opportunity. Sporting a sailor hat and pipe, he navigated the hollowed-out pumpkin, dubbed ‘Cinderella’, down the Tumut River in New South Wales’ Riverina region, much to the amusement of bystanders. “Barry Humphries said that he’s a big fan of the unnecessary, and I am too. I’m a big one for shenanigans,” he told <a title="www.abc.net.au" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-16/man-turns-mammoth-400kg-pumpkin-into-a-canoe/103708438">ABC Riverena</a><a title="www.abc.net.au" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-16/man-turns-mammoth-400kg-pumpkin-into-a-canoe/103708438">.</a> While initially surprised by Farquharson’s antics, Mr Peacock acknowledged that it was characteristic of his friend’s sense of humour to do something out of the ordinary to make people smile. “He’s really hilarious. But he’s random, occasionally,” he said. “I intentionally grew this as a family project and then started doing Facebook updates every week.” For Mr Farquharson, the voyage was simply about enjoying himself and giving locals an opportunity for a laugh. Farquharson joked about potential future exploits but remained grounded about his brief moment of fame as “Popeye the Pumpkin Man.” “I think the worldwide fame will wear off pretty soon. I won’t end up like Taylor Swift. I’ll just get back to life as normal,” he said. Reflecting on the unusual journey, Mr Farquharson humorously considered preserving the pumpkin as a national curiosity by placing it on a pedestal among Australian sporting royalty. “It was a sad moment. I did jokingly say to my wife that I should petition the prime minister to have it preserved and put next to Phar Lap’s heart at the National Museum,” he told the ABC. “She thought I was an idiot.” Image credits: Facebook

Domestic Travel

Kochie's warning for every Aussie parent

Australian finance expert David Koch has warned parents to think twice before offering financial assistance to their adult children who are thinking of buying their first home. With many young Australians looking to buy property turning to the “Bank of Mum and Dad” for financial help, Kochie has advised parents to approach this with caution, structured agreements, and clear communication, to reduce the risks and protect both parties involved. “The Bank of Mum and Dad provided $2.7 billion to their adult children to buy property over the past year," the finance expert said on his latest column in The Nightly He encouraged a structured approach to navigating the common intergenerational finance practice, and added that financial assistance from parents has become a significant player in the housing market. “If it was an actual bank, it would be somewhere between the fifth and ninth biggest mortgage lender," he said, referring to an estimation by the Productivity Commission. He then warned against the casual approach that is often taken, saying: “We all want to help our kids … But the question is what that help looks like.” “Treat the loan as a business transaction and draw up a formal agreement between each party outlining the terms of the deal, including a set repayment schedule,” he emphasised. Kochie also drew attention to the University of Newcastle’s findings on the increased risk of financial elder abuse associated with parental assistance. “Borrowing from the Bank of Mum and Dad encourages ageist attitudes, which leads to kids financially abusing their parents," he quoted the study. He then differentiated the different forms of financial assistance, explaining the difference between gifts, loans, and guarantees. “If your child is married or in a de facto relationship and it ends, gifts will usually be considered part of the family assets and divided up in court,” he warned. He also offered guidance on parental investments in entrepreneurial ventures, advising parents to “think of your role as that of a regular investor." Image: news.com.au

