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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Household living costs increase 3.0 percent – Stats NZ media and information release – Household living-costs price indexes: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Household living costs increase 3.0 percent – 3 February 2025 – The cost of living for the average New Zealand household increased 3.0 percent in the 12 months to the December 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    The 3.0 percent increase, measured by the household living-costs price indexes (HLPIs), follows a 3.8 percent increase in the 12 months to the September 2024 quarter. The most recent high was 8.2 percent recorded in the 12 months to the December 2022 quarter.

    Meanwhile, inflation – as measured by the consumers price index (CPI) – was 2.2 percent in the 12 months to the December 2024 quarter, following a 2.2 percent increase in the 12 months to the September 2024 quarter. The most recent CPI high was 7.3 percent, recorded in the 12 months to the June 2022 quarter. Consumers price index (CPI) has more information.

    Files:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Press Conference – Goodstart, Garran

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    ANNE ALY, MINISTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: Well, good morning, everyone. We’re here at Goodstart Garran, having a great time with some of the littlest Aussies here in Garran and talking to the staff here. This week the Albanese Government will be introducing legislation for a 3 Day Guarantee. What does that mean? That means that more than 100,000 families across Australia will have access to more subsidised care – three days a week. And more than 66,000 families across Australia will be better off with our 3 Day Guarantee.

    Now, when you look at the children here and you watch them play and you see their interactions, you get a bit of an understanding of just how important early childhood education and care can be in children’s lives. But also, when you talk to the families and the parents, you understand also how much of an essential service it is for those families and parents. Changing the activity test to ensure that there is a three day guarantee means that every family, no matter what their circumstances, and every child, no matter what their background, no matter what their postcode, no matter where they live, and no matter what their parents’ circumstances are, has access to good quality early childhood education and care that helps them to grow, that helps them to thrive and that has a lasting impact throughout their life. Not just, not just at this age, not just with these little ones here, but right through school, right through adolescence and right into adulthood as well.

    So, the Albanese Labor Government is committed to reforming early childhood education and care, to creating a universal system in the great Labor traditions of Medicare and universal superannuation. We’re building the blocks, building the blocks for a future where every single Australian child and every single Australian family can have access to good quality early childhood education and care, so that parents can work if they need to work; primary caregivers, mostly mothers, mostly women, can go back to work or go back to study. And importantly – importantly, so that our children can have that care and that education that they need to grow and to thrive. I’m going to hand over to Minister Jason Clare to say a few more words on the Albanese Government’s 3 Day Guarantee. Jase?

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Thanks, Anne. G’day, everybody. Childcare is essential for more than a million parents across the country and it’s critical to help children get ready for school. When we were elected two and a half years ago, the cost of childcare had skyrocketed, gone through the roof, and we’ve cut the cost of childcare now for more than a million families. When we were elected two and a half years ago, teachers and educators in childcare were leaving the sector in droves. And we’ve turned that around now with a 15 per cent pay rise. And this is the next step. Fundamentally, this is about helping to make sure that every child gets a great start in life, helping to make sure that every child gets the benefit of early education and care. Because we know that if you’re in early education and care, you’re less likely to start school behind. You’re more likely to start school ready to go, ready to learn. 
    That’s why we’ll build more centres where they don’t exist at the moment, in the bush, in the regions and in the outer suburbs, and why we are getting rid of the Liberals’ activity test that stops a lot of children from poor families from ever getting access to early education in the first place. As I said, if you’re a child who gets access to early education, you’re more likely to start school ready to learn. And that’s what this 3 Day Guarantee is all about. Guaranteeing 3 days of subsidised care for every child 3 days a week. Because if you get 3 days of early education a week, you’re more likely to start school ready to learn. Fundamentally, that’s what this is all about. We know that children have got a right to go to school and that government’s got a responsibility to help provide that. Children have also got a right to early education, so they start school ready to learn, and the government’s got a responsibility to help make that happen. And that’s what this legislation that we’re going to introduce this week is all about.

    Now, what will the Liberals do? Well, the Liberals were opposed to our changes to cut the cost of childcare. They’re opposed to our pay rise for early educators, they’re opposed to building more centres where they don’t exist. And I expect the Liberals will be opposed to this as well. The only thing that they’ve said that they will do is make cuts right across the board. 
    Peter Dutton yesterday said that if he’s elected Prime Minister then there’ll be cuts, hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of cuts, but he won’t tell you where the cuts will be. Well, you don’t have to be Einstein to work it out. It’ll be cuts to childcare, cuts to aged care, cuts to Medicare. It’s the same old story from the Liberals on repeat. This will be Tony Abbott 2.0. Tony Abbott said that he wouldn’t cut health and education and then when he was elected, that’s what he did. It was like Nightmare on Elm Street. He ripped the guts out of Medicare, ripped the guts out of school funding. Peter Dutton says that he will cut, but he won’t tell you what he’s going to cut. This is like a used car salesman who won’t let you look under the bonnet before you buy the car. My message to the Australian people is, if you don’t know, vote no. And if you do know what he’s going to cut, you would never, ever vote for this bloke. Thanks very much.
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New housing on track for Croydon

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 3 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    More homes are on the way for Sydney’s Inner West with new planning controls being introduced around Croydon Station.

    The new planning controls to be introduced this week around Croydon Station in the Inner West local government area (LGA) will provide capacity for more than 2,700 new homes over the next 15 years.

    The Croydon Transport Oriented Development (TOD) precinct sits across two LGAs with Inner West Council to the south and east of the railway line, and Burwood Council to the north and west of the station.

    Croydon’s TOD State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) provisions will be triggered for Inner West Council as Council did not meet the strategic planning deadline to provide their own masterplan with equal or greater housing outcomes before 31 January 2025.

    Burwood City Council meanwhile has taken up the Minister’s challenge to produce its own detailed master planning in place of the TOD SEPP on the western side of the Croydon precinct.

    Council’s plan seeks to concentrate higher and mid-rise density development on the northern side of the rail corridor between Croydon and Burwood Town Centres, while protecting existing important heritage and character areas to the southern section of Burwood North.

    The plan recommends changes to land use zones, building heights, and density within the Croydon Masterplan Investigation Area. It also aims to improve the public domain by expanding open spaces, ensuring appropriate setbacks, planting street trees, and enhancing parking and active transport facilities.

    Public consultation was undertaken by Council with feedback considered before final plans were submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) by the January deadline.

    DPHI is now assessing Council’s plans to ensure they meet the requirements of the agreement between Council and the NSW Government.

    You can view Burwood Council’s proposed plans for the Croydon TOD SEPP precinct here.

    Inner West Council and Burwood Council will continue to assess, consider and weigh up the merits of the impacts of proposed developments during the development assessment stage, unless a proposal is assessed through a State Significant Development pathway.

    Croydon’s new TOD SEPP planning controls in the Inner West LGA can be viewed on the NSW Government Spatial Viewer once the changes are notified early in February.

    Housing affordability is the single largest cost of living concern for people of NSW with the impacts being felt across the state, whether it be students, workers, young families or people looking to downsize later in life.

    The TOD Program is just one part of the Minns Labor Government’s efforts to confront the housing crisis by speeding up the planning system, investing in social and affordable housing, and reforming NSW rental laws.

    TOD provisions now apply to 29 stations across Greater Sydney with only 5 stations remaining to be scheduled between now and June 2025. These stations include Cockle Creek, North Wollongong, St Marys, Punchbowl and Wiley Park.

    Up to 37 locations were identified as being suitable for inclusion in the TOD SEPP program. Eighteen of the station precincts were adopted on 13 May 2024 with the remaining 19 deferred for further strategic work to be rolled out between now and June 2025.

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “Sydney’s inner west has always been bustling with activity and these planning changes will mean more people get to enjoy its great location and connectivity.

    “Croydon provides an ideal strategic location to leverage the benefits of Inner West living, while being close to public transport and essential services in and around Croydon and Burwood. 

    “Burwood Council has suggested a planning solution that means more homes near a train station, near services and the community.

    “Croydon now stands ready for an exciting new chapter in its long-storied history whereby thousands of new residents will get to experience the great cosmopolitan lifestyle this suburb offers.”

    Member for Strathfield Jason Yat-Sen Li said:

    “Burwood Council’s draft masterplan was the product of months of detailed consultation between the council and the community.

