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  • MIL-Evening Report: Reproductive coercion is a form of gender-based violence. It’s likely more common than we realise

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Desireé LaGrappe, PhD Candidate & Coordinator, Reducing Gender-based Violence Network | NHMRC and Fulbright grantee, La Trobe University

    Peopleimages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    From contraception access to safe abortion, there is growing awareness about reproductive health and rights.

    Around the world, reproductive rights and justice are issues of political debate and on the electoral ballot. But for some, the greatest threat to their reproductive autonomy is being wielded by those closest to them.

    Last week, preliminary findings were presented from the Australian Study of Health and Relationships on the prevalence of reproductive coercion and abuse nationally. This form of gender-based violence is where someone seeks to control another person’s reproductive choices using physical, sexual, and/or emotional violence or threats. The study included 4,540 participants aged 16–69 years.

    Early analysis showed one in 20 reported experiencing controlling behaviours over contraception, pregnancy and abortion.

    So what makes these controlling behaviours different from other forms of abuse? And how can we find out more?

    What is it?

    Reproductive coercion and abuse is mostly perpetrated against women, girls and LGBTQIA+ people, usually by a partner, parent or in-law.

    Someone might do this by trying to coerce or force the other person to become pregnant or have an abortion. This can look like:

    • relentlessly pressuring the person to have a baby when they don’t want to

    • refusing to let them use birth control, or withholding or destroying it

    • harassing or stalking them to find out if they had an abortion.

    The recent rapid review for government on approaches to prevent gender-based violence does not mention the words “reproductive coercion and abuse”. But it has been clearly identified in several domestic and family violence-related deaths in Australia.

    These controlling behaviours intersect with domestic, family and sexual violence. However, reproductive coercion is unique, because it weaponises someone’s reproductive capacity in order to control them.

    Partners can be coerced into going through with a pregnancy against their wishes.
    Tapao/Shutterstock

    What we don’t know

    The Australian Study of Health and Relationships is only undertaken every ten years and the latest survey is the first to estimate how common controlling another person’s reproductive rights might be on a national scale. The results of the survey provide essential data for sexual and reproductive health policies and programs across Australia.

    However, there are no data for comparison yet to look for trends over time.

    The reported one-in-20 prevalence is likely an underestimation. This is because we know people tend to under-report abuse and might not recognise or process what’s happening to them at the time, a typical trauma response.

    And subtle emotional manipulation or pressure can be difficult to capture in broad population surveys.

    Previous studies have conflated reproductive coercion and abuse with sexual violence or have failed to ask about abortion or the different types of relationships where this abuse occurs.

    Any measure should be developed with people with lived experience and designed so communities like First Nations Australians, LGBTQIA+ people, people living with disability, migrants and refugees, and young people are properly represented. Too often they are not included in co-design processes or their experiences are made invisible by data gaps.

    Last month, the report into Missing and murdered First Nations women and children revealed that Closing the Gap data on violence against women and children is out of date and the actual number of Indigenous women and children murdered or disappeared is unknown.

    Last year’s Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability similarly drew attention to the increased prevalence of abuse suffered by women with disability and the lack of proper consultation to involve them in solutions.

    Our La Trobe and University of Melbourne team is developing a new rigorous measure to better capture the complex behaviours missed by other measures. It’s intended to compare reproductive coercion and abuse prevalence across different countries and strengthen how we measure the effect of future interventions.

    Once developed, testing will start in maternal and child health settings. This is because the risk of abuse is heightened around childbirth and nurses and midwives are well positioned to safely identify and support patients.

    Additional steps will be needed to determine what questions are best for health-care workers to ask to identify at-risk patients and respond – without putting them in more danger.

    Coercion is happening within a global context – a fight for reproductive rights.
    Benjamin Clapp/Shutterstock

    Where to from here? And where to get help

    Reproductive coercion and abuse needs to have a larger focus in the current national discussion on gender-based violence and prevention.

    A 2023 Senate inquiry into universal access to reproductive health care called for more research into reproductive coercion and abuse to inform guidelines and training for health-care workers. This will require better measurement of the full extent and patterns of the problem. We hope policy makers appropriately resource these areas critical to ending gender-based violence.

    People experiencing reproductive coercion and abuse can contact 1800 My Options (VIC), Children by Choice (QLD) or 1800 Respect (National) for professional help.

    Desireé LaGrappe is a PhD candidate of La Trobe University and the SPHERE CRE. She is employed casually by La Trobe and receives funding for this research from the NHMRC and previously from the US Dept. of State Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs. She is affiliated with the SPHERE Coalition, Family Planning Australia, the Nursing Network on Violence Against Women International, Sigma, and the Australian Fulbright Alumni Association.

    Angela Taft received funding from NHMRC as a CI on the SPHERE Centre for Research Excellence (CRE) on Sexual and Reproductive Health and the Safer Families CRE. She is affiliated with the SPHERE Coalition and PHAA.

    Kristina Edvardsson receives funding from the NHMRC as an investigator on the SPHERE CRE.

    Laura Tarzia receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and is an investigator on the SPHERE CRE. She is collaborating with the ASHR team on their research into reproductive coercion and abuse. She is affiliated with the Safer Families Centre and the Royal Women’s Hospital.

    Leesa Hooker receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Department of Social Services. She is affiliated with the SPHERE CRE and the Safer Families Centre.

    – ref. Reproductive coercion is a form of gender-based violence. It’s likely more common than we realise – https://theconversation.com/reproductive-coercion-is-a-form-of-gender-based-violence-its-likely-more-common-than-we-realise-239606

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can we find hidden graves of murder victims with soil imaging? New Australian study gives it a try

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Berezowski, Lecturer, Forensic Science, Deakin University

    Kyle Towns/Shutterstock

    To avoid being caught, murderers often attempt to hide bodies using various methods. This can include shallow or deep burials, submersion in water, encasing in concrete or even disposing of remains in rubbish bins and suitcases.

    Finding the body is a key part of any murder investigation, as it helps to identify, prosecute and charge the killer. Unfortunately, the task can be immensely difficult.

    To help tackle the problem of locating hidden graves, we have trialled two innovative techniques for searching underground: ground-penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography, or ERT. Our results are now published in the journal Remote Sensing.

    Borrowing tools from geology

    The tools we used are known as geophysical methods because they measure the physical properties of materials in the soil under the surface.

    The use of geophysical techniques for peering under Earth’s surface is not new – engineers, geologists and archaeologists have used the tools we tested for decades.

    But geophysical techniques are not typically used for forensic investigations because directly finding a body with these methods is very difficult.

    However, both of the tools we tested can help to locate a grave indirectly – by looking at the differences between the disturbed soil of the grave and the undisturbed soil around it. When the techniques encounter disturbed soil and/or the presence of body fluids, the resulting data will show as an anomaly – something different to the areas surrounding it.

