NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE – MONTHLY SIREN TEST

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE – MONTHLY SIREN TEST

    Posted on Oct 29, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KAUA

     

    HAWAI‘I EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

    KEʻENA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    MAJOR GENERAL STEPHEN F. LOGAN

    DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    LUNA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

    JAMES DS. BARROS

    ADMINISTRATOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    KAHU HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

     

     

    MONTHLY SIREN AND EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST FOR NOVEMBER 2024

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 2024-078

    OCTOBER 29, 2024

     

    HONOLULU — The monthly test of the all-hazard Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is scheduled for Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:45 a.m. The siren test will be coordinated with a test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System.

     

    During this monthly test, all Statewide Outdoor Warning Sirens will sound a one-minute Attention Alert Signal (steady tone). A test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System is conducted at roughly the same time as the monthly siren sounding, in cooperation with the Hawai‘i broadcast industry. There will be no exercise or drill accompanying the test.

     

    The all-hazard Outdoor Siren Warning System for Public Safety is one part of the Hawai‘i Statewide Alert and Warning System used to notify the public during emergencies. If you hear this siren tone in circumstances other than a test, follow emergency information and instructions provided by official government channels. These may be in the form of a local radio or television station broadcast and/or a cellular Wireless Emergency Alert.

     

    Wireless Emergency Alerts deliver sound-and-text warnings to compatible mobile cellular phones. The Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert notifications are sent via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, the nation’s alert and warning infrastructure, managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

    Emergency management and disaster preparedness information may be found in the front section of telephone directories in most counties as well as online in the “Get Ready” section of ready.hawaii.gov. For the latest information from the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA), or to sign up for county alerts, visit ready.hawaii.gov.

    The public may contact emergency management and county civil defense agencies to report siren operation issues through the following numbers.

    City and County of Honolulu: 808-723-8960
     Maui County: 808-270-7285
     Kauaʻi County: 808-241-1800
     Hawaiʻi County: 808-935-0031

     

     

    # # #

     

    Contact:

    1. Kīelekū Amundson

    Communications Director

    808-733-4300 Ext 522

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News Release – DOH Reopens Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style in Kailua-Kona

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News Release – DOH Reopens Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style in Kailua-Kona

    Posted on Oct 29, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

    KA ʻOIHANA OLAKINO

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIA‘ĀINA

    KENNETH S. FINK, MD, MGA, MPH
    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

    DOH REOPENS KAT’S KAU KAU MOʻOPUNA STYLE IN KAILUA-KONA

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 29, 2024                                                                                                    24-140

    KAILUA-KONA, HAWAIʻI — The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food Safety Branch allowed Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style to reopen, issuing a green “pass” placard during a follow-up inspection on Oct. 25, 2024.

    The food establishment, located at Mile Marker 106, Māmalahoa Hwy. in Kailua-Kona is operated by Makaio Holdings LLC.

    DOH required the food establishment to take the following corrective actions:

    Repair the facility’s handwashing sink.

    During the follow-up inspection, DOH determined that the violation had been resolved and the handwashing sink is operational. Dedicated handwashing sinks are critical for food safety in commercial kitchens. Employees are now able to clean and sanitize their hands to prevent contamination and the potential spread of foodborne diseases.

    The DOH Food Safety Branch protects and promotes the health of Hawai‘i residents and visitors through education of food industry workers and regulation of food establishments statewide. The branch conducts routine health inspections of food establishments where food products are prepared, manufactured, distributed or sold.

    The branch also investigates the sources of foodborne illnesses and potential adulteration; and is charged with mitigating the effects of these incidents to prevent any future occurrences. The DOH food safety specialists strive to work with business owners, food service workers and the food industry to ensure safe food preparation practices and sanitary conditions.

    For more information on the department’s placarding program go to http://health.hawaii.gov/san/.

    #  # #

    Media Contact:

    Kristen Wong

    Information Specialist

    Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

    808-586-4407

    [email protected]

                   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Court Permanently Shuts Down Indiana Tax Preparer and Company

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana permanently enjoined an Indianapolis-area tax return preparer and his company yesterday from preparing federal tax returns for others and from owning or operating any tax return preparation businesses in the future.

    According to the civil complaint filed in the case, Juan Santiago resides in Lakeland, Florida, but travels to Indianapolis for tax preparation season to operate his tax preparation business, Madison Solutions LLC. Santiago failed to respond to the civil complaint filed against him, so the court entered the permanent injunction against him by default.

    The civil complaint alleges that Santiago and Madison Solutions used a variety of schemes to improperly reduce their customers’ tax liabilities or to obtain tax refunds to which the customers were not entitled. The complaint alleges that Santiago repeatedly placed false or incorrect items, deductions, exemptions or statuses on customers’ tax returns without their knowledge. For example, the complaint alleges that Santiago routinely elected head of household filing status and child tax credits for customers when they were otherwise not qualified for such status or credits. The complaint also alleges that Santiago reported fictitious businesses on customers’ returns and fabricated business expenses and income to fraudulently reduce taxable income.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers 10 tips to avoid tax season fraud and ways to safeguard their personal information.

    In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Over Three Years for Involuntary Manslaughter

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter.

    Devin White Calf, age 23, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    White Calf was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in December of 2023. He pleaded guilty on April 5, 2024.

    In September of 2023, White Calf consumed alcohol with a group of friends and relatives. At some point, White Calf drove his group to a place called “Top of the World.” This location is just west of Pine Ridge. At this location, the group continued to drink alcohol. While leaving “Top of the World,” White Calf lost control of the vehicle. One of the passengers, a 16-year-old female, was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. Multiple other passengers were also ejected from the car and sustained bodily injuries. Law enforcement was dispatched to the scene because individuals nearby could hear screaming and crying. When law enforcement arrived on scene, White Calf told them that he was not driving and that someone with the last name “Titus” was driving. Several months later, White Calf eventually admitted to law enforcement that he was the driver.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe – Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

    White Calf was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Middle East: UN official urges end to military activities to prevent an all-out regional war

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Khaled Mohamed Khiari of Tunisia, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, urges an end to military activities in the Middle East to avert an all-out regional war. He also decries the unbearable conditions facing Palestinians in Gaza, where levels of death and destruction are harrowing. And he warned that thousands of children are at risk of polio because the vaccination campaign has been suspended.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBHZjlypLm8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: All Tasmanian public schools to be fully funded by the beginning of 2026

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    All Tasmanian public schools will be fully and fairly funded in 2026 following a historic bilateral agreement signed today by the Albanese and Rockliff Governments.

    The bilateral agreement formalises the Statement of Intent signed by both Governments in September and confirms all Tasmanian public schools will get to 100 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) from January 2026.

    Tasmania becomes the third state or territory to sign on to the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, delivering record funding to its schools and introducing targeted reforms which will help Tasmanian students to catch up, keep up and finish school. 

    Under the agreement, the Albanese Government will invest an estimated additional $153.5 million from 2025 to 2029 in Tasmanian public schools.

    The Rockliff Government will increase its investment in schools by $195.9 million over the same period. Extra funding will be tied to literacy and numeracy, student wellbeing and workforce initiatives. 

    To meet this commitment additional new funding will be provided by the Tasmanian Government on top of commitments already announced in this year’s budget and the recent teachers wage agreement.

    This means the Commonwealth will increase its share of funding from 20 per cent to 21.25 per cent in January next year and to 22.5 per cent of the SRS from January 2026, and the Tasmanian Government will increase its funding share to at least 77.5 per cent of the SRS from 2026.

    Funding will be tied to reforms in the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, including: 

    • Year 1 phonics and early years numeracy checks to identify students in the early years of school who need additional help.
    • Evidence-based teaching and targeted and intensive supports such as small-group or catch-up tutoring to help students who fall behind.
    • Accelerating the implementation of the school-based recommendations of Tasmania’s Lifting Literacy implementation plan, including a minimum schooling guarantee for reading across all schools in Tasmania.
    • Support for students to come to school ready to learn, including greater access to mental health supports.
    • Reducing absence at school by prioritising evidence-based approaches to improving attendance and strengthening re-engagement support programs.
    • Establishing and strengthening relationships and collaboration with Tasmanian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and First Nations peoples and communities within Tasmania to support increased cultural safety and responsiveness in the Tasmanian education system.
    • Support for VET specialist teachers and piloting incentive packages for attracting staff into remote and regional areas.

    The Tasmanian bilateral agreement can be accessed here. The BFSA Heads of Agreement can be accessed here. 

    This Agreement is reliant on the Better and Fairer Schools (Funding and Reform) Bill 2024 being passed by the Parliament.

    The Albanese Government has put a record $16 billion of additional investment for public schools on the table which, if accepted by all jurisdictions, would represent the biggest extra investment in public education by any Commonwealth government. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “Five weeks ago, we signed a Statement of Intent to fully fund Tassie public schools no later than 2029.