    “The Masterplan represents a sound blueprint for Croydon’s future. It balances the urgent need for more quality homes close to transport with the community imperative to protect long-established heritage conservation areas such as the Malvern Hill Estate, Cintra Estate and the Strand.

    “The Masterplan will also aim to improve amenity by expanding open spaces, providing appropriate setbacks, planting street trees, and enhancing parking and active transport facilities.

    “I would like to thank Burwood Council and the many residents who made their voices heard during this important process.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: First look at Canterbury Hospital redevelopment

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 3 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Health

    Today, the Canterbury community will have its first look at the $350 million Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment with the new expansion of the facility and major upgrades to be unveiled with the launch of the master plan images, alongside the key clinical priorities for the redevelopment.

    The master plan provides the framework for how the redevelopment will integrate with existing facilities while allowing for future development opportunities.

    It follows extensive consultation with over 250 patients, staff, carers, volunteers and community members, and the master plan reflects their views on the future of the hospital.

    Feedback highlighted preference for more green spaces and access to natural light, updated amenities for staff, patients and carers, better accessibility, signage and wayfinding, and increased patient and visitor parking.

    New or increased services at the redeveloped site that have been identified as priorities for the redevelopment will include:

    • a new expanded and enhanced intensive care unit
    • new purpose-built adult in-patient accommodation
    • expanded and enhanced emergency department
    • additional surgical theatres
    • improved and expanded antenatal care
    • additional ambulatory and outpatient care capacity
    • other clinical and non-clinical enhancements to existing and retained facilities, to support changing models of care
    • improved accessibility to the campus, including internal access, urban spaces, landscaping and wayfinding.

    The redevelopment will maximise the capacity of existing facilities available at the Canterbury Hospital campus, including the main hospital building and the Canterbury Health Centre.

    Following the completion of master planning, the project team will continue through the planning and design phases for the redevelopment, with further consultation to continue throughout 2025.  

    The last major redevelopment of the century-old hospital took place in 1998.

    The Canterbury area – like much of Sydney – has had significant population growth, placing pressure on hospital services.

    The Canterbury-Bankstown Local Government Area is forecast to grow by 13 per cent in the next 12 years, with an estimated population of 443,000 by 2036.

    It is also expected to have a larger proportion of elderly people, with those aged 70 years and over forecast to grow by more than 60% between 2021 and 2036.

    The area is home to a culturally diverse community – some of which have complex health needs.  

    The redevelopment of Canterbury Hospital will enable services to better support the health and wellbeing of our growing local communities, now and into the future.

    The Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s delivery of over $3 billion in hospital infrastructure across Western Sydney, including:

    • $700 million for the Rouse Hill Hospital  
    • $120 million for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals – additional beds
    • $1.3 billion for the New Bankstown Hospital
    • $550 million for the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “We are working to deliver the healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of this growing community.

    “Today’s announcement is a critical next step in the delivery of this significant project.

    “What this facility will mean will be enhanced services and more beds for Canterbury and surrounding suburbs.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis:

    “It’s very exciting to see the master plan images for this $350 million investment which will help build healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of Canterbury’s diverse and growing community.

    “I welcome what will be the largest upgrade to Canterbury Hospital in almost three decades.

    “This significant redevelopment will allow improved health care access and outcomes for generations to come, both for people living in the area and for those from Greater Sydney.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minns Labor Government slashes consultant and contractor spend by $450m, following years of Liberal-National waste

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Minns Labor Government slashes consultant and contractor spend by $450m, following years of Liberal-National waste

    Published: 2 February 2025

    Last updated: 03 February 2025

    Released by: Treasurer

    The Minns Labor Government has delivered more than $450 million in savings on external consultants and individual contractors in its first full year in government.

    The savings include a $72 million reduction in consultant spend across agencies, down from $130 million in 2022-23 to $58 million in 2023-24.

    This follows a NSW Auditor-General’s report which found that the previous Liberal-National Government spent more than $1 billion on external consultants without adequate procurement and managements policies in place. Subsequent analysis also found that the previous government issued more than 10,000 contracts in their last five years in office, averaging a new contract every hour.

    In addition, the Minns Labor Government is also delivering on its election commitment to reduce the government’s spend on payments to contractors acting as de facto employees in the public service. Known as contingent labour, this figure blew out under the previous government. 

    Controls put in place by the Minns Labor Government saw that figure drop from $2.1 billion in 2022-23 to $1.7 billion in 2023-24, a 17 per cent reduction.

    The Minns Labor Government continues to progress the establishment of a new unit within the Premier’s Department to reduce the use of consultants by redirecting agencies to in-house expertise to deliver better outcomes across the government.

    Under the previous government, 15% of contracts for external consultants were for ‘generalist work’ which could be done in-house and includes work like policy design and evaluation.

    A report released by the Government in May 2024 found that utilising the existing expertise within the public service could save as much as 52% per contract. It also means that the public sector can retain knowledge and talent, thereby improving the quality of future, similar projects.

    The result highlights the progress being made by the Minns Labor Government to correct twelve years of waste and mismanagement by the previous Liberal-National Government.

    Quotes attributable to Acting Treasurer Courtney Houssos:

    “This government is committed to paying consultants less and essential workers more.

    “The growth in consultant spend under the previous government was out of control. We said we’d end wasteful spending, and that’s what we’ve done.

    “There is always more to be done, and the Minns Labor Government continues working to ensure that every dollar of taxpayer money is being spent more efficiently.

    “Delivering on these savings required a forensic approach to the state’s accounts and a culture shift which prioritises harnessing the expertise and knowledge within the existing public service.

    “Instead of wasting money, we’re bolstering the public service’s capacity and focusing their efforts on what matters most to families and households in NSW.

    “Given the scale of the problem we inherited, there is still much work to do.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Teacher vacancies drop under Minns Labor Government

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Teacher vacancies drop under Minns Labor Government

    Published: 3 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning

    Thousands more children will now have a qualified teacher in front of them when school returns this year with new data released today showing teacher vacancies falling to a four-year low.

    There are now 1,294 vacancies in NSW public schools – a 40 per cent reduction since the same time in 2023 before the Minns Labor Government came into office and the lowest number of vacancies at the start of a school year since 2021.

    While there is more work to do to improve the teacher retention and recruitment record left by the former Liberal National government, the Minns Labor Government is continuing work to rebuild public education which started with scrapping the wages cap that saw teacher resignations and retirements reach record highs.

    As a result, the rate of attrition is also consistently falling as more teachers – including those with decades of experience – see the value of remaining in the profession.

    At the same time as thousands of classes were merged each day and resignations outstripped retirements for the first time, the former Education Minister Sarah Mitchell denied a teacher shortage crisis was occurring, and continued to advocate for a wages cap which suppressed teachers’ pay. Under her watch, vacancies peaked at 3,311 in 2022.

    The Minns Labor Government was elected with a commitment to rebuild public education across the state, improve teacher recruitment and retention and lift student outcomes. While this work is ongoing, it is already delivering results and has included:

    • Delivering the largest pay rise in a generation to all of NSW’s public school teachers.
    • Making over 16,000 teachers and school support staff on temporary contracts permanent.
    • Expanding the Department’s Priority Recruitment Support model from 79 to 110 schools, giving them targeted support to fill vacancies.
    • Banning mobile phones in all public schools, minimising classroom distractions.
    • Addressing workload by allowing additional time to roll out a new curriculum, improving mandatory training and professional learning requirements, providing access to AI assistance, providing additional administrative support in schools.

    Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

    “It’s hard to measure the impact that public school teachers have, but I think almost everyone has a teacher they can point to as being an incredible, positive influence on their lives.

    “We respect teachers, and we want them at the front of our classrooms doing what they do best. That is what we committed to before the election and that is what we are continuing work to deliver.

    “We know there’s more to do, but it’s brilliant that thousands more kids will return this year to a qualified teacher at the front of their classroom.”

    Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: 

    “Labor was elected to rebuild essential services after a decade of neglect under the former Liberal National government and I am proud the Minns Labor Government is delivering.

    “We inherited a teacher shortage crisis from the former Liberal National Government that was leading to thousands of collapsed and merged classes every day. That’s thousands of lost teaching hours every day.

    “The massive fall in teacher vacancies shows what you can achieve when you actually listen to our dedicated and hardworking teachers and value the life-changing work they do.

    “Having a qualified teacher at the front of every classroom is vital to delivering improved academic outcomes for our students.

    “These figures show that the uplift in teachers’ pay – opposed by the Liberal and National Parties – means so many more of our students now have a teacher in their classroom, which can only lead to better outcomes.