    To figure out whether the identified anomaly is a grave, researchers can then consider the size, shape and depth of the anomaly to make sure it correlates with a human body.

    Tori Berezowski using a ground penetrating radar to survey the ‘hidden’ graves.
    Author provided

    Pigs at the ‘body farm’

    At the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER), Australia’s only “body farm” – a facility that uses donated bodies for forensic research – we buried five pigs in various configurations to mimic clandestine graves.

    This included two single graves (a “shallow” grave of just half a metre, and a “deep” grave of almost two metres) and a mass grave with three pigs at one metre deep. We used pigs as they are a good body analogue in terms of size and mass to humans.

    We surveyed the graves with ground-penetrating radar and ERT before and directly after burial, and then one, eight, 14, and 20 months later.

    In forensic research, pig cadavers are a suitable proxy for human bodies, as they have a similar size and mass.
    Author provided

    Our findings revealed that geophysical imaging of hidden graves can work, but with varying results. This depended on the size, depth and age of the burial, and the amount of rainfall before the survey.

    The grave containing the three pig cadavers was the easiest to observe due to its larger size and volume. This indicates geophysical techniques may be particularly useful in humanitarian investigations that involve searching for mass graves.

    A shallow single grave was the next most observable. This is also an encouraging finding because most graves of hidden victims are only around half a metre deep. For both techniques, the two-metre-deep single grave was the most difficult to image.

    Although both tools could detect some graves on some occasions, neither located all of the graves during the entire length of our survey. This was likely due to a combination of factors, including the soil type at the site and unprecedented weather conditions during the research period – La Niña flooded the research site multiple times.

    We did, however, confirm that pig cadaver graves are good proxies to human donor graves when investigating geophysical techniques for finding them.

    To do this, we compared the ground-penetrating radar and the ERT responses of the pig burials to those of human burials (all part of existing research projects at AFTER). We found no obvious differences between the two.

    This is a very important result, because it means we can further test these tools in Australia and worldwide without being constrained by highly limited access to human donors.



    Read more:
    Secrets wrapped in fabric: how our study of 100 decomposing piglet bodies will help solve criminal cases

    More work needed

    Similar studies have been done in the United Kingdom, the United States and South America. However, ours is the first systematic, multi-technique, geophysical survey of covert graves in an Australian environment. The only other similar Australian study was in 2004, however, it only used ground-penetrating radar and didn’t check back on the graves at multiple time points.

    Our results clearly demonstrate that geophysical methods can be effective for locating unmarked graves under some circumstances, but don’t always work. To try and work out why, we will continue our research using the latest geophysical instruments and monitoring the moisture conditions inside the graves.

    Ultimately, we believe using these tools can increase the chances of locating missing and murdered victims. Then, we can finally provide answers to their families and loved ones, and increase the chances of prosecuting their killers.

    The team would like to thank Justin Ellis, Gabriel C Rau, Dilan Seckiner, and Isabella Crebert for their contributions to this research. Additionally, we would like to thank AFTER for the space to conduct the research and to Soren Blau and Jon Sterenberg for allowing us to scan your graves.

    Victoria Berezowski receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. This work was also funded by a Vice Chancellor Higher Degree by Research PhD Training Scholarship from the University of Newcastle.

    Ian Moffat receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and Flinders University.

    Xanthe Mallett has received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Can we find hidden graves of murder victims with soil imaging? New Australian study gives it a try – https://theconversation.com/can-we-find-hidden-graves-of-murder-victims-with-soil-imaging-new-australian-study-gives-it-a-try-224274

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: New Zealanders’ trust in key institutions declines – Stats NZ media and information release: Wellbeing statistics: 2023

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    New Zealanders’ trust in key institutions declines – 25 September 2024 – Data from the 2023 General Social Survey (GSS) found that trust held by New Zealanders in institutions like the health system, education system, parliament, media, police, and courts has declined since 2021, according to wellbeing statistics released by Stats NZ today.

    People in Aotearoa New Zealand remained satisfied with their lives as a whole in 2023, with an overall satisfaction rating of 7.6 out of 10, which is similar to the 7.7 rating in 2021.

    “As a result of recent global events such as COVID-19, our society has faced a number of challenges. Institutional trust, trust in other people, sense of belonging, and a sense of safety are all important measures of people feeling part of society,” wellbeing and housing statistics manager Sarah Drake said.

    Some key measures of trust and social wellbeing have declined since 2021. These areas included trust in institutions, trust in most people in New Zealand, sense of belonging to New Zealand, and a sense of safety.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this news story and information release and to download CSV files:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Justice Department Sues Visa for Monopolizing Debit Markets

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    Today, the Justice Department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Visa for monopolization and other unlawful conduct in debit network markets in violation of Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Act. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, the complaint alleges that Visa illegally maintains a monopoly over debit network markets by using its dominance to thwart the growth of its existing competitors and prevent others from developing new and innovative alternatives.

    Related:
    https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-sues-visa-monopolizing-debit-markets
    https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/principal-deputy-associate-attorney-general-benjamin-c-mizer-delivers-remarks-justice-0
    https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-delivers-remarks-justice-departments-lawsuit-0
    https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/principal-deputy-assistant-attorney-general-doha-mekki-delivers-remarks-justice-0

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA7Nmj0Lckk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama  Nation

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from June 22 to July 8, 2024.
    The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.
    Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
    Federal funding also is available to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires.
    Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.
    Ms. Tonia Pence of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 
    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. To Lam, State President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. To Lam, State President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for the strong cooperation between Viet Nam and the United Nations, particularly on the Sustainable Development Goals, governance of the digital space, climate action, just energy transition and peacekeeping, as well as for the strong partnership between the United Nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of Jordan on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and His Majesty King Abdullah II discussed the situation in the Middle East, including the urgent need for de-escalation between Israel and Hezbollah to avoid further loss of civilian life.

    The leaders discussed instability in the West Bank as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Prime Minister thanked the King for his continued leadership on improving access to humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza. He underscored Canada’s commitment to continue supporting these efforts. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s enduring support for a two-state solution and a path to lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and His Majesty King Abdullah II noted the strong partnership between Canada and Jordan and agreed to remain in close contact as the situation continues to evolve.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaMalfa Announces Grant Awards for Disaster Recovery and Preparedness in District 1

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    (Washington, DC)—Rep. LaMalfa released the following statement announcing that a total of $4,106,321 has been awarded to our district for critical disaster recovery and preparedness projects. These grants will support various initiatives aimed at enhancing resilience, improving emergency management, and ensuring effective fire prevention and protection.

    “I am pleased that these important projects received these awards. Strengthening our ability to respond to and recover from disasters is an issue greatly needed by our constituents here in the 1st district. By improving emergency planning, fire prevention, and connectivity, we will be better able to handle the next disaster that occurs. For instance, our overgrown forests or the inadequate infrastructure in our flood zones, with future concerns being the newly created zones on the Klamath River via dam destruction.”

