Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-Evening Report: Why are so many people obsessed with fantasy sports?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Hartley, Lecturer in Health and Physical Education, University of Tasmania

Koshiro K/Shutterstock

With the AFL and NRL seasons kicking off, fantasy footy players have been deep in draft mode, carefully building their best teams.

Fantasy sports have transformed the way fans engage with many sports, sparking interest beyond simply watching matches or supporting a favourite team.

What are fantasy sports?

In simple terms, fantasy sports involve participants acting as team coaches/managers, selecting real-life players to form a fantasy team within the constraints of the game’s rules.

These teams compete based on the actual performance of the selected players in real matches. Points are awarded on various performance metrics, depending on the sport.

Many fantasy leagues also incorporate a stock market-like element. When a real-life player exceeds expectations, their fantasy value increases, while underperformance leads to a decrease in value.

This allows coaches to trade players in and out strategically, aiming to build the most valuable and high-scoring team during a season.

Success in fantasy sports often depends on statistical analysis, player scouting, and smart decision-making when it comes to trades and team selection.

The origins of fantasy sports

The first mainstream fantasy game can be attributed to Rotisserie League Baseball in 1980 by Daniel Okrent and friends.

Rotisserie League Baseball is said to be the oldest fantasy sports league in the world.

This league required participants to track their own players’ progress using a scoring system based on statistics obtained in newspapers after a game.

With the rapid progression of technology, fantasy sports have evolved significantly, with most major sporting codes worldwide now offering multiple fantasy platforms, formats and prizes.

In Australia, the number of people playing fantasy sports has doubled since 2021, with nearly 2.5 million players engaged in one league or another.

This growth presents opportunities for content creation, expanded revenue streams, and potentially increased engagement with sports betting.

Fan engagement

The way fans engage with sports has evolved with the rise of fantasy sports, social media, and real time data tracking, leading to “second screen consumption”.

This involves fans using multiple digital platforms such as fantasy sports apps, social media and tracking of live statistics while simultaneously watching live broadcasts.

This shift has redefined the traditional sports fandom experience.

Fantasy coaches watch more games each week, with a dual identity that extends beyond traditional loyalty to the team they support.

While sports fans have historically supported a single team, fantasy sports reshape fan identity by encouraging engagement with both their favourite team and their fantasy team. Fans often watch games they normally wouldn’t be interested in specifically to watch the fantasy-relevant players involved.

Community engagement is a key motivator for participation, often surpassing interest in the real-life sports.

In Australia, a study by News Corporation Australia, which owns SuperCoach, found bragging rights, social connection and learning more about sport drive participation.

While prizes matter, the main reason people join is to connect with others.

In 2021, Australian fantasy players were largely concentrated in the larger sporting codes such as the AFL and NRL, but by 2023 it had broadened into the Big Bash League (BBL) and National Basketball League (NBL).

There are many Australians playing fantasy leagues in global sports too, from the English Premier League (soccer) to the United States’ National Football League (NFL) and National Basketball Association (NBA). Some 14% of the Australian fantasy audience plays in global leagues.

Media involvement

With some sporting seasons becoming longer and the connection to fantasy sports extending beyond live games, fans are kept invested throughout the off-season as they analyse trades, follow pre-season developments and prepare for the next competition.

Read more:
How the AFL and NRL have crept into cricket’s traditional summer timeslot

This almost year-round involvement offers extended media coverage and consumption of new content in a variety of formats.

Fantasy sport complements traditional media by offering alternative coverage, such as podcasts and short-form content that extends beyond game day, keeping fans connected throughout the week as they adjust their lineups and strategies.

Fantasy sports are also boosting viewership for new formats like AFLW by increasing fan engagement.

Rich pickings

Fantasy sport has been big business for a long time but the global fantasy sports market is challenging to quantify.

In 2013, Forbes estimated the NFL fantasy football market alone to be worth $US70 billion ($A111 billion), significantly surpassing the NFL’s 2021 revenue of $US11 billion ($A17 billion), highlighting its major role in the global sporting market.

Big revenues mainly come from sponsorship and advertising on fantasy platforms.

Major brands invest hundreds of millions of dollars in targeted advertising campaigns to capitalise on this engaged audience.

Money is also made by charging fees to enter some contests and to access premium analytics content, in-app purchases, and related entertainment products like websites and podcasts.

Links to sports betting

Many of the advertisers on fantasy platforms are gambling businesses.

Fantasy organisations have tried to highlight the differences between fantasy sports and sports betting, which has been linked to poor mental health, family violence and even suicide.

Their key argument is that betting is a game of chance whereas fantasy sports are games of skill.

Despite these differences, concerns have been raised about the links between fantasy sports and sports betting.

An Australian fantasy betting app was recently fined more than $A500,000 for illegally offering inducements to gamble in dozens of ads on its platform.

Whether or not fantasy sports are likely to encourage gambling is a grey area – studies in this space are mixed.

Some studies have found people who participate in fantasy sports are more likely to gamble and experience gambling-related problems.

However, others describe fantasy sports as a more positive alternative to gambling and that participants are motivated by the social benefits, rather than being motivated by a chance to win money.

As fantasy sports continue to evolve and attract new players, their ability to deepen fan engagement, foster community connections, and enhance the sports watching experience ensures they will remain a dynamic and influential part of the sporting world.

I have worked with members of the AFL Fantasy Traders before in schools.

Vaughan Cruickshank does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Why are so many people obsessed with fantasy sports? – https://theconversation.com/why-are-so-many-people-obsessed-with-fantasy-sports-249010

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 4, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Sick of pie charts for your uni, school or work projects? Here are 5 other options

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicole White, Associate Professor of Statistics, Queensland University of Technology

Master1305/Shutterstock

Whether it’s for a work meeting or a class assignment, presenting data to others is a common task on our to-do list.

We use data to make decisions on our health, finances and the world we live in, yet finding the best ways to communicate data without boring your audience can be daunting.

However, there are some tried and true techniques to getting your message across effectively.

First, you need to boost your data literacy – which includes learning about the different kind of charts and how to use them.

What is data literacy?

Data literacy is the ability to “plot” and present complex data in a way that’s easy to digest. There is even a branch of statistics focusing on the best way to present data.

It’s one of the most desired skills in the workplace, yet a 2020 survey found only one in five employees across nine different countries (including Australia) believe they are data literate.

With seemingly countless options available, choosing the right chart is challenging, and the wrong choice can influence how data is interpreted.

Passing on the humble pie

Pie charts are often the first pick when it comes to presenting data with different categories, such as age group or blood type. These categories are represented as slices, with the size of each slice proportional to the amount of data.

Doughnut charts, a close relative of the pie chart, work the same way but are shown with a hole in the middle.

As delicious as they sound, these charts should be consumed in moderation.

Pie charts present data in a circular pattern, making it difficult to make comparisons when there are many groups, or when groups are similar in size. They can also misrepresent data entirely, especially when data add up to over 100%.

Here are some alternatives to pie charts that sound just as tasty, but are easier to digest.

Bar charts

Bar charts summarise data across different categories, but present them next to each other. This makes it easier to compare several categories at once.

Here is an example from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing the different generations from the last census.

Waffle charts

Waffle charts are a good option for data organised by categories.

They present data in a grid, with each unit representing a fixed number. This is useful for presenting both large and small percentages that are difficult to compare side-by-side.

We can clearly see most people eat meat from the figure.

However, a bar chart would make comparing less common diets difficult. With a waffle chart, we can see 4% of people surveyed are vegan, while 2% are pescetarian.

Histograms

Data often represent different measurements, such as height and weight, or time taken to write an article.

Histograms also present data with bars but, unlike bar charts, are used for data collected as numbers, or numerical data.

This chart type is used to show how a set of numbers are spread out, and can be useful in seeing which numbers occur more often than others.

It’s tempting to simplify data by fitting them into categories, but this can sometimes hide interesting facts.

The example below shows the body mass index (BMI) of a group of people as a bar chart.

It’s easy to lose information when trying to simplify BMI into categories, especially among people who may be obese.

Each category in the bar chart could easily be misunderstood as representing BMI as similar ranges. However, if we look at the histogram, BMI for obese people can be as high as 70.

A doctor using this data would need to take into account that someone with a BMI of 60 may need a different treatment method compared to someone with a BMI of 30.

Line charts and scatterplots

Other chart types for numerical data, such as line charts and scatterplots, allow us to explore how different measurements are related to one another.

Line charts are used to visualise trends over time, such as stock prices and weekly flu cases.

In contrast, scatterplots show how two different measurements collected on the same subject are related.

While scatterplots summarise trends, they sometimes show unusual results that would go unnoticed if measurements were charted separately.

