White House Considers $5,000 Baby Bonus to Combat Declining U.S. Birth Rates
The Biden administration is exploring a $5,000 'baby bonus' incentive to address historically low U.S. birth rates, despite mixed results from similar programs abroad. Evidence from countries like Australia and Hungary suggests financial incentives alone may not significantly impact birth rates given modern parenting costs and changing societal attitudes.
Job Insecurity Fuels Birth Rate Decline: A Tale of Two Nations
New research reveals how temporary employment significantly impacts birth rates in Germany and Australia, with job security emerging as a crucial factor. The study highlights stark contrasts in family support systems, with German families retaining 93% of pre-birth income versus Australia's 59%.
Australia's Housing Crisis Pushes 10,000 Into Homelessness Monthly, Including Working Professionals
A stark UNSW report reveals monthly homelessness increasing by 22% over three years in Australia, now affecting employed professionals like teachers and nurses. The crisis is driven by a 29% real increase in rental costs, with social housing availability dropping significantly despite growing demand.