    Below is a breakdown of the awarded grants:

    • Butte County Foothill Rebuild Barrier Removal Project: $1,014,383

    • Butte County Emergency Operations Planning Project: $490,000

      • Funding will be used to update the Emergency Operations Plan and essential annexes, enhancing disaster preparedness and response. This project will benefit all county residents by improving our local emergency management strategies.

    • Butte County Fire Prevention and Protection Community Education Expansion Project: $1,000,000

      • This grant will expand education on fire prevention through an extensive outreach campaign, increasing awareness and proactive measures. It will also improve availability for fire inspections in isolated areas, helping to reduce fire risks.

    • Butte County Broadband Mitigation Through Connectivity Project: $451,938

      • This project will develop a Connectivity Action Plan to improve communication in remote rugged areas. This plan will guide future investments in broadband infrastructure, enhancing disaster response and connectivity for rural constituencies.

    • City of Redding Risk Assessment and Strategic Planning Project: $150,000

    • City of Redding Storm Drain Master Plan Update: $1,000,000

      • This grant will be used to update the city’s storm drain plan to address current conditions and risks. This will enhance flood management and protect residential, commercial, and public facilities from flood hazards.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Reintroduces Bill to Permanently Conserve Privately Owned Working Forestlands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA08) reintroduced the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) with Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA02), Ann M. Kuster (D-NH02), Jim Costa (D-CA21), and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR01).

    “As Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. The federal and state governments can and must do a better job of working with private landowners who want to choose conservation, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock billions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands to support jobs and sustainable forest management that reduces wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi. 

    “Forests provide crucial habitat for wildlife, protect clean watersheds, and absorb climate-warming carbon from the atmosphere. They are also an important part of Northwest Oregon’s rural economy. The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will result in the conservation of more private forestlands, creating a better future for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. 

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving our forests. This legislation will enable us to better engage private landowners and reduce wildfire risks, supporting both our rural economy and sustainable forest management,” said Congressman Costa.

    The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) would allow States to choose to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal grant funds under the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that only the federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help to conserve more land permanently by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. Conserving working forestlands also supports the rural economy, and sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk will support local jobs. 

    Garamendi’s bill also supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s “America the Beautiful” National Conservation Goal to protect and conserve at least 30 percent of the lands and waters in the United States by 2030 and Governor Newsom’s similar conservation goal for the State of California. 

    To date, the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) is supported by: 

    • National Endorsements: Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association 
    • California Endorsements: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire), California Rangeland Trust, Pacific Forest Trust, Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council, Bear Yuba Land Trust, Feather River Land Trust, American River Conservancy, Placer Land Trust, Lassen Land and Trails Trust, Sierra Foothill Conservancy, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Truckee Donner Land Trust, Sierra County Land Trust, Shasta Land Trust, Hardy Conservation 
    • New England Endorsements: New England Forestry Foundation, Monadnock Conservancy, Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Squam Lakes Conservation Organization, Kestrel Land Trust, Forest Society of Maine, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Northeast Wilderness Trust 
    • Oregon Endorsements: Northwest Rangeland Trust; Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts (COLT); Greenbelt Land Trust; McKenzie Land Trust; North Coast Land Conservancy; Oregon Agricultural Trust

    Past Cosponsors: 

    • 114th Congress: Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) 
      • Now-Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) 
    • 113th Congress: Reps. John Garamendi (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Ann M. Kuster (D-NH), Jared Huffman (D-CA), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Steve Womack (R-AR), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA) 
      • Now-Senators Cynthia M. Lummis (R-WY), Todd Young (R-IN) 

    Garamendi previously served on the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources (2011-2012) and the Committee on Agricultural (2012-2014), which oversee both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest System. Garamendi served as the first Deputy Secretary of the Interior from 1995 to 1998 during the Clinton Administration. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Steward of Democracy: Rep. Jim Costa Honored by the Ukrainian Parliament and President Zelenskyy in Kyiv, Ukraine

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was awarded the Honorary Diploma of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, one of the highest distinguished awards by the Ukrainian Parliament. This prestigious accolade recognizes Costa’s unwavering support for Ukraine and his commitment to defending democracy.

    The Honorary Diploma was presented to Congressman Costa during a visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian leaders, and members of the Ukrainian Parliament.

    “I am honored to receive this accolade and will continue to work with Ukraine to help it defend itself and preserve its sovereignty. The United States and Ukraine share a commitment to democracy and security. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and standing with the resilient Ukrainian people,” said Costa.

    BACKGROUND
    Congressman Jim Costa’s visit to Ukraine was marked by productive dialogues on critical issues, including security cooperation, economic development, and humanitarian aid. Costa was joined by Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Don Bacon (NE-02).

    Costa’s meeting with President Zelenskyy highlighted the deepening partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine and underscored the importance of continued support for Ukraine’s democratic aspirations and territorial integrity. President Zelenskyy spoke in detail about the situation on the front and the priority needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Costa responded by indicating the importance of maintaining solidarity with the Ukrainian people, and our European allies to defend democracy.

    Members traveled through Konovaltsia and Kokorudza streets in Lviv, Ukraine, where a Russian missile killed seven people, including three children on September 4, 2024. One of the buildings damaged in the Russian attack was the Lviv Oblast Centre for Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation on Konovaltsia Street, a 130-year-old architectural monument.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed to the members that he will present Ukraine’s victory plan to U.S. President Biden, Congress, and both U.S. presidential candidates soon. 

    A folder of photos and videos is available HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Leading Effort to Increase Access to Rural Housing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Amidst budget negotiations, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) is calling on Congressional Budget leaders to increase funding and address application processing delays for a key federal program to build more affordable housing in the San Joaquin Valley and rural America.

    The letter, spearheaded by Costa, calls for a return to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 funding level of $1.258 billion for the Section 502 Direct Loan Program in the federal budget. The House Agriculture budget bill includes $950 million for FY25, while the Senate bill allocates $1 billion, falling far short of meeting nationwide demand.

    “Significant delays in processing loan applications are impacting thousands of families nationwide, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, jeopardizing their dreams of achieving homeownership, and impeding their ability to contribute to their local, rural economies,” wrote the lawmakers.

    “These backlogs and processing delays are largely due to chronic underfunding of the Section 502 Direct Loan Program, which has ripple effects throughout rural communities. The resulting uncertainty leaves local contractors and vendors involved in housing construction in limbo and their livelihoods impacted.” the lawmakers continued, “Addressing these operational inefficiencies is essential not only for meeting the housing needs of our constituents but also for supporting sustainable economic growth in rural America.”

    The letter was signed by Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Vicente Gonzalez (CA-34), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and Joyce Beatty (OH-03).

