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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ngarewa-Packer Demands Support for Palestine Ceasefire from New Plymouth Mayor

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader and MP for Te Tai Hauāuru, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer is calling on the Mayor for New Plymouth, Neil Holdom, to do the right thing.

    “I am shocked at his decision to disregard the petition presented by Palestine Solidarity Taranaki calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire”, said Ngarewa-Packer.

    “The group made up of his constituents have shown up week after week at Puke Ariki Landing for over a year to stand against the genocide taking place in Gaza, and the killing now extending to Lebanon, Syria and Yemen.

    “They have worked with other Palestine Solidarity Network groups who have successfully garnered support from their local councils. They gathered 1800 signatures from local supporters and endorsements from two Iwi, church groups and Taranaki Muslim Association.

    “These are your constituents, your people.

    “This process unfairly removes the ability for input of hardworking and empathetic councillors who may have chosen to vote in support of this group.

    “Unfortunately, this action mirrors what is happening with the current Government – removing due process, disallowing input by those most affected and most informed and harming those who already suffer the most. Fast-tracking and bypassing.

    “I refuse to accept that this is not a council issue. This is an everyone issue… this is an absolute issue of human rights.

    “In Gaza there have been at least 43 000 killed, over 100 000 injured, over 10 000 missing, almost the entire population displaced and faced with starvation. This is a human issue.

    “We have seen successful support from other councils around Aotearoa such as Whanganui and Christchurch and the Mayor himself has in the past shown support for Ukraine, citing the need to support his constituents who may be affected.

    “We must afford that same curtesy to Palestinians, their friends, whānau, and advocates within your own community.

    “As Te Pāti Māori co-leader and MP for Te Tai Hauāuru I stand wholeheartedly in solidarity with the indigenous peoples of Palestine and stand against colonial forces.

    “I urge New Plymouth Mayor to reconsider his position, show his humanity and afford New Plymouth District Council the opportunity to stand on the right side of history”, concludes Ngarewa-Packer.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA – Mental health workers fear for safety of patients after police withdrawal of support – PSA survey

    Source: PSA

    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will increase risks to them and clients
    – Two out of three workers not confident workplace can manage risks
    – Nine out of 10 workers say change will add to already heavy workloads
    Mental health workers fear serious harm to themselves, their clients and members of the public from the withdrawal of police support for mental health call outs, a PSA survey shows.
    The phased withdrawal of police from responding to mental health callouts begins today. This includes police staying in EDs for a maximum of 60 minutes, falling to 15 minutes.
    “Mental health workers are saying loud and clear the implementation of the change is profoundly unsafe and that the risks of serious harm to them, the people in their care and the public are very high,” said Ashok Shankar, Health Lead for Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “We are calling on Te Whatu Ora and the police to delay this change until we can be reassured it can be done safely. Our members are at the frontline of this change, they know the risks, so it’s extremely disappointing that their views to date have been ignored.
    “It’s high time both the Health and Mental Health Ministers step in before real harm is caused.
    “Te Whatu Ora is failing to properly plan for the transition to the new regime despite months of consultation. Our members are not getting the extra training they deserve to adjust to the change.
    “One highly experienced mental health worker, who leads a team, said he only received a raft of documents explaining changes to operating procedures 10 days out from the 4 November start date.
    ‘These changes are going to add to the burden of what we endure now’, he said. He warned Te Whatu Ora that ‘patients, the public and staff will be injured, maimed and no doubt die in response to these changes and the poor planning and resourcing that goes with it’.
    Ashok Shankar said: “Mental health crisis teams are already under extreme stress – workloads are as heavy as they have ever been, yet the Government is allowing even more pressure to pile on overstretched teams.
    “Te Whatu Ora needs to expand mental health teams and provide additional training, if required, so they can safely pick up the burden of taking over from the police.
    “But the hiring freeze and the Government’s failure to properly fund Te Whatu Ora is making a dire situation that much worse.
    “The survey shows members expect time taken to see people in distress will increase. It will mean those with less urgent needs will wait even longer as more urgent cases are prioritised. Their health outcomes are being put at risk. That’s just not acceptable when we already have a mental health crisis in this country.
    “Mental health should be a priority – all of us want the best outcome for the people and their families facing challenges, but this process of police handover feels botched from the get-go – patients and workers may pay a heavy price,” said Ashok Shankar.
    ENDS
    Summary of findings from PSA survey (attached summary graphs)
    The survey was taken between 8 and 22 October 2024 and sent to 6,151 members who work in mental health. It attracted 438 responses. The margin of error is 5% at a 95% confidence interval.
    – 66% of workers say they are not confident in the ability of their workplace to manage risk. Only 12% are confident.
    – 38% disagree or strongly disagree that their workplace has a process in place to assess risk in mental health response
    – 88% say it will increase safety risk for clients
    – 91% say it will increase safety risk for workers
    – 86% say it risks increasing workloads
    – 72% say it risks increasing the time taken to see people
    Sample of quotes from survey of mental health workers
    I can understand the pressures that the police service are under and the reasons they want to withdraw, however there is no alternative in place so this just leaves a dangerous void in the process and I would not be surprised if there is an increase in incidents and possibly even lives being at risk.
    I do not understand how an 111 operator with just one days training in mental health could over rule the registered mental health professional decision who could be facing an client and made a risk assessment.
    Police are the only ones who can detain under the Act, and therefore, a withdrawal of their support when requested means more people will go without treatment, more people will fall off the act, the more people with become unwell, and the more mental health patients will end up in Police custody
    As a staff member I am left wondering of we will be safe and whether we will have to argue with police comms to get officers to respond to a danger to life. Having the building smashed up is scary enough but risk to staff, clients and the public is even worse.
    I think it is appropriate. My only concern is if Police take it upon themselves to determine if a person is mentally disordered or not. It could open the gate for police to deliver people to ED who are socially problematic but do not meet a criminal offense threshold. Would not want to see ED inappropriately burdened with these people. Perhaps police liaison nurses, based with Police would be a better use of a resource.
    The withdrawal of police at mental health jobs ultimately shows a failure in resource division at the national government level.
    I feel sorry for the police, but our system is in crisis. I am actually returning to work at present after being knocked out by a patient and having several months off with a nasty concussion. I don’t want this to happen again to myself or any other staff. I am lucky that I did not suffer a more serious injury.
    We are feeling very anxious about the safety of both ourselves and the patients and families involved with the withdrawal process. While we understand that we have the right to refuse and walk away, doing so may leave families at risk with individuals who are very unwell.
    It makes me reconsider my career choices. Do I really want to be in a front-line role where I have to justify my requests for assistance by Police in writing to non-health professionals with limited training in assessing mental health risk?
    The most important change that could be made is for us to have more staff, skilled staff rather than inexperienced ones that we have to spend time teaching when there already is too much to do in terms of clinical assessments.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Staff intervene during property damage

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man was arrested at licenced premises in Fullarton yesterday after causing damage and assaulting staff members.

    About 2pm Sunday 3 November police were called to a hotel on Glen Osmond Road after a man entered the gaming room and caused damage to a number of pokie machines. Staff intervened and were allegedly assaulted by the man, however they were able to restrain him until police arrived.

    Police attended and placed the 34-year-old NSW man under arrest. He has been charged with property damage, two counts of assault, affray and possess controlled drug.

    The man was refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court Monday 4 November. He was also issued a barring order from the premises.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: VIDEO AVAILABLE: Coast Guard medevacs 66-year-old woman 92 miles southeast of Southwest Pass, Louisiana

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Heartland
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Eighth District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Safety – TDDA Launches Imperans Report, a New Quarterly Workplace Drug Use Snapshot

    Source: Fred Russo, Botica Butler Raudon Partners  

    Imperans Report to Provide Businesses with Actionable Health and Safety Information

    04 November 2024, Auckland, New Zealand – The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA), New Zealand’s largest workplace drug testing provider, has launched the Imperans Report, its new quarterly workplace drug trends report. The report aims to provide Australasian employers with an analysis of drug and alcohol usage trends, combining results from both New Zealand and Australia to empower businesses to engage in proactive workplace risk management.