For example, the figure below compares life expectancy and health expenditure in different countries.

If we’re only looking at health expenditure, people from the United States would appear healthier as the US spends the most money on health care per person.

Presenting this information along with life expectancy tells a different story.

Keep it simple and avoid ‘chart junk’

It is always tempting to add more information.

“Chart junk” refers to extra information such as excess labels, 3D effects or even different types of data in the same chart.

Example of a chart filled with ‘junk’.
ResearchGate, CC BY

This makes them more difficult to read and can distort the data, and is usually a sign your data is too complicated. You’re better off using multiple charts to tell the full story.

As Coco Chanel once said, “simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance”.

Keep these words in mind and choose a chart that keeps it simple without compromising style, content and detail.

Nicole White is a member of the Statistical Society of Australia.

– ref. Sick of pie charts for your uni, school or work projects? Here are 5 other options – https://theconversation.com/sick-of-pie-charts-for-your-uni-school-or-work-projects-here-are-5-other-options-250499

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How to sustain international order in an ‘America First’ world

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Daniel Manulak, Postdoctoral Fellow, History, University of Toronto

The United States is abandoning its traditional role as the anchor of the liberal world order — a set of norms, rules, customs and international institutions designed to maintain global stability and foster peaceful interchange between states.

From announcing its intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Human Rights Council to threatening allies — including Canada — with annexation and damaging tariffs, U.S. President Donald Trump has launched an assault on the liberal world order that upholds the post-1945 international system.

Under these circumstances, it’s more urgent than ever that Canada clarifies its vision in world affairs and accepts its responsibility to sustain the rules-based global order. By looking into the past, we can see what Canada can do in the present.

Read more:
Like dictators before him, Trump threatens international peace and security

How Canada made a difference

The U.S. isn’t the only country with a vested interest in maintaining the liberal international order — even if it has been the only nation with the will and capacity to serve as its safeguard.

Canada was also present at the creation of the UN in 1945. They, too, played a fundamental part in the development of its specialized agencies — such as the WHO and the International Civil Aviation Organization.

In fact, Canada has been an engaged member of the international community. The country played a leading role in establishing the UN Emergency Force during the Suez Crisis, fighting apartheid in South Africa and building a coalition to ban anti-personnel land mines in the 1990s, to name a few examples.

Canada has done so because it’s been in the best interest of the country. A liberal, rules-based international order is a framework in which Canada can make a meaningful difference in global affairs disproportionate to its limited size and capabilities.

It also makes for a more prosperous, stable and peaceful world. One where norms, rules and institutions constrain aggressive or malevolent world leaders and facilitates co-operation on global problems.

But what can lessons from the past offer Canada in sustaining global order in an “America First” world. This is a policy espoused by the Trump administration that is focused inwards. It approaches international affairs as a transactional, zero-sum game.

Learning from the past

First, Canada is at its most effective when Canadians act in unison towards a common goal.

During the Ethiopian famine in the 1980s, Canadians of all stripes and levels of government worked in tandem to organize a truly national response to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. Regular citizens contributed more than $30 million — potentially saving over 700,000 people from starvation.

This domestic political consensus also provided the requisite support for the federal government to co-ordinate an international famine relief effort. This was despite the resistance of Canada’s major allies in the U.S. and the U.K., due to the Marxist orientation of the Ethiopian government.

Granted, few international causes offer such grounds for unity. Political polarization has only made this type of unity more difficult. And yet, as recent events (such as Trump’s threat to coerce Canada into becoming the 51st state) make clear, Canadians are willing to put aside their differences and rally together when there’s a coherent vision for the country rooted in its values and aspirations.

Second, Canada needs to work closely with like-minded states through multilateral institutions — such as the United Nations and the Commonwealth. Under Brian Mulroney’s Progressive Conservative government, Canada relied on its membership in nearly every major international association to build and maintain the global coalition against South African apartheid.

Read more:
Brian Mulroney’s tough stand against apartheid is one of his most important legacies

Australia, India, Zambia and Zimbabwe emerged as key partners. Such efforts entailed both political and economic costs. But there was a reason why one of Nelson Mandela’s first visits following his release from prison in 1990 was to Canada.

By redoubling its engagement in international organizations, Canada can punch above its weight in world affairs and shape global priorities. It also provides a counter to the influence of the United States in Canadian foreign policy.

Third, the U.S. is more than its president. Canada can still cultivate ties with Americans beyond the White House. Returning to the Mulroney government, Ottawa’s efforts to persuade the Ronald Reagan administration to negotiate restrictions on emissions resulting in acid rain were unsuccessful.

Nonetheless, by lobbying congressional leaders in impacted states and partnering with environmental non-governmental organizations, Canada and the U.S. eventually agreed to the 1991 Air Quality Agreement.

Surviving hostile administrations

Canada should also be realistic about the degree to which it can diversify its economic and diplomatic relationships outside of the U.S.

In the early 1970s, President Richard Nixon imposed a 10 per cent surcharge on Canadian imports. Then, just as it is now, Ottawa looked for alternative markets to offset Canada’s dependency on the Americans. These initiatives ultimately failed to materialize — but the surcharge was rescinded. Canada-U.S. relations ultimately survived the Nixon administration.

Similarly, while Trump has offered a stark reminder that Canada needs to take an active role in sustaining the rules-based international order on which it depends, the ties that bind the two countries together are deeper and longer-lasting than any one administration or government.

Even so, with a world in chaos, Canada needs to step up to defend international norms and institutions. It has done so in the past and can do so again — provided it develops a coherent foreign policy strategy moving forward.

Daniel Manulak receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

– ref. How to sustain international order in an ‘America First’ world – https://theconversation.com/how-to-sustain-international-order-in-an-america-first-world-248364

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK expands campaign to stop migrant smugglers and their lies
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

UK expands campaign to stop migrant smugglers and their lies

Digital advertising launches today in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to warn prospective migrants about people smugglers’ lies.
Digital advertising launched today in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) as part of the government’s international campaign to warn prospective migrants about people smugglers’ lies, expanding on the campaigns in Vietnam and Albania. 

Quotes from real migrants who have attempted the journey are featured, to counter the myths and misinformation peddled by criminals to dupe people online, as the UK government secures its borders as part of the Plan for Change. 

The campaign forms part of this government’s work to expand the UK’s international partnerships and boost cooperation, to dismantle the people smuggling gangs operating across borders and protect vulnerable people, delivered through the Border Security Command. 

It comes as the UK is set to sign a joint communiqué today (4 March 2025) with the Vietnamese government at the third annual UK-Vietnam Migration Dialogue, hosted in Hanoi, agreeing to build on our joint work to prevent the exploitation of irregular migrants, disrupt criminal gang operations, strengthen intelligence sharing and return those with no right to be in the UK. 

The communiqué includes commitments to enable swifter and more effective returns, and for the UK government to continue its communications campaign in Vietnam to tackle migrant smugglers’ lies.

Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said:

Ruthless criminal gangs spread dangerous lies on social media to exploit people for money, and we are exposing them using the real stories of their victims.

This campaign helps to break the business model of these criminals and protect people from falling victim, securing our borders as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

No one should be in any doubt that putting your life in the hands of a smuggler is not worth the risk. Too many people have died in the English Channel at the hands of these criminals, and we will stop at nothing to bring them to justice.

The UK’s Border Security Commander, Martin Hewitt, also visited Iraq and the KRI last week, to progress the world-first agreements reached between the Federal Government of Iraq and the UK Government in November and further progress our cooperation on strengthening mutual border security. 

He met with senior officials in the Federal Government of Iraq and within the Kurdistan Regional Government and its agencies to discuss ongoing cooperation, including increased joint working to tackle organised immigration crime and strengthen our mutual border security co-operation. 

Through the Border Security Command, the UK government is working on a whole system approach, preventing irregular migration through communications, increasing international collaboration to tackle this issue across borders, and arming law enforcement with the powers it needs. 

Bold new counterterror-style powers in the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, which is back in Parliament today for committee stage, will help bolster law enforcement to intercept and smash the people smuggling gangs earlier and faster.

This includes stronger powers to seize and search mobile phones to investigate organised immigration crime and new offences against gangs conspiring to plan crossings, selling or handling small boat parts for use in the Channel, or supplying forged identity documents for migrants attempting to come here illegally.

Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt, said:

International partnerships are an essential part of our work to stop criminal gangs operating across borders to exploit vulnerable people.

By strengthening these relationships and working closely with law enforcement partners across the world, we will bring down these gangs, break their business models, and put a stop to the misery and harm they inflict.

Communications are an important part of this work, and our international campaign is sending a clear message to prospective migrants that these criminals cannot be trusted.