    “The drop in resignations and retirements shows teachers are hearing that we value their work and they feel supported to focus on the job of delivering quality teaching and learning.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Household living costs increase 3.0 percent – Stats NZ media and information release – Household living-costs price indexes: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Household living costs increase 3.0 percent – 3 February 2025 – The cost of living for the average New Zealand household increased 3.0 percent in the 12 months to the December 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    The 3.0 percent increase, measured by the household living-costs price indexes (HLPIs), follows a 3.8 percent increase in the 12 months to the September 2024 quarter. The most recent high was 8.2 percent recorded in the 12 months to the December 2022 quarter.

    Meanwhile, inflation – as measured by the consumers price index (CPI) – was 2.2 percent in the 12 months to the December 2024 quarter, following a 2.2 percent increase in the 12 months to the September 2024 quarter. The most recent CPI high was 7.3 percent, recorded in the 12 months to the June 2022 quarter. Consumers price index (CPI) has more information.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New benefit sanctions for Traffic Light System

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Two more non-financial benefit sanctions will be added to MSD’s Traffic Light System to drive economic growth by incentivising more job seekers to enter the workforce, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says.

    “Our economy is stronger when more people are in work, and as we look to unleash economic growth, it’s important that as many Kiwis as possible share in the benefits.

    “It’s important that beneficiaries who can work are taking reasonable steps to re-enter the workforce or remain work-ready, and that consequences exist for those who don’t.

    “Today I’m announcing the Government’s intention to add two more non-financial sanctions with a strong focus on work to the Traffic Light System. They are:

    • Report Job Search – where job seekers will be required to perform a minimum of three job-search activities every week for four weeks and report back to MSD on this. This sanction will support increased accountability for beneficiaries who are meant to be looking for work.
    • Upskilling – where job seekers will be required to attend and participate, to MSD’s satisfaction, in one or more employment-related training courses or programmes for a minimum of five hours per week over a four-week period. This sanction will support beneficiaries with building the skills they need to get into work.

    “These new sanctions will ensure there is accountability in the welfare system for those who aren’t taking reasonable steps to seek employment, while also recognising that reducing benefits isn’t the answer for everyone.

    “These sanctions are in addition to the new Money Management and Community Work Experience sanctions that will come into force later in the year.

    “We’re gearing up the welfare system to make the most of the forecast improvement in economic growth in the coming years by providing MSD with the tools and focus to reduce welfare dependency and support more people into work.

    “Our approach has already shown signs of early success with more than 33,000 people moving off Jobseeker into work between July and December, a 22 per cent increase on the same period in 2023. This coincided with about 15,600 more benefit sanctions being issued during that period – an increase of 126 per cent.

    “It’s clear that returning consequences for job seekers is having a positive impact by getting more people off welfare and into jobs.”

    Notes on new non-financial sanctions

    • Non-financial sanctions provide an alternative to financial penalties for first-time obligation failures for some job seekers, allowing them to continue receiving their full benefit payment while under sanction.
    • The legislative change required for these new non-financial sanctions will be included in the Social Security Amendment Bill, which is currently before Parliament.
    • Those sanctioned will also be required to provide evidence of their activities at the end of their sanction to return to ‘green’ in the Traffic Light System.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland Regional Council media briefs 03/02/25

    Source: Northland Regional Council

    Safeswim: Your ‘go-to’ for water safety updates
    Before heading to Northland’s beaches, lakes, or rivers, you can check the Safeswim website or app for updates on water conditions, weather, tides, and lifeguard availability.
    This service ensures you and your whānau can enjoy a safe and fun day at the beach.
    Safeswim is a collaborative initiative by Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, Surf Life Saving New Zealand and others, offering real-time information on water quality and swimming conditions at popular freshwater and coastal spots.
    Visit safeswim.org.nz or download the app by searching “Safeswim” in your app store. A quick check can make all the difference in having a great raumati (summer).
    Whangārei Beach Buses Summer 2025
    Beach buses are running again this summer with an improved service tailored to passenger requirements, following a community survey.
    The buses have two new routes from central Whangārei to Waipū Cove and Matapouri.
    Buses depart from Vine Street at 9.30am on Saturdays. (This is a change from Rose Street while construction works for a new bus hub are ongoing.)
    A single trip costs $5 and return $10. Bee cards are not accepted – EFTPOS and cash only.
    Please note: – There may not be lifeguards at the beach, so please stay safe. – Seats are limited on the bus and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. – Children under 14 years old must be supervised.
    Go to buslink.co.nz for all the timetables details and follow CityLink Whangārei on Facebook for the latest updates.
    Tū i te ora Scholarships – applications close soon
    Applications for Northland Regional Council’s Tū i te ora Scholarships must be with the council by Thursday 13 February.
    Six scholarships are available; each includes $4000 to assist with study costs, plus paid full-time work experience with NRC from mid-November 2025 to mid-February 2026.
    The scholarships recognise, encourage and support students to undertake study that relates to council’s environmental and regulatory functions, whilst contributing to council’s vision ‘Tiakina te taiao, tuia te here tangata – Nurture the environment, bring together the people’.
    The scholarships have a specific aim to build Māori capacity within Te Taitokerau, with three of the six scholarships earmarked for Māori who whakapapa to Te Taitokerau.
    Keen to korero – come see us at events
    Northland Regional Council staff will be at various summer events, offering information and advice. This week, they’ll be at Waitangi Day with a large display on the sportsfield.
    The focus will be on the moana, discussing water safety and protecting the marine environment from pests.
    Land management staff will also be available to talk about caring for the whenua. Councillors will be present for chats throughout the day.
    The climate action team will join the Far North District Council stand, while Civil Defence will be with Fire and Emergency.
    Visit the NRC stand if you’re heading to Waitangi Day. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government encourages victims of sexual violence to seek support

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Victims of rape and sexual abuse are being encouraged to seek vital support through a new Government campaign. 

    Image credit: Ministry of Justice

    • New campaign to raise awareness of 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line
    • Service provides free support to all victims and their families
    • Campaign key to delivery of Government’s Plan for Change to create safer streets

    Over one million adults a year experience sexual violence, yet many are not aware of the free help available through the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support line.  

    A dedicated awareness campaign, launching today, is designed to reach the survivors still suffering in silence. This contributes to the Government’s Safer Streets Mission to halve violence against women and girls over the next 10 years. The campaign launch coincides with Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

    Funded by the Ministry of Justice and delivered by Rape Crisis England & Wales, the line handled over 100,000 calls and webchats in its second year, providing victims aged 16 and over with a free, confidential, emotional support and listening service.  

    Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman, said: 

    Talking about sexual assault isn’t easy, but no one should suffer in silence. 

    Sexual violence – in all forms – is a traumatic crime. It takes courage to seek help, and the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is there to support people with that essential first step. 

    If you’re in need of help today, please get in touch to get the support you deserve.

    The Support Line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all survivors. It is accessible through phone and webchat, with additional online resources to help friends and family who are supporting survivors to rebuild their lives. 

    The Government is determined to reach more victims of sexual violence and encourage them to reach out for support, regardless of gender or background.  

    Ciara Bergman, CEO, Rape Crisis England & Wales, said: 

    The 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line provides free and specialist support to anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales who has experienced something sexual that they didn’t want, didn’t consent to or are feeling confused about – no matter when or where it happened.  

    We’re delighted to support the Ministry of Justice’s campaign to raise awareness of the Support Line, ensuring more survivors have access to this vital service.

    Further Information 

    • The 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line campaign looks to raise awareness of the support available to victims of sexual violence and encourage them to reach out for support. The campaign wants victims to understand that, no matter what happened: you deserve support, it wasn’t your fault, we’ll listen to you, and we’ll believe you. The campaign directs victims to call 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk to chat online or find out more. If you want to support the campaign, or gain access to campaign materials, please email 247Campaign@justice.gov.uk.
    • This builds on the work of the Government to tackle perpetrators and address the root causes of abuse and violence. Ministers have already announced the launch of the Domestic Abuse Protection Orders pilot, outlined plans to introduce independent legal advisers for adult rape victims, and set out a new drive to inform all victims of crime of their rights via the Victims’ Code. 
    • The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) provides the best measure of victimisation and estimated that 2.3% of adults (3.3% women and 1.2% men) aged 16 years and over were victims of sexual assault (including attempts) in the year ending March 2022 survey; this equates to an estimated 1.1 million adults (798,000 women and 275,000 men). 
    • Data provided by Rape Crisis England and Wales covers calls and webchats in the year December 2023 – December 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofsted sets out proposals for fairer education inspections and new, more detailed report cards

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments 2

    Ofsted is consulting on a new approach to inspecting education providers and the introduction of report cards.