    The Imperans report addresses an information gap for business. Government organisations like ACC and WorkSafe publish incident reports, but they do not quantify when substances are a factor. Future reports will serve to build businesses’ understanding of substance use patterns regionally and temporally so that they can anticipate and reduce workplace risks.

    TDDA provides over 250,000 drug tests every year in New Zealand and Australia. In Q3/2024 tests from accredited clinic locations and mobile clinics throughout Australasia were used. All tests were taken between 1 July 2024 and 30 September 20241.  Data is anonymised and aggregated using TDDA’s Imperans system, a bespoke IT platform for testing services, data recording, and reporting.

    TDDA drug tests screen for amphetamine-type substances (ATS); benzodiazepines; cocaine; methamphetamine; opiates and opioids; cannabis; and synthetic drugs like synthetic cannabis.

    This quarter, 4.55 per cent of the screens conducted by TDDA in New Zealand indicated the presence of drugs. THC remained the most common substance detected in workplaces in New Zealand, accounting for 72.9 per cent of cases, closely followed by amphetamine-type substances at 34.2 per cent. There was also significant opioid detection, indicating workplaces may want to remind employees of their drug policies surrounding prescription painkillers.  

    Below are the most prevalent substances detected across New Zealand in TDDA testing:

    • THC: 72.9 per cent
    • Amphetamine-type substances (including methamphetamine): 34.2 per cent
    • Opiates (including oxycodone): 12.9 per cent
    • Benzodiazepines: 4.9 per cent
    • Cocaine: 1.7 per cent
    • Alcohol: 0.19 per cent

    It is crucial for Kiwi businesses to stay vigilant and adapt their safety strategies to evolving drug trends. By being proactive and staying committed to addressing drug-related issues, businesses can play a vital role in promoting safer communities and protecting the well-being of their employees.

    “Businesses across New Zealand should be cognisant of the prevailing drug testing trends and the potential impact on employee safety, workplace productivity, and company reputation,” says Glenn Dobson, CEO, TDDA.

    “Substances like cannabis and methamphetamine can significantly affect workplace safety. Symptoms may include impaired judgement, decreased coordination, and delayed reaction times. Anyone using these substances should not be operating vehicles or heavy machinery.”

    TDDA recommends that businesses update their drug and alcohol policies, educate themselves, and train key personnel to recognise signs of substance misuse. Staying informed and prepared is the best strategy to ensure a safe and productive workplace.

    1 Total figures on testing volumes or testing results by industry and region are commercially sensitive.

    Methodology  
    Testing data from 1 July 2024 and 30 September 2024 is aggregated and anonymised from fixed and mobile clinic operations throughout Australasia. Data from preemployment, post incident, and random testing has been combined. Testing methods included urine and oral fluid screening. Data is reported into the TDDA Imperans system, anonymised, and represents a snapshot of drug trends across Australasian workplaces and industries.  

    About The Drug Detection Agency
    The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is a leader in workplace substance testing with more than 300 staff, 90 mobile health clinics, 65 locations throughout Australasia, and processing more than 250,000 tests annually. TDDA was established in 2005 to provide New Zealand and Australian businesses with end-to-end workplace substance testing, education and policy services. TDDA holds ISO17025 accreditation for workplace substance testing in both AU and NZ. Refer to the IANZ and NATA websites for TDDA’s full accreditation details. Learn more about TDDA at https://tdda.com/.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: On-sold programme changes bring resolution to homeowners and taxpayers

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has asked the Natural Hazards Commission (NHC) to make changes to how it delivers the On-sold support package to prevent a cost blowout while helping eligible homeowners repair their homes in a timely manner. 

    The On-sold programme was set up by the Government in 2019 as a time-limited offer of support for owners of eligible on-sold over-cap properties in Canterbury. Applicants had 12 months to apply for an ex-gratia payment towards the cost of having their homes repaired for remaining earthquake damage. Applications for the programme closed on 14 October 2020. 

    “The On-sold programme has supported over 800 Canterbury homeowners to complete repairs and move back into their homes, and hundreds more are in the process of doing so,” says Mr Seymour. 

    ““The programme was never intended to continue indefinitely though, so the Government is making changes to simplify it, encourage timely settlement for these remaining homeowners, and avoid delays that add to programme costs. 

    “Initial cost estimates for the programme in 2019 had it at $250 million. By June 2024 the estimated cost of the completed programme is at $717.9 million. Instead of allowing a rolling maul of cost increases, we’re putting a full stop on the programme in a way that allows applicants fair settlement.  

    The following changes come into effect immediately: 
     

    • No application can be settled in excess of 1.5 times the current rateable capital value (CV) of the property.  
    • Applicants need to meet new deadlines to remain in the programme. For example, they have 30 business days to sign their Settlement Deed (from the date of offer) and six months to begin construction from the date of agreement. Applicants will also need to supply the information needed to progress applications within strict timeframes. 
    • Pre-construction project-management costs under the programme are limited to 4% of the ex-gratia payment. 

    “The Government wants to see earthquake damage to residential properties repaired as soon as possible so Cantabrians don’t continue to live in earthquake-damaged homes,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “Other changes reinforce the need to manage costs in the programme. From 23 December, a further limit will be applied to settlements where the homeowner has chosen to purchase a new home.”  

    The amount of the repair grant that can be repurposed will be limited to the market value of the building(s) at the on-sold property – assuming the damage eligible for remediation through this programme did not exist – plus the costs of demolishing the damaged on-sold property. The other existing parameters for, and limits to, these alternative settlement payments will continue to apply; and NHC will continue to verify the appropriateness of proposed costs on behalf of the Crown.  

    “The NHC is communicating the changes to homeowners in the programme today and will be in contact with each homeowner over the next two days with information about what this means for their specific situation,” says Mr Seymour.  

    “There are around 250 applicants in the programme who have not yet signed a Settlement Deed. I hope these changes will lead to positive outcomes and certainty for these applicants.    

    “I’m happy that we’re delivering an outcome that benefits everyone – with remaining applications on track without creating more costs for taxpayers.” 
     
    Note to editors: Further information is available at https://www.naturalhazards.govt.nz/insurance-and-claims/canterbury-earthquake/on-sold-over-cap-properties/about-the-on-sold-support-package/ 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Geopolitical tensions highlighted as risk to financial stability – Reserve Bank of NZ

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    4 November 2024: The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua today announced key findings from its 2024 Reverse Stress Test, alongside an assessment of how geopolitical tensions could impact financial stability in New Zealand.

    The findings are being pre-released from our upcoming Financial Stability Report and highlight the importance of proactive risk evaluation and management to safeguarding New Zealand’s financial stability.

    The Reverse Stress test asked participating banks to model severe but plausible scenarios that could cause their capital levels to fall below the regulatory minimums. The scenarios banks used featured severe recessions, with significant increases in unemployment and falls in property prices. Several banks identified escalation of geopolitical tension as the primary driver of economic downturns. Scenarios were often accompanied by secondary shocks, such as cyber-related events or insurance retreat.

    Banks also identified actions they could take in response to the scenarios to rebuild their capital positions. Responses included reducing dividends, cutting costs, tightening lending standards, repricing and extending loan terms for existing customers.

    “The Reverse Stress test prompted banks to explore severe scenarios that threatened their businesses and identify how they might respond. The exercise has improved our understanding of the potential vulnerabilities of the financial system. It has also been a valuable exercise for testing and enhancing industry’s risk management capabilities,” Director of Financial Stability Assessment & Strategy Kerry Watt says.

    An important part of Te Pūtea Matua’s financial stability work is promoting public understanding of risks. This stress testing exercise highlighted geopolitical risks as material for New Zealand. These risks arise from international tensions and can impact the financial system through various channels.