    “Today’s agreement confirms that all Tassie public schools will start to receive full funding in just over 12 months – in January 2026. 

    “This is fantastic news for Tassie students and for public education it shows what can be done when governments work together. 

    “It shows that we can fully fund public schools and invest in the reforms that will make a real difference to the students who really need it.

    “This agreement means that all schools in Tasmania will be fully funded and that funding will be invested in reforms to help students catch up, keep up and finish school.

    “The agreements we have struck with Tasmania, WA and the Northern Territory are not blank cheques. Funding will be tied to real and practical reforms to deliver a better and fairer education system, which is what the signing of today’s Bilateral Agreement is all about.”

    Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Education Jo Palmer:

    “This is an historic milestone for Tasmanian Government schools, and we are really excited about what it means for our students and workforce. 

    “All Tasmanian schools will be fully funded from January 2026, which is nine years earlier than was initially proposed by the Federal Government. 

    “This will support our students to achieve the educational outcomes they need and deserve so they can lead their best lives.

    “We are committed to maximising the new investment delivered through this agreement and making sure it flows to our students and our schools and is used to lift educational outcomes.  

    “Our Government is already rolling out significant educational reform, for example through our Lifting Literacy initiative.

    “We are committed to further improving our education system and look forward to receiving the report of the Independent Review into Education in Tasmania, which is currently underway.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Think of others and use fireworks safely this Guy Fawkes season

    Source: Auckland Council

    Guy Fawkes is just around the corner and with fireworks going on sale in Tamāki Makaurau, here’s a reminder on the rules and tips, so you, your friends and whānau can enjoy fireworks safely.  

    Aotearoa New Zealand has strict rules around the purchase and sale of fireworks. They’re sold for four days leading up to and including Guy Fawkes (2 to 5 November 2024). Not just anyone can buy fireworks – you must be 18 years old and have a valid ID.

    Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of Auckland Council’s Regulatory and Community Safety Committee urges people letting off fireworks to be mindful of others.

    “Some Aucklanders enjoy the Guy Fawkes season, but for others it can be an unsettling and worrying time.

    “Fireworks can be enjoyed on private property in Tamāki Makaurau, but please be aware that others, including your neighbours may not enjoy the sound and sight of them and pets can also be distressed by them.”

    “By all means enjoy fireworks in a safe and responsible manner, but please be respectful to others who may not share your enthusiasm for fireworks.”

    “Auckland Council has long held the view that central Government should ban the private sale of fireworks, and has taken

    opportunities in the past to present this view.”

    Taryn Crewe, Auckland Council’s General Manager Parks and Community Facilities says Aucklanders should give some thought to where they let off fireworks.

    “I hope people have a safe and enjoyable time letting off fireworks on their own property.”

    “Please be aware that using fireworks in parks and on beaches across Auckland is not allowed.”

    Muriwai beach access

    Te Oneone Rangatira / Muriwai Beach will be closed to vehicles during the Guy Fawkes period this year, from 2 to 11 November, to mitigate fire risk in the area.

    Enjoying fireworks safely and responsibly

    • Fireworks can only be let off on private property. 

    • It is not legal to light fireworks on council-controlled land, such as parks and beaches, across the whole of Tāmaki Makaurau.

    • Lighting fireworks is also prohibited in forests, conservation areas and on road surfaces, berms or footpaths on your street.

    • The Tūpuna Maunga Authority will close public access to 14 maunga across Tāmaki Makaurau from Saturday 2 November 2024 to Tuesday 5 November 2024 to protect them from fires. This is the sixth year in a row the Authority has closed our maunga.

    • Make sure yourself and others stand well back from fireworks once they are lit.

    • Inform your neighbours if possible and avoid using fireworks after 10pm.

    • Have water or a fire extinguisher handy.

    • Read and follow fireworks handling instructions carefully.

    • Do not light fireworks in windy or dry conditions.

    • Do not point fireworks at any person, animal, property or vegetation.

    • Always have a responsible adult present.

    • Keep pets inside or move animals to avoid stress.

    • On rural private land during Guy Fawkes (2-5 November) bonfires are allowed but must be lit during daylight hours and extinguished before nightfall. During a Restricted Fire Season a permit is need from Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

    • Sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, are a fire risk when left to fly away. They must be secured.

    • Don’t store fireworks after Guy Fawkes as it’s hard to know if they’ll be safe to use at a later date.

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand advises visiting its website for restrictions and fire safety advice. 

    Looking out for pets during Guy Fawkes

    Elly Waitoa, Auckland Council Animal Management Manager says people should be extra mindful of their pets during the days leading up to Guy Fawkes and the day itself.

    “Pets can be extremely sensitive to the sounds and light produced by fireworks. They can react negatively and become distressed.”

    “Organise a safe place inside for your pets and pay extra care to them during this time.

    “Please ensure your pets are safe and well confined if you aren’t at home with them during the Guy Fawkes period.”

    Ms Waitoa also says the time around Guy Fawkes usually sees an increase in the number of dogs entering council animal shelters.

    “Make sure your dog is registered and microchipped. This will make it easier for you to be reunited with your dog if it gets lost.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – The latest update on the HMNZS Manawanui response

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force
    The latest update on the HMNZS Manawanui response:
    • The New Zealand Defence Force’s Senior National Representative in Samoa, Commodore Andrew Brown went on-board HMNZS Canterbury to thank our people for their involvement in supporting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and Operation Resolution. 
    • The Canterbury has been in Samoa assisting New Zealand to support CHOGM and has been reloading Hato Hone St John Ambulances, three Royal New Zealand Air Force NH-90 helicopters and other equipment. 
    • The NZDF-led response team, working closely with the Government of Samoa, continues to monitor the coastal areas near the wreck of the Manawanui. To date, assessment teams have not found any oil or affected wildlife on the shoreline.
    • The HMNZS Matataua Dive team continues underwater surveillance of the ship along with other tasks including evidence gathering for the Royal New Zealand Navy Court of Inquiry. 
    • The Court of Inquiry continues their work gathering evidence to establish the facts on the grounding and subsequent sinking of HMNZS Manawanui. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: LEBANON: At least 2 children killed every day in five weeks of war

    Source: Save the Children

    Over 100 children have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in five weeks of war – an average of two children a day – said Save the Children. In the latest violence, at least 60 people, including two children, were killed overnight on Monday in Israeli strikes on Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley, one of the deadliest incidents in the Bekaa since conflict escalated on 23 September.
    More than one million people – about one fifth of the population – have been forcibly displaced from their homes and about 2,700 people, including over 150 children, killed and more than 12,500 injured since October last year according to the Ministry of Public Health.
    Jennifer Moorehead, Save the Children’s Country Director in Lebanon said:
    “We’re plunging into a humanitarian crisis that is first and foremost a children’s crisis. We’re starting to see the same pattern we’ve witnessed in over a year of war in Gaza: mass casualty events with civilians, including children; health workers killed while on duty; more than 50 attacks on healthcare facilities; UN installations attacked, and journalists targeted.
    “Israeli airstrikes have expanded into densely populated areas, severely damaging critical infrastructure and creating mass displacement. The conflict has left over 25% of Lebanon under Israeli military displacement orders. On a daily basis, evacuation warnings are issued, many with little notice, giving families little time to escape before bombardments begin. In Beirut, we’re still seeing thousands of displaced children and families sleeping in the open air with their belongings piled around them, unable to find shelter or a safe place to go.
    “The longer the conflict lasts, the more challenging it will be for children to regain a sense of normalcy. Six out of 10 public schools have been repurposed as shelters for the displaced, with the beginning of the school year now postponed to November 4, and possibly longer. Every day away from the classroom, is a growing threat to children’s long-term physical and mental wellbeing. By law, children must be off-limits in war and must be protected. There is no time to waste, we urgently need a ceasefire now.” 
    Save the Children has been working in Lebanon since 1953. Since October 2023, we’ve been scaling up our response in Lebanon, supporting displaced Lebanese, Syrian and Palestinian children and families, and now have escalated an emergency response throughout the country in 194 collective shelters. Since October 2023, we’ve supported more than 110,000 people, including 47,000 children, with cash, blankets, mattresses and pillows, food parcels, water bottles and kits containing essential hygiene items. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Chronic absence in schools doubled in last decade, current model not working