    “Unfortunately, this year has brought a crisis to both the families that we serve and the families that depend on our business. The approved funding for USDA Home Loans in California has been depleted, leaving families in limbo, unable to close on their new homes. These families, some of whom have been waiting for over a year and a half, continue to live in substandard conditions while brand-new homes sit completed and ready for occupancy,” said Leonel Alvarado, Century Builders.  

    “The USDA Section 502 loan program has made homeownership possible for rural families across America and in the San Joaquin Valley for many years. No Member of Congress has been a greater champion of this important program than Congressman Jim Costa. In the House, Congressman Costa has led the effort to ensure that Section 502 funds are available for families living in small towns and farming communities in California and across the country. We are deeply grateful for his unwavering support,” said Bob Rapoza, National Rural Housing Coalition.

    BACKGROUND
    The Section 502 Direct Loan Program has been instrumental in providing affordable housing, especially for low-income families, farmworkers, and communities like Orosi, Parlier, and Orange Cove, where affordable housing is scarce. However, significant delays in processing loan applications have impacted over 47 families in California’s 21st Congressional District and 354 families in California, amounting to a total of $102 million in loans.

    Delays in processing Section 502 Direct Loan applications are exacerbating existing housing challenges in rural America, where affordable housing options are already limited. These loans enable low- and moderate-income rural residents to acquire affordable housing rates for their use as a residence by purchasing a new or existing dwelling or a new manufactured home. 

    Local contractors, small business owners, and vendors involved in housing construction and renovation projects are also affected, as uncertainty in funding and project timelines impacts their livelihoods.

    Data from the US Census found that the average annual production of new single-family houses in non-metro areas was 221,000 between 1999 and 2008. However, from 2009 to 2017, this average dropped dramatically to 68,000 per year.

    A copy of the full letter is available HERE.

    Learn more about the Section 502 Direct Loan Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa leading Legislation to Permanently Conserve Privately Owned Working Forestlands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ann M. Kuster (NH-02), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced H.R.9602 – Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act, which would authorize states to allow certain entities to acquire, hold, and manage conservation easements under the forest legacy program.

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving our forests. This legislation will enable us to better engage private landowners and reduce wildfire risks, supporting both our rural economy and sustainable forest management,” said Congressman Costa.

    “As Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. The federal and state governments can and must do a better job of working with private landowners who want to choose conservation, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock billions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands to support jobs and sustainable forest management that reduces wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi. 

    “Forests provide crucial habitat for wildlife, protect clean watersheds, and absorb climate-warming carbon from the atmosphere. They are also an important part of Northwest Oregon’s rural economy. The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will result in the conservation of more private forestlands, creating a better future for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. 

    BACKGROUND
    The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act would allow States to choose to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal grant funds under the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that only the federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help to conserve more land permanently by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. Conserving working forestlands also supports the rural economy, and sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk will support local jobs. 

    This legislation supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s “America the Beautiful” National Conservation Goal to protect and conserve at least 30 percent of the lands and waters in the United States by 2030 and Governor Newsom’s similar conservation goal for the State of California. 

    This legislation is endorsed by the Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), California Rangeland Trust, Pacific Forest Trust, Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council, Bear Yuba Land Trust, Feather River Land Trust, American River Conservancy, Placer Land Trust, Lassen Land and Trails Trust, Sierra Foothill Conservancy, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Truckee Donner Land Trust, Sierra County Land Trust, Shasta Land Trust, Hardy Conservation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Leading Legislation to Support Students with Epilepsy Nationwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), Co-Chair of the Epilepsy Caucus, introduced the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act, which would create a grant program to support students who have epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL) introduced the legislation in the House, while Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the legislation in the Senate.

    “This legislation is vital to creating a safer school environment for kids with epilepsy and seizure disorders. By providing grants for response training, we are ensuring that school staff are prepared to step into action. It’s about making sure every child has the support they need to thrive in school,” said Congressman Costa.

    “We must equip our schools with the resources they need so school personnel can be trained and prepared in the event that someone has a seizure,” said Senator Booker. “Students with epilepsy deserve to go to school without fear, and I am proud to introduce legislation which builds on the progress of states like New Jersey so we can create safer environments for our children to thrive.” 

    “I’m proud to introduce the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act to build on the progress we’ve made in New Jersey with Paul’s Law and ensure school staff members across the nation are prepared if a student has a seizure in the classroom,” said Congressman Norcross. “We know that about 470,000 children and teenagers live with epilepsy in the United States, and all our schools must know how to respond and keep them safe.”

    “This vital legislation will equip our schools with the essential training and resources to ensure that our students with epilepsy, both in PA-1 and across the nation, are surrounded by knowledgeable and prepared individuals ready to act. Safeguarding our children is our foremost responsibility, and the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act will create safer learning environments and offer families the reassurance they need,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    “A seizure is a life-or-death situation and requires individuals to act fast with very little margin of error,” said Congresswoman Norton. The Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act will ensure that school faculty members are trained to assist if a student has a seizure in the classroom, and potentially save a life.”

    BACKGROUND
    Seizures are spontaneous surges in uncoordinated electrical activity in the brain that affect body movement or function, sensation, behavior, or awareness. It is estimated that 1 in 10 Americans will have at least one seizure in their lifetime. Epilepsy is a common neurological condition characterized by recurring seizures and is believed to develop in 1 out of 26 people in their lifetime. There are approximately 470,000 children and teenagers living with active epilepsy in the United States.

    About half of the states in the country have passed similar legislation to mandate or encourage seizure recognition and first aid training of school personnel, as well as other provisions to help ensure students with epilepsy are safe and supported in the school environment.

    The Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act would continue this momentum by authorizing funding to help ensure all students nationwide are surrounded by trained and prepared individuals, including: 

    • Training of school personnel to administer or assist with the administration of seizure medications.
    • Training and education of students on seizure awareness and preparedness.
    • Recruiting, hiring, and retaining compliance staff who are responsible for ensuring that all training and program requirements related to seizure awareness, preparedness, and management are consistently met.

    To see the full list of endorsing organizations, click HERE. 

    To read the full text of the bill, click HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: Democrats’ Radical Agenda is Crushing American Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), and Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.) to discuss how the disastrous Biden-Harris agenda has created one crisis after another while making life unaffordable for hardworking American families and how Republicans intend to fix it. Leader Scalise reviewed Harris’ radical positions on defunding the police and decriminalizing illegal border crossings. Additionally, Leader Scalise outlined House Republicans’ plan to end the Christmas Eve omnibus game once and for all and force Senate Democrats to do their job. 

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 

    On Kamala Harris’ record of supporting defund the police movements: 

    “This week is our last week in session before the election, but it is a very busy week, as you can see from the schedule. A lot of different bills being brought to the floor. [Rep.] Scott [Fitzgerald] just talked about one of them that’s so important. We’ve seen crime grow in our communities. We’ve seen these funds like the Minnesota Freedom Fund that are designed to help get criminals out of jail. And of course, Kamala Harris was there front and center, raising millions of dollars for that fund. What did it do? It helped get people out of jail who were out there in the middle of what they called the ‘Summer of Love’, who were attacking police officers, burning down police stations, other violent crimes where she was leading the charge to get them out of jail, the criminals, not protect the police officers. In fact, she’s made public statements over the last few years criticizing the idea of adding more police to communities.