    Geopolitical risk can disrupt international trade, weaken domestic demand and lead to financial market volatility. This in turn can lead to higher loan defaults, raise funding costs, and increase cyber risks for financial institutions. The nature of the impact will depend on the transmission channel, severity and location of the geopolitical shock.

    “Concern about geopolitical tension has been increasing recently. As a small open economy, dependent on international trade and investment, geopolitical risks are clearly relevant to our financial system. Their potential impacts cannot be underestimated,” Mr Watt says.

    “We must be aware of these risks and be prepared to manage them to ensure the stability of the financial system.”
     

    More information

    Read our Reverse Stress Testing special topic here : https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=23fad86f03&e=f3c68946f8
    Read our Geopolitical box article here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=be28deaca3&e=f3c68946f8
    The 2024 November Financial Stability report will be published on our website at 9am on Tuesday 5 November, with a media conference at 1pm. See full details
    What is the Financial Stability Report: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=744e75eb37&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Opening of the Christchurch Youth Hub

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

    I specifically acknowledge: Hon Megan Woods, Member of Parliament; His Worship Phil Mauger, Mayor of Christchurch; and Dame Sue Bagshaw, Chair of Youth Hub Trust. Kia ora koutou.

    I am pleased to be here in Ōtautahi to open the first stage of Youth Hub Christchurch – what I’m sure will be a welcome and hugely important asset for this city.

    As a former Children’s Commissioner, and in my time as an academic, I have dedicated much of my career supporting the wellbeing of children. I am keenly aware of the challenges faced by our young people, and that mental health is the area of greatest need.

    I know that events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the March 15th terrorist attacks, and the Christchurch Earthquakes make providing such support to our young people all the more important.

    Research such as the Dunedin Study shows us that our formative years are critical in shaping who we become as adults. Ensuring the wellbeing of young people ultimately has a huge bearing on all areas of our society. 

    We must ensure that every child has the love, care and support they need to fulfil their potential in life – whatever that might be.

    I am delighted to see the first stage of Youth Hub Christchurch come to fruition, ready to welcome and support all who need it. This facility – the first of its kind in New Zealand – will elevate the way care is delivered to our young people, and I hope it will be the first of many such facilities around the country.

    As Governor-General, I am always energised and inspired when I meet young people: the energy and passion of the next generation who are the kaitiaki of our planet, and of our future – bringing new perspectives, ideas, and a sense of hope that we can solve the greatest issues of our time.

    I am confident Youth Hub will become a place where rangatahi are given the tools and support they need to build healthy, happy lives: to help them discover their strengths and passions, to celebrate what makes them who they are, and to guide them on their way to making a positive difference in the world.

    To that end, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Dame Sue, your team, and everyone involved in bringing Youth Hub to life. Your commitment to ensuring this will be a place of inclusive, sensitive, and meaningful care is to be commended.

    The work you will do and the good you will achieve here brings to mind the whakataukī: ‘Poipoia te kakano kia puāwai. Nurture the seed and it will blossom.’

    I once again thank you for inviting me here today to open Stage One. I have every confidence that all who walk through these doors will feel welcomed and supported, and the very real sense of a place where they belong. I wish you all the very best for the future, as you move into the next stages of completing this wonderful facility.

    No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UPDATE: State Highway 2 Kaitoke to Featherston now OPEN following serious crash

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    10:15 am:

    State Highway 2 is now open to traffic in both directions following this morning’s serious crash.

    The highway was closed for around four hours while the Police Serious Crash Unit carried out an investigation, and the crash scene was cleared.

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks drivers for their patience and cooperation during this closure.

    9 am:

    State Highway 2 remains closed between Kaitoke and Featherston following a serious crash earlier this morning.

    The Police Serious Crash Unit  is at the scene conducting an investigation – the highway is closed while this is on-going.

    Drivers must avoid the area, delay their journey, or use an alternative route – the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

    Further updates will be provided when the road’s status changes

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    6:10 am:

    State Highway 2 is closed near Kaitoke as emergency services and contractors attend a serious crash in the area.

    The two-car collision, near the intersections of Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, was reported around five o’clock this morning.

    State Highway 2 is currently closed between Gilbert Road and Waterworks Road, meaning there is no access between  Upper Hutt and Featherston. This closure will be extended to cover all of Remutaka Hill,  Kaitoke – Featherston.

    The highway is expected to remain closed for several hours while the crash is cleared, and a Police Serios Crash Unit investigation is completed.

    Drivers must follow the instructions of emergency services at the scene.

    Road users are asked to avoid the area, delay their journeys, or use an alternative route.

    The only alternative routes between Wellington and Wairarapa are the Paihiatua Track (Aokautere – Paihiatua) or Saddle Road (Woodville – Ashurst). These require up to three hours additional travel time.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    Meanwhile, drivers can also expect delays on State Highway 59 near Pukerua Bay where a crash has blocked the road’s southbound lane. People travelling between Paekākāriki and Porirua should use State Highway 1 as an alternative route.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZTA welcomes Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass Court of Appeal ruling

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has welcomed yesterday’s Court of Appeal decision ruling in favour of the Minister of Land Information and supporting the process undertaken for land acquisitions for Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass project.

    Court of Appeal decision

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery Rob Partridge says the court’s ruling dismissed the northern landowners’ argument that LINZ officials or the Minister of Land Information are the only people who can negotiate with them; and awarded costs in favour of the Crown.

    “This decision is a timely boost for the team on the ground building a safer, more resilient and reliable 6km section of State Highway 3 in northern Taranaki.”

    NZTA is now awaiting a ruling on an appeal by landowners, heard in the High Court in August 2024, against a May 2024 Environment Court ruling supporting the Crown’s intent to acquire an 11ha block of land required in the north of the project area.

    “We are taking up every avenue to progress resolution of all outstanding legal proceedings, and gain access to the land needed at the northern end of the project as soon as possible,” says Mr Partridge.

    2024/25 construction season 

    On the southern side of Mt Messenger, the team is focussed on excavating a spur to create access for construction of the project’s 125-metre bridge, which will carry the road over a stream that feeds into the Mimi wetland.

    Further towards the central section of the project, the award-winning cableway has been busy transporting earthworks gear into the project’s largest fill site that extends 500m from the tunnel’s northern portal.

    Environmental recognition

    The Alliance’s environmental, pest management and ecology teams are busy delivering the project’s major environmental benefits alongside mana whenua partner Ngāti Tama.

    The project has recently won the Environmental Excellence Award from the Australasian division of the International Erosion Control Association, recognising its work to minimise impacts on the surrounding landscape and waterways.

    “State Highway 3, over Mt Messenger, is a crucial connection for freight and other road users, between the West Coast and upper North Island.  The bypass project is essential to contributing to this economic growth, saving road users time, but more importantly, providing a safer, more resilient road, ultimately benefiting efficiencies, and we’re looking forward to all the progress on site over the coming construction season.”

    Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass earthworks.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government’s creative sector strategy released

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government’s creative sector strategy is designed to increase Kiwis’ engagement with culture and creativity and to boost its economic contribution, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

    “Amplify has been released for public consultation and I encourage people to read the strategy and to share their feedback.

    “There’s an opportunity to increase the impact of our arts and culture here and on the world stage, and significantly increase the sectors’ contribution to GDP and export revenue by 2030.

    “Our creative and cultural sectors also face many common challenges, so Amplify uses the levers the Government has to help.”

    Amplify proposes four key targets: 

    • New Zealand ranks among the top 25 nations in the world for culture and heritage ‘soft power’.
    • The median income for creative professionals more closely matches the median wage/salary income.
    • The GDP contribution from the arts and creative sector increases to at least $20 billion.
    • More New Zealanders are actively engaging with New Zealand arts, culture, and heritage.

    There are three strategic pillars which outline actions the Government will take over the next six years to reach these targets:

    • Maximising impact through the $450m annual Crown investment.
    • Nurturing talent and supporting a pipeline to provide sustainable career opportunities.
    • Reducing barriers to growth – modernising and streamlining government regulation to enable our cultural sectors to thrive.