    Source: Education Review Office

    New research from the Education Review Office (ERO) has found that chronic absence in students has doubled in the last decade, and that the system for addressing this is ineffective and failing.
    In Term 2 this year, one in 10 students were chronically absent, with over 80,000 students missing more than three weeks of school during the term. Since 2015 chronic absence has doubled in secondary schools and nearly tripled in primary schools.
    “The number of students who are chronically absent from school is at crisis point and is damaging students’ futures,” says Ruth Shinoda, Head of ERO’s Education Evaluation Centre.
    “Over half of students who are chronically absent from school do not go on to achieve NCEA Level 2. They have higher rates of offending, are more likely to be victims of crime, and are more likely to live in social and emergency housing as adults. By age of 20, they cost the Government three times as much as students who go to school.”
    ERO found that despite the dedication of schools and Attendance Services, the current system to get these students back to school is not effective and needs substantial reform.
    “Action is too slow, and students fall through the gaps,” says Shinoda.
    “Half of schools do not refer students to Attendance Services and too often intervention is too late. Over half of school leaders and Attendance Service staff report there aren’t good options to enforce good attendance”.
    Attendance Services are passionate about helping students get back to school, but they are not set up to succeed. At services ERO visited, caseloads for Attendance Services varied from 30 to more than 500 cases, and funding has not increased to match the increased levels of chronic absence.
    “There is a lack of information sharing, which can make it very challenging and time consuming for Attendance Services to find absent students. Half of Attendance Services report information isn’t shared often across agencies, schools, and Attendance Services.”
    Schools play a critical role and need to be supported to do more to prevent students becoming absent and to help students when they get back to school.
    “We found that some schools are successful in reducing chronic absence even when faced with challenges,” says Shinoda.
    To reverse the trend of increasing chronic absence, ERO is recommending substantial reform that increases the focus on preventing students from becoming chronically absent, puts in place timely and effective targeted support, and does more to ensure students stay in school once they return. It will require additional funding that matches the level of need.
    “We must do more to prevent students missing out on their education. It will take parents and whānau, schools, and Government agencies all working together to fix it and get chronically absent students back to school and thriving,” says Shinoda. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Climate Science – Forecasting floods in a fraction of the time with AI – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    NIWA is using machine learning to forecast flood inundation in a fraction of the time required to run physical models.
    NIWA Climate, Atmosphere & Hazards platform manager Nava Fedaeff leads the project – she says effective flood preparation and response requires detail beyond river flows.
    “What people really want to know is not just whether the river is running high, but what areas will be flooded, and what’s at risk from that potential flooding. We’re exploring how AI will help us to move from weather forecasts to inundation forecasts quickly enough so that useful information gets to those who need it,” said Fedaeff.
    Predicting flood maps with physical models can take 24 hours but with machine learning it takes only 1-2 minutes.
    Five days ahead of an event, scientists combine several elements such as weather forecasting, river flow predictions, inundation mapping and exposure assessments. This enables them to produce models that detail – down to street level – people, property or infrastructure at risk when storms strike.
    NIWA data scientist Dr Deidre Cleland used Westport as a case study in the project.
    She has produced a StoryMap detailing how the system works – with maps, animations and graphics – outlining how her team validated the AI flood model against the real-life 2021 Westport flooding.
    “Our next step is operationalising this machine learning capability so that rapid flood map forecasting is available for a real incoming flood event in Westport. We are also working on extending the machine learning approach to other locations around New Zealand, starting with those at highest risk of flooding,” said Dr Cleland.
    Floods are New Zealand’s most frequent and costly natural disaster, meaning that fast and accurate forecasting of flood impacts is crucial for reducing the risk to life, property and infrastructure.
    This project is part of a $5 million per year package by NIWA to tackle some of New Zealand’s most pressing challenges.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pacific Trade Invest – Investment Webinar: EXPANDING the HORIZON for Women in Technology

    Source: Pacific Trade Invest NZ

    Pacific Trade Invest NZ is delighted to invite you to our upcoming hour-long webinar, Expanding the Horizon for Women in Technology.

    Join us on Thursday 7 November 2024 at 2:00 PM New Zealand time as industry experts and thought leaders discuss their involvement in the technology sector; what’s on the horizon and the investment possibilities the sector presents for investors.  

     

    Register here    https://shorturl.at/C34uL

     

    A great line-up of speakers is confirmed:
     
    Julia Arnott-Nene and Eteroa Lafaele, Co-Founders and Directors Fibre Fale
    Julia and Eteroa are an award-winning changemaker team in tech, on a mission for Digital Equity and increased representation of Pacific people in technology. Fibre Fale is an innovative Aotearoa collective creating pathways into technology for Pacific people. Fibre Fale builds future tech leaders and prepares the future of the technology industry in the Blue Pacific.

    Priyanka Brahmbhatt, Executive Director, Bankai Group and CEO Bankai Technology
    Global leader in technology and investments; a member of the Forbes Council. As a UN Youth Delegate she’s advocated for climate action, women in tech, mental health awareness, and socio-economic empowerment of marginalized communities.

    Tenanoia Simona, CEO Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation
    An innovator and leader in implementing effective technology in the Blue Pacific. Simona has spearheaded initiatives from satellites, xGPON fibre network roll-out, and 4G LTE deployment in remote islands. She firmly believes that diversity and inclusion are vital for driving innovation and achieving meaningful progress in small island nations.

     

    The speakers will discuss topics such as: 

      • Technology as a rewarding career path for women
      • The positive role of government and educational institutions, in contributing to this transformation
      • The Fibre Fale model 
      • How technology has evolved over time.
      • Investing in women in technology

    Register here    https://shorturl.at/C34uL

     

    ABOUT PACIFIC TRADE INVEST NZ

    • Is part of the Pacific Trade Invest Global Network of offices operating in Sydney, Australia; Beijing, People’s Republic of China; Geneva, Switzerland and Auckland, New Zealand.
    • An agency of Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and is funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
    • Supports the 16 Forum Island countries and Territories: Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Enovix Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (“Enovix”) (Nasdaq: ENVX), a global high-performance battery company, announced today financial results for third quarter 2024, which included the summary below from its President and CEO, Dr. Raj Talluri.

    Fellow Shareholders,

    In the third quarter of 2024, we made significant progress on our journey to scale. The unveiling of Fab2 was a major boost in confidence with multiple customers now indicating a desire to launch products with us starting from late 2025.

    Other recent highlights include:

    • Revenue growth: Revenues were $4.3 million in the third quarter, above our guidance midpoint and up from $3.8 million in the second quarter.
    • Manufacturing: The Company formally opened Fab2 in Malaysia and within weeks commenced shipping battery cells to customers.
    • Commercialization: A leading smartphone OEM signed a development agreement for qualification of our battery product and mass production launch in late 2025.
    • Cost reduction: We are on track to further reduce cash consumption by leveraging our new Malaysia operations which will provide runway into 2026.

    We are laser-focused on execution as we see increasing demand across our target markets. The strategy we established early last year prioritized large, high-value segments, such as smartphones and AR/VR headsets, where the need for higher energy density commands a premium. This approach has proven to be visionary, with the recent surge in AI-enabled smartphones further validating our strategy and driving significant pull for our products. We are confident that our go-to-market strategy positions Enovix on an expedient path to profitability while maintaining a competitive edge in innovation.

    Our analysis of recent smartphone launches highlights a critical shortfall in conventional batteries. Energy density improvements in flagship devices released in 2024 have stagnated, with a mere 1% year-over-year increase. We believe this trajectory is insufficient to meet escalating demands of modern devices, especially those powered by AI.

    In contrast, our battery technology roadmap offers a generational leap in energy density. With our Malaysia Fab now gearing up for production, we are in a full sprint to commercialize this transformative technology and meet the pressing needs of the industry. Our focus on rapid execution will enable us to offer substantial benefits to our customers and consumers alike, positioning us as a leader in next-generation battery solutions.

    Business Update

    Manufacturing. We formally opened Fab2 in Malaysia with various stakeholders including several leading smartphone OEMs that provided decidedly positive feedback on ramp quality and speed, as well as the level of automation. A total of 11 customers have now inspected our new facility. The Agility Line is fully operational with initial yields comparable to final levels we achieved with our first manufacturing line in California, with expected improvements on the horizon. Consistent with our plans, we commenced shipping EX-1M cells to customers in the third quarter, supporting their qualification and mass production timelines. We are on track to complete Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) of the High-Volume Line in Q4 2024.

    Commercialization. Our business team has made significant progress toward profitability by securing demand across multiple high-growth markets. We are excited to announce that we have formalized a strategic partnership with a second leading smartphone OEM. This agreement outlines key milestones, and upon meeting them, we are poised to enter the smartphone market in late 2025 with high-volume production from our Fab2 facility. This marks a major step forward in our journey to scale.

    In parallel, we have aligned on a production schedule with a leading IoT customer, which includes a mass production purchase order also slated for 2025. This partnership underscores our ability to diversify into high-value sectors beyond smartphones. Further, we are aggressively expanding our pipeline by engaging with strategic IoT customers to unlock high-growth opportunities and accelerate top-of-the-funnel momentum.

    In the EV space, we are advancing our targeted strategy of developing customized products with two of the world’s largest automotive OEMs. In Q4, we expect to complete our first milestone pursuant to the agreement with one of the major automakers in the EV market, which is a major milestone in our efforts to enter and grow within the EV market. Looking ahead, we are focused on expanding these relationships in 2025, leveraging a capital-efficient, licensing-based business model in the EV space that aligns with the long-term scalability of our technology.