    “And yet when you look at some of the cities that have the worst crime, who initially went down the failed road of defunding the police and then saw the devastation it caused in their communities, they’re trying to hire more police officers now, and they’re struggling to do it because they at least finally recognize they made a mistake. But once you taint that office by showing a community that the leadership of a city doesn’t support the police, police will go elsewhere. Good existing police officers go to other departments. Young people who want a career in law enforcement are not going to go to a place where it’s so volatile that they know that the leadership of that community doesn’t have their back. So they go to other places where they know that the local community will have their back. And so that is the devastation of that kind of attitude of defunding police, demonizing police that people like Kamala Harris have supported over the years.”

    On Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing border crisis:

    “When we leave here to go across the country in October, and as much as we’re going to miss you in this venue, maybe we’ll come back every week, Mike, I don’t know. We’ll do that once a week and see who shows up. More than likely, that won’t happen, but we will see you out on the road if you’re there. But when you go to swing districts where a lot of us will be, you see the same thing playing out in every community, whether it’s a swing state like Pennsylvania, where I just was last week, or whether it’s a community in California where they’ve got swing districts. You’re hearing people express the same frustration with the Biden-Harris administration.

    “The open border is still the top issue they bring up, and they’re furious about it. And yet Kamala continues to do nothing while she’s over there in the White House. She could go walk in the White House today and ask the president to reverse his policies that opened up the border, but she won’t because she wants an open border. She’s wanted that open border all her life. Again, she’s on video talking about how she wants to legalize people who come here illegally. Then when she tries to express, well, maybe I’m now for a secure border, and she’s pressed on it, she says my values haven’t changed.”

    On Kamala Harris casting the tie-breaking vote that caused the inflation crisis:

    “Her values are far-left liberal. They’ve been that way her whole life. She wants to ban fracking. She hasn’t changed her views on that. She wants to have an open border. Her views haven’t changed on that either. You’ve seen her radical views.

    “She cast the tie-breaking vote, as Conference Chair Elise [Stefanik] just talked about, to create the inflation that I hear about in every community I go to. Higher costs at the grocery store, higher costs at the gas station. Those are a direct result of not just the Biden administration’s policies, but Kamala Harris’ vote. I’m not talking about in the Senate where she might have been with 60 other people. I’m talking about Kamala Harris’ vote when it was a 50/50 tie, and it could have gone down with her vote, and we could have had lower inflation with her vote, but instead, she used her vote to raise inflation. Her tie-breaking vote that jacked up the inflation that’s crushing low and middle-income families today. Her tie-breaking vote, Kamala Harris, was the vote that doubled the size of the IRS. Now, some of those new agents that they’ve hired are going after the waiters and waitresses, making them pay higher taxes on tips. Then she claims that she wants to get rid of the tax on tips, yet she’s sicked an army of new IRS agents after those very same waiters and waitresses.”

    On making America strong again:

    “So what she has done has consequences. We’re going to be talking about this contrast because Donald Trump wants lower tax rates. Donald Trump wants to secure our border, and he did it before. Donald Trump wants sound tax policy where lower and middle-income families can actually benefit from the growth that comes with a healthy economy.Unfortunately, we don’t have that today, but we had it when Donald Trump was President of the United States last time. And so when you look at all of those things, and not to mention, of course, he’s always supported our men and women in uniform, and he’ll continue to do that again. He’ll stand up to the bad guys around the world. Right now, America is letting the bad guys around the world run roughshod over our allies and doing harm to America as well with no consequence. All that will change if we get President Trump back in office. That contrast, I think, is going to be sharply shown through the month of October, leading into the election November 5th.”

    On House Republicans ending the Christmas Eve omnibus game and forcing the Senate to do their job:

    “We’re also going to vote tomorrow on the CR. This is always a tough negotiation. The Senate wanted to try to spend more money, and Speaker [Johnson] stood up to the Senate and said, no, we’re not going to do that. They wanted to play this Christmas Eve omni game that they used to play, having an omnibus dropped on Christmas Eve, and nobody’s read the bill, and it just gets voted on, and everybody leaves town. We said no to that last year. Mike Johnson, as speaker, is saying no to that again this year, which is so important to say, we’re going to change the way Washington works. We passed over 70% of the spending bills out of the House. The Senate has passed zero, not a single bill out of the Senate. How do you have a negotiation when one side refuses to do their job? We’re going to continue to at least do our job, and that starts tomorrow on the CR.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – New research targets end-of-life decision making – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    As Aotearoa grapples with a strained healthcare system and an ageing population, a new research project is setting out to improve end-of-life care for older people.

    Led by University of Auckland Associate Professor Julie Harrison, the study aims to help older people, their families and clinicians make informed decisions about interventions like surgery or extended hospital stays.

    “End-of-life decisions are tough, especially in stressful situations,” says Harrison, who specialises in performance measurement within health services, health funding models, and costing systems in healthcare settings.

    “We want to find ways to better support kaumātua and their whānau to make choices that align with their values.”

    The project, funded by the Health Research Council, will be conducted at Waikato Hospital and involve researchers from the University of Auckland and the University of Waikato.

    The researchers will examine how kaumātua and their whānau make health decisions, gather insights from the families of those who have died after a hospital visit, and explore clinicians’ views on informed decision making.

    The goal is to create a pathway that supports better decision making, allowing more people to spend their final days at home and reducing unnecessary hospital interventions.

    With an ageing population creating a higher demand for health and social care, the project also aims to identify potential cost savings within the healthcare system, which could be redirected to other vital services.

    Harrison, who works in the Business School’s accounting and finance department, will focus on identifying the cost side considerations.

    “A lot of healthcare costs are incurred at the end of life,” she says, “and decisions around treatment options are challenging for everyone involved.”

    Some of the decisions people face in the final year of their life include what kind of health interventions they want – whether they wish to have all possible treatments and potentially spend more time in the hospital or undergo less treatment and spend their final days at home.

    “These are hard conversations to have, and we’re doing this study to help understand what people actually want, whether they have the information they need, and the costs of the different options for the system and for families.

    “It’s about helping kaumātua and their families to better understand the treatments available and to select the care pathway that best fits what they’re looking for and the way in which they want to spend their final months and days.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealanders’ trust in key institutions declines – Stats NZ media and information release: Wellbeing statistics: 2023

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    New Zealanders’ trust in key institutions declines – 25 September 2024 – Data from the 2023 General Social Survey (GSS) found that trust held by New Zealanders in institutions like the health system, education system, parliament, media, police, and courts has declined since 2021, according to wellbeing statistics released by Stats NZ today.