The Home Office has today published a short film explaining the Border Security Command’s mission, its work to date, and its future plans.  

The video features the Border Security Commander, Martin Hewitt, and key staff setting out the challenge the UK faces from criminal gangs determined to abuse our borders and exploit people for profit, and how the Border Security Command will defeat them and bring them to justice. 

The UK’s international communications campaign will also ramp up this year to inform prospective migrants at every stage of the journey about the risks and realities of entering the UK illegally, including informing diaspora communities in the UK about the dangers their friends and families overseas face from people smugglers.

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Published 4 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Auckland congestion costing freight companies and customers millions

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says reducing congestion will have big benefits for freight efficiency, labour productivity, and emissions reduction.

“The report estimates that congestion in Auckland is costing our trucking members $130 million dollars per year – costs that end up impacting businesses and consumers across the country.

“Congestion reduces the number of trips that freight operators can complete, puts pressure on drivers who are only legally permitted to work a certain number of hours per day, and pressures freight companies to put more, less efficient vehicles on the road.”

Kalasih hopes there will broad cross-party support for sending the Government’s Time of Use Charging Bill to the select committee stage so it can consider improvements to the proposed legislation around freight and supply chain implications and exemptions.

“Getting congestion charging settings right is really challenging, and essential to getting enduring schemes put in place. Only a handful of cities operate comprehensive congestion charging schemes, and there have been many proposals that haven’t gone ahead due to concerns about cost implications and implementation.”

The latest New York time-of-use scheme is currently subject to legal action by the Trucking Association of New York, alleging that trucks are being disproportionately charged.

Kalasih says that Transporting New Zealand would like to see exemptions for freight and goods vehicles permitted by the legislation.

“Transporting New Zealand is concerned that the proposed legislation limits exemptions to emergency vehicles. This is bad news for bus users and road freight businesses who will have to pass costs on to consumers. Overseas schemes allow for wider exemptions that maximise savings for consumers and businesses.”

“Around half of all vehicles in the London charge area are exempt or qualify for a discount.”

Kalasih says ruling exemptions out entirely will prevent an evidence-based assessment being done where schemes operate on key freight routes or around freight or passenger hubs.

He says that Transporting New Zealand will be consulting with its membership on the legislation and making a major submission at any select committee considering the legislation.

About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.

Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Primary care funding a positive step in the right direction, says College of GPs

Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has welcomed the Health Minister’s funding announcement saying it is a big step in the right direction towards building a well-resourced and sustainable primary care workforce.

Increased investment in primary care has long been at the forefront of our members’ concerns and the College’s advocacy work, particularly improving access to GP, rural hospital and primary care services and growing, and retaining, the workforce.

College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Any additional funding for primary care will ultimately benefit our patients and improve health outcomes, and as specialist GPs and rural hospital doctors who work in the community, this is our priority.

“As we know there are many areas in primary care that need permanent solutions and further investment, and the Minister has shown that he is willing to invest broadly. I hope that by incentivising primary care to nursing graduates they will see the value in what our workforce does and choose to stay in it for the long-term. This will help alleviate nursing workforce challenges especially in rural communities. Pay parity between primary and secondary nursing is what we still need to aim for.

“Providing timely and accessible care for all New Zealanders and the increased availability of telehealth will be beneficial, but it needs to be offered alongside improved support for face-to-face primary care services to ensure continued patient safety. Telehealth fills a niche, not a void,” says Dr Murton.

College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “Enabling more overseas doctors to gain general registration in primary care in New Zealand and gain valuable first-hand experience will boost the workforce pipeline. That said, we cannot take our focus off supporting our homegrown workforce. New Zealand needs to attract and retain 300 general practice registrars per year just to maintain GP numbers and investment in the training programme is critical to this.

“Investment in strong, future focused and sustainable primary care will reduce the pressure on secondary care. We look forward to further engagement with Minister Brown on lasting solutions that increase access to specialist general practitioners for New Zealanders and thank him for the steps he has announced.

“The College is pleased to see our ongoing advocacy has been reflected in the Minister’s decisions and we look forward to learning the specifics of this additional funding.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Fewer houses, consents down under National

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

The number of building consents issued under this Government continues to spiral, taking a toll on the infrastructure sector, tradies, and future generations of Kiwi homeowners.

“The latest figures from Stats NZ confirm what the construction sector has been warning for months: building consents are down under the National Government. The slowdown is yet another sign that the Government’s economic mismanagement is making things worse for Kiwi households and businesses,” Labour infrastructure spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

“The economy remains weak thanks to the government’s cancellation of infrastructure projects, leaving 13,000 construction workers out of a job last year. Every scrapped project means fewer jobs and fewer homes, resulting in rising unemployment, rising homelessness, and the sharpest recession, excluding COVID-19, in 30 years.

“If the Government was serious about economic growth, it would reverse its cuts and invest in public services, infrastructure, and new homes, not axing funding for schools, hospitals, and public housing,” Barbara Edmonds said.

In the year ended January 2025, consents fell to 33,812 new homes, down 7.2 percent compared with the year ended January 2024.

“New homes are getting further from reach thanks to the reckless cuts of this Government. It’s not only public housing that’s been ditched – new privately owned family homes aren’t getting built either. Any promises of homes from Chris Bishop are down the gurgler,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

“On top of that, National’s $2.9 billion landlord tax cuts have made things worse. Labour kept interest deductibility for new builds to encourage investment in more housing, but National scrapped that, shifting investment away from new builds and back into existing homes. That means fewer houses being built and house prices likely to increase.

“It’s simple: build more public houses so people have somewhere to live. Don’t make living so expensive that people can’t build homes. Housing is the bare minimum that people need to live and it also helps grow the economy by getting more Kiwis into work,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Opposition’s ‘analysis’ ignores regions
Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 4 March 2025

Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

In a stunning display of just how out of touch they are, the NSW Opposition have ignored the Illawarra, Hunter and Central Coast in a desperate attempt to criticise planning reforms that will deliver homes for young people.
The Opposition Spokesperson for Planning has tried to pass off a flawed examination of the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise planning reforms as ‘analysis’, conveniently leaving out one-in-five locations.

The Low and Mid-Rise reforms, introduced last week, address the “missing middle” by allowing terraces, townhouse and mid-rise apartments within 800m of 171 stations across Sydney, the Hunter, Central Coast, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven filling the supply gap between high-rise and single dwellings – a planning solution the Opposition were unable to deliver for twelve years when they were in Government.

The Opposition Spokesperson has claimed that the regional Low and Mid-Rise sites should not be considered in the total number of sites, defying both logic and explanation.

The majority of Low and Mid-Rise changes are in Labor electorates. Of the top 12 councils taking the largest amount of new housing set through council targets, 10 are council areas represented predominantly by Labor electorates.

This follows the NSW Opposition also moving a bill in parliament last year to abolish the Transport Oriented Development program, a program that also delivered housing in a majority of Labor electorates.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“I represent a large regional city called Wollongong. While the Opposition don’t seem to have heard of it, it is host to three Low and Mid-Rise sites, that is contributing to solving the housing challenge.

“It is particularly insulting to have the Opposition continue to ignore regional centres like they did in government.

“I think the Opposition Spokesperson needs to buy a map of NSW and a calculator.

“Passing off this sort of rubbish as analysis says everything you need to know about the attitude of the NSW Liberals.

“I would encourage the Opposition Spokesperson to step outside of his Sydney bubble, stop obsessively worrying about the North Shore and speak to people living in regional NSW, struggling to buy a house.

“As the Shadow Minister for cities, you’d think he’d know there’s more than one city in NSW.”

Support for the LMR program from stakeholders:

Property Council NSW Executive Director, Katie Stevenson:

“These long-awaited reforms bring certainty and confidence to support the industry to deliver more housing, improve affordability, and provide greater choice for homebuyers and renters.”

Urban Development Institute of Australia NSW CEO, Stuart Ayres:

“Today’s announcement is welcome and long overdue. UDIA has consistently advocated to increase availability of medium density housing options in locations close to existing services and transport to help tackle a worsening housing supply crisis.”