    Products: Our product development team is advancing toward the 2025 mass production of EX-1M, which will highlight the capabilities of our breakthrough active silicon technology. In Q3, we successfully achieved UN38.3 certification, marking a critical milestone for market entry and a strong validation of our products’ safety.

    In addition, we are on track to sample EX-2M to select customers in Q4. We’re now making samples and have identified the product’s advanced electrochemistry. These early samples will be instrumental in accelerating the timeline to full-scale production. Finally, we have made progress on the comprehensive product definition of EX-3M, reaffirming our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering industry-leading solutions to customers across a range of industries.

    Financials: Revenue was $4.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, near the high end of our guidance range and up from $3.8 million in the second quarter of 2024.

    Our GAAP cost of revenue was $5.0 million in the third quarter of 2024 representing a slight reduction sequentially as a percentage of sales and leading to a similar gross income level.

    Our GAAP operating expenses of $48.6 million in the third quarter of 2024 were down from $88.1 million in the second quarter, due largely to lower restructuring costs which were concentrated in the previous quarter as the Company shifted our manufacturing operations from the U.S. to Malaysia. Our non-GAAP operating expenses were $27.2 million in the third quarter of 2024, down 12% from $30.9 million in the second quarter of 2024.

    Our GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix of $22.5 million in the third quarter of 2024 was down from $115.9 million in the second quarter of 2024 due to lower restructuring costs. Our GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix for the third quarter of 2024 also included $29.9 million of income due to a decrease in the fair value of our common stock warrants during the quarter.

    Adjusted EBITDA in the third quarter of 2024 was a loss of $21.6 million compared to an adjusted EBITDA loss of $23.1 million in the second quarter of 2024.

    Earnings per share loss in the third quarter of 2024 was $0.30 on a GAAP basis and $0.17 on a non-GAAP basis compared to second quarter earnings per share loss of $0.67 on a GAAP basis and $0.14 on a non-GAAP basis.

    We exited the third quarter of 2024 with $200.9 million of cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments due to cash used in operating activities of $30.7 million and capital expenditures of $19.5 million during the quarter.

    A full reconciliation of our GAAP to non-GAAP results is available later in this report.

    Outlook

    For the fourth quarter of 2024, we expect revenue between $8.0 million and $10.0 million, a GAAP EPS loss of $0.23 to $0.29, an adjusted EBITDA loss of $19.0 million to $25.0 million, and a non-GAAP EPS loss of $0.15 to $0.21.

    Summary

    We are very pleased with our accomplishments in the third quarter. Fab2 is now operational and shipping samples to customers. We secured a 2025 launch commitment from a major smartphone OEM. And we made progress on our product roadmap for EX-2M and beyond. For the remaining months of 2024, the key objectives are completing SAT for the High-Volume Line and shipping EX-2M samples.

    Conference Call Information

    Enovix will hold a video conference call at 2:00 PM PT / 5:00 PM ET today, October 29, 2024, to discuss the company’s business updates and financial results. To join the call, participants must use the following link to register: https://enovix-q3-2024.open-exchange.net/registration. This link will also be available via the Investor Relations section of the Enovix’s website at https://ir.enovix.com. An archived version of the call will be available on the Enovix website for one year at https://ir.enovix.com.

    About Enovix

    Enovix is on a mission to deliver high-performance batteries that unlock the full potential of technology products. Everything from IoT, mobile, and computing devices, to the vehicle you drive, needs a better battery. Enovix partners with OEMs worldwide to usher in a new era of user experiences. Our innovative, materials-agnostic approach to building a higher performing battery without compromising safety keeps us flexible and on the cutting-edge of battery technology innovation.

    Enovix is headquartered in Silicon Valley with facilities in India, Korea and Malaysia. For more information visit www.enovix.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and other non-GAAP measures are intended as supplemental financial measures of our performance that provide an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results, trends, and in comparing our financial measures with those of comparable companies.

    However, you should be aware that other companies may calculate similar non-GAAP measures differently. Non-GAAP financial measures have limitations, including that they exclude certain expenses that are required under GAAP, which adjustments reflect the exercise of judgment by management. Reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure can be found in the tables at the end of this shareholder letter.

    While Enovix provides fourth quarter 2024 guidance for adjusted EBITDA loss and non-GAAP EPS loss, we are unable to provide without unreasonable effort a GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation of these projected non-GAAP measures. Such qualitative reconciliation to the corresponding GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort because of the inherent difficulty in accurately forecasting the occurrence and financial impact of the various adjustments that have not yet occurred, are out of our control, or cannot be reasonably predicted, including but not limited to warrant liabilities and stock-based compensation. For the same reasons, we are unable to assess the probable significance of the unavailable information, which could have a material impact on our future GAAP financial results.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This letter to shareholders contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance and can be identified by words such as anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, might, plan, possible, potential, predict, project, should, would and similar expressions that convey uncertainty about future events or outcomes. Forward-looking statements in this letter to shareholders include, without limitation, our expectations regarding, and our ability to respond to, market and customer demand; our expectations regarding the level of customers’ interest in our batteries, the demand for more energy dense batteries and the suitability of our products to address this demand, and the impact of artificial intelligence (“AI”) features on the foregoing; our financial and business performance; projected improvements in our manufacturing and commercialization and R&D activities at Fab2, including the ability of the sales team to support the path to profitability by attracting demand across high-growth markets ; our achievement of the milestones under our strategic partnership with a second leading smartphone OEM and our ability to enter into the smartphone market in 2025 with high-volume production from our Fab2 facility; our expectations regarding EX-1M production and mass production purchase order with a leading IoT customer in 2025, completion of site acceptance testing for our High-Volume Line, and the shipment of EX-2M samples in Q4; our ability to meet goals for yield and throughput; our expectations regarding Fab2 in and its capacity to support multiple customer qualifications; the anticipated contributions of our R&D teams to support product innovation; our revenue funnel; our efforts in the portable electronics and EV markets, including the IoT, smartphone and virtual reality categories; our ability to meet milestones and deliver on our objectives and expectations, including achieving certain safety certifications for our products and our ability sample batteries from our Agility Line to customers; the implementation and expected success of our business model and growth strategy, including our focus on the addressable market categories in which we believe an improved battery drives a high value to the product and premium pricing for our solutions; our ability to manage our expenses and realize our annual cost savings goals; our ability to manage and achieve the benefits of our restructuring efforts; and forecasts of our financial and performance metrics.

    Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, our ability to improve energy density among our products, establish sufficient manufacturing operations and optimize manufacturing processes to meet demand, source materials and establish supply relationships, and secure adequate funds to execute on our operational and strategic goals; the safety hazards associated with our batteries and the manufacturing process; a concentration of customers in the military market; certain unfavorable terms in our commercial agreements that may limit our ability to market our products; market acceptance of our products; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards; the impact of technological development and competition; and global economic conditions, including inflationary and supply chain pressures, and political, social, and economic instability, including as a result of armed conflict, war or threat of war, or trade and other international disputes that could disrupt supply or delivery of, or demand for, our products.

    For additional information on these risks and uncertainties and other potential factors that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted, please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of our annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other documents that we have filed, or will file, with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements in this letter to shareholders speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    For media and investor inquiries, please contact:

    Enovix Corporation
    Robert Lahey
    Email: ir@enovix.com

    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited)
    (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)
     
      September 29,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
    Assets      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 200,912     $ 233,121  
    Short-term investments   —       73,694  
    Accounts receivable, net   1,911       909  
    Notes receivable, net   —       1,514  
    Inventory   9,564       8,737  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   11,598       5,202  
    Total current assets   223,985       323,177  
    Property and equipment, net   157,680       166,471  
    Customer relationship intangibles and other intangibles, net   37,583       42,168  
    Operating lease, right-of-use assets   13,810       15,290  
    Goodwill   12,217       12,098  
    Other assets, non-current   2,746       5,100  
    Total assets $ 448,021     $ 564,304  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 15,046     $ 21,251  
    Accrued expenses   13,855       13,976  
    Accrued compensation   8,038       10,731  
    Short-term debt   11,555       5,917  
    Deferred revenue   6,206       6,708  
    Other liabilities   4,760       2,435  
    Total current liabilities   59,460       61,018  
    Long-term debt, net   168,744       169,099  
    Warrant liability   23,265       42,900  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   14,346       15,594  
    Deferred revenue, non-current   3,774       3,774  
    Deferred tax liability   8,178       10,803  
    Other liabilities, non-current   12       13  
    Total liabilities   277,779       303,201  
    Commitments and Contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity:      
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; authorized shares of 1,000,000,000; issued and outstanding shares of $177,591,877 and $167,392,315 as of September 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively   18       17  
    Additional paid-in-capital   951,237       857,037  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (42 )     (62 )
    Accumulated deficit   (783,621 )     (598,845 )
    Total Enovix’s stockholders’ equity   167,592       258,147  
    Non-controlling interest   2,650       2,956  
    Total equity   170,242       261,103  
    Total liabilities and equity $ 448,021     $ 564,304  
     