    Proposals for a new inspection model include:  

    • Introducing the Ofsted report card, giving parents detailed information about standards across more areas of practice in their child’s school, early years, or further education provider.

    • Replacing the ‘single word judgement’ with a new 5-point grading scale for each evaluation area, including a new top ‘exemplary’ grade to help raise standards.

    • Returning to schools with identified weaknesses, to check timely action is being taken to raise standards.

    • Increasing focus on support for disadvantaged and vulnerable children and learners , including those with SEND.

    • More emphasis on providers’ circumstances and local context.

    • New toolkits to tailor inspections to the phase and type of provider.

    Ofsted has today launched a major consultation, seeking the views of parents, carers, professionals and learners, on a new approach to inspecting and reporting on education providers, from the autumn.    

    The consultation sets out a series of proposals that aim to serve the interests of the parents and children Ofsted works for, while strengthening the trust and cooperation of professionals working in the services it inspects and regulates.   

    In the past 12 months Ofsted has already made some significant changes to support education providers’ wellbeing, but further reforms were promised in the response to last year’s Big Listen. Today’s proposals apply to inspections of early years settings, state-funded schools, non-association independent schools, FE and skills providers, and initial teacher education (ITE) providers.

    Respond to the consultation

    New Ofsted report cards

    The Big Listen returned a clear message from parents, carers and professionals that the overall effectiveness grade should go, and that inspection reports should provide a more nuanced view of a provider’s strengths and areas for improvement. But there were different views on how to do that. Parents and carers favoured a clear assessment of a wider set of categories, while most professionals wanted narrative descriptions of performance.   

    Today’s proposals aim to bring both preferences together. New Ofsted report cards will give better information to parents in a simple format, as well as driving higher standards for children and learners. They include a colour-coded 5-point grading scale to evaluate more areas of a provider’s work at-a-glance, accompanied by short summaries of inspectors’ findings in more detail. An overall effectiveness grade will not be awarded.

    The 5-point scale will allow inspectors to highlight success when things are working well, provide reassurance that leaders are taking the right action where improvement is needed, and identify where more urgent action is required to avoid standards declining. As well as giving parents more nuanced information, this approach will help reduce pressure on staff – by presenting a balanced picture of practice across more areas, not a single overall grade.   

    The proposed scale ranges from ‘causing concern’ at the lowest end, through ‘attention needed’, ‘secure’ and ‘strong’, to ‘exemplary’ – where a provider’s practice is of such exceptional quality that it should be shared with others across the country so they can learn from it.   

    Ofsted is seeking feedback on the proposed layout for the new inspection reports and has produced this video demonstrating how they could look.

    Disadvantage and inclusion   

    Under the proposals, evaluation areas differ slightly by education phase (early years, schools, further education) but in all cases include a new focus on inclusion. This means inspectors will look at how well providers support vulnerable and disadvantaged children and learners, including those with SEND, making sure these children are always at the centre of inspection. 

    Taking context into account  

    Ofsted is also proposing to include more contextual data in inspections and reports, such as learner characteristics, performance outcomes, absence and attendance figures, and local area demographics. Inspectors will use this information to help understand the circumstances in which leaders are operating and to assess their work in context – for instance, whether they are working hard in a disadvantaged area facing particular challenges, or – if they have a high-attaining intake – whether they are stretching their most able pupils. This will help parents make national and local comparisons, and comparisons between providers working in similar contexts.

    Tailoring inspections to each phase of education

    Under the proposals, the inspection process will be better tailored to the phase and type of provider, to make sure the focus is on what really matters for children and learners in that setting. New inspection ‘toolkits’ list the standards that each type of provider will be evaluated against.   

    These toolkits provide more detail and clarity about what will be considered on inspection. They are intended to help drive greater consistency on inspection and give providers clarity about the expected standards and what they need to do to improve.

    Changes to monitoring arrangements for schools

    From autumn 2025, it’s proposed that Ofsted will no longer carry out ungraded inspections of state-funded schools. This means every school will know that its next routine Ofsted inspection will be a full, graded one. Ofsted is also proposing that all schools with an identified need for improvement will receive monitoring calls and visits, to check that timely action is being taken to raise standards. This includes schools with any evaluation area graded ‘attention needed’. Ofsted will only monitor for as long as is necessary to see a tangible difference for children.

    His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, said:   

    Our mission is to raise standards and improve the lives of children, particularly the most disadvantaged. Today’s proposals for a new Ofsted report card and a new way of inspecting are designed to do just that. 

    The report card will replace the simplistic overall judgement with a suite of grades, giving parents much more detail and better identifying the strengths and areas for improvement for a school, early years or further education provider.  

    Our new top ‘exemplary’ grade will help raise standards, identifying world-class practice that should be shared with the rest of the country. And by quickly returning to monitor schools that have areas for improvement, we will ensure timely action is taken to raise standards. 

    We also hope that this more balanced, fairer approach will reduce the pressure on professionals working in education, as well as giving them a much clearer understanding of what we will be considering on inspection.

    Tom Rees, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust & Chair of the DfE Expert Advisory Group for Inclusion said: 

    It is right that Ofsted is putting disadvantaged children and children with SEND at the heart of their reforms. Inclusion should not be a secondary consideration, but a fundamental principle of schooling and education – a truly great education system serves the needs of all children. 

    It is vital that schools, nurseries and colleges have the highest possible expectations for all children. Schools with expert teaching, a stretching curriculum, high standards of behaviour and attendance are the entitlement of every child – especially the most vulnerable.

    Jason Elsom, Chief Executive of Parentkind said: 

    We know that an effective partnership between school and home is a cornerstone of the most successful of schools, enhances pupil well-being, and can add the equivalent impact of up to 3 years of education. 

    Schools increasingly face issues with attendance, behaviour, and the mental health and well-being of their pupils. Years of evidence shows that getting parental engagement right is vital to reducing these challenges, which is why we welcome Ofsted making parental engagement an important part of the process for inspecting schools.  

    We are delighted to have supported Ofsted’s work on a new ‘report card’ for schools, which recognises the need for school leaders to focus on building sustainable, long-term partnerships with parents, as well as the role of parents in helping improve behaviour and attitudes to learning, attendance, and personal development and well-being. Getting this right will deliver significant benefits for schools and children.

    The consultation will run for 12 weeks, from 3 February to 28 April 2025. As well as the online survey, Ofsted will hold focus groups during the consultation period. Formal pilots of the inspection approach and further user testing of report cards will also be carried out over the coming months, to help inform and improve the proposals.  

    Ofsted will publish a report on the outcome of the consultation in the summer, reflecting on all feedback and challenge received. The final agreed reforms will then be piloted again across all education remits, before being formally implemented from autumn 2025.   

    Changes to children’s social care inspections will follow in 2026.

    Notes to editors  

    1. In parallel with this consultation, the Department for Education (DfE) is consulting on proposed changes to intervention and support in maintained schools and academies. The plan is to put those changes in place in the autumn, alongside Ofsted’s new inspection approach. The Department is also seeking feedback on a product that could include Ofsted reports, along with other information about a provider.

    2. Proposed evaluation areas for schools, including independent schools:

      • leadership and governance
      • curriculum
      • developing teaching
      • achievement
      • behaviour and attitudes
      • attendance
      • personal development and well-being
      • inclusion
      • safeguarding (assessed as met or not met)
      • early years in schools
      • sixth form in school

    3. Proposed evaluation areas for early years providers:

      • leadership and governance  
      • achievement  
      • curriculum  
      • teaching  
      • behaviour, attitudes and establishing routine  
      • children’s welfare and well-being  
      • inclusion  
      • safeguarding

    4. Proposed evaluation areas for FE and skills providers:

      Provider as a whole:

      • leadership 
      • inclusion
      • safeguarding 

      Provider as a whole, but only in colleges and specialist designated institutions:

      • contribution to meeting skills needs

      For each type of provision offered (education programmes for young people, provision for learners with high needs, apprenticeships and adult learning programmes):

      • curriculum
      • developing teaching and training 
      • achievement
      • participation and development

    5. Proposed evaluation areas for ITE providers we inspect:  

      • leadership  
      • inclusion  
      • curriculum  
      • teaching  
      • achievement  
      • professional behaviours, personal development and well-being

    6. Parentkind is one of the UK’s largest federated charities. It has supported parents and schools to build strong and supportive school communities for almost 70 years and has a network of more than 23,500 schools, parent teacher associations (PTAs) and parent councils.