ALP Electorates

Liberal Electorates

Other Electorates

Total

Low and Mid-Rise

80

69

22

171

The Opposition’s Missing sites:
1. Erina Fair Centre
2. Gosford Station
3. Green Point Centre
4. The Entrance Town Centre
5. Tuggerah Westfield
6. Woy Woy Station
7. Wyong Station
8. Cessnock Town Centre
9. Kiama Town Centre
10. Belmont Town Centre
11. Boolaroo Town Centre
12. Cardiff Station
13. Charlestown Town Centre
14. Jewellstown Plaza
15. Morisset Station
16. Green Hills Stockland
17. Maitland Town Centre
18. Rutherford Marketplace
19. Adamstown Station
20. Hamilton Station
21. Junction Fair Centre
22. Kotara Station
23. Mayfield Town Centre
24. Wallsend Town Centre
25. Waratah Town Centre
26. Nelson Bay Town Centre
27. Raymond Terrace Town Centre
28. Albion Park Town Centre
29. Shellharbour Town Centre
30. Warilla Grove Town Centre
31. Bomaderry Town Centre
32. Nowra Town Centre
33. Corrimal Town Centre
34. Dapto Town Centre
35. Fairy Meadow Town Centre
36. Warrawong Town Centre
MIL OSI News –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering More Road Safety Improvements in Goulburn

Source: Australian Ministers 1

The Albanese Government is partnering with Goulburn Mulwaree Council to improve the safety of local roads, with $3.6 million in federal funding supporting the delivery of two new priority road upgrades.

$2.3 million in federal funding will support upgrading the surface of Lansdowne Street, along with line marking and kerb and guttering improvements – to ensure this heavy vehicle route keeps pace with increased traffic.

Construction is expected to commence by the end of this year, and be completed in September 2026.

$1.3 million from the Albanese Government will support replacing the ageing Glynmar Road Causeway with a higher concrete bridge.

Design works will be finalised by the end of this year, with construction expected to begin by September next year, and be completed by August 2027.

These two new projects are supported by the Albanese Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, and the Roads to Recovery Program.

Goulburn Mulwaree Council is receiving $9.4 million in Roads to Recovery funding over five years for a pipeline of priority projects – a funding boost of over $4 million thanks to the Albanese Government.

Over $2.9 million under the Albanese Government’s Road Safety Program is also supporting a package of safety improvements on Crookwell Road, along with Albert, Deccan, Clifford, Goldsmith, Verner, and Faithful Streets.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain MP:

“As someone that drives hundreds of thousands of kilometres across Eden-Monaro, I know how important it is to improve the safety of our local roads, which is why I’m proud to be delivering $3.6 million for repairs on Lansdowne Street, and to replace the Glynmar Road Causeway outside of Marulan.

“Lansdowne Street is under increasing pressure from heavy vehicles and this has caused parts of the road to deteriorate – something we’ll repair, to keep local freight businesses moving, and to make it safer for the 1,800 motorists that pass through this street every day.

“The Glynmar Road Causeway over Stony Creek is reaching the end of its operational life, and local property owners have said it needs to be replaced – which is exactly why we’re delivering a new concrete structure that’s both higher and wider.

“These two new projects build on a series of road safety upgrades we’re already delivering across the Goulburn Mulwaree region, as part of my commitment to working with council and the community to support their local priority projects.”

Quotes attributable to Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Council, Cr Nina Dillon:

“We welcome this additional funding from the Australian Government, because it means Goulburn Mulwaree Council can continue improving the safety of our local roads.

“Delivering these two new projects is a major win for our community – because we know how important it is that our local roads keep pace with increasing traffic.

“We have a strong partnership with the Australian Government, and this is what we can deliver for our community when we work together.”

MIL OSI News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: A new era for community foundations
Source: Australian Treasurer

The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen Australia’s philanthropic sector through historic reforms to support community foundations.

Community foundations pool donations from individuals, businesses and institutions to fund local initiatives and address community needs. A community foundation operates as a permanent, independent trust, investing funds to generate ongoing grants for charities and grassroots projects within a specific region.

With the publication of the Taxation Administration (Community Charity) Guidelines 2025, our new pathway to deductible gift recipient status for these community based charities is now established.

By fostering local giving and collaboration, community foundations strengthen social cohesion and drive long‑term, place‑based change.

Community foundations are located across Australia, in regions including Bass Coast, Geelong, Mackay, Alice Springs, the Eyre Peninsula, Albany and Fremantle. Community foundations support a wide range of initiatives, including education, mental health, social inclusion, environmental sustainability and disaster recovery.

Prior to this reform, community foundations have faced barriers attracting donations from private ancillary funds, which are used by individuals and families for private giving. Community foundations have also been constrained from directly supporting community groups that don’t have deductible gift recipient status.

The Community Charity Guidelines were developed in close consultation with the charitable sector. Community Foundations Australia Chair, Ben Rodgers, has said of the new guidelines:

‘The implementation of this reform brings more than 20 years of sector‑wide advocacy to a successful close, creating a new and better tax and regulatory framework for community foundations, in recognition of the vital role they play building thriving communities across Australia.’

Philanthropy Australia’s Chair, Maree Sidey, has said:

‘It’s vital that our policy and regulatory environment empowers people to give … these reforms remove big roadblocks, helping unlock the flow of more resources to important community initiatives,’

Labor’s support for community foundations is part of our goal to double philanthropic giving by 2030. We know that when charities thrive, communities thrive – and these reforms will provide a significant boost to the sector.

This reform reflects the Albanese Government’s commitment to fostering a robust charity sector and more resilient communities. It builds on our achievements to date. Since coming into government, the Australian Government has:
- Improved the deductible gift recipient system by creating a new pathway for community foundations to access tax deductible status.
- Streamlined the deductible gift recipient application process for environmental organisations, harm prevention charities, cultural organisations, and overseas aid organisations.
- Introduced legislation to give the Australian Charities and Not‑for‑profits Commission greater discretion to comment publicly on harmful breaches of compliance, to better support public trust and confidence in the regulatory framework.
- Appointed a widely respected charity sector expert, Sue Woodward, to head the Australian Charities and Not‑for‑profits Commission.
- Refreshed the Australian Charities and Not‑for‑profits Commission Advisory Board to be more representative of the charity sector, bringing First Nations, CALD and youth voices onto the Board.
- Sent a clear signal that charitable advocacy is supported and welcomed by this government.
- Funded a new General Social Survey with new questions on participation in volunteering and involvement in cultural events and cultural activities, and providing insights reflecting the impact of giving, participation, and purpose driven activity.
- Worked with state and territory governments to streamline and harmonise charitable fundraising rules across jurisdictions.
- Appointed representatives from all states and territories to the advisory board of the Australian Charities and Not‑for‑profits Commission
Our government is proud to work alongside the charitable sector to create a stronger, more generous Australia.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Charities, Dr Andrew Leigh MP

“These reforms will make it easier for people to support charitable foundations in their local area.”

“The Australian Government has set a target of doubling philanthropic giving by 2030, and this announcement is an important step towards that goal.”

“By reducing the paperwork burden and expanding eligibility for tax‑deductible donations, the Albanese Government is ensuring that more money flows to charities that are making a real difference in people’s lives.”

MIL OSI News –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Investing in Asian-Australian representation

Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

Today I am pleased to announce a pilot program that will harness the knowledge and experience of Asian Australians to deepen our understanding of our region and make Australia stronger and more influential in the world.

Australia’s diversity is one of our strengths – it gives us broader perspectives, deeper connections and a better ability to engage with our region on issues that matter to all Australians.

The Asian Australian Voices pilot program will equip professionals with the training and skills to contribute to public life.

The program will help to ensure Australians with deep expertise and personal experience of our region are part of the national conversation on the economic, security and diplomatic challenges and opportunities shaping our future.

It will also ensure we are using our strengths to Australia’s advantage, building Australia’s Asia literacy and creating a pipeline of senior Asian-Australian representation in civic life.

In partnership with Asia Society Australia, this initiative is a collaboration between DFAT’s National Foundation for Australia-China Relations, Centre for Australia-India Relations, and ASEAN-Australia Centre.

It reflects the Albanese Government’s commitment to ensuring all Australians can contribute to our engagement with the world.

Details about the pilot program can be found here: Asian Australian Voices.

MIL OSI News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – National Freight Survey is Live!

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

March is a big month for the road freight industry with the largest survey in a decade being held to find out what are the key issues for transport operators and all the industry players.

The 2025 National Road Freight Survey has been organised by national road freight organisation Transporting New Zealand.

CEO Dom Kalasih says the online survey, which is being run by independent surveying firm Research New Zealand, is designed to help all parts of the industry share their priorities with policy makers and regulators.

“There are over 30,000 people working in the road freight sector across more than 5,000 business entities, carrying 93 percent of the national freight task,” Kalasih says.

“We want to get a clearer picture of what their leading concerns are, what opportunities they see for improvement, and what might be lesser priorities.”

“There are plenty of big issues in the industry such as staff shortages, operating conditions, tolling and congestion charging, the Cook Strait ferries and road policing to name a few.”

“If it is important to the people in the industry, we want to hear about it.”

Some of the other groups supporting the survey are the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association and Groundspread NZ.

Jonathan Bhana-Thomson, the CEO of Heavy Haulage, says it is a great initiative for the industry and he’s sure the industry will provide plenty of great responses.