    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Unaudited)
    (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)
     
      Quarters Ended   Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
      September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023    		   September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023
    Revenue $ 4,317     $ 200     $ 13,357     $ 263  
    Cost of revenue   4,959       16,809       16,454       43,292  
    Gross margin   (642 )     (16,609 )     (3,097 )     (43,029 )
    Operating expenses:              
    Research and development   24,220       13,508       102,073       53,810  
    Selling, general and administrative   20,744       17,245       61,176       61,207  
    Impairment of equipment   —       —       —       4,411  
    Restructuring cost   3,661       3,021       41,807       3,021  
    Total operating expenses   48,625       33,774       205,056       122,449  
    Loss from operations   (49,267 )     (50,383 )     (208,153 )     (165,478 )
    Other income (expense):              
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants   29,899       31,320       17,359       4,140  
    Interest income   2,859       4,326       9,745       9,942  
    Interest expense   (1,718 )     (1,557 )     (5,068 )     (2,827 )
    Other income (loss), net   (2,217 )     109       (1,509 )     129  
    Total other income, net   28,823       34,198       20,527       11,384  
    Loss before income tax benefit   (20,444 )     (16,185 )     (187,626 )     (154,094 )
    Income tax expense (benefit)   2,194       —       (2,544 )     —  
    Net loss   (22,638 )     (16,185 )     (185,082 )     (154,094 )
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests   (102 )     —       (306 )     —  
    Net loss attributable to Enovix $ (22,536 )   $ (16,185 )   $ (184,776 )   $ (154,094 )
                   
    Net loss per share attributable to Enovix shareholders, basic $ (0.13 )   $ (0.10 )   $ (1.07 )   $ (0.98 )
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic   176,680,578       159,829,716       172,393,869       157,559,138  
    Net loss per share attributable to Enovix shareholders, diluted $ (0.30 )   $ (0.29 )   $ (1.07 )   $ (1.00 )
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted   176,872,382       161,371,417       172,393,869       158,260,393  
                                   
    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
    (In Thousands)
     
      Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
      September 29, 2024   October 1, 2023
    Cash flows used in operating activities:      
    Net loss $ (185,082 )   $ (154,094 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities      
    Depreciation, accretion and amortization   37,417       10,000  
    Stock-based compensation   48,630       57,832  
    Changes in fair value of common stock warrants   (17,359 )     (4,140 )
    Impairment and loss on disposals of long-lived assets   38,249       4,411  
    Others   174       —  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    Accounts and notes receivables   494       169  
    Inventory   (827 )     418  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   (3,913 )     546  
    Accounts payable   (10,018 )     4,338  
    Accrued expenses and compensation   3,175       3,113  
    Deferred revenue   (502 )     —  
    Deferred tax liability   (3,303 )     —  
    Other liabilities   190       (1 )
    Net cash used in operating activities   (92,675 )     (77,408 )
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Purchase of property and equipment   (59,830 )     (32,979 )
    Purchases of investments   (31,812 )     (115,736 )
    Maturities of investments   106,621       16,700  
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   14,979       (132,015 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Proceeds from issuance of Convertible Senior Notes and loans   4,572       172,500  
    Repayment of debt   (180 )     —  
    Payments of debt issuance costs   —       (5,251 )
    Purchase of Capped Calls   —       (17,250 )
    Payroll tax payments for shares withheld upon vesting of RSUs   (5,601 )     (2,988 )
    Proceeds from the exercise of stock options and issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs   44,285       9,232  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan   1,145       1,169  
    Repurchase of unvested restricted common stock   (4 )     (23 )
    Net cash provided by financing activities   44,217       157,389  
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   1,303       —  
    Change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   (32,176 )     (52,034 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period   235,123       322,976  
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period $ 202,947     $ 270,942  
           

    Net Loss Attributable to Enovix to Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation

    While we prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP, we also utilize and present certain financial measures that are not based on GAAP. We refer to these financial measures as “non-GAAP” financial measures. In addition to our financial results determined in accordance with GAAP, we believe that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful measures in evaluating its financial and operational performance distinct and apart from financing costs, certain non-cash expenses and non-operational expenses.

    These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with GAAP but should not be considered a substitute for or superior to GAAP. We endeavor to compensate for the limitation of the non-GAAP financial measures presented by also providing the most directly comparable GAAP measures.

    We use non-GAAP financial information to evaluate our ongoing operations and for internal planning, budgeting and forecasting purposes. We believe that non-GAAP financial information, when taken collectively, may be helpful to investors in assessing its operating performance and comparing its performance with competitors and other comparable companies. You should review the reconciliations below but not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate our business.

    “EBITDA” is defined as earnings (net loss) attributable to Enovix adjusted for interest expense, income tax benefit, depreciation and amortization expense. “Adjusted EBITDA” includes additional adjustments to EBITDA such as stock-based compensation expense, change in fair value of common stock warrants, inventory step-up, impairment of equipment and other special items as determined by management which it does not believe to be indicative of its underlying business trends.

    Below is a reconciliation of net loss attributable to Enovix on a GAAP basis to the non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA financial measures for the periods presented below (in thousands):

      Quarters Ended   Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
      September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023    		   September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023
    Net loss attributable to Enovix $ (22,536 )   $ (16,185 )   $ (184,776 )   $ (154,094 )
    Interest expense   1,718       1,557       5,068       2,827  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   2,194       —       (2,544 )     —  
    Depreciation and amortization   6,500       2,900       37,417       10,000  
    EBITDA   (12,124 )     (11,728 )     (144,835 )     (141,267 )
    Stock-based compensation expense (1)   16,722       13,274       47,414       57,473  
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants   (29,899 )     (31,320 )     (17,359 )     (4,140 )
    Inventory step-up   —       —       1,907       —  
    Impairment of equipment   —       —       —       4,411  
    Restructuring cost (1)   3,661       3,021       41,807       3,021  
    Acquisition cost   —       1,115       —       1,115  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (21,640 )   $ (25,638 )   $ (71,066 )   $ (79,387 )
       
       
       
    (1) $0.1 million and $1.2 million of stock-based compensation expense are included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended September 29, 2024, respectively. $0.4 million of stock-based compensation expense is included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended October 1, 2023.
     

    Free Cash Flow Reconciliation

    We define “Free Cash Flow” as (i) net cash from operating activities less (ii) capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposals of property and equipment, all of which are derived from our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow. The presentation of non-GAAP Free Cash Flow is not intended as an alternative measure of cash flows from operations, as determined in accordance with GAAP. We believe that this financial measure is useful to investors because it provides investors to view our performance using the same tool that we use to gauge our progress in achieving our goals and it is an indication of cash flow that may be available to fund investments in future growth initiatives. Below is a reconciliation of net cash used in operating activities to the Free Cash Flow financial measures for the periods presented below (in thousands):

      Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
      September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023
    Net cash used in operating activities $ (92,675 )   $ (77,408 )
    Capital expenditures   (59,830 )     (32,979 )
    Free Cash Flow $ (152,505 )   $ (110,387 )
     

    Other Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation
    (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)

        Quarters Ended   Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
        September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023    		   September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023
    Revenue   $ 4,317     $ 200     $ 13,357     $ 263  
                     
    GAAP cost of revenue   $ 4,959     $ 16,809     $ 16,454     $ 43,292  
    Stock-based compensation expense     (101 )     (2,396 )     (196 )     (5,001 )
    Inventory step-up     —       —       (1,907 )     —  
    Non-GAAP cost of revenue   $ 4,858     $ 14,413     $ 14,351     $ 38,291  
                     
    GAAP gross margin   $ (642 )   $ (16,609 )   $ (3,097 )   $ (43,029 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     101       2,396       196       5,001  
    Inventory step-up     —       —       1,907       —  
    Non-GAAP gross margin   $ (541 )   $ (14,213 )   $ (994 )   $ (38,028 )
                     
    GAAP research and development (R&D) expense   $ 24,220     $ 13,508     $ 102,073     $ 53,810  
    Stock-based compensation expense     (5,914 )     (4,949 )     (19,771 )     (22,072 )
    Amortization of intangible assets     (417 )     —       (1,248 )     —  
    Non-GAAP R&D expense   $ 17,889     $ 8,559     $ 81,054     $ 31,738  
                     
    GAAP selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense   $ 20,744     $ 17,245     $ 61,176     $ 61,207  
    Stock-based compensation expense     (10,707 )     (5,929 )     (27,447 )     (30,400 )
    Amortization of intangible assets     (774 )     —       (2,304 )     —  
    Acquisition cost     —       (1,115 )     —       (1,115 )
    Non-GAAP SG&A expense   $ 9,263     $ 10,201     $ 31,425     $ 29,692  
                     
    GAAP operating expenses   $ 48,625     $ 33,774     $ 205,056     $ 122,449  
    Stock-based compensation expense included in R&D expense     (5,914 )     (4,949 )     (19,771 )     (22,072 )
    Stock-based compensation expense included in SG&A expense     (10,707 )     (5,929 )     (27,447 )     (30,400 )
    Amortization of intangible assets     (1,191 )     —       (3,552 )     —  
    Impairment of equipment     —       —       —       (4,411 )
    Restructuring cost (1)     (3,661 )     (3,021 )     (41,807 )     (3,021 )
    Acquisition cost     —       (1,115 )     —       (1,115 )
    Non-GAAP operating expenses   $ 27,152     $ 18,760     $ 112,479     $ 61,430  
                     
       
       
    (1) $0.1 million and $1.2 million of stock-based compensation expense is included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended September 29, 2024, respectively. $0.4 million of stock-based compensation expense is included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended October 1, 2023.
       