    “This is just a draft and I am open to ideas,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southbound closure for SH1 Hikurangi from next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises State Highway 1 will be closed to southbound traffic between Twin Coast Discovery Highway and George Street at Hikurangi from Monday 11 November to Friday 13 December for road rebuild works

    Work will take place both during the day and overnight, with southbound traffic detoured via Hikurangi township for the duration of the works. The detour is expected to add less than five minutes to southbound journeys.

    The detour route is not approved for HPMV and over-dimension loads.They will be queued and escorted through the site approximately every 20 minutes, as required.

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

    We appreciate there will be increased noise for residents and businesses in the area, and short delays for road users.

    Rebuilding the road, which often involves replacing all or most of the structural road layers, improves the longevity of the network, the resilience and ultimately the safety and efficiency for all road users.

    This summer maintenance period (September 2024 to May 2025), we’re investing in the largest road rebuild programme ever for the region, with Northland one of three regions across Aotearoa with the most significant road rebuild programmes over the next three years.  

    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: Waimate High School Enviro-Group initiative takes root

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Spearheaded by the Waimate High School Enviro-Group, the project will see a shade house built at the school and approximately 2000 trees planted.

    At recent Lower Waitaki South Coastal Canterbury Water Zone Committee meetings, the group was successful in having two funding requests approved.

    Group facilitator and Head of Science Aaron Harbour says the Enviro-Group had attracted approximately 20 students, each showing a keen interest to learn about seed propagation.

    The group will predominantly grow native trees and grasses, with the shade house helping to accelerate the growth of kowhai trees in the coming months.

    Some members of the Waimate High School Enviro-Group on their latest field trip

    “The students wanted a space of their own to put their environmental ideas into reality, and the shade house achieves this,” Aaron said.

    “Having the shade house on school grounds is great for the students and it also gives us the opportunity to bring the community in at various times to get involved. We also hope that in the future this space will serve as a living classroom where students can learn about native plants, sustainable gardening practices, and the importance of biodiversity and ecological communities.”

    Sowing seeds for the future

    The group hopes the planting initiative will help establish a legacy project as part of the school’s revolutionary Ag Hub initiative – encouraging students to plant a tree when they first arrive in year 7 and again, when they leave.

    The project aligns with the committee’s goal of engaging with young people and supporting educational projects that raise awareness of environmental issues in the zone.

    The first batch of trees (500) have already been planted, with the next round of planting scheduled later this month. Other plant species to be introduced include tarata (lemonwood), kōhūhū (black matipo), kanuka (kunzea robusta), among others.

    Propagation will officially get underway in term one, next year.

    The Waimate High School Enviro-Group have already planted 500 trees on their riparian corridor

    Environment Canterbury © 2024
    Retrieved: 12:04pm, Mon 04 Nov 2024
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/zone-news/lower-waitaki/waimate-high-schools-enviro-group-initiative-takes-root/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: All Shenzhou-18 astronauts out of return capsule

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

    JIUQUAN, Nov. 4 — The three astronauts of the Shenzhou-18 manned mission — Ye Guangfu, Li Cong and Li Guangsu — were all out of the return capsule that touched down at the Dongfeng landing site in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Monday.

    They are all in good physical condition, and the mission is a complete success, according to the China Manned Space Agency.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 245-2024: Trial of new community protection profile questions on tariffs 3002.12, 3002.15 and 3822.19

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    4 November 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Importers and brokers of commodities lodged in tariffs:

    • 3002.12 – Antisera and other blood fractions
    • 3002.15 – Immunological products, put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale.
    • 3822.19 – Other diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits, other than those of 3006;…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Kim, Nickel Lead Bipartisan Bill to Protect Consumers from Credit Card Repair Scams

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Wiley Nickel (NC-13) introduced the Ending Scam Credit Repair Act (ESCRA) to combat fraudulent practices in the credit repair industry. The bill targets credit repair organizations (CROs) that exploit consumers by charging high fees without delivering on promises to improve credit scores. By strengthening CROs regulations, the bill will ensure transparency and accountability in the industry.

    The bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act empowers consumers by ensuring that CROs only receive payment after delivering documented improvements to credit reports, while increasing civil penalties for violations.

    “Credit scores can be the key to unlocking the American dream. Fraudulent CROs should not get away with scamming hardworking Americans seeking to improve their scores,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “The Ending Scam Credit Repair Act creates accountability and transparency for consumers and hikes penalties for scammers. I’m thrilled to introduce the bipartisan Ending Scam Credit Repair Act and will continue to work on commonsense solutions to protect the American dream.”

    “Too many hard-working Americans have been scammed by bad actors in the credit repair industry,” said Congressman Wiley Nickel. “Our bill puts a stop to these deceptive practices by banning upfront fees, improving dispute transparency, and requiring state registration. Consumers deserve real results, not empty promises and financial loss.”

    “Financial-services companies and consumer advocacy groups are grateful for congressional action on behalf of consumers, having seen first-hand the real harm credit repair organizations cause consumers, often charging hundreds of dollars a month, but yielding few if any positive results,” said Bill Himpler, President and CEO, American Financial Services Association (AFSA).

    “Paying for credit repair is almost always a waste of money,” said Andrew Pizor, senior attorney, National Consumer Law Center (NCLC). “The amendment from Representatives Nickel and Kim will help ensure consumers are not prey to credit repair scams and that they don’t get charged unless they get the results they are paying for.”

    Edward Boltz, Legislative Chair of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), whose members represent people in and after bankruptcy, agreed that the “Ending Credit Repair Scams Act” will stop credit repair jamming schemes which mislead consumers by holding themselves out as “lawyers,” but “will also now make it clear that honest attorneys can provide advice and assistance to those who need real help with credit report errors.”

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 246-2024: Addition of AUST R human vaccines onto the Compliance-Based Intervention Scheme (CBIS)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    4 November 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    Importers and brokers of:

    • Australian registered (AUST R) human therapeutics and medicines imported under tariff 3002.41.00.01 — Vaccines for human medicine (AUST R human vaccines).

    What has changed?

    The department is expanding the…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Disappointing driver behaviour over long weekend

    Monday, 4 November 2024 – 10:22 am.

    Police have expressed disappointment after several people were caught drink and drug driving, speeding, not wearing seat belts, using mobile phones illegally and driving without a licence in the North West over the weekend.
    Inspector Adam Spencer from Western Road Policing Services said police were upfront that officers would be out in force over the long weekend.
    “We were out and about in rural and popular tourist areas as we said we would be,” he said.
    “This included a major police operation in the Smithton and Arthur River areas, and the results were very disappointing.”
    “Between Queenstown, Smithton, Devonport and Burnie, our police issued 24 infringement notices.”
    “Police will again be out in force as the long weekend continues today, you can expect to see us again on highways, urban and rural roads.”
    “Please do the right thing and obey the road rules so everyone can get home safely.”
    Results included:

    28-year-old man intercepted in Devonport and returned a reading of 0.243, almost five times the legal limit. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    40-year-old Burnie woman intercepted following reports she was driving under the influence after leaving a licensed premises. Returned a reading of 0.178. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    66-year-old Montagu man caught drink driving and not wearing a seatbelt. Disqualified from driving and will appear in court.
    60-year-old Boat Harbour man returned a positive drug test and quantities of a controlled substance were located in his vehicle. He will be summoned to court.
    26-year-old Devonport man caught hooning. He was arrested and charged and the vehicle was clamped.
    33-year-old Devonport woman caught driving disqualified. Will appear in court.
    43-year-old Irish Town man detected speeding 32km/h over the posted limit on Blackwater Road, West Coast. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.
    59-year-old Port Sorell man detected speeding 33km/h over the posted limit on Backline Road, Forest. Given five demerit points and a $606 fine.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Better health taking flight for rural and regional Tasmanians

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    As part of the Albanese and Rockliff governments’ commitment to improving the state’s regional healthcare, the new Tasmanian home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is a step closer, with planning and design works underway.

