More than four million Australians will receive a pre-Christmas bonus as part of the Federal Government’s “Economic Security Strategy” intended to boost the Australian economy. Since the package was announced on Tuesday 14 October, we have had many enquiries from AboutSeniors subscribers keen to learn more detail about their eligibility. Our Friday Bulletin this week offers a handy PDF summary on these payments to pensioners and families, explaining who will receive them, how much they will receive, when the payments will be made, and other conditions of payment. We are also sharing some frequently asked questions on individual circumstances and the pension payments. Read on for our answers regarding disability pensioners, entitlements for widows, and how nursing home residents may be affected. We have also seen many comments from politicians and “experts” regarding the importance of such payments. Senator Barnaby Joyce has questioned the timing of the payment and Malcolm Turnbull has raised the issue of lack of compassion for pensioners. We have already stated that whilst short term relief is helpful, the base rate of the Age Pension must still be increased – and sooner rather than later. But the people who are most affected are surely those with the greatest right to comment. So if you are affected by changes to the pension and one-off pension payments, please send your comments to us now, or publish them yourselves on the Meeting Place so we can send them back to politicians who are making decisions on your behalf. The first five responses will receive a fabulous book on food and China. Our special thanks go to AboutSeniors subscriber Jill, for her mouthwatering Guacamole dip – just the thing to enjoy, feet up, as you relax into Friday night. And the final comment on the share market comes from our friend and subscriber, Anne, who has been watching those stocks tumble – but still manages to see the amusing side.

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David & Kaye Fallick

Today's trivia quiz tests your knowledge of history with five questions!