        Quarters Ended   Fiscal Years-to-Date Ended
        September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023    		   September 29,
    2024    		   October 1,
    2023
    GAAP loss from operations   $ (49,267 )   $ (50,383 )   $ (208,153 )   $ (165,478 )
    Stock-based compensation expense (1)     16,722       13,274       47,414       57,473  
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,191       —       3,552       —  
    Inventory step-up     —       —       1,907       —  
    Impairment of equipment     —       —       —       4,411  
    Restructuring cost (1)     3,661       3,021       41,807       3,021  
    Acquisition cost     —       1,115       —       1,115  
    Non-GAAP loss from operations   $ (27,693 )   $ (32,973 )   $ (113,473 )   $ (99,458 )
                     
    GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix   $ (22,536 )   $ (16,185 )   $ (184,776 )   $ (154,094 )
    Stock-based compensation expense (1)     16,722       13,274       47,414       57,473  
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants     (29,899 )     (31,320 )     (17,359 )     (4,140 )
    Inventory step-up     —       —       1,907       —  
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,191       —       3,552       —  
    Impairment of equipment     —       —       —       4,411  
    Restructuring cost (1)     3,661       3,021       41,807       3,021  
    Acquisition cost     —       1,115       —       1,115  
    Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix shareholders   $ (30,861 )   $ (30,095 )   $ (107,455 )   $ (92,214 )
                     
    GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic   $ (0.13 )   $ (0.10 )   $ (1.07 )   $ (0.98 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic     176,680,578       159,829,716       172,393,869       157,559,138  
                     
    GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, diluted   $ (0.30 )   $ (0.29 )   $ (1.07 )   $ (1.00 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted     176,872,382       161,371,417       172,393,869       158,260,393  
                     
    Non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic   $ (0.17 )   $ (0.19 )   $ (0.62 )   $ (0.59 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic     176,680,578       159,829,716       172,393,869       157,559,138  
                     
    Non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, diluted   $ (0.17 )   $ (0.19 )   $ (0.62 )   $ (0.58 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted     176,872,382       161,371,417       172,393,869       158,260,393  
                                     
       
       
    (1) $0.1 million and $1.2 million of stock-based compensation expense is included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended September 29, 2024, respectively. $0.4 million of stock-based compensation expense is included in the restructuring cost line of the table above for the quarter and fiscal year-to-date ended October 1, 2023.
       

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dayforce Named a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Cloud HCM Suites for 1,000+ Employee Enterprises for Fifth Consecutive Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINNEAPOLIS and TORONTO, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dayforce, Inc. (NYSE: DAY; TSX: DAY), a global human capital management (HCM) leader that makes work life better, today announced it has been named a Leader in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud HCM Suites for 1,000+ Employees Enterprises. Dayforce was recognized for the fifth consecutive year, driven by Dayforce’s Ability to Execute and Completeness of Vision.

    Operating across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and the Asia Pacific Japan (APJ) region, Dayforce delivers quantifiable value to organizations globally with a single platform backed by AI-enhanced innovation. Dayforce is trusted by more than 6,600 customers, including leading organizations such as Henkel, Nashville Predators, City of Columbus, Longo’s, and more.

    “In the face of increasingly complex and ever-changing HR challenges, leaders need to invest in differentiated technology to help drive efficiencies, manage compliance, and operate with confidence – all assisted by trusted AI,” said Joe Korngiebel, Chief Strategy, Product, and Technology Officer, Dayforce, Inc. “Dayforce is this solution, and we feel our recognition as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for the fifth consecutive year affirms this. In one single, global people platform, we’re delivering quantifiable value for organizations around the world and helping them achieve simplicity at scale for their people operations.”

    As an all-in-one solution with a unified user experience for HR, payroll, workforce management, talent, and analytics, Dayforce enables business leaders to move their organizations forward while balancing the drive to empower their people.

    Additional Information

    Gartner Disclaimer

    Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Cloud HCM Suites for 1,000+ Employee Enterprises, Ranadip Chandra, Chris Pang, Et Al, 23 October 2024.

    GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

    About Dayforce
    Dayforce makes work life better. Everything we do as a global leader in HCM technology is focused on improving work for thousands of customers and millions of employees around the world. Our single, global people platform for HR, Pay, Time, Talent, and Analytics equips Dayforce customers to unlock their full workforce potential and operate with confidence. To learn how Dayforce helps create quantifiable value for organizations of all sizes and industries, visit dayforce.com.  

    Media Contact
    Allison Hacker
    +1 425-785-8276
    allison.hacker@dayforce.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Onity Group Schedules Conference Call – Third Quarter 2024 Results and Business Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onity Group Inc. (NYSE: ONIT) (“Onity” or the “Company”), a leading non-bank mortgage servicer and originator, today announced that it will hold a conference call on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. (ET) to review the Company’s third quarter 2024 operating results and provide a business update.

    All interested parties are welcome to participate. You can access the conference call by dialing (800) 343-5172 or (203) 518-9856 approximately 10 minutes prior to the call; please reference the conference ID “Onity.” Participants can also access the conference call through a live audio webcast available from the Shareholder Relations page at onitygroup.com under Events and Presentations.

    An investor presentation will accompany the conference call and be available by visiting the Shareholder Relations page at onitygroup.com prior to the call.

    A replay of the conference call will be available via the website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. A telephonic replay will also be available approximately three hours following the call’s completion through November 19, 2024, by dialing (844) 512-2921 or (412) 317-6671; please reference access code 11157248.

    About Onity Group

    Onity Group Inc. (NYSE: ONIT) is a leading non-bank mortgage servicer and originator providing solutions through its primary brands, PHH Mortgage and Liberty Reverse Mortgage. PHH Mortgage is one of the largest servicers in the country, focused on delivering a variety of servicing and lending programs. Liberty is one of the nation’s largest reverse mortgage lenders dedicated to education and providing loans that help customers meet their personal and financial needs. We are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, with offices and operations in the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, India and the Philippines, and have been serving our customers since 1988. For additional information, please visit onitygroup.com.

    For Further Information Contact:

    Dico Akseraylian, SVP, Corporate Communications
    (856) 917-0066
    mediarelations@onitygroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitdeer Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Conference Call for November 18, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitdeer Technologies Group (NASDAQ: BTDR) (“Bitdeer” or the “Company”), a world-leading technology company for blockchain and high-performance computing, today announced that it has scheduled its third quarter 2024 earnings conference call and webcast for Monday, November 18, 2024 at 8:00 AM EST. During the call, Bitdeer management will discuss the unaudited financial and operational results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, followed by a question and answer session.

    Bitdeer will release the third quarter results before the call at approximately 7:00 AM EST on November 18, 2024. A copy of the earnings release will be available on the Company’s Investor Relations website at https://ir.bitdeer.com.

    Conference Call Information:

    • Date: November 18, 2024
    • Time: 8:00 AM EST / 8:00 PM SGT
    • Participant Call Links:
      • Live Webcast: Link
      • Participant Call Registration: Link

    Participants wishing to join the conference call by phone should register using the Participant Call Registration link provided above. After completing the registration, the participants will receive an email with the necessary details to access the call including dial-in number, passcode, and PIN. To ensure a timely start, the Company encourages all callers to connect about 5 minutes before the scheduled time.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investors section of Bitdeer’s website at https://ir.bitdeer.com.

    About Bitdeer Technologies Group

    Bitdeer is a world-leading technology company for blockchain and high-performance computing. Bitdeer is committed to providing comprehensive computing solutions for its customers. The Company handles complex processes involved in computing such as equipment procurement, transport logistics, datacenter design and construction, equipment management, and daily operations. The Company also offers advanced cloud capabilities to customers with high demand for artificial intelligence. Headquartered in Singapore, Bitdeer has deployed datacenters in the United States, Norway, and Bhutan. To learn more, visit https://ir.bitdeer.com/ or follow Bitdeer on X @ BitdeerOfficial and LinkedIn @ Bitdeer Group.