    The $21.3 million redevelopment will support the RFDS to expand its operations, and was made possible by $15 million from the Albanese Government, $6 million from the Rockliff Government, and additional support from the RFDS.

    The new base at Launceston Airport will boost capacity for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, as well as ground vehicle transfers, and will include space needed to cater for surge workers through either infectious disease outbreaks, or for fire-fighting personnel to tackle bushfires.

    This will enable the RFDS to increase outreach support such as mobile mental health services, mobile dental services, and mobile general practitioner services – and support them to deliver urgent care to people across regional Tasmania.

    Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain joined Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell last week to inspect the site of the new base, and to receive an update on the project.

    Up to 62 full time jobs will be supported during the construction phase, with up to 41 ongoing jobs in the healthcare sector set to be created once operational in 2027.

    When completed, the facility will also house staff and equipment for other emergency service providers, including Ambulance Tasmania, Tasmanian Police and the Fixed Wing Aeromedical Providers.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain:

    “It was fantastic to visit RFDS Tasmania to see planning work on this important redevelopment progressing – a region-shaping project made possible thanks to $15 million from the Albanese Government.

    “Your postcode shouldn’t impact the quality of your healthcare, which is why we’re partnering with the RFDS to improve and expand their services across regional Australia – with this project to ensure Tasmanians can continue to access support when they need it.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma:

    “The Tasmanian Liberal Government’s $6 million investment for the new base will enable the RFDS to continue its vital work. 

    “Not only will this project improve access to healthcare across regional Tasmania, it will support local jobs during construction, and once the upgraded site is operational.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell:

    “While the RFDS’s current home in Tasmania has served the community for 20 years, our government is getting on with updating the site ensure it continues to provide the service Tasmanian needs and deserves. 

    “By securing the future of the Royal Flying Doctor Service at Launceston Airport, we’re ensuring that the RFDS can continue to deliver lifesaving care throughout our state, from clinic charter services to road transfers.”

    Quotes attributable to RFDS Tasmania Board Chair, Malcolm White and CEO Nicole Henty:

    “The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania is delighted to be building a new world class facility. We are grateful to both the Federal and State Governments for coming together to support this initiative and help us construct this base at Launceston Airport”

    “This is an exciting development for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Tasmania and we look forward to developing an aeromedical base that all Tasmanians can be proud of.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child Poverty – OIA documents reveal Minister is considering changing long-term child poverty reduction targets (CPAG)

    Source: Child Poverty Action Group

    Documents obtained by Child Poverty Action Group under the Official Information Act reveal the Minister for Child Poverty Reduction, Louise Upston, is considering changing our country’s long-term child poverty reduction targets.
    Unlocking children and whanau from poverty is the right and compassionate thing to do. It is also a non-partisan issue. In 2018, in a moment of political harmony, National, Labour, NZ First and the Green parties supported the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act. [1] In doing so they signed up to the ten year goal of halving child poverty by 2028. On the election trail Christopher Luxon recommitted National to the promise of halving child poverty by 2028.
    CPAG Chairperson Sally Ward states, ‘We have made a commitment as a country to end child poverty. We need the government to keep their promise and deliver the policies that will allow all children to reach their potential. We’ve made progress before, and we can do it again.’
    For example, between 2018 and 2022 New Zealand saw statistically significant reductions on 8 out of the 9 poverty measures. As officials noted, the reductions ‘exceeded the average reductions required to meet the ten-year targets’ partly because the previous government ‘delivered significant investments … aimed at lifting the incomes of low-income households as well as wider initiatives aimed at addressing the deeper causes of poverty’. [4]
    However, in April this year, the Minister was advised that the coalition-government’s policies were ‘likely to fall well short of the reductions required to meet the current ten-year targets’. Furthermore, the Minister was warned that other policy changes like those to the school lunch programme and public transport subsidies ‘could potentially have a negative impact on progress towards reducing material hardship’. [5]
    As previously reported, the Minister was presented with options that would put us back on track, but has so far, failed to pull those levers.
    CPAG Executive Officer Sarita Divis states, ‘We are seeking a commitment from the National-led coalition that we will retain our ten-year target of halving child poverty, and the government will do all in its power to ensure we meet those targets.’
    ‘Nicola Willis said she would resign if she failed to deliver the tax cuts she promised during the election. Well, the Prime Minister promised he would retain our 2028 goal on the election trail. Why are children and families experiencing the constraints of poverty being treated differently?’ Divis asks.
    Ward also encourages the New Zealand public to call on all politicians in parliament to hold each other to account on this issue of national significance.
    This November CPAG is launching a campaign called #PACT2028 that calls upon New Zealanders to show their support for children and whanau experiencing poverty and reminds our politicians of the pact they have made.
    ‘If we are to meet the 2028 target then we need politicians from across the political spectrum to once again come together and deliver on the promises they made.’ Divis states.
    BACKGROUND:
    In 2015 the then-National Government signed up to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals which included a commitment to halve poverty rates by 2030.
    In 2018 all parties in parliament, except ACT, supported the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act, which included a ten-year goal to halve child poverty.
    Under the Act the Child Poverty Reduction Minister must set intermediate targets every three years that support the overall goal to halve poverty. Upston’s earlier decision to soften those targets means it will be harder to meet our long-term goal.
    OIA documents reveal that when the Minister lowered the third-intermediate targets, official assumed she was going to seek cross-party agreement to new ten-year targets. [6]
    The advice she received in March 2024 was to set the level of the ten-year targets in principle and then set the third intermediate targets. [7] This did not happen, instead she set the third intermediate targets alone and these did not align with the ten-year targets. [8]
    In March 2024, officials advised the Minister that ‘the current trajectory is off-track to meet the ten-year targets without significant and timely, further investment [which would be possible through income support increases through the tax and benefit system].’ Instead, the Minister’s chosen path was (in the officials’ words) likely to have a ‘modest, and more uncertain, impact on measured poverty rates’. [9]
    In June 2024, the Minister was provided with the following speaking points:
    – ‘There is currently a mismatch between the proposed third intermediate targets and the ten-year targets due to be achieved a year later’. [10]
    –  ‘I considered changing the ten-year targets alongside setting the third intermediate targets, but decided now was not the right time.’
    – ‘The proposed third intermediate targets are significantly higher than the ten-year targets due to be achieved in 2027/28, which is just a year after the third intermediate target period ends (2026/27). But I have set the intermediate targets in line with what I consider to be achievable in the current context. I am continuing to consider whether the ten-year targets need to be changed and when the right time to do this would be.’ [11]
    [1] ACT did not support the introduction of the Child Poverty Reduction Act.
    [2] REP/24/6/520
    [3] REP/24/6/520
    [4] DPMC-2023/24-1058
    [5] DPMC-2023/23-1058
    [6] DPMC-2023/24-976
    [7] DPMC-2023/24-920
    [8] REP/24/5/457
    [9] DPMC-2023/24-920
    [11] REP/24/6/520 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Culture – 20-year homecoming anniversary of NZ’s Unknown Warrior this Armistice Day

    Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage

    Monday 11 November 2024 is an opportunity to remember the Armistice of 1918 that ended four horrific years of the First World War.
    This year’s national Armistice Day commemoration will also mark 20 years since our Unknown Warrior returned to New Zealand and was laid to rest at the National War Memorial in Wellington. Public are welcome to attend the ceremony that will take place at his Tomb.
    “The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior is a poignant symbol of remembrance. The soldier is one of 9000 New Zealanders killed overseas with no known graves and represents all New Zealanders who have died in wartime,” says Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae, Secretary and Chief Executive Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
    The Armistice is marked at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, commemorating the moment First World War hostilities ceased. It is a time to acknowledge the trauma and loss of that war, and all the subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which New Zealanders have been involved.
    “It is an opportunity to reflect on our shared war experiences with other nations and to reaffirm our hopes for global peace and security.
    “Armistice Day, and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, represent what should never be forgotten, the sacrifices of the past in pursuit of a better future,” says Leauanae.
    Interview requests:
    Event information:
    Public who are interested in attending the Armistice Day commemoration should arrive at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park by 10:45am for a 10:55am start.
    In the event of bad weather, the ceremony will be held inside the Hall of Memories.
    About Armistice Day:
    The First World War ended with the signing of an armistice between Germany and the Allies on 11 November 1918.
    New Zealand’s Unknown Warrior:
    The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior contains the remains of an unidentified New Zealand soldier exhumed from Caterpillar Valley Cemetery in the Somme region of northern France.
    He was reinterred at the National War Memorial on 11 November 2004.
    The soldier is one of 9000 New Zealanders killed overseas with no known graves and represents all New Zealanders who have died in wartime.
    The tomb was designed by sculptor Kingsley Baird and is made of marble, granite, pounamu (greenstone) and bronze. The design was inspired by the Southern Cross constellation, the stars of which guide the warrior back home to New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education and Media – News is good for Ara journalism grads – Ara

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    In 2024, the media landscape has been described as bleak, with major headlines focusing on the closure of Newshub and significant cutbacks for TVNZ.
    These developments have raised concerns about the future of traditional media roles, reflecting broader industry challenges associated with shifting audience preferences towards digital platforms and customised, OnDemand content.
    It’s prompted academics and former industry professionals now teaching at Ara’s New Zealand Broadcasting School (NZBS) to be inundated with interview requests about the supposed demise of journalism.
    But the current demand for NZBS journalism grads belies that narrative.
    Right now, the current cohort are securing industry placements that both complete their studies and springboard them into their media careers. And the NZBS reports that opportunities abound for their highly skilled multi-media professionals who are industry ready.
    Placement Lead Simon Tuck said it’s the time of year when “the rubber hits the road”.
    “This is the time our learners truly realise their dream of getting into their chosen field. In recent weeks we’ve been delighted to host industry here as they seek to recruit our talented learners into their many and varied businesses.”
    Tuck said mainstream outlets NZME, Sky, Stuff, TVNZ, Radio New Zealand, MediaWorks and Newstalk ZB as well as smaller or more niche outlets had been in touch about placements.
    “Stuff is an exciting new outlet for us. We’ve enjoyed having them on campus as we’ve built our relationship with them this year and in recent weeks they’ve interviewed 30 learners across our journalism, radio and screen streams for the multiple places they’re offering,” he said.
    “They’re looking for cross-stream capable journalists with strong audio and video skills. Their feedback was that they were ‘spoiled for choice’ and if they could take everyone, they would.”
    Second-year journalism tutor (and foundation Newshub staffer) Jeff Hampton’s long-held view that there would always be demand for quality content creators was ringing true.
    “Whether it’s video audio or written, journalism is simply being delivered in a different form. There’s always going to be a need for journalism and there will always be work for people who can produce quality content,” Hampton said.
    “We’re seeking to be ahead of trends here at Broadcasting School, adopting technologies like our Mojo kits, to ensure our graduates have relevant skillsets.
    NZBS Programme Leader Karen Neill said another example was the newly devised “Extravaganza”, this year’s final project for Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications learners.
    Industry experts had been involved alongside learners in the creation of the on-screen, on-air and online offering due to go live next month. Communications experts and content creators from several production houses and agencies had also had input.
    “Our learners are being challenged to come up with an audience-grabbing product that crosses all information platforms. Be it audio, visual, online or social media – developing this crossover skillset makes them equipped for everything,” Neill said.
    Industry guests will be invited to observe the live Freeview broadcast showcasing the learner-led approaches to news in a multimedia context.
    At the end of the Extravaganza season the next step for NZBS students will be their industry placements. Records show 93% of NZBS journalism graduates will continue in their chosen field following their first foray into the workplace.
    As he prepares to oversee the next cohort’s initial industry experience, Tuck sees no reason that will change.
    “We find that our industry partners who invest in the future of our graduates with paid placements do their all to look after them. That’s been the case even amid the challenges of 2024,” he said.
    “With all this in mind, I can only encourage anyone who has a desire to be among New Zealand’s next content creators to apply to study at Ara. We’re ready to foster their talent and continue to work to satisfy industry demand.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following burglary, Roxburgh

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Alexandra Police are wanting to hear from anyone who witnessed a man acting suspiciously around vehicles in the Roxburgh area on Sunday.

    A man was arrested following a burglary at a commercial premises on Teviot Street, Roxburgh just before midday.

    He was found to be in possession of a quantity of coins, and Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a man interfering with vehicles or acting suspiciously on Sunday morning around Teviot Street and the surrounding areas.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241102/4429.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Passengers vote with their feet and return to public transport

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 2 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Transport

    Public transport use is on the rise, growing by almost 20 per cent in the 2023/24 period compared to the same time in 2022/23.

    These latest patronage figures showing passengers are voting with their feet thanks to increased reliability, new travel options and better integration.

    After consecutive periods of growth, latest figures show public transport patronage nearly reached its pre-COVID high with more than 629 million ticketed trips made across all modes in the last financial year.

    That figure is edging closer to the network-high 735 million ticketed trips taken on public transport in the 2018/19 window.

    With the success of Sydney Metro City services and employers getting workers back to the office, public transport could set new post-Covid patronage highs through 2025.

    The new Metro line is seeing around 215,000 passenger trips daily, with people incorporating new ways of travel into their overall journey. There have been more than 12 million trips on the new Metro in its first 10 weeks.

    Transport for NSW is anticipating greater demand as it has listened to passengers, looked at the modelling and adapted services to fit in with how the community wants to use public transport, most notably in the shoulders of the peaks and for recreation.

    Weekend travel has been the big winner with families or visitors to the city overwhelmingly travelling by bus, train, tram, ferry, and metro to major events and to explore the city and attractions.

    Patronage on weekends is up 17 per cent on last year, and for ferries and light rail, has eclipsed pre-Covid travel rates – growing faster than weekday travel.

    Sydney Metro has three times the weekend travellers that it did when only operating as a Northwest route.

    Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

    “People are voting with their feet and are coming back to public transport, with ridership on light rail and ferries now surpassing pre-covid levels on weekends.

    “Our investment in rail maintenance and our new timetable means our network is more reliable and can recover more quickly when things go wrong.

    “Patronage figures for the new City Metro show that Metromania isn’t slowing down. The daily average of 200,000 trips during its opening week, has increased to an average of 215,000 trips per day.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Business Bureau delivers for business in its first year

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 2 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Small Business

    The Minns Labor Government’s Service NSW Business Bureau has helped small businesses get the support they need, responding to more than 265,000 requests for assistance in its first year.

    In addition, business owners across the State have received a total of around 45,000 hours of free, tailored business advice on business-critical topics such as planning, marketing and cash flow.

    The Business Bureau’s web pages have seen more than 2.2 million website visits since it launched in October 2023, with NSW businesses benefiting from access to personalised guidance, tailored advice and free digital tools.

    The Business Bureau’s team of dedicated Business Concierges has made it easier for businesses to access government support, understand government requirements, apply for licences and permits, receive disaster and emergency assistance, as well as referrals to mental health support for them and their employees.

    The Business Bureau’s rapid response team has provided on the ground support for businesses facing acute crisis. They assisted more than 140 business in the aftermath of the tragic Bondi incident, they were on the ground to assist businesses impacted by the M6 sinkholes and provided assistance to businesses in Northern NSW who had supply chains disrupted due to the fire ants infestation.

    The Business Bureau’s digital tools, the Service NSW Business Bureau App and Service NSW Business Profile, make it even easier to access government support, manage transactions, and save and track industry licences in just a few taps. Since the launch of the Business Bureau, more than 165,000 businesses have used these digital solutions.

    This includes a new seamless way for businesses to renew a business vehicle registration by logging into their Service NSW Business Profile or the Business Bureau Mobile App and simply selecting ‘Renew your vehicle registration’. Already, more than 21,500 customers have accessed the registration renewal feature from the Business Profile.