The survey is to get feedback from transport companies, no matter their size, or whether they are member of an industry association or not.

Rose Hyslop, the Executive Officer for Groundspread NZ, is also right behind the survey. She is looking forward to seeing the results which will be shared with all the groups that make up the transport and freight sectors.

Kalasih says that Research NZ has kept the survey short, multi-choice and accessible, with the option to provide more in-depth answers if they have more detailed feedback.

“We’ve also thrown in a $500 travel voucher from the House of Travel for one lucky person to win. Just as a bit of a sweetener.”

The survey runs till March 28.

The survey is at:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government News – Chief Ombudsman releases report into secure aged care facilities

Source: Office of the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier is concerned that people can be placed in secure aged care facilities in New Zealand without the proper legal authority.

Mr Boshier has today released a report on his inspections and visits to 148 secure residential aged care facilities across the country from 2021-2024.

“The COVID-19 pandemic saw many restrictions imposed in these types of facilities. As part of my regular visiting programme I wanted to check whether these restrictions had been lifted or at least minimised. I am pleased to say that most of the restrictions I saw during the pandemic had been lifted.

“I also identified some areas that need to be addressed, including the lack of independent and centralised oversight around the legal basis for a person’s placement in secure care.

“In the vast majority of facilities I found that at least one resident didn’t have a legal basis for being placed there and at a small number of facilities, almost half of the residents didn’t have the proper paperwork.

“I have observed varying levels of understanding on the part of facility management, medical professionals, and whānau around what is legally required and why it is required for someone to be placed in a secure aged care facility.

“I consider there would be significant benefit in establishing a centralised register for Enduring Power of Attorney to help with these issues.”

Mr Boshier says a number of other improvements could be made including in the area of restraint.

“It alarmed me to find that restraint policies were not always followed.

“Restraint comes in many forms, including staff using their own body to limit residents’ movement, using equipment to limit residents’ movement, and locking doors to prevent free movement between different areas.

“Residents receiving psychogeriatric care are at increased risk of being subjected to excessive restrictions or restraint.

“In many instances it was clear that staff did not fully understand how certain actions result in residents being restrained, for example, restraint applies to residents who are left in recliner chairs with their legs elevated, where they are clearly unable to move from that position.”

Mr Boshier also identified issues around the treatment of residents with dementia.

“I was very concerned that a small minority of facility staff and management felt that because residents had dementia they were not capable of making complaints.

“Residents are the experts on their experience of care. All residents have the right to share their opinions and be heard. They need ways to let someone know if they feel unsafe or they are dissatisfied with their care.”

Other issues Mr Boshier found were an over-reliance on whānau to provide advocacy and support for residents, resourcing pressures across most facilities and staff who were close to burnout.

“I am pleased, however, to see a range of improvements have been made by a number of the facilities I visited. These are still happening and I encourage all facilities to continue making improvements. I wish to acknowledge the commitment shown by staff I met and observed to delivering the best treatment and conditions to people living in secure aged care facilities.

“It is vital that the human rights of all residents in our country’s secure aged care facilities are safeguarded and maintained.”

Explanatory note: The Chief Ombudsman examines the conditions and treatment of people in places where they may not be free to leave at will. This includes people who may be in secure dementia level care and specialised hospital level care (psychogeriatric level care).

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – SAFE calls for halt on fish farm developments and urgent industry review

Source: SAFE For Animals

SAFE is condemning the Government’s $11.72 million investment into salmon farming and demanding an urgent review into endemic animal welfare breaches.

SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall says the funding allocated via the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is a concerning misdirection of Government resources.

“Fish farms are quite simply under water factory farms, and this is an unregulated industry with no meaningful oversight of animal welfare.”

SAFE also warns that intensive fish farming poses serious environmental risks including declining water quality and antibiotic pollution, making this use of Government sustainability funding profoundly misguided.

“Rather than channelling money from the Sustainable Food and Fibres Futures fund

into the expansion of salmon farming, this funding should be directed to initiatives with genuine sustainability outcomes.”

SAFE says all fishes confined to cages on land or at sea are prevented from exhibiting their normal patterns of behaviour, directly breaching their legal rights under the Animal Welfare Act, adding the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is well overdue in producing a code of welfare for farmed fishes.

“Codes of welfare are ratified guidelines which all animal-related industries are expected to abide by, however a code to ensure the fish farming industry operates in line with our Animal Welfare Act has not yet transpired” says Hall.

SAFE says this week’s funding announcement also highlights a significant conflict of interest, with MPI being responsible for both the growth of intensive farming industries and animal welfare compliance.

“The fishes bred in these underwater cages subject to terrible conditions, including overcrowding, poor water quality, skeletal deformities, skin lesions, and heat stress.”

“It is deeply concerning to see MPI dishing out funding to an industry rife with animal welfare concerns, given they are responsible for monitoring the welfare of farmed animals.”

SAFE is calling for an immediate halt on all fish farm expansion until the Government has conducted a thorough review of what is currently an unregulated industry.

“Without urgent action, fishes will continue to suffer in tragic conditions with no meaningful protection. The Government must step up and fix this” says Hall.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua Grand Traverse hits milestone

Source: Porirua City Council

Michael Jacques is far too busy to think about popping champagne to mark a significant birthday for one of the region’s most popular multisport events.

When first run in 2006, Porirua Grand Traverse (PGT) had 240 participants testing themselves over, in and around Porirua’s hills, forests, coastlines and waterways. By 2020 the numbers had swelled to more than 1000.

Twenty years after its first iteration, PGT has gone from being a major challenge for serious multisporters to a true festival of fitness and a major community occasion, says current event manager Michael Jacques.

“Porirua Grand Traverse was founded by a group of people who thought the city’s awesome outdoor resources would be a perfect way to showcase the region and encourage locals to explore their back yard,” he says.

“With the fun run, the fun bike, multisport and duathlon races, mountain biking and mountain running, it caters for everyone and we’ve been lucky to enjoy plenty of local support – from Porirua City Council to local volunteer groups, sponsors and families.

“Our motto is ‘all ages, all abilities, all amazing’ – we want PGT to be one of the most inclusive endurance events in the country.”

Local Deb Lynch, a three-time PGT winner, recently took out the iconic Coast to Coast event in the South Island for the first time. Michael proudly says Olympic and world champions have also regularly taken part in Porirua’s big day.

Based at Whitireia Polytechnic, Michael says about 120 volunteers are needed to make PGT run smoothly on the day. Over 20 years, the amazing people who have helped make it so successful is a “staggering” number, with total volunteers numbering well over 1000, he says.

The trust that organises PGT might enjoy a celebratory drink post-race, but for now there’s too much to do before this year’s big day, Sunday 6 April, Michael says.

“Anniversary years are always popular and right now we’re tracking well ahead of previous events.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua celebrating 60 years as a city

Source: Porirua City Council

Porirua city is turning 60 this year. We officially became a city on Saturday 2 October 1965 when our population hit 20,000, meeting the threshold (at the time) to become a city.

Today Porirua is home to more than 62,000 people and our city is growing and changing all the time.

It is a vibrant, diverse and welcoming place that is expected to grow to be home to more than 83,000 people by 2054, with an extra 10,000 homes needed.

Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says it’s a privilege to represent Porirua during this milestone year.

“While Porirua has a long and rich history, the period we have been a city is relatively short. Porirua became a borough in 1961 and a city four years later in 1965.

“I was born in Porirua and have lived all but 10 years here. For me, it’s where I live and work and is a place I am proud to call my home.

“A 60th celebration is usually called a diamond anniversary but for me Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour is the jewel in our crown. We haven’t always looked after it as well as we could or should, but the recent signing of Te Wai Ora o Parirua – the Porirua Harbour Accord shows a shared commitment to restoring the special taonga, which our city is centred around,” she says.

We will be marking our city’s actual birthday more formally nearer to the date. In the lead-up to our 60th birthday we’re spotlighting photos of notable events and places in Porirua’s recent history in a #60for60 campaign.

You can see the photos – which are published at least weekly – on our Facebook page or check out our dedicated web page, which gets updated as the photos get published: poriruacity.govt.nz/60for60

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: January 2025

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – 4 March 2025 – There were 2,203 new homes consented in January 2025, up 11 percent compared with January 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“While January 2025 saw an increase in homes consented compared to January 2024, it still remains below the levels seen in January 2022 and 2023,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

Of the 2,203 new homes consented, there were 1,077 stand-alone houses consented, up 20 percent compared with January 2024, and 1,126 multi-unit homes consented, up 3.1 percent.

Multi-unit homes include townhouses, apartments, retirement village units, and flats.