    Investors and others should note that Bitdeer may announce material information using its website and/or on its accounts on social media platforms, including X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Therefore, Bitdeer encourages investors and others to review the information it posts on the social media and other communication channels listed on its website.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “anticipate,” “look forward to,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including factors discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Bitdeer’s annual report on Form 20-F, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors in Bitdeer’s subsequent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof. Bitdeer specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether due to new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers should not rely upon the information on this page as current or accurate after its publication date.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Orange Group
    Yujia Zhai
    bitdeerIR@orangegroupadvisors.com

    Public Relations
    Wachsman
    Bee Shin
    bitdeer@wachsman.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech and Efficiency – “AI will replace hard skills” says recruitment CEO, emphasis on soft skills needed

    Source: Robert Walters

    In a recent study, recruitment specialists Robert Walters have unveiled the increasing significance of soft skills in today’s workplace. The research, which surveyed over 2,000 white collar professionals, found that 96% believe that soft skills are either equal to or more important than hard skills. Furthermore, an overwhelming 92% of employers admitted to rejecting candidates due to insufficient soft skills.

    The Rise of AI: A Game-Changer for Hard Skills

    Robert Walters CEO for Australia and New Zealand, Shay Peters, attributes this paradigm shift to the rapid emergence of AI. Peters stated, “The growth of AI has been remarkable in recent years, and I predict that it will eventually replace almost all hard skills in white collar industries. This means that soft skills will take centre stage in talent acquisition, as the human touch becomes the distinguishing factor.”

    The Crucial Role of Soft Skills

    According to 90% of recruiters, a lack of soft skills often underpins failures in the workplace. Consequently, hiring managers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for candidates who possess exceptional soft skills.

    Peters further highlighted the growing emphasis on soft skills in client conversations, stating, “Clients are now placing greater importance on qualities such as effective communication, negotiation, and problem-solving. These attributes will set candidates apart from their peers as we continue to see AI replace hard skills. Additionally, clients are expressing the need for candidates to not only utilise AI but also collaborate with it effectively.”

    Gen Z: Leveraging the AI Advantage

    Peters also noted that Gen Z individuals have a distinct advantage, given their innate ability to adapt seamlessly to technology and incorporate it into their work practices. The ability to work harmoniously with AI is becoming an increasingly sought-after skill.

    Understanding Soft Skills

    Soft skills encompass personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that enable individuals to interact effectively with others. Unlike technical skills, which are specific and measurable, soft skills are broader and encompass traits such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are indispensable for fostering a positive work environment and facilitating professional growth.

    According to new research released by Indeed which asked employers what the most important skills for the future of work are, communication came out as most important skill in the future, with 55% of employers citing this. This is followed by teamwork and collaboration (52%), adaptability (48%), problem solving (48%) and tech savviness (40%).

    Investing in Soft Skills Development

    CEO Shay Peters stressed the urgency for employees and candidates to prioritise the development of their soft skills. Peters remarked, “In today’s highly competitive job market, where countless highly skilled individuals are vying for positions, your soft skills will be the ultimate differentiator. As AI inevitably replaces hard skills in white-collar industries, your soft skills will be all you have left. Investing time in improving these skills will ensure you stand out when the time comes.”

    AI can never replace human interaction and face to face communication which is why this is becoming a priority for employers. This balance between AI’s capabilities and human strengths is shaping the future of work, making soft skills a key differentiator in career success.

    About Robert Walters  

    Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies with a global presence spanning 31 countries. The New Zealand business recruits across the fields of accounting & finance, property, general management, human resources, information technology, legal, risk management, compliance & audit, sales, marketing & communications, secretarial & business support and supply chain & procurement. 

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Delivers Opening Statement During Senate Judiciary Committee Field Hearing In Chicago On Reducing Prescription Drug Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    10.29.24
    CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at the Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing in Chicago, Illinois, entitled “Reducing Prescription Drug Prices:  How Competition Can Make Medications Affordable for Patients.” The hearing includes two witness panels, including Members of Congress from Illinois and advocates for prescription drug pricing reform, to examine recent legislative successes to address anti-competitive tactics that make medications unaffordable for patients.
    Key Quotes:
    “Today the Committee will examine an issue on the minds of many in Illinois and across the country: the high price of prescription drugs.  It is a scandalous situation in America.  People in the United States pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world—on average, four times more than people in similar countries pay for brand-name medications.” 
    “For example: [when] the blood thinner Eliquis entered the market in 2013, it cost $3,100 annually in the U.S.  Same drug for sale in Japan [was] $1,000.  And, over the past decade, the price in the U.S. has more than doubled, from $3,100 to $7,100.  Meanwhile, in Japan, the price has dropped… Why?  For years, Big Pharma has abused our patent system to obtain monopolies on their medications, so they can charge these sky-high prices.” 
    “At the same time, they have spent billions of dollars to fill the airwaves with ads so patients tell their doctors they need drugs like Eliquis so they can go skiing, fishing, and whitewater rafting.   By fueling demand for expensive medications that are walled-off from competition by clever patent schemes, Big Pharma has made American patients their profit engine.”
    “Thankfully, this Administration and Democrats in Congress decided to do something about it.  In 2022, Congress passed, and President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act.  Not a single Republican voted for it.  Under this law, we have capped the price of insulin at $35 per month, saving 50,000 seniors in Illinois approximately $500 a year.  We have made vaccines under Medicare free.  When the shingles or RSV vaccines can cost up to $300 per dose, this change creates real savings for 1.4 million seniors in Illinois.  Starting in January, there will be a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket costs for seniors—meaning, no matter how expensive your medications are, you will not pay more than $2,000 in co-pays per year.”
    “In August, the Biden-Harris Administration negotiated with Big Pharma to lower prices for 10 of the most expensive drugs under Medicare, resulting in price savings of up to 79 percent… As a result of this negotiation, nine million seniors will save a total of $1.5 billion in annual out-of-pocket costs—including nearly 300,000 seniors in Illinois who take one of these ten drugs.  Remember Eliquis?  Thanks to this new law, Medicare was able to permanently cut its price in half—taking nearly $300 off the monthly price tag—for more than 100,000 seniors in Illinois.”
    “But just as these historic savings are starting to take effect, there are real threats to our progress.  Eight pharmaceutical companies raced to federal courthouses to stop this price negotiation.  And former-President Trump and his Republican allies want to repeal this provision all together.”
    “Too often, the prices Big Pharma charges do not reflect scientific breakthroughs but, rather, manipulation by its lawyers and marketers.  In fact, the top 10 best-selling drugs in 2021 were covered by an average of 42 active patents that block competition and create windfall profits.”
    “The Judiciary Committee has taken a leading role in addressing Big Pharma’s schemes.  Last year, the Committee unanimously reported five bipartisan bills that addressed the industry’s anticompetitive tactics.  This includes my bill with Senator Tillis to improve information sharing between the FDA and Patent Office to prevent gamesmanship. Congress needs to pass these bills into law.”
    “Drugs are not effective in treating disease if a patient cannot afford to buy them.  Our hearing today will explore how legislation like the Inflation Reduction Actand the Judiciary Committee bills can help ensure every patient can access lifesaving medications.”
      
    Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.
    The United States has the highest prescription drug prices in the developed world, on average nearly four times higher than what other countries pay for some of the most common brand-name medications. Despite claims that these prices are necessary to fund research and development into the next generation of drugs, research suggests that the majority of innovation is driven by smaller companies, as well as taxpayer funding through the National Institutes of Health. The Committee has jurisdiction over competition issues and the intellectual property system, which play critical roles in incentivizing true innovation and protecting a healthy market that keeps prices for prescription drugs within reach of the patients that need them.
    Durbin, Senate Democrats, and the Biden-Harris Administration have taken numerous steps to lower the costs of prescription drugs. Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Actprovided the Administration the authority to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma, which has already resulted in price reduction of up to 79 percent for 10 of the most expensive and frequently-dispensed prescription drugs for seniors.
    Earlier this Congress, a package of bills advanced unanimously out of the Committee to lower prescription drug prices and are awaiting a vote in the full Senate, including the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Additionally, Durbin held a full committee hearing in May that scrutinized pharmaceutical companies’ abuse of the Orange Book and examined prescription drug prices, competition, and how to ensure medications are accessible and affordable for patients.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Israel/Iran: Exchange of attacks risks plunging region into the unknown – Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, on the situation in the Middle East.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3YkkWzq5is

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Internationally renowned mental health researcher Professor Helen Christensen AO named NSW Scientist of the Year

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 30 October 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology

    Scientia Professor Helen Christensen AO from UNSW Sydney and the Black Dog Institute is being recognised as the NSW Scientist of the Year in the 2024 Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering.

    Professor Christensen is one of 10 exceptional researchers, innovators, and educators being honoured at the Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering, held at Government House in Sydney tonight.

    Professor Christensen’s selection as Scientist of the Year is in recognition of her pioneering work in digital mental health research, which has significantly influenced mental health care practice both in Australia and internationally.

