The federal Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, has begun unveiling several major initiatives expected to be included in the upcoming 2025 federal budget, set to be tabled on November 4. The measures previewed so far highlight investments in workforce development, public safety, and economic competitiveness, alongside new strategies for fraud prevention and climate policy.
Jobs and Skills Training
On October 27, Employment Minister Patty Hajdu announced a $75 million investment over three years to expand apprenticeship training programs focused on the building trades. The federal government also plans to allocate $97 million to accelerate the recognition of foreign professional credentials, in collaboration with provinces and territories.
Economic Growth and Competitiveness
Prime Minister Mark Carney said the fall budget will aim to spur “unseen levels of private sector investment” through a climate competitiveness strategy, a new immigration plan, and an international talent-attraction initiative designed to position Canada as a global innovation hub.
Fraud Prevention and Financial Security
On October 20, the Liberals confirmed the creation of Canada’s first national anti-fraud strategy, a whole-of-government approach to combat financial crimes. The plan includes:
- Directing banks to enhance fraud detection and prevention systems.
- Developing an Economic Abuse Code of Conduct with industry partners.
- Introducing legislation in spring 2026 to establish a Financial Crimes Agency.
Border and Law Enforcement Capacity
Earlier this month, the government announced funding to strengthen national security and policing. This includes:
- $617.7 million over five years to hire 1,000 new Canada Border Services Agency officers.
- $1.8 billion over four years to expand federal policing capacity, including 1,000 new RCMP personnel—150 of whom will focus on organized crime, money laundering, and cyber fraud. The RCMP cadet recruitment allowance will also increase to $1,000 per week.
Social Programs and Tax Accessibility
Prime Minister Carney and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne have previewed several social measures designed to ease costs for Canadians:
- The Canada Revenue Agency will introduce pre-filled tax returns for low-income Canadians to simplify access to benefits.
- The National School Food Program will be made permanent, with $216 million in annual funding.
- The government will also revive the “Canada Strong Pass,” offering free access to national parks and museums, and discounted Via Rail fares for youth during the holiday season and next summer.
The budget’s full details will be presented in Parliament on November 4, 2025, outlining the federal government’s fiscal priorities and economic strategy for the coming year.