    7. The DfE is providing Ofsted with £6.2m to support development and delivery of the report card.

    Press office

    8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday 0300 013 0415

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North East Scotland leading the way on energy transition

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Scotland Office Minister’s visit to focus on clean energy

    • Recently launched Skills Passport allowing workers more flexibility to move between sectors 
    • North East companies shining example of clean energy initiatives and economic growth

    Scotland’s clean energy future will be top of the agenda as Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill visits Aberdeenshire and Angus today (Mon) to meet with companies at the cutting edge of the green revolution. 

    Minister McNeill will meet with the iconic Scottish brand, Mackie’s, who have invested in sustainable energy through wind turbines, solar panels and biomass projects at their base in Rothienorman, outside Inverurie. 

    As part of the UK Government’s commitment to a clean energy future for the North East, the Minister will also visit 3t Training Services in Dyce who are helping to provide training to energy workers looking to transfer their skills and experience in oil and gas into renewables. 

    Ahead of her visit, Ms McNeill said: 

    “The UK Government is committed to a clean energy future that helps economic growth and creates skilled jobs. We are already seeing fantastic examples of businesses in the North East who are leading the way and showing that cutting their emissions while continuing to grow go hand in hand. 

    “This is an exciting time for the region. With GB Energy being headquartered in Aberdeen, the north east is vital to our clean energy plans. 

    “As part of our Plan for Change, the UK Government, alongside the Scottish Government and industry, are working to remove the red tape for our skilled oil and gas workers who are looking to work in clean energy. These people have incredible skills and experience that should be utilised and we are ensuring they are supported through this transition. I’m looking forward to meeting with some of them as well as those helping to train them.” 

    Jamie Purves, General Manager at 3t’s Dyce training centre, emphasised the importance of upskilling and industry collaboration in ensuring a smooth energy transition. He said:

    “The North East has long been a centre of excellence in energy, and we are committed to making sure its workforce continues to thrive as the sector evolves. At 3t, we work closely with industry and Government to provide the specialist training and support needed to help energy professionals move seamlessly into renewables. 

    “The Skills Passport is a game-changer. It simplifies the transition process and ensures we retain the invaluable expertise developed in oil and gas. This is about securing a sustainable future while creating new opportunities for workers and businesses alike.”

    Working alongside the industry and Scottish Government, the UK Government has recently launched the Skills Passport initiative as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission. 

    Oil and gas workers will be able to access the skills passport online, which will initially help them identify routes into several roles in offshore wind, including construction and maintenance  – before being expanded over the coming year to recognise other pathways from oil and gas into the renewable sector.

    This is in addition to Aberdeen being identified as one of four key growth regions in the UK for clean energy. Work is ongoing to identify the skills support needed in their area to deliver clean power by 2030. 

    The minister will also meet with Montrose Port, a recent recipient of the Carbon Reduction Award at the Scottish Green Energy awards. The port, which helps service windfarms including Scotland’s largest – SSE’s Seagreen – is currently going through an expansion as demand for renewable projects increases.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter to Church of England Diocesan Bishops

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    CEO David Holdsworth has written to Diocesan Bishops who are also trustees of Church charities to seek further information on Church safeguarding processes.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Letter to Diocesan Bishops who are trustees of their Diocesan Board of Finance or other Church charities

    HTML

    Details

    As regulator of charities in England and Wales, the Charity Commission is engaging with certain National Church Institutions regarding safeguarding in Church charities following the recent publication of the Makin Review.

    This letter to bishops, sent on 31 January 2025, seeks their assessment of whether any aspects of Church law, structure or processes are currently preventing trustees of Church charities from fulfilling their safeguarding obligations. The letter follows a letter sent to Members of the General Synod who are also trustees of Church charities on 24 January 2025.

    A press release with more information about the Commission’s engagement can be found via this link: Regulator sets out safeguarding expectations ahead of key Synod votes – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Resurfacing works for SH1 Turntable Hill, Moerewa, start tomorrow

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises overnight asphalt resurfacing works will get underway on State Highway 1 at Turntable Hill, Moerewa tomorrow (Tuesday 4 February), before pausing for Waitangi Day holiday traffic.

    Asphalting works will then resume from Sunday 9 February through to Thursday 13 February (finishing on the morning of Friday 14 February), with one night of chipsealing scheduled in Moerewa the following week.

    The asphalting work will take place between 8pm and 5am, with stop/go traffic management and a 30km/h temporary speed limit operating during the works. During the day, the passing lane will be closed with a 50km/h temporary speed limit in place.

    On Thursday 20 February, contractors will undertake chipsealing along the main street in Moerewa. Between 6pm and 6am, the road will operate under stop/go traffic management with a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place.

    During the chipsealing works there will be no access to SH1 (Main Road, Moerewa) from the Marshall St/Pembroke St intersection, Wynyard St, Nisbet St and Snowden Ave. There will also be no parking from 50m north of the Marshall St/Pembroke St intersection to 100m past Snowden Ave.

    Temporary speed limits and traffic management will remain in place the following day to guide traffic over the new seal and help to embed it successfully.

    It’s important to slow down through newly sealed sections of road because small chips can be flicked up from the road surface and damage vehicles – especially windscreens. That’s why we often keep temporary speed limits in place even after it looks like the work has been completed. As well as safety, the temporary speed limit also helps ensure the quality of the reseal. Travelling at the posted temporary speed limit allows for the chips to be embedded into the road surface and for them to remain in place as the seal cures.

    Travel delays during the resurfacing and chipsealing works are expected to be 5-10minutes.

    This work is part of Northland’s significant summer maintenance programme, which will see approximately 203 lane kilometres of state highway renewed across the region by the end of May.

    As well as ensuring a smooth, skid-resistant surface, road resurfacing helps to protect the important structural layers underneath, improves waterproofing to help prevent potholes, and extends the life of the road. It’s like the paint on your house or the varnish on your deck – it looks good, but, more importantly, it helps keep your most valuable assets safe and sound.

    There will be increased noise for residents and businesses in the area, and short delays for road users. We encourage road users to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

    Access for residents and emergency services will be maintained throughout the works.

    Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the traffic management directions at our work sites. 

    This work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on these works, including any changes due to weather.

    Journey Planner(external link)

    For more information about the overall maintenance programme and planned works, visit the Northland state highway maintenance programme website:

    Northland state highway maintenance programme(external link)

    NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash blocks Wainuiomata Hill heading towards Lower Hutt

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    The Wainuiomata Hill is currently closed heading towards Lower Hutt following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash involving a car and a motorcycle was reported on the Wainuiomata side of the hill just after 11:30am.

    One person has been seriously injured.

    Motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Robots add futuristic twist to China’s Spring Festival

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Feb. 2 — The Chinese Spring Festival is traditionally celebrated with dumplings, firecrackers and red paper-cut decorations. This year, however, a new element is joining the festivities: robots.

    A group of humanoid robots performing a dance routine has become the most talked-about performance at this year’s Spring Festival Gala, broadcast on Chinese New Year’s Eve. These black-painted life-size robots, adorned with colorful sleeveless jackets, danced alongside 16 human performers in Yangko, a traditional folk dance renowned for its sweeping steps and twirling handkerchiefs.

    Behind their precise mechanical arm movements is the integration of advanced AI algorithms and smart sensors.

    In addition to the televised event, the first-ever tech-driven temple fair, held in Beijing’s Haidian District, also combined cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology.

    A robot greeting visitors with Chinese New Year blessings, a humanoid robot playing Peking Opera tunes, and the first AI display of the Chinese mythological character Lord Rabbit are all part of the ongoing 2025 Haidian Spring Festival-Themed Sci-Tech Temple Fair.

    Over 70 AI application scenarios from over 50 innovative companies are on display, showcasing the integration of AI technology with traditional Spring Festival customs and elements.

    Other attractions included a robot band and bipedal humanoid robot soccer matches, offering visitors a captivating and futuristic experience.

    A recently viral video on social media showcased a performance in the city of Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, where robot dogs took the stage to perform a lion dance, enthralling the crowd.