Money & Banking

Aussie billionaire's ambitious mission to recover family remains

Australia's richest man is undertaking an ambitious mission to bring the remains of a long-lost loved one home, to keep a promise he made to his father before he died. Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest's uncle was one of many Australians who died during the conflict in Papua New Guinea in the 1940s. David Forrest was shot down piloting his RAAF Beaufort bomber into an attack on a Japanese-held airstrip at Gasmata in Papua New Guinea in 1943. The loss has haunted the family ever since, as David's remains were never found. "[We] got the letter, from the king in those days, saying that uncle David was missing and presumed killed in action," Twiggy told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/aussie-billionaire-andrew-twiggy-forrests-search-to-find-loved-ones-lost-in-world-war-ii/9c042a41-c3d1-4b73-af6e-af40c983b81b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair</a>. "Dad went through extreme emotions and grief and since that day he never cried for the rest of his life. "For the next 80 years he couldn't shed a tear it was just overwhelming for him." Twiggy's dad Donald had long said he wanted to hold his brother's dog tags before he died, but after passing away last year at the age 95, he was unable to fulfil his final wish. "Unfortunately we lost dad six months ago so I haven't fulfilled that, but it's really to put closure around something that really wrenched our family," he said. In order to bring closure to the family, Twiggy and his sister Janine have travelled to PNG onboard a purpose-built research vessel and joined by a crew of experts, including marine archeologists. The mission has been ongoing for many years with the blessing of the PNG government and the assistance of RAAF members, but has remained under wraps until now. In 2021, the family thought they had a breakthrough with their mission. "It was really emotional, very heart-wrenching as you went down into the depths thinking, 'Am I going to dive on uncle David's plane and be part of solving the mystery maybe of his remains maybe even his dog tags?' The serial number on David Forrest's Beaufort bomber was A9-188, but the bomber they'd found was A9-186. "I had to tell Dad I can confirm it was a Beaufort bomber, I can confirm it was Australians, but I have to confirm it wasn't your brother's. That was tough." While Twiggy admitted that the chances of finding his uncle's remains are slim, he said he owed it to his father to keep looking. "For my kids and myself, the standard I hold myself to is doing your absolute best," he said. "It's not whether or not you achieve it, it's did you do your best?" Image credits: A Current Affair

International Travel

Survey unveils Aussies thoughts on tourism tax

Earlier this year, Bali launched a controversial tourism tax, which meant that every traveller entering the island would have to pay a $15 fee, which the Indonesian province have said will be used for environmental and cultural projects. Now, Aussies have shared their thoughts on introducing a similar system here, and survey results have revealed that many are keen for the tourism tax to be introduced here. Travel provider InsureandGo conducted the survey and found that 60 per cent of Australians would support the government introducing a tax to combat the rising environmental toll of tourism. "Tourist taxes are a relatively new concept, but as travel demand swells, we are seeing more countries adopt the levy," InsureandGo Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Etkind said. "What's heartening is that only a minority of 37 per cent of respondents don't support tourism taxes, demonstrating just how many Australians support the concept of sustainable travel." The response comes amid increased sustainability concerns on our flora and fauna, which are being threatened by over-tourism. The tax is particularly supported by younger Aussies aged between 18 to 30, with 73 per cent of them saying yes to tourism taxes. Etkind said that this may be because younger Aussies are typically more aware of the environmental impacts of travel compared to the older generation, who may be less accustomed to the tax. Along with Bali, other cities and countries have started introducing similar fees to combat overtourism, with Venice set to charge day-trippers a fee of 5 Euros ($8.20) per visit. Amsterdam, Netherlands has the highest tourism tax in Europe, with the former 7 per cent hotel tourist levy rising to 12.5 per cent this year. New Zealand also charges international visitors excluding Aussie citizens and permanent residents $25 levy ($32.64 AUD) to address the challenges created by tourism in its conservation areas. Image: Getty

International Travel

"Worst experience of our lives": Aussies break silence after being stranded by cruise ship