Files:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Tech and VPPs – Flexibility is crucial to maintain grid stability, says GridBeyond latest white paper

Source: GridBeyond

In a market with high renewable penetration and unique geographical challenges, flexibility is crucial to maintaining grid stability in Australia. In recent years, the concept of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) has emerged as a transformative solution. By integrating numerous Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) into one network, VPPs are changing the way electricity is generated, managed, and utilised says GridBeyond’s report Virtual power plants in Australia – A bright future ahead.

Australia is a leader in renewable energy adoption, with solar and wind constituting a significant share of its energy mix. Renewables are becoming an increasingly critical part of the global energy system, but their intermittent nature means there is a need for a significant increase in flexible resources to manage an increased volatility. In addition, adoption of flexible devices such as heat pumps, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and battery storage is accelerating, while regulators and utilities are looking for solutions to reliability and affordability challenges.

The energy sector is facing major challenges to meet the demands of global warming mitigation and adaptation, which require the decarbonisation of multiple sectors of the economy. VPPS have emerged as a transformative solution offering a flexible and decentralised approach. By integrating numerous Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) into one network, VPPs are changing the way electricity is generated, managed, and utilised and can offer a wide array of benefits across energy system that can be managed by AI-powered technologies supporting businesses in managing their energy consumption and support grid stability.

About GridBeyond

GridBeyond began commercially trading in 2010 and is home to the world’s first hybrid battery and demand network. Now a global player in the energy transition, GridBeyond provides a powerful combination of technological excellence, consultative approach and unrivalled AI expertise that enables its clients to maximize energy services, while supporting the wider electricity grid’s leap to a greener future through renewable generation expansion.

GridBeyond delivers energy services, new revenues, enhanced savings, strengthened operations and sustainability to over 900 I&C customer sites worldwide, including some of the planet’s most recognized brands in just about every commercial sector.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Promoting Pacific languages in New Zealand

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti says the Pacific language week series continues to celebrate our diverse Pacific languages, with exciting updates for 2025 and 2026, including the first-ever addition of Bislama, the national language of Vanuatu.

“Last year, the Pacific language week series saw an incredible response, with thousands of New Zealanders participating in events and activities,” says Dr Reti.

“From cultural performances and storytelling sessions to engaging social media campaigns viewed over 3 million times, the celebrations highlighted the powerful role language plays in connecting and inspiring communities.

“I have heard firsthand how important the language week series is to Pacific communities and how it affirms the relationships we have with Pacific island nations.

“Each community embraces their Pacific language week in unique ways. As they say in Bislama, wan toktok hem i neva enaf – one language is never enough. We’re excited to celebrate Bislama for the first time in 2025, bringing the total number of language weeks to 12 this year.

“I am also pleased to confirm the dates for 2025 and 2026 ahead of time, to reinforce our commitment to preserving these cultural treasures for future generations,” Dr Reti says.

The Ministry for Pacific Peoples invites all New Zealanders to embrace the Pacific language week series. Learning materials, online challenges, and tutorials will be available throughout the year, alongside events fostering cultural connection and understanding.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Feedback sought on naming policy – Porirua City

Source: Porirua City Council

Names are important – they represent who we are as a city, and reflect our cultures, our histories and our connections to the environment around us and to each other.

Porirua City is updating its Naming Policy to replace the Street and Road Naming Policy and Process that was introduced in 2006, and we want to hear what residents think.

The policy will cover how new streets, facilities, parks and reserves in Porirua will be named.

“It’s important that we get feedback from our community on this updated policy and partner with Ngāti Toa to ensure any new streets, parks or Council facilities built in Porirua are named in a way that reflect this city’s diverse cultures, identities and shared history,” says Porirua Mayor Anita Baker.

“The policy isn’t about renaming existing streets or places, it’s setting out themes for new names as the city grows.”

The three suggested naming principles include celebrating names of significance to Porirua’s communities.

Council is also seeking feedback on including historical people or events and noteworthy members of the community to its new policy. These are people or events who might have had an association with a specific part of Porirua or the whole city.

Another suggested principle is the names of significant geographical features, landscapes, and flora and fauna associated with different parts of Porirua.

Some of these principles are included in the existing policy for certain Porirua suburbs.

Council’s partnership with Ngāti Toa means the iwi can suggest and/or endorse names for the city that honour local Māori history and connections to the whenua/land.

The 11-question survey is currently live on Porirua City’s consultation page and will close at 5pm on Tuesday 11 March.

To find out more or have your say, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/consultation .

To view the existing policy, please visit poriruacity.govt.nz/policies .

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: January 2025
Source: Statistics New Zealand

Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – 4 March 2025 – There were 2,203 new homes consented in January 2025, up 11 percent compared with January 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“While January 2025 saw an increase in homes consented compared to January 2024, it still remains below the levels seen in January 2022 and 2023,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

Of the 2,203 new homes consented, there were 1,077 stand-alone houses consented, up 20 percent compared with January 2024, and 1,126 multi-unit homes consented, up 3.1 percent.

Multi-unit homes include townhouses, apartments, retirement village units, and flats.

Files:

Home consents up in the month of January 2025

Building consents issued: January 2025

CSV files for download
MIL OSI –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: China Unicom Launches AI Unites All Plan to Bridge Digital Divide Via Industry Intelligence Supported by Huawei

Source: Huawei

Headline: China Unicom Launches AI Unites All Plan to Bridge Digital Divide Via Industry Intelligence Supported by Huawei

[Barcelona, Spain, March 3, 2025] During MWC 2025 in Barcelona, China Unicom held a development workshop with the theme of 5G-A Empowering, AI Transforming, Digital Living. Jian Qin, General Manager (GM) of China Unicom and Yang Chaobin, Huawei Board Member and CEO of the ICT Business Group attended the press conference and delivered speeches. Several representatives from the industry, including GSMA, shared their ideas. The AI Unites All plan and its surrounding achievements were officially released at the conference, angled heavily on the integration of networks, services, and AI.
Jian Qin delivering a speech

According to Jian Qin in his speech, “China Unicom remains committed to technological innovation as our guiding principle, actively embracing the Al revolution, and contributing ‘Unicom Intelligence’ and ‘Unicom Solutions’ to global smart transformation. With forward-looking planning and sustained investment in Al, we prioritize integrated innovation across five pillars: computing infrastructure, network connectivity, data resources, model development, and application scenarios. Our goal is to lead and drive the convergence of Al technologies and industrial applications.”
Yang Chaobin making a speech

Yang Chaobin mentioned in his speech that Huawei looks forward to working with China Unicom to support their AI Unites All strategy. “We will do this by facilitating a wide range of intelligent user applications with the latest AI technologies. This will allow China Unicom to create new AI service portals with a global impact and make intelligence more inclusive for all,” he said.
As a strategic partner of China Unicom, Huawei and China Unicom maintain close cooperation and work together on converged AI innovation to seize new business opportunities in the AI era. Both parties have built a cloud-based AI service platform for individual and home users, combining cloud, computing, networks, and devices for a unified AI service portal. For example, during the Asian Winter Games, China Unicom launched personalized and cloud-based AI phones with the AI assistant named Tone. The product uses mainstream foundation models and 5G-A networks to provide users with a consistent experience in all scenarios and secure and reliable AI services. Huawei and China Unicom have also been using AI to empower sectors like government, healthcare, and manufacturing, as well as cultural and creative industries, making network experience more secure, reliable, flexible, scalable, efficient, and collaborative. China Unicom has also been actively engaged in advancing synergy between AI and networks. For smart home services, China Unicom has been a leading player in whole-house fiber broadband. The carrier launched the industry’s first HI-CON (Home Intelligent Collaborative Optical Network) communications system that features optical and Wi-Fi collaboration. This system is powered by an intelligent scheduling algorithm that greatly improves overall network experience for home users.
Group photo taken at the AI Unites All launch ceremony

At the conference, China Unicom launched its AI Unites All plan. Under the guidance of its Strategy for Convergence and Innovation, China Unicom will comprehensively advance the synergy of networks and AI to bring intelligent connection to all. It also looks to make AI accessible for use in a much wider range of technologies. By facilitating the integration of services and AI, China Unicom aims to enable various industries to go intelligent and benefit thousands of households.
MWC Barcelona 2025 is held from March 3 to March 6 in Barcelona, Spain. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions at stand 1H50 in Fira Gran Via Hall 1.
In 2025, commercial 5G-Advanced deployment will accelerate, and AI will help carriers reshape business, infrastructure, and O&M. Huawei is actively working with carriers and partners around the world to accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world. For more information, please visit: http://carrier-back.huawei.com/en/events/mwc2025

MIL OSI Economics –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Strengthening Trust and Confidence in New Zealand’s Insurance Industry – RBNZ

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

4 March 2025 – Deputy Governor Christian Hawkesby has reinforced the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s commitment to ensuring a resilient, efficient, innovative and transparent insurance sector, speaking at the Insurance Council of New Zealand’s conference today.