    During the 8-day Chinese New Year holiday, many Chinese people chose to climb mountains for exercise. A news story about an “exoskeleton robot” assisting climbers on Mount Tai, one of China’s most popular mountain tourist spots, garnered widespread attention.

    Weighing only 1.8 kg, this robotic leg device uses advanced ergonomics, power, electronics and AI algorithms to perceive lower limb movements and provide timely assistance, making mountain climbing a much easier endeavor.

    “Wearing this robot has been a great help to my legs,” said a tourist. “Climbing the mountain feels much easier than walking on flat ground.”

    This isn’t the first instance that robots have been used to offer a tech-savvy enhancement to the culturally and historically significant Mount Tai. Last October, a team of four-legged robotic dogs tasked with waste collection made headlines.

    Intelligent robots are becoming more common, facilitating daily life and work. These robotic products reflect the rapid development of China’s robotic industry.

    In 2023, China produced 7.833 million service robots, a 21.3 percent increase from the previous year. Industrial robot production reached 430,000 units, accounting for about 73 percent of the global total.

    According to a recent report by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, humanoid robots are poised to become the next big terminal after personal computers, smartphones and new energy vehicles, potentially forming a new trillion-yuan-level market.

    Broad market potential has attracted not only tech companies but also automotive firms and internet giants investing in humanoid robot projects.

    Driven by these pioneers, this year will mark the beginning of mass production for humanoid robots, with significant commercial applications on the horizon, the report noted.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 9th Asian Winter Games torch relay set to begin on Monday

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HARBIN, Feb. 2 — With less than a week out from the official opening of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, the torch relay of the games will officially commence in the “Ice City” on Monday.

    Li Na, head of the Torchbearer and Volunteer Management Team of the Torch Relay Command Center, said that the relay will last for one day, covering a total route of approximately 11 kilometers and consist of a launch ceremony, a closing ceremony, and community performances along the route.

    “The selection of torchbearers was conducted with an emphasis on inclusiveness, representation, and fairness, with participants from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the Chinese Olympic Committee, the AWG organizing committee, and various cities across Heilongjiang Province, as well as representatives from the event’s sponsor enterprises,” Li said, adding that a total of 120 torchbearers will participate in the event.

    The torch relay route, which passes through multiple landmarks in Harbin, has been designed to meet the requirements of being simple, safe, and spectacular while also showcasing the natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and urban charm of the host city.

    The ninth Asian Winter Games will take place in Harbin from Feb. 7 to 14. Over 1,270 athletes from 34 countries and regions across Asia will participate, making this edition the largest in terms of participating delegations and athletes.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands mangrove forest coverage amid conservation efforts

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Feb. 2 — Mangrove forests in China have expanded since the start of this century, making the country one of the few to have seen a net increase in mangrove coverage, official data showed on Sunday, World Wetlands Day.

    The total area of China’s mangrove forests has reached 30,300 hectares, up approximately 8,300 hectares from the beginning of this century, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration.

    The progress came as a result of China’s intensified efforts to protect and restore its mangroves, which are evergreen trees or shrubs that grow in intertidal zones on tropical or subtropical coasts. Sometimes referred to as “coast guards,” they play a vital role in purifying seawater, in mitigating the impacts of wind and waves, and in maintaining biodiversity.

    Over the past five years, China has planted over 8,800 hectares of mangroves and rehabilitated an additional 8,200 hectares, according to an administration official.

    This progress has been part of the country’s broader work to protect its wetlands. More than 1 million hectares of wetlands have been created or restored since late 2012, with China’s total wetland area remaining stable and now at over 56.35 million hectares. More than 2,200 wetland nature reserves have been established nationwide, and major wetlands have seen notable ecological improvements.

    Over the last two decades, China has established 903 national wetland parks, which collectively protect 2.4 million hectares of wetlands and are mostly open to the public and free to enter.

    To strengthen wetland conservation, the administration will implement China’s law on wetland protection in full, enhance its monitoring and supervision work, advance mangrove conservation and invasive plant control initiatives, and support the construction and operations of an international mangrove center, the official said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ancient town in Tianjin attracts tourists to enjoy festive atmosphere during Spring Festival holiday

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Ancient town in Tianjin attracts tourists to enjoy festive atmosphere during Spring Festival holiday

    Updated: February 3, 2025 07:26 Xinhua
    People visit the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 2, 2025. Yangliuqing ancient town is long celebrated for its woodblock new year pictures. These pictures, which usually bear auspicious meanings, flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911) due to highly developed canal transportation, and were sold to different places in the country. During Spring Festival holidays, light installations, folk performances, and specialty shops in the town attract large flocks of tourists to enjoy the festive atmosphere there. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit a festive lantern show at the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People enjoy the night view at the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit a festive lantern show at the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People view woodblock new year pictures at Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial photo taken on Feb. 1, 2025 shows a night view of the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A stilt artist performs at the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Vendors sell specialty snacks at the Yangliuqing ancient town in Tianjin, north China, Feb. 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister to hold defence and security talks with European partners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Europe must double down on its efforts to crush Putin’s war machine as Russia’s economy shows signs of weakening, the Prime Minister will warn tomorrow [Monday 3 February].

    • Prime Minister to call on European countries to continue bearing down on Putin in the face of the struggling Russian economy 
    • He will discuss plans for a UK-EU defence and security partnership with the UK’s closest partners in order to tackle the generational threats we all face
    • Prime Minister continues his focus on bolstering the UK’s national security – the key foundation upon which the government will deliver its Plan for Change

    Europe must double down on its efforts to crush Putin’s war machine as Russia’s economy shows signs of weakening, the Prime Minister will warn tomorrow [Monday 3 February].

    As he travels to Brussels for defence and security talks, he will urge the UK’s closest allies to step up and shoulder more of the burden in order to keep Europe safe against Russia’s increasing campaign of sabotage and destruction on our continent. 

    Putin is facing mounting domestic pressure as a result of his struggling economy, having ploughed billions into bankrolling his war machine – leading to skyrocketing inflation and soaring interest rates in Russia.  

    The recent sanctions imposed on Putin’s shadow fleet and energy companies have dealt a severe blow to Russia’s oil trade. Russian oil and gas revenues were down 29% in 2024 compared to 2022, and the sanctions have led to a sharp rise in shipping costs, with the majority of sanctioned vessels left unable to trade. 

    The UK and its allies have introduced the most punishing sanctions ever imposed on any global economy, with Putin himself admitting that these are causing a “colossal number of difficulties”. 

    The UK alone has sanctioned more than 2,100 individuals and entities under the Russia sanctions regime, over 1,900 of which were imposed since Putin’s full-scale invasion. This includes more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, including 93 oil tankers.  

    The Prime Minister will call on Europe to keep up the pressure on Putin, alongside sustained military support to Ukraine, to put them in the strongest possible position this year.  

    The Prime Minister will say today:

    We need to see all allies stepping up – particularly in Europe. 

    President Trump has threatened more sanctions on Russia and it’s clear that’s got Putin rattled. We know that he’s worried about the state of the Russian economy. 

    I’m here to work with our European partners on keeping up the pressure, targeting the energy revenues and the companies supplying his missile factories to crush Putin’s war machine. 

    Because ultimately, alongside our military support, that is what will bring peace closer. 

    The Prime Minister has prioritised security as a foundation for his Plan for Change, believing every mission relies on a strong security base, from ensuring the UK’s Armed Forces have the cutting-edge equipment they need, to securing medical supply chains and increasing diversification in energy supplies.

    Tomorrow afternoon, he will meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, before travelling to meet with the leaders of the 27 EU Member States at an informal meeting of the European Council. 

    There, the Prime Minister will set out his pitch for an ambitious UK-EU defence and security partnership with a number of steps to increase co-operation on shared threats, and go further on cross-border crime and illegal migration, while delivering growth and security at home. 

    The session of the Informal European Council is part of the Prime Minister’s ongoing commitment to strengthen our partnership with the European Union in order to drive growth, boost living standards and keep the UK safe and secure. 

    The Prime Minister is committed to making Brexit work better for the British people while keeping within his red lines – no return to freedom of movement and no re-joining the customs union or single market.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: Prime Minister to hold defence and security talks with European partners

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Europe must double down on its efforts to crush Putin’s war machine as Russia’s economy shows signs of weakening, the Prime Minister will warn tomorrow [Monday 3 February].