An Australian couple have spoken out about how their dream holiday turned into a nightmare after they were abandoned by their cruise ship and left stranded in Africa. Violetta and Doug Sanders were two of eight travellers on the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship who took off on a private tour not organised by the cruise while they were docked on the small African island of São Tomé. After their <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/the-key-decision-that-led-to-cruise-passengers-being-abandoned-by-ship" target="_blank" rel="noopener">private tour ran late</a>, the Aussie pensioners and their fellow travellers were unable to rejoin the cruise as the ship was ready to disembark from the port, and were left stranded. Doug and Violetta are still attempting to rejoin the cruise in Senegal to be reunited with valuables such as their passports to finish out their journey. The couple spoke to Sunrise on Wednesday, detailing their nightmarish experience in the foreign country. “It’s been the worst experience of our lives to be abandoned like that in a strange country, can’t speak the language — Portuguese or an African (language),” Violeta said. “We have no money, our credit cards aren’t accepted.” The group of stranded travellers have been racing through six African countries to get to where the ship is docking in Senegal in time, but US travellers Jill and Jay Campbell have cast doubt on whether they will re-board the ship. “We believe that it was a basic duty of care that they have forgotten about — although there are a set of rules, they have followed them too rigidly,” Jill told US media overnight. The group, which included four elderly people, a pregnant woman, a quadriplegic and a person with a heart condition, were set to rejoin the ship last Sunday in The Gambia, however, low-tide meant the ship couldn’t dock at the African port. The Campbells have been using their credit card to look after the entire group, spending more than $5,000 USD so far. Norwegian Cruise Lines has said it is up to guests to be back on time. “Guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily communication and posted just before exiting the vessel,” it said. The cruise line later said it was in contact with passengers and had been “working closely with authorities” to allow the guests to re-join the ship. Image credits: Sunrise

Travel Trouble

"This is a tragedy": Aussie aid worker killed in Gaza identified

The identity of an Australian humanitarian worker killed in a recent airstrike in Gaza has been confirmed as Melbourne-born Lalzawmi "Zomi" Frankcom. Ms Frankcom, along with three other international aid workers and a Palestinian driver, was killed in Central Gaza while working with the World Central Kitchen (WCK) charity, with video footage posted to social media showing their bodies at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. The group were travelling through Northern Gaza into Central Gaza when their vehicle was targeted in an airstrike, Mahmoud Thabet, a Palestinian Red Crescent paramedic, <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/world/australian-aid-worker-killed-in-airstrike-in-central-gaza/69263304-6e35-42c9-bd71-5cea880a4d2b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told the Associated Press</a>. They had been distributing aid supplies to civilians in Northern Gaza and were returning to Central Gaza when the airstrike hit them. Staff produced the passports of three British, Australian and Polish workers who perished, with the nationality of the fourth not immediately known – however, all five were clothed in protective gear with the charity's logo on it. It is unclear why the vehicle was targeted, and the source of the strike has not been confirmed. WCK confirmed the attack with a statement: "We are aware of reports that members of the World Central Kitchen team have been killed in an IDF attack while working to support our humanitarian food delivery efforts in Gaza." "This is a tragedy. Humanitarian aid workers and civilians should NEVER be a target. EVER." Frankcom, 44, has engaged in both national and international humanitarian work, and helped provide aid to communities affected by the Blacksummer2019 bushfires in Braidwood, NSW, according to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/world/australian-aid-worker-killed-in-airstrike-in-central-gaza/69263304-6e35-42c9-bd71-5cea880a4d2b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. She successfully completed a course at Harvard University focusing on Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster in 2021. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the ABC he was concerned by the news. "I'm very concerned about the loss of life that is occurring in Gaza," he said. "My Government has supported a sustainable ceasefire, we've called for the release of hostages, and there have been far too many innocent lives – Palestinian and Israeli – lost during the Gaza Hamas conflict." Image: Supplied

Caring

The captivating winners of the Mobile Photography Awards

It turns out your smartphone camera can do much more than capture pictures of your pets, family holidays and fancy meals. These budding photographers have pushed the limits of their smartphone camera and emerged victorious in the first <a href="https://www.britishphotographyawards.org/2024-mobile-photography-awards/gallery" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mobile Photography Awards</a>, launched this year by the British Photography Awards (BPA), in partnership with Samsung. Entrants submitted their snaps under categories including Portrait, Landscape, Night Scenes, Food & Drink, Pets and Zoom In, creating some of the most breath-taking pics that look as though they have been taken with a professional camera. BPA Awards Director & Photographer, Hugo Donnithorne-Tait, said, "As photography continues to develop as a medium, it is clear that the way people take and enjoy photos is changing too.' "More and more photographs today are being captured only because people have a top camera in their pocket when they need it. This means so many more of life’s moments are being documented." This year's winning photos feature a father and son sleeping side by side, a hiker atop the Scottish Highlands, the bustling London streets from above and below, a furry friend at bath time, and a few hungry seagulls. All image credits: British Photography Awards