“The insurance industry is not just a key pillar of our financial system; it is fundamental to our society by enabling risk to be spread, transferred and shared. Its success relies on trust and confidence that comes with transparency, ensuring that consumers have the right coverage and that insurers can meet their obligations when needed,” Mr Hawkesby said.

New Zealand’s insurance landscape presents distinct challenges, with its complex composition of participants – retail and wholesale players, foreign parents, global reinsurers, government providers – and New Zealand’s unique risks – seismic activity, volcanic threats, and the increasing impact of climate change.

Meeting these challenges also requires a stable and sound financial system, underpinned by a modern and fit for purpose regulatory regime. The review of the Insurance Prudential Supervision Act (IPSA) is aimed at bringing about this modernisation.

It also requires all participants to take a system view and the necessity for a collaborative approach and leadership from across the industry. The CoFR[1] insurance forum is an opportunity to support this leadership and for regulators to share and collaborate with the industry.

The Reserve Bank remains dedicated to enhancing engagement with the industry, modernising its regulatory framework and approach, and embedding deeper insurance expertise within its leadership.

“We recognise that there is more work to do. However, our commitment to working collaboratively with industry leaders ensures that the insurance sector continues to play a vital role in a productive and sustainable economy,” Mr Hawkesby said.

More information

read the release : https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=f31a61e71d&e=f3c68946f8

________________________________
[1] The Council of Financial Regulators (CoFR), includes the Financial Markets Authority, Treasury, Commerce Commission, and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment,

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investing in natural disaster research partnerships

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government continues to invest in research which will deliver tangible benefits to New Zealanders, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today.

Three New Zealand research teams have been granted funding to partner with Japanese research organisations on projects that aim to make New Zealand more prepared and resilient when natural disasters strike.

“This Government is focused on putting funding where it will make the biggest difference. Natural disasters pose a significant risk in New Zealand – a good reminder of that is the recent elevation of alert levels at Whakaari White Island,” says Dr Reti.

“Collaboration with like-minded nations and sharing research infrastructure enables our researchers to lead and participate in world-class science, innovation and technology that benefits New Zealand.

“Building relationships with international partners is critical to developing a vibrant science and innovation sector, which is a core part of our plan to deliver economic growth.

“New Zealand and Japan share similar risks when it comes to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity. By working together in these projects, we can better understand risks and potential mitigate options for future events.

“Working together with Japan also enables our researchers to access invaluable resources and experience such as their Marine Seismic Vessel Research Vessel Kaimei, proprietary modelling software, and access to structural laboratories. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this research and the benefits it brings.”

The University of Canterbury will work with Tohoku University on a structural retrofitting system to enhance the resilience of buildings in seismic events while reducing the cost of traditional retrofitting with a new modular infill system.

GNS Science will work Japan’s National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience (NIED) on tolerable levels of ashfall following volcanic events.

GNS Science will also work with the Japan Agency for Marine Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) for a seismic study of the Hikurangi subduction zone – New Zealand’s largest threat for tsunamis.

The research teams will each receive $300,000 from the Government’s Catalyst Fund. Japanese research teams will receive equivalent funding from our Japanese partner – the Japan Science and Technology Agency.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Over $200 million boost to South Tassie roads
Source: Minister of Infrastructure

The Albanese Government is building Tasmania’s future, investing nearly $213 million to upgrade critical highways and build active transport routes across the south east of the state.

This includes $204 million to improve the Arthur Highway and widen the Sorell Rivulet Bridge.

The Arthur Highway and Sorell Rivulet Bridge form the main access route between Port Arthur, Sorell and Hobart, providing a critical corridor for residents and tourists between some of the state’s most popular and populous destinations.

This investment will ease congestion for a growing community, as well as benefit agricultural and water supply businesses, tourists and local residents.

Funding will go towards safety upgrades including overtaking lanes, intersection improvements, and road modifications to enhance traffic flow such as shoulder widening and changes to lane configuration. It is expected to also include works to enable active and public transport as well as better signage and tourism pullover areas.

The Brooker Highway will also receive a $4 million investment to enable planning for critical safety and efficiency improvements. This will focus on identifying works that are most needed to improve safety, capacity, and resilience, and support active travel on one of Hobart’s major arterial roads.

An additional $2 million has also been committed to undertake further public transport planning on the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. This is part of the Albanese Government’s now $40.5 million investment in enhancing public transport infrastructure across Hobart.

Along with roads and public transport, the Albanese Government is better connecting communities by delivering walking and cycling paths.

Almost $3 million will be invested under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects across the south east of the state to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths:
- More than $2.2 million for the Tasman Council for a four-kilometre multi-use walking track connecting the towns of Nubeena and White Beach, south-east of Hobart;
- Almost $500,000 for Brighton Council to design and build a new shared path connecting to the existing path along the East Derwent Highway and to the new Bridgewater Bridge. This project also includes an extension of the path along Glenstone Road in Brighton, linking it to the pathway network within the Brighton township.
We have brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.

The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns.

The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else.

More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program.

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

“The Albanese Government is investing in the transport projects that matter most to Tasmanians, upgrading the state’s critical highways including the Bass, Tasman, Arthur, Esk and Brooker Highways.

“We’re making Tasmania’s roads safer, stronger and more efficient which means convenient commutes and faster freight.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell:

“These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania.

“In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

“It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

MIL OSI News –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Over $200 million boost to South Tassie roads
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

The Albanese Government is building Tasmania’s future, investing nearly $213 million to upgrade critical highways and build active transport routes across the south east of the state.

This includes $204 million to improve the Arthur Highway and widen the Sorell Rivulet Bridge.

The Arthur Highway and Sorell Rivulet Bridge form the main access route between Port Arthur, Sorell and Hobart, providing a critical corridor for residents and tourists between some of the state’s most popular and populous destinations.

This investment will ease congestion for a growing community, as well as benefit agricultural and water supply businesses, tourists and local residents.

Funding will go towards safety upgrades including overtaking lanes, intersection improvements, and road modifications to enhance traffic flow such as shoulder widening and changes to lane configuration. It is expected to also include works to enable active and public transport as well as better signage and tourism pullover areas.

The Brooker Highway will also receive a $4 million investment to enable planning for critical safety and efficiency improvements. This will focus on identifying works that are most needed to improve safety, capacity, and resilience, and support active travel on one of Hobart’s major arterial roads.

An additional $2 million has also been committed to undertake further public transport planning on the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. This is part of the Albanese Government’s now $40.5 million investment in enhancing public transport infrastructure across Hobart.

Along with roads and public transport, the Albanese Government is better connecting communities by delivering walking and cycling paths.

Almost $3 million will be invested under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects across the south east of the state to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths:
- More than $2.2 million for the Tasman Council for a four-kilometre multi-use walking track connecting the towns of Nubeena and White Beach, south-east of Hobart;
- Almost $500,000 for Brighton Council to design and build a new shared path connecting to the existing path along the East Derwent Highway and to the new Bridgewater Bridge. This project also includes an extension of the path along Glenstone Road in Brighton, linking it to the pathway network within the Brighton township.
We have brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.

The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns.

The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else.

More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program.

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

“The Albanese Government is investing in the transport projects that matter most to Tasmanians, upgrading the state’s critical highways including the Bass, Tasman, Arthur, Esk and Brooker Highways.

“We’re making Tasmania’s roads safer, stronger and more efficient which means convenient commutes and faster freight.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell:

“These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania.

“In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

“It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

MIL OSI News –
March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on the Today Show with Charles Croucher

Source: Ministers for Social Services

4 March 2025

E&OE TRANSCRIPT

Topics: Laos methanol poisoning investigation; Rugby League in Las Vegas; Academy Awards.

CHARLES CROUCHER, HOST: Welcome back. The parents of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, who died of methanol poisoning in Laos, are urging travellers to boycott the country until it adequately investigates their daughter’s deaths. Joining us to discuss is Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie. Good morning to you both. Amanda, I’m going to start with you. There are concerns that are boycott might discourage authorities there from doing the right thing by these families. How do we approach this?

AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Firstly, I would say the Australian Government continues to stand with Holly and Bianca’s family and continues to of course press the Laos Government to fully and transparently investigate these circumstances. Of course, there are warnings on Smartraveller which is an important government resource to look at the risks. But we as a Government will continue to press for a full investigation because it is really important that any issues that emerge from that are addressed to make sure travellers are safe.

