Monday's headlines

03 Mar 2014

Federal Government announces boost to pension payments, set to kick in from 20 March. In entertainment news, several Australians are flying the country’s flag at the 2014 Academy Awards today.

Federal Government to boost pension payments

The Federal Government has announced a boost to pension payments in an attempt to help 3.6 million pensioners deal with rising living costs. Single age pensioners will receive an increase of $15.70 a fortnight, while couples will receive an extra $23.80. The increase will kick in from 20 March. Read more.

Chinese officials vow to find perpetrators of stabbing

Chinese security officials have vowed to find the remaining perpetrators of the deadly stabbing at Kunming train station that left 29 people dead and more than 130 injured. Ten Muslim separatists from Xinjiang province are being blamed for the attack. Four attackers were shot dead by police, one was captured and the rest remain on the run. ABC News has all the details.

Ukraine’s military on highest alert

Ukraine has put its military on highest alert, calling up army reservists, after Russian president Vladimir Putin declared his right to invade the country. On Sunday, the Russian army surrounded several Ukrainian military outposts and soldiers have been seen digging trenches. Read more.

Wave crashes through restaurant window

A tidal wave has crashed through a restaurant window in Santa Barbara, throwing food and diners onto the floor. Watch the footage and read more on News.com.au

Royal itinerary announced

The Palace has confirmed that Prince George will be accompanying his parents to Australia in April. The Queen has given special permission for two heirs to the throne to travel on the same plane so that Prince William and Kate can be together with their son. In Australia, the royal family will visit Sydney, Brisbane, Uluru, Adelaide and Canberra. Read more.

Eight-year-old finds $20, gives it to soldier

When Myles Eckert found $20 in the parking lot of a restaurant he couldn’t wait to spend it. However, when he walked through the door of the restaurant, he quickly changed his mind. Instead of buying a video game, Myles wrapped the $20 in a note and gave it to a soldier sitting and eating his lunch. Read Myles’ beautiful words.

Aussies headed for Oscar glory

Three Aussies await Oscar glory as the award ceremony gets underway in just a few hours. Australian golden girl Cate Blanchett is tipped to take out the Best Actress category for her role in Blue Jasmine. Fellow Aussie Catherine Martin is nominated in the costume design and production categories. Read more.