    People in Aotearoa New Zealand remained satisfied with their lives as a whole in 2023, with an overall satisfaction rating of 7.6 out of 10, which is similar to the 7.7 rating in 2021.

    “As a result of recent global events such as COVID-19, our society has faced a number of challenges. Institutional trust, trust in other people, sense of belonging, and a sense of safety are all important measures of people feeling part of society,” wellbeing and housing statistics manager Sarah Drake said.

    Some key measures of trust and social wellbeing have declined since 2021. These areas included trust in institutions, trust in most people in New Zealand, sense of belonging to New Zealand, and a sense of safety.

    Visit our website to read this news story and information release and to download CSV files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investigation following death of baby, Newtown

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Wellington District Police continue to make enquiries after the death of an 8-month-old baby at a Newtown address yesterday.

    A scene examination will take place today, after which a blessing will take place. A post-mortem examination will also be carried out.

    The investigation continues to progress with the co-operation of the family, and Police would like to assure the community there are no wider concerns for safety.

    Further updates will be provided when they are available.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Celebrating AFL footy fever in Yarra

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    Wednesday 25 September 2024

    With the Grand Final fast approaching, there are so many ways to get immersed in footy fever in the City of Yarra.

    We know Yarra residents and businesses love their footy, and that’s why Council has partnered with the Brisbane Lions to celebrate the 2024 AFL Finals.

    Yarra has a storied history with premiership contender, the Brisbane Lions. Formed in the 1996 merger between the Brisbane Bears and the Fitzroy Lions, the Brisbane Lions still hold a special place in the hearts of many here in Yarra. In recognition of this, Council has teamed up with the Club to provide more opportunities to celebrate and get involved.

    Brisbane Lions pop-up shop

    Following its success in 2023, the Brisbane Lions are holding a pop-up merchandise shop in the Fitzroy Town Hall Reading Room, 201 Napier Street Fitzroy.

    Fans will be able to purchase the full range of Lions’ 2024 finals merch hot off the press.

    Make sure to head down to get kitted out for the big day at any of the below times:

    • Wednesday 25 September, 10am to 6pm
    • Thursday 26 September, 10am to 6pm
    • Friday 27 September, 10am to 6pm
    • Saturday 28 September, 8am to 10am

    Brunswick Street Oval post-Grand Final celebration

    On the Sunday following the Grand Final, the Lions will be hosting a family day at the Brunswick Street Oval from 9am to 11am.

    Regardless of the result of the match, families can look forward to seeing the current team and past players, picking up unique Lions’ merchandise, and supporting the local Fitzroy footy and cricket clubs who will be running a BBQ. And if the Lions are victorious, the cup will be on full display!

    If heading to the event, be sure to support our local business surrounding the oval, and please be mindful of local parking restrictions.

    Brisbane Lions flags

    In celebration of the accomplishment of making it to the Grand Final, and in recognition of Yarra’s history with the Brisbane lions, Council are flying the Lions’ flag at Fitzroy Town Hall in the lead up to the big day.

    For more information on navigating the City of Yarra on Grand Final day, click here.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Biggest infrastructure project in western New South Wales taking shape

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    Work on the once-in-a-generation New Dubbo Bridge continues to progress with one third of the concrete deck, which will eventually support traffic crossing, now in place.

    The Australian and NSW governments are investing $263.2 million to deliver this region-shaping piece of infrastructure on the Newell Highway in Dubbo.

    The Australian Government has committed $210.6 million towards the project, with the NSW Government committing the remaining $52.6 million.

    The decking along the 660-metre bridge structure is being built in sections, with each section involving the pouring of about 105 cubic metres of concrete to provide a deck slab of up to 25 centimetres in depth.

    The deck pours will be carried out progressively while the rest of the bridge takes shape, with the final deck pour expected in mid-2025.

    Once the concrete deck is completed, the final step in building the bridge surface will be to add an eight-centimetre thick layer of asphalt.

    Pile driving was recently completed along the entire length of the new structure which crosses the Macquarie River and a section of the floodplain east of the river.

    Construction is also underway for the network of roads that will link the bridge to the Dubbo road network, including road widening work at the intersections of Whylandra and Thompson streets and River and Bourke streets.

    The New Dubbo Bridge project is due to be completed in late 2026, weather permitting.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “It is exciting to see the new bridge rapidly taking shape and I’m proud to see the Australian and NSW governments’ investments delivering for regional communities.

    “New infrastructure like this is critical for the growth of regional communities and it will set Dubbo and western NSW up for the future.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

    “This bridge will provide vital flood resilience and unlock more housing in Dubbo – providing essential infrastructure for an estimated 5,500 homes.

    “The Minns Labor Government is proud to be partnering with the Albanese Labor Government to deliver this project, supporting nearly 1,500 direct and indirect jobs in western NSW.

    “On my recent visit to see the bridge I saw how transformative this bridge will be to Dubbo and I thank the workers who have given so much to this project and I thank the people of Dubbo for their patience.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for NSW Deborah O’Neill:

    “Once completed, the New Dubbo Bridge will transform the way western NSW residents, tourists and freight operators travel through Dubbo.

    “The Bridge will reduce travel times in the city centre and improve access across the Macquarie River, particularly during flood events.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor’s spokesperson for the state seat of Dubbo Stephen Lawrence MLC:

    “The Minns and Albanese governments are delivering transformative regional road infrastructure for Dubbo.

    “It’s been wonderful to see the progress of the new Dubbo Bridge construction.

    “I’m pleased to see more than half of all people working on this project are from my local area, including many local apprentices and aspiring tradies through innovative employment programs.

    “Many Dubbo businesses are benefiting from the economic activity being generated.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CEO Update: Coming together to address gaps in psychosocial supports

    Source: Mental Health Australia

    Our sector is undergoing significant changes including multiple, large-scale reforms in psychosocial supports.  

    Which is why tomorrow we’re establishing a Mental Health Australia Members Psychosocial Network to create a platform for member input to our policy and advocacy positions in this area, and to facilitate collective advocacy on addressing the gap in psychosocial supports outside the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).  

    As the Analysis of Unmet Need for Psychosocial Supports Outside of the NDIS – Final Report highlighted, 493,600 people in our community need psychosocial supports but don’t have access. 

    It is plain that the mental health sector is eager to work with governments to urgently address this gap. Mental Health Australia and our members support comprehensive, long-term reform, which truly turns the tide on unmet psychosocial need. 

    Additionally, late last year National Cabinet agreed to jointly design and commission Foundational Supports outside the NDIS, which the NDIS Review recommended should include psychosocial supports. The Australian Government’s consultation process on the design of these Foundational Supports has now opened and we would encourage your contributions.  

    There are also significant reforms underway through the NDIS for participants with psychosocial disability. We note the recent changes introduced by the passing of the NDIS Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024. Effective from October 3rd, these changes introduce a new definition of NDIS Supports and mean that NDIS plans will now show a total budget rather than line-by-line supports. 