CHARLES CROUCHER: I guess the issue is, is there something more the Government can be doing if the parents are now encouraging travellers to do the lobbying for them?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: We have continued on an ongoing basis to have conversations and to continue to press the Laos Government and we will continue to do that. We’ve been providing consular support to Bianca’s and Holly’s families. We will continue to do everything we can as a Government to push this. But it’s important people are properly informed when they do travel overseas about what the risks are.

CHARLES CROUCHER: Bridget, can we be doing more?

BRIDGET MCKENZIE, NATIONALS SENATOR: Well, I think the Government’s outlined that it’s pursuing every diplomatic measure it can. It’s an absolute tragedy what happened to Holly and Bianca. We don’t want any other young Australians who go overseas for a great holiday to suffer the same fate. So, we need to be pushing for a full investigation so that the issues can be made clear. And you know, we back the Government all the way in their efforts to do that.

CHARLES CROUCHER: And we stay with the parents because it’s such a tough situation they’ve been in, and we’ve been sort of amazed at how brave they’ve been in speaking out as well. Well, we’re going to move on because the NRL’s Vegas gamble well and truly paid off. It reached, we’re told, an audience that was unprecedented and generated more than $100 million. Now the attention turns to the AFL which weather permitting, will kick off on Thursday. Bridget, you’re a Senator from Victoria. It’s the AFL home state. Are they getting beaten when it comes to launching the season by the people from up north.

BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Look, we know that NRL is a spectator sport that had the most successful seat opening since 2010. And I think what really resonated with the US was no helmets, no pads, all action, no timeout. And I mean, when you compare that to the NFL, the US rocked up in droves to actually see the NRL live. Obviously, Charles, I am from Victoria. We’ve got the G and we pack it out week in, week out to watch our great game. So, you know, I think it’s the difference between the two sports. One is, you know, best live and the other is building that, you know, a sustainable funding base going forward. Because we know if the NRL gets 1 per cent of the US market, it’ll be sustaining funding for them going forward, which is also good news in decades to come.

CHARLES CROUCHER: A great TV product, of course, and it’s on Nine as well, which shows. Amanda, Gather Round [AFL] is in South Australia. Never ruined that with an election on the same weekend, obviously. But should the AFL be doing more to make this round the number one?

AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, you know, the Gather Round is an absolutely amazing round, I have to say. It brings a buzz not just to South Australia but to footy fans, to be all in the same place. I think the AFL has been looking at how they engage their audiences and I would say that Gather Round is a great example of that and will continue to do so. But congratulations to the NRL. And hopefully we’ll start seeing people in America wearing those NRL colours. But of course, I would like to see everyone in America wearing some AFL colours as well. And I think we can all work towards that.

CHARLES CROUCHER: All right, finally, from Conan O’Brien’s opening monologue to Anora’s sweeping success, the Oscars delivered a host of memorable moments. We’re sort of short on time, so I might even just go with a hands up approach here. But did anyone tune in and has anyone seen any of the movies that are nominated this year?

BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Too busy fighting Labor.

AMANDA RISHWORTH: I’ve seen Wicked.

BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Charles, I’m halfway through Conclave on a flight.

CHARLES CROUCHER: That’s probably the way you’re going to do it. And Amanda’s seen Wicked. So that’s a good sign of the way things are going for Conclave and Wicked – two brutal fights of political natures. And that shapes well for whatever’s to come in the next couple of weeks. Really lovely speaking to both you this morning.

MIL OSI News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Dangerous nuclear rhetoric and threats’ trigger stark wake-up call: UN chief

Source: United Nations 4

3 March 2025 Peace and Security

Dramatically evolving geopolitical tensions amid “dangerous nuclear rhetoric and threats” are a stark wake-up call for States to take action to support the legally binding atomic weapon ban treaty, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Monday.

“Critical disarmament instruments are being eroded,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, who spoke on behalf of the UN chief at the opening of the third meeting of States parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which takes place at UN Headquarters in New York from 3 to 7 March.

She remained concerned that the current unpredictable situations may exacerbate the public’s fear and would increase belief in the “false narrative” that nuclear weapons are “the ultimate provider of security”.

Cause for hope

However, there are reasons for hope in the face of this challenging outlook, the UN disarmament chief said.

For one, there is growing global recognition of the devastating impact of those weapons, she said, pointing to the landmark Pact of the Future’s focus on a nuclear-weapon-free world and the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Japanese non-governmental organization Nihon Hidankyo, which aims to achieve total elimination.

More hope comes from the nuclear weapon ban treaty’s growing membership, a continuation of broad engagement with civil society and its newly established scientific network whose experts are providing evidence-based information, Ms. Nakamitsu said.

To date, 73 States have ratified or acceded to the treaty and 94 have signed it.

UN Photo/Paulo Filgueiras

Disarmament Week in 2011 honoured testimony and activism of Japanese atomic bomb survivors. (file)

Step towards nuclear-weapon-free world

This week, governments, international organizations and civil society are gathering at the third Meeting of States, with an agenda centred on preparing for the treaty’s first review conference and the next phase of the convention’s existence.

Panel discussions and debates will focus on thematic issues, including risks for humanity of nuclear conflict and its devastating humanitarian consequences, security concerns, victim assistance and environmental remediation.

Delegates are also expected to adopt a political declaration before the meeting concludes on Friday.

UN Photo/Kim Haughton

Signing ceremony for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons at UN Headquarters in New York on 20 September 2017. (file)

What’s in the treaty?

The legally binding Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is the first multilateral nuclear disarmament convention to be negotiated in more than two decades when it was adopted on 7 July 2017 and entered into force on 22 January 2021.

At the time, the UN chief called it “an important step towards the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons and a strong demonstration of support for multilateral approaches to nuclear disarmament”.

The treaty contains a comprehensive set of prohibitions on participating in any nuclear weapon-related activities. This includes undertakings not to develop, test, produce, acquire, possess, stockpile, use or threaten to use nuclear weapons.

It also prohibits the deployment of nuclear weapons on national territory as well as the provision of assistance to any State in the conduct of prohibited activities and requires States parties to assist individuals under their jurisdiction affected by the use or testing of nuclear weapons as well as to take environmental remediation measures in areas under their jurisdiction or control that have been contaminated due to the testing or use of nuclear weapons.

Read the full Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons here.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Calls to ditch NCEA tests expose a deficit in school leadership

Source: ACT Party

Responding to principals calling for an end to new online NCEA tests due to low pass rates, ACT Education spokesperson Laura McClure says:

“We’ve tested literacy and numeracy and discovered big problems. A normal response would be to look at how our schools are equipping kids with these basic skills. Instead, we’ve got principals wanting to hide from reality and ditch the tests that expose the problem.

“What kind of leadership are kids getting when the message from their principals is, ‘this is too hard for you and we need to make the test easier‘?

“As a country we cannot afford to lower expectations and create a workforce defined by mediocrity. We must aim higher and empower every student to reach their potential.

“NCEA exists to offer real knowledge and skills, and set real standards – not to give qualifications to everyone. Testing against real standards makes the system accountable.

“We need to lift our aspirations and ensure school leavers have basic competencies – such as being able to understand the employment contracts they’re signing.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: The greatest threat in the workplace could be sitting next to you

Source: Privacy Commissioner

By Michael Webster, Privacy Commissioner

Originally published on the New Zealand Herald 3 October 2024. One of the greatest risks to privacy in the workplace could be sitting next to you – or it could even be you. Employee browsing or the unauthorised access and misuse of personal information is one of the most common privacy breaches. I also believe its one of the least understood or reported on, as required by the Privacy Act. New Zealand is a small place and theres a good chance a familiar name will crop up in a database or on a file at work and it can prove very tempting to have a look. However, a sneaky peek isnt a harmless case of nosiness; its inappropriate and can be a breach of the principles underpinning the Privacy Act.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 4, 2025

	ALP Electorates	Liberal Electorates	Other Electorates	Total
Low and Mid-Rise	80	69	22	171

Category: Asia Pacific

What are fantasy sports?

The origins of fantasy sports

Fan engagement

Media involvement

Rich pickings

Links to sports betting

What is data literacy?

Passing on the humble pie

Bar charts

Waffle charts

Histograms

Line charts and scatterplots

Keep it simple and avoid ‘chart junk’

How Canada made a difference

Learning from the past

Surviving hostile administrations

UK expands campaign to stop migrant smugglers and their lies

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Updates to this page

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Charities, Dr Andrew Leigh MP

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Source: Office of the Ombudsman

Source: SAFE For Animals

Source: Porirua City Council

Source: Porirua City Council

Cause for hope

Step towards nuclear-weapon-free world

What’s in the treaty?

Read the full Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons here.