    For more information on Service NSW Business Bureau, call 13 77 88 or visit: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business

    Minister for Small Business Steve Kamper said:

    “I am passionate about small business, having lived it my whole career, and these customer numbers tell an amazing story of the significant support delivered by the Service NSW Business Bureau in its first year.

    “The Business Bureau is supporting small business owners no matter where they are on their business journey with free, tailored advice and digital tools which are helping to make being in business easier.

    “Driven by the priorities of the recently launched NSW Charter for Small Business, we are focused on working with small businesses across the State to tackle unproductive red tape, break down barriers and build a stronger future.

    “We know small businesses having been doing it tough, but now the Business Bureau is there for small businesses every step of the way.”

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “Small business owners across the State wear many hats which is why we remain committed to making support and services more accessible and more flexible than ever.

    “We have seen more than 165,000 businesses access the Service NSW Business Bureau app and their Service NSW Business Profile which shows the Business Bureau’s digital tools are making it easier for small business owners to access the advice, information and support they need on the go and at a time which suits them.”

    Founder of Learnopolis Jennifer Kozanic said:

    “As a new business, we needed advice about what sort of public liability, professional indemnity and level of cover we needed. We also needed support with considering who we should target with supplying our product and service.

    “The Business Bureau has provided great advice on writing grant applications, business development and pricing. Winning a NSW Government contract was huge for us as a two-person start-up.

    “Sam, my business concierge, genuinely wants to support us and to have someone cheering you on from the sidelines, who understands business, is something I would recommend for every owner.”

    Founder of Parkview Realty Ben Burfitt said:

    “The Business Bureau has been hugely supportive in making sure my application for both my class 1 real estate agent licence and business corporation licence were progressed.

    “To have someone who is able to liaise with other areas of the NSW Government was extremely beneficial in getting licence approval in a timely manner.

    “My business is new and so brand awareness is important to us. I look forward to working with the Business Bureau on how to develop this and market the company in a way that represents our story and what we offer.”

    Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said:

    “The NSW Government has done much to improve the digital interface with business. Our state has led the nation for the past decade. 

    With rapid improvements in technology and a constantly evolving operational environment, this is an area we can never take for granted. The work must be continuous or we risk falling behind.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More energy, fewer turbines – modification boosts wind farm capacity

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 3 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    The NSW Government has approved a modification to a large-scale wind farm in the state’s Central West which will deliver enough energy to the grid to power 730,000 homes.

    The Liverpool Range Wind Farm was approved in 2018 with a modification sought in 2022 to utilise more efficient technology to increase its energy generation with fewer turbines.

    The $2 billion renewable energy project, northeast of Mudgee, will create 550 construction jobs and 47 operational jobs for the Central West economy.

    The local community will also benefit with $35 million to be delivered to local councils through Voluntary Planning Agreements.

    Following consultation with the community the applicant reduced the number of turbines from 267 to 185 to reduce the visual impacts.

    The modification will see an increase in the project’s maximum energy generation capacity by 370 megawatts to 1.3 gigawatts, with capacity to power an additional 200,000 homes across the state.

    Achieving this additional power was made possible through the use of more efficient turbines and increasing the maximum wind turbine height from 165 to 215 metres.

    The project will help prevent 2.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere across NSW during its first full year of operation.

    This State Significant Development is located within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), which the NSW Government considers a strategic area with strong renewable energy resource potential.

    Projects like this are critical to Labor’s Energy Plan to deliver cleaner, more affordable energy to the grid while creating thousands of jobs and boosting regional economies.

    In its assessment, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) worked closely with the community, councils and government agencies to address visual, biodiversity, traffic and transport impacts.

    The department has set a suite of conditions to make sure any potential impacts are effectively minimised, managed and offset.

    For more information see: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/mod-1-turbine-and-infrastructure-changes

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “NSW is leading a once-in-a-generation upgrade of the electricity network by building the infrastructure we need to power our state into the future.

    “The Liverpool Range Wind Farm will generate jobs during its construction and operational phases, while also providing long-lasting benefits to the local area through community contributions over the life of project.

    “This is a good example of the applicant working with the local community and the final result being material changes to the proposal that address visual impacts.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $21 million for alcohol and drug services in Northern NSW, as Drug Summit begins in Lismore

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 4 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Health

    The NSW Government is committing $21 million over four years to enhance alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment and support for people in Northern NSW, as the second day of the regional Drug Summit begins in Lismore.

    This includes $6.8 million for three new programs to be provided by not-for-profit AOD services and mental health organisation The Buttery, including:

    • $2.6 million for a new day rehabilitation program and counselling for people with dependent children;
    • $2 million over four years for community-based withdrawal management and counselling for priority population groups; and
    • $2.2 million over four years for a new post-custodial support service.

    Community Rehabilitation

    The Community Rehabilitation for Parents program will provide day rehabilitation with individual care-coordination, counselling, and psychosocial support for up to six months for people aged over 18 with a substance use disorder and dependent children.

    The program is expected to support up to 48 people each year.

    Withdrawal management and counselling

    People will be offered withdrawal management in partnership with local GPs, assertive case-management and AOD psychosocial counselling for up to six months.

    Face to face and virtual care will be available. Up to 360 people will be able to receive treatment each year across Northern NSW and the Mid-North Coast.

    Post-custodial support

    Case management and support will be offered to people in Northern NSW and the Mid North Coast up to three months prior to release from custody and up to 12 months post-release.

    Northern NSW Local Health District services

    As part of this announcement, Northern NSW Local Health District will receive funding to support the following services:

    • $1.5 million to establish Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Services across multiple locations including Tweed Byron Ballina, Richmond and Grafton. A virtual care component will support mothers and parents in rural locations to enable increased engagement with AOD services.
    • $700,000 to expand alcohol and other drug hospital consultation services in Lismore, Tweed, Clarence and Byron/Ballina to better support acute services, provide extended hours of coverage, and virtual care.
    • $1.6 million for expansion and integration of AOD services for young people, including enhance partnerships with other agencies including Department of Communities and Justice, Headspace, Youth Justice and HARP. The service will be available in 3 locations and includes virtual care.

    Drug Summit in Lismore

    The 2024 Drug Summit is underway in NSW with the second regional forum taking place in Lismore today, following the first day of the Summit in Griffith last Friday.

    The Summit will also be held in Sydney on 4 and 5 December, bringing together health experts, police, people with lived and living experiences, drug user organisations, families and other stakeholders to provide a range of perspectives.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

    “I am so proud to be able to announce this important investment into life changing services for the people of Northern NSW, on the second day of the regional Drug Summit in Lismore.

    “It’s vital that we continue to support community organisations like The Buttery to help people achieve recovery and rebuild their lives.

    “This funding will focus on increasing access to evidence-based treatment, prevention, and early intervention services especially in regional and rural areas.

    “These new programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of people living in regional areas, and priority population groups including Aboriginal people, pregnant women, people with mental health conditions, young people, and people involved in the criminal justice system.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin:

    “The Northern NSW community will benefit from this major funding boost, which will significantly improve health and social outcomes for people at risk of alcohol and other drug related harm, and their families.

    “I look forward to listening and reflecting on the experience and expertise of everyone contributing to the second day of the regional Drug Summit in Lismore, so we can better understand how to support our community.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The winner is Sydney! Our marathon is the next ‘World Major’

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 4 November 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Jobs, Minister for Tourism

    Sydney is taking its place among the iconic marathon cities of the world, becoming just the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major alongside New York, London, Tokyo, Boston, Chicago and Berlin.

    With the support of the NSW Government over a three-year candidacy and review period, the Sydney Marathon now joins the elite club of Abbott World Marathon Majors after international organisers announced their decision at the New York Marathon overnight.

    Sydney’s new status is expected to drive a wave of international and interstate runners, along with familes, friends and event support crew to visit NSW.