    We understand the National Disability Insurance Agency is actively considering the design of a NDIS psychosocial early intervention approach recommended in the NDIS Review, alongside other reforms aimed at improving the recovery-oriented approach within the Scheme. Our Members Psychosocial Network will contribute to Mental Health Australia’s input to these changes. 

    The reforms underway are numerous, complex, and intersecting – and come with significant opportunity for us to influence both their design and implementation. It has never been more important for us to come together to collaborate to provide clear, unified advice to governments, focusing on those actions that will most improve the lives of people with lived experience of mental ill-health, and their family, carers and supporters.  

    Thank you to those who have already signed up to the Mental Health Australia Members Psychosocial Network. I look forward to our first meeting tomorrow, and to working collaboratively with members to continue to influence reform in psychosocial supports – as well as many other areas. As our recent advocacy efforts have shown, we’re stronger together. 

    Carolyn Nikoloski 

    CEO, Mental Health Australia 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Weekly press release from the Council of State of September 18, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French

    Véronique Athané Ryser, new general director of SIG. © Magali Girardin/ SIG

    On the proposal of the Board of Directors of the Geneva Industrial Services (SIG), the State Council approved the appointment of Ms. Véronique Athané Ryser to the position of General Manager.

    Born in 1976, Ms. Athané Ryser is a mechanical engineer, graduated from INSA and EPFL. Since 2020, she has held the position of Executive Director of Distribution Network Management at SIG. She has demonstrated her skills as a high-level manager, managing a department of 550 employees in a wide variety of fields, successfully completing complex projects while actively participating in the smooth running of the company’s general management.

    The Council of State notes that the recruitment process was conducted efficiently. It takes this opportunity to thank Mr. Alain Zbinden, Acting Managing Director, and Mr. Robert Cramer, Chairman of the Board of Directors, for their unwavering commitment in recent months and wishes Ms. Athané Ryser every success in carrying out her new duties.

    For further media information: Mr Antonio Hodgers, State Councillor, by contacting Mr Jérôme Savary, Deputy Secretary General, DT, T. 022 327 94 18.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Bangladesh’s senior advisor, Muhammad Yunus

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Bangladesh’s Senior Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated Senior Advisor Yunus for his strong leadership during a pivotal time in Bangladesh’s history. The two discussed the outcomes of the Future Summit and the importance of accelerating progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    The Prime Minister and the Chief Advisor discussed the political situation in Bangladesh, including progress made in implementing digital reforms, combating corruption, and improving the transparency and accountability of democratic institutions. The leaders agreed on the need to empower young people to ensure a more just future for all generations.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Senior Advisor Yunus highlighted the strong friendship between Canada and Bangladesh, which is based on deep people-to-people ties. The leaders agreed to deepen their cooperation and remain in close and regular contact.

    Related links

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on the death of the Honourable Francis Fox

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of the Honourable Francis Fox:

    “It is with sadness that I learned today of the death of the Honourable Francis Fox, former senator and Member of Parliament for Blainville—Deux-Montagnes.

    “Francis has dedicated his career to serving Canadians. A lawyer by profession, he was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 1972. Over the next 12 years, he has been a tireless advocate for his constituents, his community and Canadians across the country.

    “When my father was Prime Minister, Francis served as Solicitor General of Canada, Minister of Communications and Secretary of State of Canada. Among other contributions, he introduced the historic Access to Information Act and led the creation of Telefilm Canada, which continues to promote and foster Canadian talent in film and media today.

    “His leadership earned him an appointment to the Senate in 2005, where he served Canadians until his retirement.

    “Francis left an indelible mark on Canadian politics. Today, we remember him and the legacy he leaves us. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my condolences to his family and friends.”

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Combating ‘climate burnout’ – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    As the occurrence of weather extremes continues to escalate, the climate change movement now grapples with a new challenge, ‘climate burnout’.

    The troubling trend of despair and fatigue among those who work for environmental and climate change – a phenomenon described as ‘climate burnout’ – could jeopardise vital commitment to the cause.

    New Flinders University research explored the exacerbating and attenuating factors of despair-induced climate burnout to learn how people can overcome despair and maintain motivation to fight climate change.

    “Our research highlights the growing issue of climate burnout, where people involved in the climate justice movement experience sheer exhaustion and disengagement due to feelings of despair about the crisis,” says lead author, Dr Lucy Bird from the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work.

    “We found that people are more likely to experience burnout when they feel despair and exhaustion about tackling climate change.

    “But importantly, our findings show that when people contemplated pragmatic steps, such as using their car less and reducing waste, as well as acting collectively to encourage organisations to make changes, they felt markedly less disengaged.

    “When people focus on actionable steps and fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, they can combat burnout and continue to make meaningful progress in addressing one of humanity’s most defining challenges,” she says.

    The research involved two studies using over 1,200 participants to examine whether despair about the climate crisis is associated with experiencing burnout.

    It also explored whether thinking about a positive future where the climate crisis has been addressed (utopian thinking) or considering the steps necessary to address climate change (pragmatic thinking) could reduce climate burnout.

    In some instances, the findings show that simply imagining a climate utopia could reduce peoples’ urge to disengage from the climate movement.

    “Given the urgent need to address the climate crisis, it is important to protect people from experiencing despair induced burnout and disengaging from the climate movement,” says Dr Bird.

    “This approach aligns with evolving strategies within the climate advocacy community, focusing on actionable solutions rather than overwhelming sentiments of despair.

    “As communities around the globe strive for impactful climate policies and initiatives, it is imperative that they foster an environment that encourages sustained engagement and mutual support.”

    She says that future research needs to consider different interventions to reduce peoples’ exhaustion and fatigue regarding climate change as this was not always reduced by engaging in pragmatism and utopian thinking.

    Dr Bird sums up her research by referencing street artist Banksy’s mural near London’s Hyde Park in support of Extinction Rebellion protests in 2019, “From this moment despair ends and tactics begin.”

    The article, ‘Thinking about the future: Examining the exacerbating and attenuating factors of despair-induced climate burnout’ by Lucy H. Bird, Emma F. Thomas, Michael Wenzel and Morgana Lizzio-Wilson has been published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology (2024), DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2024.102382

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. They exchanged views regarding efforts to fight climate change and the protection of biodiversity.