International Travel

Aussie surf icon Mick Fanning struck by family tragedy

Australian surfing legend Mick Fanning has been struck by yet another devastating loss in his family. Reports have emerged confirming the passing of Fanning’s brother, Edward, who was in his 40s at the time of his death. This tragic event adds to the already heavy burden of grief that Fanning has endured over the years. The Fanning family has faced multiple heartbreaking losses in the past. In 2015, Mick lost his older brother Peter at the age of 43. Prior to that, in 1998, another of Mick’s brothers, Sean, tragically passed away in a car accident at the young age of 20. News of Edward’s passing came through a heartfelt message from Stevie Maher, a close friend of Edward and a prominent bodyboarder from Coolangatta. Maher took to Facebook to express his condolences and share his grief with the Fanning family. In his poignant post, Maher fondly reminisced about the cherished moments he shared with Edward: "Firstly I want to send my condolences to the Fanning family … mum Liz, dad John, sister Rachel and brother Mick,” Maher wrote. “My heart is broken to hear the passing of my best mate. I enjoyed and had so many amazing times with you Eddie. You were in my wedding party, had so many epic times together in Indo and we were just best mates. I’m goin’ to miss you Eddie and now you rest in peace.” Edward, who had been working at a surf camp in Madagascar, leaves behind a legacy of friendship, adventure and camaraderie. His presence will be deeply missed by all those who knew him, especially by his grieving family and closest friends. As the world mourns alongside Mick Fanning, we extend our deepest condolences to him and his family, hoping they find solace and strength in each other's love and the cherished memories they hold dear. Images: Facebook / Instagram

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"Big one for shenanigans": Aussie larrikin paddles a giant pumpkin down a river

Kochie's warning for every Aussie parent

Aussie billionaire's ambitious mission to recover family remains

Survey unveils Aussies thoughts on tourism tax

"Worst experience of our lives": Aussies break silence after being stranded by cruise ship

"This is a tragedy": Aussie aid worker killed in Gaza identified

The captivating winners of the Mobile Photography Awards

Aussie surf icon Mick Fanning struck by family tragedy

Our Partners

News

Shop

Catalogues

Newspaper

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Compare

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Information

Keep up to date

Search

Biggest winners and losers of the 2024-25 Federal Budget

The hilarious winners of the Comedy Pet Photography Awards

New claim from Mexican criminal cartel over murdered Aussie brothers

"I killed them": Major twist in slain Aussie brothers case

Legendary Aussie soap star dies just weeks before birthday

Tragic new details emerge over Aussie brothers missing in Mexico

Nine-year-old Aussie ballet prodigy scores full New York scholarship

Arrests made over Aussie surfers missing in Mexico

Why millions of Aussies are falling behind on superannuation savings

Peter Stefanovic slammed for "harsh" question to young million-dollar winner

Aussie cruising fanatics share their top cruise tips

Tragic update on young Aussie Taylor Swift fan

"Big one for shenanigans": Aussie larrikin paddles a giant pumpkin down a river

Kochie's warning for every Aussie parent

Aussie billionaire's ambitious mission to recover family remains

Survey unveils Aussies thoughts on tourism tax

"Worst experience of our lives": Aussies break silence after being stranded by cruise ship

"This is a tragedy": Aussie aid worker killed in Gaza identified

The captivating winners of the Mobile Photography Awards

Aussie surf icon Mick Fanning struck by family tragedy

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