    • Prime Minister to call on European countries to continue bearing down on Putin in the face of the struggling Russian economy 
    • He will discuss plans for a UK-EU defence and security partnership with the UK’s closest partners in order to tackle the generational threats we all face
    • Prime Minister continues his focus on bolstering the UK’s national security – the key foundation upon which the government will deliver its Plan for Change

    Europe must double down on its efforts to crush Putin’s war machine as Russia’s economy shows signs of weakening, the Prime Minister will warn tomorrow [Monday 3 February].

    As he travels to Brussels for defence and security talks, he will urge the UK’s closest allies to step up and shoulder more of the burden in order to keep Europe safe against Russia’s increasing campaign of sabotage and destruction on our continent. 

    Putin is facing mounting domestic pressure as a result of his struggling economy, having ploughed billions into bankrolling his war machine – leading to skyrocketing inflation and soaring interest rates in Russia.  

    The recent sanctions imposed on Putin’s shadow fleet and energy companies have dealt a severe blow to Russia’s oil trade. Russian oil and gas revenues were down 29% in 2024 compared to 2022, and the sanctions have led to a sharp rise in shipping costs, with the majority of sanctioned vessels left unable to trade. 

    The UK and its allies have introduced the most punishing sanctions ever imposed on any global economy, with Putin himself admitting that these are causing a “colossal number of difficulties”. 

    The UK alone has sanctioned more than 2,100 individuals and entities under the Russia sanctions regime, over 1,900 of which were imposed since Putin’s full-scale invasion. This includes more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, including 93 oil tankers.  

    The Prime Minister will call on Europe to keep up the pressure on Putin, alongside sustained military support to Ukraine, to put them in the strongest possible position this year.  

    The Prime Minister will say today:

    We need to see all allies stepping up – particularly in Europe. 

    President Trump has threatened more sanctions on Russia and it’s clear that’s got Putin rattled. We know that he’s worried about the state of the Russian economy. 

    I’m here to work with our European partners on keeping up the pressure, targeting the energy revenues and the companies supplying his missile factories to crush Putin’s war machine. 

    Because ultimately, alongside our military support, that is what will bring peace closer. 

    The Prime Minister has prioritised security as a foundation for his Plan for Change, believing every mission relies on a strong security base, from ensuring the UK’s Armed Forces have the cutting-edge equipment they need, to securing medical supply chains and increasing diversification in energy supplies.

    Tomorrow afternoon, he will meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, before travelling to meet with the leaders of the 27 EU Member States at an informal meeting of the European Council. 

    There, the Prime Minister will set out his pitch for an ambitious UK-EU defence and security partnership with a number of steps to increase co-operation on shared threats, and go further on cross-border crime and illegal migration, while delivering growth and security at home. 

    The session of the Informal European Council is part of the Prime Minister’s ongoing commitment to strengthen our partnership with the European Union in order to drive growth, boost living standards and keep the UK safe and secure. 

    The Prime Minister is committed to making Brexit work better for the British people while keeping within his red lines – no return to freedom of movement and no re-joining the customs union or single market.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legal action dropped over ETS Foresty Registry 

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister of Forestry Todd McClay has welcomed a decision by forestry sector representatives to drop Judicial Review proceedings related to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) fees.

    “The Judicial Review was initiated in response to the excessive fees imposed on the forestry sector by the previous Government,” Mr McClay says. 

    “The previous Labour government made a number of decisions that drove up the cost of ETS Registry and they expected the forestry sector to blindly pay for their mistakes.

    “The National-led coalition Government has worked hard to rebuild confidence in the forestry sector over the past 12 months. 

    “We have been working collaboratively with the sector to ensure we get the settings right to restore trust to the over 4,300 forestry participants in the ETS registry. 

    “Last year we announced that the cost of participating in the ETS registry would be reduced by 50 per cent for forest owners, and the formation of a Forestry Sector Reference Group to find more cost savings over the next year. 

    “This Government backs forestry, it will continue to play a key role in achieving our ambitious target of doubling exports by value in 10 years and helping New Zealand meet its climate change obligations,” Mr McClay says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Guidance for safe use of AI in the public sector

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins today released guidelines which set clear expectations for how agencies should adopt AI while harnessing its potential to improve productivity and service delivery.
    “Use of AI technologies to improve public services is a priority for me, and this guidance will enable its safe and responsible uptake,” Ms Collins says.
    “AI presents a major opportunity to lift productivity and improve public service delivery but government must ensure it is done right.
    “This guidance is part of a suite of tools for agencies to adopt AI in ways that are safe, transparent and deliver real value for New Zealanders while upholding the highest standards of trust and accountability.
    “Harnessing AI effectively can significantly improve customer experience and boost efficiency.
    “It can help reduce wait times, triage issues faster and allow public servants to focus on frontline services – and that means delivering better outcomes for New Zealanders while reducing costs to government.”
    The Government Chief Digital Officer (GCDO) leads the work programme to support safe and trusted uptake of AI technology across the public service. He recently released the Public Service AI Framework, which sits above the Responsible AI Guidance for the Public Service and sets out a structured approach to safely deploy AI all forms of AI used in New Zealand public service.
    The GCDO is working with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment to develop similar guidance for the business community. Agencies have joined up to support responsible AI adoption across both government and industry, driving innovation and economic growth.
    “AI systems are evolving rapidly, and government policies, guidance and use cases will continue to adapt alongside these advancements and public expectations,” Ms Collins says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transformed Municipal Baths site now open!

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    The former Bendigo Municipal Baths next to Faith Leech Aquatic Centre in Barnard Street has been transformed into a fantastic new recreation area that is now open for the public to enjoy.

    City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said after being fenced off to the public for many years, the City has completed a major $3M project to re-open this once hidden area to provide an attractive urban park complete with a lakeside loop track and boardwalk for community use.

    “The City is very proud to have funded this important project which we think will become a much loved and popular spot in the heart of Bendigo’s Rosalind Park precinct,” said Cr Metcalf.

    The project has included:

    • Major works to stabilise the dam wall
    • Removal of perimeter fencing
    • Removal of the island
    • Sludge removal and water quality improvements
    • Installation of fish habitat logs for freshwater mussels and small native fish
    • Installation of irrigated lawn areas, park seating, pedestrian lighting and signage
    • Planting of shade trees, native aquatic plantings and landscaping
    • Construction of a loop walking path and installation of a board walk on the eastern side of the water body
    • Interpretive signage, landscaping and vegetation by Djandak

    The original Municipal Baths were officially opened over 110 years ago in 1913 on the site of an existing dam. The baths were Bendigo’s primary location for swimming and bathing until the opening of the adjacent Bendigo Olympic Swimming Pool (now Faith Leech Aquatic Centre) in 1958.

    Originally more than twice its current size, the baths facility once featured a grandstand, change rooms, diving platforms, jetties, training areas, sunbathing decks and a water polo area. There was also a shallow paddling paddock that was reserved for children up to nine years old.

    At the official opening large crowds filled the pavilion and grounds to watch exhibitions by the Royal Life Saving Society and swimming races by members of the Bendigo Swimming Club. Bunting adorned the buildings and a local brass band performed on the day. The baths quickly became one of the most popular swimming places in Bendigo.

    The development of the adjacent Bendigo Olympic Pool in the 1950s signalled the closure of the Municipal Baths and over time, the old infrastructure was removed, and the site was fenced off to the public in the 1980s.

    In 2014 the City of Greater Bendigo developed a Masterplan for Rosalind Park which recommended opening up and restoration of the site for community use as a key action of the plan.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2023-24 annual financial disclosure return information published today [3 February 2025]

    Source: Australian Electoral Commission

    AECMedia

    Updated: 3 February 2025

    The 2023-24 annual financial disclosure return information from political parties, significant third parties, associated entities, members of the House of Representatives, Senators, donors and third parties that incur electoral expenditure are now available for public inspection.

    The annual return information is available on the AEC’s Transparency Register at https://transparency.aec.gov.au/.  

    Navigating the register

    The Transparency Register is a database of financial disclosure information, allowing users to apply multiple filters to refine their search. It also includes a data-export function to enable users to undertake additional analysis of the data outside the Register.

    Any questions on the navigation of the Transparency Register should be directed to the AEC’s funding and disclosure helpdesk on 02 6271 4552.