    The Secretary-General and the President also discussed bilateral relations between Guyana and Venezuela, the situation in Haiti and the Middle East.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China pledges to boost workplace safety, fire prevention

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China on Tuesday pledged to intensify efforts to ensure workplace safety and enhance fire prevention and suppression in forests and grasslands during the autumn and winter seasons.
    A video conference focusing on the efforts was held in Beijing on Tuesday. The conference called for a strong problem-oriented approach and robust measures to effectively manage safety production and forest fire prevention, with a firm commitment to preventing major accidents and fires.
    It emphasized the need to advance a three-year campaign aimed at addressing fundamental issues in workplace safety, with a focus on further strengthening the supervision of hazardous materials, construction operations and thermal insulation materials.
    Authorities were urged to enhance the capacity for fire safety oversight at the grassroots level and to rigorously investigate and rectify major safety hazards.
    The meeting also stressed the importance of proactive prevention, calling for the implementation of responsibilities and measures for forest fire prevention at the grassroots level to minimize fire risks as much as possible, and ensuring the safety of both the public and firefighting personnel.
    Zhang Guoqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council, attended the meeting and delivered a speech. Wang Xiaohong, a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee and state councilor, presided over the conference. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Top political advisor urges high-quality development of CPPCC work

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s top political advisor Wang Huning on Tuesday called for a thorough study of President Xi Jinping’s recent speech on the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) to promote the high-quality development of the CPPCC work.
    Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, made the remarks while addressing a meeting of the Chairpersons Council of the CPPCC National Committee.
    The senior political advisors studied the speech delivered by Xi, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, at a meeting celebrating the 75th founding anniversary of the CPPCC on Sept. 20.
    Xi’s speech has set out clear requirements for promoting wide, multi-tiered and institutionalized consultative democracy, and has made comprehensive arrangements for carrying out effective CPPCC work at present and in the near future, Wang said, urging efforts to study and implement the speech.
    The Chairpersons Council meeting also studied other recent speeches and instructions by Xi, and reviewed and passed documents including revised regulations of the CPPCC National Committee for reporting on social conditions and public sentiment. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China implements strictest arable land protection system

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China on Tuesday made public a guideline on arable land protection, aiming to implement the strictest possible protection system and introducing robust measures with real enforcement “teeth” to combat the erosion of arable land.
    The guideline, issued by the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, stated that the national arable land area should not fall below 124.33 million hectares, with the area of permanent basic farmland set at no less than 103 million hectares.
    To achieve these goals, China will implement the most stringent possible arable land protection policies, introducing robust measures to combat the conversion of arable land to non-agricultural uses and to prevent permanent basic farmland from being utilized for non-grain production.
    Local Party committees and governments will be required to treat the protection of arable land and permanent basic farmland as a critical political task. They must ensure that the established protection threshold is never breached, and that strict accountability measures are in place for violations, including a “one-vote veto” punishment for officials who breach protection guidelines severely.
    To boost land quality, the document emphasizes the gradual upgrade of permanent basic farmland to high-standard farmland that is suitable for cultivation, resilient to drought and flooding, and capable of ensuring high and stable yields.
    A national plan will be developed for this transformation, with priority given to areas in northeast China’s black soil region, plains and regions with irrigation capabilities.
    The government will implement black soil protection initiatives, adjusting protective measures to encompass all necessary areas in a timely manner. Law enforcement combating activities that harm the fertile soil will be intensified.
    Legislation governing the protection of arable land quality will be accelerated, with annual surveys of soil quality changes and comprehensive evaluations conducted every five years, along with a national soil census to be conducted at an appropriate time.
    Efforts will also be made to develop high-efficiency protected agriculture using non-arable land resources. This will involve exploring the sustainable development of modern protected agriculture in arid and desert regions where water resources allow.
    These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure national grain security and strengthen the agricultural sector.
    China continues to prioritize food security, as it feeds over 1.4 billion people with just 9 percent of the world’s arable land. An array of measures has been implemented to improve grain output over recent years, including the construction of more high-standard farmland and the promotion of agricultural technologies.
    The country has developed about 66.7 million hectares of high-standard farmland as of the end of 2023, with 13 key grain-producing provincial-level regions accounting for around 70 percent of that total.
    According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China has the sound fundamentals to reap a bumper autumn grain harvest following the summer harvest this year, despite severe disasters triggered by extreme weather in parts of the country. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s deep-sea submersible arrives in HK

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Research vessel Deep Sea No. 1 arrives at Tsim Sha Tsui Ocean Terminal in Hong Kong, south China, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s research vessel Deep Sea No. 1, carrying manned submersible Jiaolong, received a warm welcome Tuesday in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the first time they visited the city.
    The vessel is on a home-bound voyage after completing a scientific mission in the Western Pacific Ocean. During their two-day stay in Hong Kong, scientists on board will give lectures to Hong Kong students and hold a number of international seminars to share the results of this scientific expedition.
    Warner Cheuk, deputy chief secretary for administration of the HKSAR government, said that the visits ahead of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China fully demonstrated the central government’s care and support for Hong Kong’s marine scientific research development and ecological conservation.
    It is hoped that this event will inspire more young people in Hong Kong to engage in deep-sea research and make planet Earth a better place to live in, he said.
    Wu Changbin, director of China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association, congratulated the successful completion of the Western Pacific international voyage scientific expedition, saying that this voyage not only enhanced China’s scientific understanding of deep-sea biodiversity and ecosystems but also contributed important scientific data to global marine scientific research.
    The scientific expedition team of Chinese and foreign scientists set sail on Aug. 10 from Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, and made a total of 18 dives in the Western Pacific. It was the first time that foreign scientists have carried out deep-sea scientific research on Jiaolong. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China works to provide quality elderly care services

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China is on the way to establishing a complete service system that will remarkably improve the lives of hundreds of millions of senior citizens in the country, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs.
    China will build an elderly-friendly society by improving its social security system, elderly care services and health supports, Minister of Civil Affairs Lu Zhiyuan has said, noting that an elderly care services system with distinctive Chinese features is expected to become well-developed and smoothly functional by 2035.
    There were 297 million people aged 60 or above in China at the end of 2023, accounting for 21.1 percent of the country’s total population. The country is taking a proactive approach to population aging, acknowledging it as a reality China must face squarely on its path to modernization.
    While challenges exist, this demographic shift also presents opportunities, Lu said at a press conference on high-quality development held in Beijing on Monday.
    Elderly care in China has transitioned from a security net providing basic livelihood support to a system of quality services that integrates both medical and health care, Lu said.
    Elderly care services have also diversified from a government-centric model to including both government and market participation, as well as more social stakeholders, the minister said.
    In a nod to the habits and preference for aging at home among most of its senior citizens, the country will develop a services supply structure characterized by coordination and interconnection between homes, communities and institutions, Lu said.
    Among measures to shore up at-home elderly care, the central government has allocated 300 million yuan (42.5 million U.S. dollars) in guiding funds to support the development of catering services for the elderly in 2024, Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Tang Chengpei said at the Monday press conference.
    Elderly individuals facing the challenges of advanced age, disabilities, empty nests or living alone are the focus of this endeavor, Tang said.
    He noted that simultaneously, the country is expanding its catering services network continuously to deliver convenient meal services to the doorsteps of more senior citizens.
    Catering programs have been rolled out in many regions to help elderly people access local meal services, with community canteens being a common form of these services. 

    MIL OSI China News –