Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first federal budget paints an ambitious picture — one focused on nation-building and long-term investment rather than short-term affordability relief. Framed as an “investment budget,” the 2025 fiscal plan centers on boosting productivity, innovation, and infrastructure — not direct household support.

Still, the 405-page document includes a few items that could touch everyday Canadians.

ATM Fees, E-Transfers, and Faster Cheque Deposits
The government plans to review the fees Canadians pay for using ATMs and sending e-transfers, with results expected next year. The budget also raises the amount people can instantly access from a cheque — from $100 to $150 — and promises quicker access to electronic deposits.

Canada Disability Benefit Access Eased
To simplify access to the Canada Disability Benefit, Ottawa will cover the cost of obtaining the required Disability Tax Credit. About $115 million is earmarked over four years for this improvement.

Support for Youth Jobs
With youth unemployment at its highest point in 15 years (outside the pandemic), the Canada Summer Jobs program will receive extra funding to create around 100,000 positions next summer — up from 76,000 last year.

Social Programs Stay Intact
Despite a shift toward big-ticket investments, Carney isn’t cutting Trudeau-era initiatives like $10-a-day childcare, dental care, or pharmacare. The National School Food Program will also become permanent, receiving $1 billion over five years.

Medical Cannabis Adjustments
To save $4.4 billion over four years, Ottawa will reduce reimbursement rates for veterans and RCMP members using medical cannabis — from $8.50 per gram to $6.00, still above market price.

A Eurovision Dream?
In a surprise cultural twist, the budget mentions working with CBC/Radio-Canada to explore Canada’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. It also invests $48 million in the Canada Music Fund and $127.5 million in the Canada Media Fund to support Canadian creators.