THE JUMP in claims for pensions illustrates just how the good life is souring, and not just for baby boomers, a pensions and superannuation expert, Associate Professor John Evans, says.

Taxing times Imagine the Big Boys in Canberra sitting in their comfort zone and seriously brainstorming, how they can squeeze even more tax out of the already overburdened Australian Taxpayers?

The longer they stay, the harder it can be. Annie Lawson reports on a book for parents whose children are moving out - and sometimes back again.

Kathy Lette's latest book, How To Kill Your Husband - And Other Handy Household Hints, is published by Simon & Schuster. Mother's Day reminds Kathy Lette of the shock of hearing the ticking of her maternal clock - and discovering that being a mum is worth it after all.

THOUSANDS of jobs remain vacant in Wollongong and Shellharbour because employers can't find people with suitable skills to fill them.