    Editor’s notes:

    • The disclosure scheme requires registered political parties, significant third parties, associated entities, members of the House of Representatives, Senators, donors and third parties that have incurred electoral expenditure to lodge annual financial disclosure returns with the AEC.
    • The disclosure threshold for the 2023–24 financial year returns was $16,300. The threshold is indexed on 1 July each year.
    • The disclosure period covers 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024. Any transactions made after 30 June 2024 should be disclosed in the 2024–25 annual disclosure return.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New $43 million partnership with WA to address family and domestic violence

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Joint with:

    The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
    Minister for Social Services 
    Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
    Member for Kingston
     

    The Hon Sabine Winton MLA
    Minister for Early Childhood Education
    Minister for Child Protection
    Minister for Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence
    Minister for Community Services
    Member for Wanneroo

    The Albanese Labor Government is working in partnership with the Cook Labor Government to take significant steps towards ending gender-based violence in one generation.

    A renewed five-year National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses with Western Australia will see an additional $42.975 million invested by the Commonwealth from 2025-26 to 2090-30, matched by recent investment from the State Government.

    The long-term funding will go to vital projects on the ground to help prevent and respond to family, domestic and sexual violence.

    The new partnership agreement brings Western Australia’s total allocation since 2022 to $110.96 million.  

    Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the renewed partnership agreement will help deliver the shared goal under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032 to end gender-based violence in one generation.

    “Addressing the rates of family, domestic and sexual violence has been one of my top priorities since becoming Minister for Social Services, and I am proud of what our government has achieved in just a short amount of time,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “The matched State and Commonwealth funding for Western Australia will continue to provide those on the frontline with the resources and support they need to bring about positive change and help people impacted by family, domestic and sexual violence, whether they are in crisis or starting their journey of recovery and healing.

    “I’m so pleased Western Australia is the first State to sign onto the new partnership agreement and we will continue to work in tandem with all states and territories to ensure that the safety and wellbeing of all women and children is paramount, no matter their circumstance or location.”

    West Australian Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Sabine Winton said the funding would be crucial for frontline service providers in the state.

    “This funding secures certainty for our frontline providers,” Minister Winton said.

    “I’m so pleased we are continuing to partner with the Commonwealth government, with Western Australia becoming the first state to sign up to the new agreement.  

    “The funding will continue to support the incredible work being done on the ground by community outreach services, women’s refuges, and the family and domestic violence sector.

    “It builds on the Cook Government’s long-standing commitment to addressing the scourge of family and domestic violence.”

    Across all jurisdictions, the renewed National Partnership will deliver $700 million in new, matched investments from the Commonwealth and states and territories, supporting frontline family, domestic and sexual violence services, including specialist services for women and children exposed to family, domestic and sexual violence, and men’s behaviour change programs.

    An independent evaluation of the renewed FDSV National Partnership will be undertaken towards the end of the agreement.  

    More information on the FDSV National Partnership Agreement is available on the Federal Financial Relations website.

    If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family, or sexual violence, you call the National Helpline 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.

    If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au

    Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Doctors Trapped in Hospitals, Clinics Under Fire in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): PHR

    Source: Physicians for Human Rights

    February 1, 2025 – In response to mounting conflict and the M23 militia seizing additional cities and towns in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the following statement is attributable to Karen Naimer, JD, director of programs at Physicians for Human Rights (PHR):

    “Health and humanitarian workers and facilities are under assault in eastern DRC as M23 forces take over more territory in the region. Health care facilities, workers, and patients are protected under international law. Health care workers must be able to safely carry out life-saving aid to besieged communities. Clinicians must not be forced to evacuate their patients from hospitals to protect them from danger or harm.

    “At least 700 people have been killed and at least 2,800 injured people are receiving medical care in area facilities, according to the World Health Organization – with these figures likely underestimates and will rise as more information becomes available.

    “Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has received reports from our colleagues in eastern DRC of widespread violence and threats against the clinicians and humanitarian professionals who provide care for local communities. During the takeover of Goma by the M23 and their allies, health facilities were subjected to indiscriminate shooting and bombing. Shells fell on the Charité and Virunga hospitals. Similarly, M23 forces opened fire on an ambulance on mission from the Charité Hospital, with a trainee doctor shot in the leg.  

    “Armed actors are looting health facilities at this time of severe need. The Kyeshero hospital, like other facilities supported by  humanitarian groups, was looted and warehouses used for storing medical equipment and humanitarian supplies have also been affected by these thefts.

    “Clinicians in Goma are trapped in hospitals – unable to return home due to the fighting outside their doors, while other staff are trapped in their homes amid the violence. These health workers are taking care of the wounded with minimal supplies as well as tending to the dead. Clinicians are overwhelmed, running out of medicines as supply lines are interrupted and facilities are looted. These health workers urgently need support and the sick and injured need medical treatment and protection. Combatants must end any interference with medical care, from direct attacks to threats to theft. International actors must surge medical supplies and resources to the affected communities.  

    “Hundreds of thousands of people have already lost access to health care in recent days. Clinics set up at many of the region’s internally displaced persons (IDP) camps have been shuttered. In many cases the IDP camps are at the front lines. The M23 has forced the closure of some IDP camps while residents flee others. These already-displaced families are again being displaced and now lack access to basic health care services. This is all happening amid a backdrop of a public health crisis and infectious disease outbreaks, such as mpox and cholera. The M23 must stop its forced closure of IDP camps.  

    “This dire situation requires all parties to the conflict to agree to the protection of health care facilities, the establishment of safe access via dedicated humanitarian corridors, to enable the resupply of critical medical and humanitarian supplies, safe civilian movement, and the rotation of humanitarian and medical staff. Access in and out of Goma and between Minova and Bukavu must be prioritized to ensure life-saving assistance reaches affected populations.

    “Without sustained international pressure and support, eastern DRC’s conflict risks spiraling into a broader regional war. Policymakers must act now to avert even greater civilian suffering and a wider conflict. Eastern DRC’s health and humanitarian actors need a lifeline.”

    Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is a global advocacy organization that uses science and medicine to prevent mass atrocities and severe human rights violations. Learn more here: (ref. https://phr.org/about/ )

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Vehicle clamped after hooning incident

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Vehicle clamped after hooning incident

    Monday, 3 February 2025 – 9:09 am.

    A 17 year old boy has had his vehicle clamped for 28 days after having his licence for only four days.
    A vehicle owned by the teen driver was detected doing a burnout on Richmond Road at Cambridge on Saturday 1 February.
    The vehicle was subsequently clamped, and investigations are ongoing in relation to the identity of the person driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.
    Police will continue to detect and deter hooning and anti-social behaviour on Tasmanian roads and urge anyone who witnesses such behaviour to report it by contacting police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
    If you can’t report it at the time but you have footage, you can upload it to police.tas.gov.au/report/

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Frank Ginn: Week Three Under the Gold Dome

    Source: US State of Georgia

    The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing common sense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.

    Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.

    One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds directly to taxpayers. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we’re in a position to give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting more money back in your pockets.

    Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the necessary resources to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to making sure they get the support they need to recover and move forward.

    Back at the Capitol, we hit the ground running this week, advancing legislation that reflects our values and priorities. On Thursday, Gov. Kemp hosted a press conference discussing his (and my) number one priority for the session: tort reform. With the support of leadership officials, I am optimistic about the General Assembly’s ability to pass meaningful and effective tort reform. I know my fellow Senators and I can help achieve better transparency and safeguard our small businesses from being held responsible for criminal acts out of their control.  In the words of Gov. Kemp, “Tort reform is not anti-insurance or anti-lawyer, its pro-Georgia consumer.”

    As committee meetings pick up, we’re working hard on issues that matter most to our communities, from protecting our schools to strengthening local infrastructure. I’m also excited to share my recent co-sponsorship of several Senate Bills, including the “Freedom of Speech and Belief Act,” which, if signed into law, would ensure that our constitutional First Amendment rights are protected in our state.

    Finally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. Interested students may apply for the program by emailing me or my administrative assistant at my office. (Frank.Ginn@senate.ga.gov.)

    As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.

    # # # #

    Sen. Frank Ginn represents the 47th Senate District which includes Madison County and portions of Barrow, Clarke, and Jackson County. He can be reached at (404) 656-4700 or by email at frank.ginn@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mission 300 Energy Summit: A watershed moment for Africa’s energy future

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The just-concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam marks a pivotal shift in how the continent approaches its energy crisis, from fragmented national efforts to a coordinated continental strategy backed by robust financial commitments and political will.

    MIL OSI Economics –