    The Sydney Marathon will become an instant bucket list event for thousands of runners across the globe who have already achieved the “six star medal” for completing all six major marathons – and thousands more who have been aiming for the same goal but will now want to add Sydney to their to-do list.

    Major status positions Sydney as the major events capital of the Asia Pacific and brings global spotlight, with other marathons being watched by an average global broadcast audience of 20 million viewers.

    Currently, all six Abbott World Marathon Majors are oversubscribed. For example, more than 840,000 people have applied to run in the London Marathon next year, with only about 55,000 places on offer.

    Destination NSW estimates an extra $73 million in visitor expenditure will be added to the NSW economy over the next three years as a result of Sydney Marathon’s elevation. Over a decade, an extra $300 million will be added to the economy, with many visitors to Sydney taking the opportunity to visit regional NSW while in Australia.

    The elevation of the Sydney Marathon to major status has been made possible through a funding and strategic partnership with the NSW Government through Destination NSW. Government support was a requirement of the Abbott World Marathon Majors criteria and involves cross agency collaboration with Transport for NSW, Destination NSW, NSW Police and NSW Ambulance.

    The TCS Sydney Marathon cleared its final hurdle in September after three years of being judged against the assessment criteria of Abbott World Marathon Majors.

    There were 25,000 registered runners for the marathon that winds its way through the harbour city and finishes at the Sydney Opera House.

    Participation in the Sydney Marathon has increased by 400% since 2022, from 5,000 entries to 25,000 in 2024. It is expected that 33,300 will greet the starter’s gun in August 2025, rising to 37,800 in 2027.

    Ongoing support for the Sydney Marathon is part of the broader Minns Government plan to grow the NSW Visitor Economy to $91 billion in expenditure by 2035.

    New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said:

    “We’re thrilled Australia’s only global city, Sydney is now a member of the world majors club, following the great marathon cities of Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin, Tokyo and London.

    “Achieving major marathon status is a huge honour and we are proud to be a funding and strategic partner of the Sydney Marathon.

    “These runners, their supporters and fans who come to watch will bring a huge boost to the local economy.

    “We have ambitious plans to boost the number of visitors in NSW and this event is another feather in our cap.

    “NSW is an unbeatable hotspot for tourists across the globe and we look forward to welcoming them next year, providing a multi million dollar boost to the economy and an unforgettable experience for the runners on one of the most scenic marathon courses in the world.”

    Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:

    “They are the bucket list events that runners from across the world want to tick off. Now Sydney Marathon joins them at the starting line.

    “Sydneysiders get behind a sporting event like no other city and we know more and more people will embrace the marathon whether that is aspiring to complete it or getting out to support those who do.

    “Sydney Marathon 2025 will draw more visitors, but the NSW Government is just as excited by the economic boost this will provide over the long run as the status of the event grows.

    “I congratulate Sydney Marathon organisers and those who worked on its candidacy, backed by Destination NSW. This is a remarkable achievement.”

    Wayne Larden, race director of the TCS Sydney Marathon said:

    “Becoming the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major is just incredible for the event, as well as for Sydney and NSW.

    “This amazing milestone is going to have a profound impact on running in Australia, inspiring the community to become a marathoner and do something special for themselves, their families and friends. Community health will benefit alongside a huge increase in fundraising.

    “We are so excited to deliver the 2025 event as the 7th Abbott World Marathon Major and join the greatest marathon series and events on the planet!”

    “We could not have achieved such incredible growth in competitors and uplift in delivery to make it into the World Majors if it wasn’t for the support of the NSW Government through Destination NSW, and our partners TCS and ASICS. Our Pont3 team are first rate and have put in so much work to make this happen.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Updated smoke alarms save Keysborough resident

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Belinda Peterson in her damaged Keysborough home

    One lucky Keysborough resident has CFA and RACV’s Smoke Alarm Installation Program and working smoke alarms to thank for their swift escape from a burning kitchen last month.

    Belinda Peterson was just one of more than 1000 at-risk people across rural and regional Victoria to receive free smoke alarms and assistance from CFA and RACV since April.

    Now having lived first-hand through the wrath of an unnerving house fire, Belinda could not be more grateful for the timely maintenance visit that allowed her smoke alarms to alert her out of danger.

    The fortunate getaway has inspired her to spur on any Victorians requiring assistance to seek out their local fire brigade or to ask questions if they are unsure about the condition of their smoke alarms.

    “I am incredibly lucky I had my new smoke alarms. The fact that I am above 60, single and unable to reach the heights of those ceilings meant I needed help,” Belinda said.

    “It was a case of calling my local fire brigade and having them come round and install them for myself and my neighbour.

    “Although the units didn’t need to be changed, they did replace the back up batteries that were well and truly out of date and cleaned them all thoroughly before performing tests to ensure they were working before they left.”

    Reality hit just four months later when Belinda routinely retrieved her Lite n’ Easy polystyrene box from the front door and placed it on her bench.

    “The box was full of meals and dry ice and as I have limited space in the apartment, I put the box on the stovetop bench where I would usually prep food,” Belinda said.

    “When I picked up the box, I had noticed the plants in the front of my courtyard were very dry, so once I took it inside, I went back outside to water them.  

    “My neighbour came over and were chatting for only about two minutes before the smoke and alarms came billowing.  

    “The stove wasn’t on when I initially placed down the box, but from that movement it made contact with the ignition button and as a result sparked a flame and ultimately the fire.”

    As her fire blanket was under the stove, quick thinking saw Belinda grab doonas off the bed to suppress the fire, however when unsuccessful she made a safe exit outside to call triple zero.

    “You need to have a very clear idea of what your escape areas are in your house or unit, because really, I only had the front door and the glass doors at the back. I have no side windows at all,” Belinda said.

    “When my kids were younger and we were in a bigger house, we discussed our escape routes, and I encourage everyone to have a fire blanket stored somewhere logical and easily accessible.”

    While fire services were able to extinguish the remaining fire and ventilate the house, damage was contained to the microwave, kitchen cabinets, stovetop and plaster throughout the kitchen. Belinda is still unable to return home.

    CFA recommends all smoke alarms in the home be powered by a 10-year lithium battery, be interconnected and installed in every bedroom, living area and hallway on your property.

    All smoke alarms, even hard-wired ones, have a lifespan of around 10 years and should be replaced after that. Residents should also test smoke alarms monthly and clean or dust them yearly.

    For more information on the Smoke Alarm Installation Program and safety tips, visit the CFA website.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Africa: Richer countries must commit to pay at COP29 as climate change forcibly displaces millions across Africa

    Source: Amnesty International –

    With millions of people already displaced by climate change disasters in Africa, the richer countries most responsible for global warming must agree at the COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan to fully pay for the catastrophic loss of homes and damage to livelihoods taking place across the continent, Amnesty International said. They must also fully fund African governments’ adaptation measures to prevent further forced displacement, stop human rights violations and help them achieve a fast and fair phaseout of fossil fuel production and use. 

    These same countries must then follow up on their agreement by urgently financing the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, the main international fund addressing climate change’s unavoidable harms. So far, such countries have pledged less than USD 700 million of the 400 billion dollars that lower-income countries estimate they need for loss and damage by 2030. Meanwhile, adaptation may cost USD 30 to 50 billion per year in sub-Saharan Africa alone. International financial institutions must ensure equitable distribution of the money to African countries based on need. 

    African people have contributed the least to climate change, yet from Somalia to Senegal, Chad to Madagascar, we are suffering a terrible toll of this global emergency.

    Samira Daoud, Amnesty International Regional Director for West and Central Africa

    “African people have contributed the least to climate change, yet from Somalia to Senegal, Chad to Madagascar, we are suffering a terrible toll of this global emergency which has driven millions of people from their homes. It’s time for the countries who caused all this devastation to pay up so African people can adapt to the climate change catastrophe,” said Samira Daoud, Amnesty International Regional Director for West and Central Africa. 

    MIL OSI NGO –