    In 2000, she developed the digital intervention program, MoodGYM, to reduce depression in young people, which has been used by millions of people across more than 160 countries.

    She served as the Executive Director and Chief Scientist at the Black Dog Institute from 2011 to 2021, while her work creating a model of suicide prevention has been incorporated into national and state suicide prevention plans.

    She will receive a trophy and $60,000 in prize money.

    Nine category winners are also being announced tonight, each receiving a trophy and $5,000 in prize money:

    • Excellence in Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Chemistry or Physics
      Professor Susan Coppersmith, UNSW Sydney
    • Excellence in Biological Sciences (Ecological, environmental, agricultural and organismal) Distinguished Professor Ian Paulsen, Macquarie University
    • Excellence in Medical Biological Sciences (Cell and molecular, medical, veterinary and genetics)
      Professor Stuart Tangye, Garvan Institute of Medical Research
    • Excellence in Engineering or Information and Communications Technologies
      Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo, University of Wollongong
    • NSW Early Career Researcher of the Year (Biological Sciences)
      Dr Ira Deveson, Garvan Institute of Medical Research
    • NSW Early Career Researcher of the Year (Physical Sciences) –
      Dr. Jiayan Liao, University of Technology Sydney
    • Leadership in Innovation in NSW
      Distinguished Professor Karu Esselle, University of Technology Sydney
    • Innovation in NSW Public Sector Science and Engineering
      Dr Annette Cowie, NSW Department of Primary Industries and University of New England
    • Innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics Teaching in NSW
      Jodie Attenborough, Tottenham Central School

    Full details of all winners can be found at:

    NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering | Chief Scientist

    Premier Chris Minns said:

    “These awards are about recognising and thanking our state’s most outstanding scientists, engineers, and teachers.  

    “Professor Christensen’s work has helped millions of people worldwide.

    “Her online self-help courses to help address common mental health disorders have been pioneering.

    “Mental health support is vital for so many people. Professor Christensen has improved support for people in NSW, and people around the world.

    “Mental health is one of the pressing challenges of our time, and Professor Christensen’s innovations have made an important impact.”

    Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

    “Tonight is the NSW Government’s chance to recognise some of the leaders from NSW’s world-class research and innovation community.

    “We celebrate not only research excellence, but visionary work that is driving the establishment of new high-tech companies to tackle some of our state’s most difficult problems.”

    NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Hugh Durrant-Whyte said:

    “Tonight, we celebrate leading thinkers in areas as diverse as quantum physics, synthetic biology, immunology, cybersecurity and satellite telecommunications.

    “We acknowledge the work of established senior academics as well as lauding the contributions of our best early career researchers.

    “My congratulations to everyone honoured tonight, and especially to 2024 Scientist of the Year, Professor Helen Christensen, for her profound impact in the critically important area of mental health.”   

    2024 NSW Scientist of the Year Professor Helen Christensen said:

    “I’m deeply honoured to receive this award from the NSW Government.

    “It’s exciting to see this recognition for scientific work in mental health—an issue now seen globally as the leading health concern, even surpassing cancer, obesity and COVID.

    “Mental health science has the power to transform lives. We’re at a tipping point, where advancements in genetics, AI, and software engineering, are reshaping our understanding of mental illness, the impact of societal factors, and how technology delivers proven treatments to those who need them.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New partnership a boost for First Nations tourism

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Today the Albanese Labor Government is announcing a historic new Partnership to support greater participation and economic opportunities for First Nations people and businesses in Australia’s tourism industry.

    The First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership, comprising First Nations tourism industry representatives from every state and territory, will provide leadership and guidance on respectfully embedding Australia’s rich cultural heritage in our tourism offerings.

    Importantly, the Partnership will be tasked with investigating and establishing a permanent First Nations national tourism peak body which will provide guidance and strategic support to grow this critical sector.

    The Partnership will be funded for an initial two years through the National Indigenous Australians Agency’s Indigenous Advancement Strategy.

    First Nations industry representatives co-designed the Partnership in collaboration with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Tourism Australia and state and territory governments.

    The Albanese Labor Government understands the importance of First Nations tourism in Australia and has been investing to increase economic opportunities for First Nations people in this sector.

    This includes the Indigenous Tourism Fund which is supporting First Nations people in the travel and tourism industry through grants, mentoring and co-investment in strategic projects.

    The First Nations Tourism Mentoring Program is connecting businesses with skilled, experienced and culturally respectful tourism industry specialists who are providing one-on-one guidance, advice and support.

    These programs build on support provided by state and territory governments, such as Tourism Northern Territory’s Aboriginal Tourism Development Support Grant Program, which is co-funded by the Australian Government and helps to develop Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences and tourism product.

    Quotes attributable to Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism:

    “First Nations tourism offers an important avenue for First Nations people to stay on country, preserve their culture and knowledge while providing economic opportunities.

    “I recently had the privilege of attending the graduation of the National Indigenous Training Academy’s class of 2024 on Anangu country who expressed to me the importance of this industry and their excitement of sharing their culture with visitors. With graduates like these, alongside the support of this new national body, the future is very bright for First Nations tourism in Australia.

    “We know that domestic and international visitors are increasingly seeking unique First Nations experiences as part of their travels.

    “This presents great opportunities for First Nations tourism and job creation in Australia’s regions and First Nations communities.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister for Indigenous Australians:

    “First Nations tourism provides opportunities to share the world’s oldest living culture with travellers from around the world, while empowering First Nations people through employment and business prospects.

    “The First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership will advocate for the sector and 
    support the growth of First Nations tourism businesses to provide unique experiences for domestic and international visitors, driving more economic activity in the regions and local communities.

    “The First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership demonstrates the Albanese Government’s commitment to working with First Nations people and in partnership with state and territory governments to advance self-determination and economic empowerment.

    “The First Nations tourism sector has been calling for support to establish a national peak tourism body and the Albanese Government has listened.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mansfield Tax Preparer Sentenced to More Than 15 Years After Touting False Credentials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A would-be lawyer who falsely inflated dozens of client tax returns was sentenced Tuesday to more than 15 years in federal prison for tax fraud, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.

    John Anthony Castro, 40, owner of the virtual tax preparation business Castro & Company, was indicted in January. Following a five-day bench trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Terry R Means, he was convicted on all 33 counts of assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent return and was immediately taken into custody. Judge Means sentenced him Thursday to 188 months in prison and ordered him to pay $277,243 in restitution.

    “Far from an ‘international tax expert,’ this defendant was an international fraudster, plain and simple,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton. “Not only did he defraud the U.S. government, he bullied and berated clients who dared question his methods. Today’s sentencing should send a message to tax preparers nationwide: Lie on clients’ returns at your own peril.”

    “Mr. Castro prepared and filed completely fraudulent and fabricated tax returns for one reason: greed,” stated Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office.  “Today’s sentence highlights IRS-CI’s diligence in rooting out dishonest tax return preparers whose only motive is to cheat the system and make themselves richer in the process.”

    According to evidence presented in court, Mr. Castro – who had graduated law school but repeatedly failed the bar exam – held himself out as an “international tax expert” and “federal practitioner.” (He also falsely claimed to be a graduate of West Point.)

    He was successful at marketing to clients around the world, claiming to be an expert on certain tax issues related to Australian ex-pats, among other things.  Between 2017 and 2019, he filed more than 1,900 tax returns on behalf of individuals from all over the world.

    As part of his pitch, Mr. Castro promised his clients a significantly higher refund than they would receive from other preparers, claiming he knew how to identify and claim deductions that others did not.  He added there was no risk, as he would simply split the additional refund amount with them to account for his fee.  He would not share the tax return with clients before filing, but would instead simply inform them of the amount of the anticipated refund.

    On many occasions, he filed tax returns on behalf of clients without their permission or knowledge.  In other instances, he claimed deductions that had no basis in fact.  For example, for one client, who made approximately $103,000 in income, Mr. Castro claimed over $90,000 in deductions related to unreimbursed employee expenses.

    Mr. Castro claimed deductions based on extreme and unsupported legal theories, including deductions such as (1) those for any expense related to preventing an illness qualified as an “impairment related work expense,” (2) those for expenses related to commuting to and from work, (3) the full value of one’s mortgage and utilities as long as the taxpayer had some type of Schedule C business to claim, (4) those related to dry-cleaning for work clothes, and (5) the full value of one’s cell phone bill even when their employer provided them with a work phone.  For example, with respect to one client, Mr. Castro deducted over $26,000 in expenses that he claimed related to a nascent cupcake business that had generated only $250 in revenue.

    According to trial testimony, in February 2018, an undercover IRS – CI agent contacted Mr. Castro for assistance. The agent asked to meet with Mr. Castro in person, but Mr. Castro’s office told him that in-person meetings required a $5,000 retainer. They spoke via email instead.

    On February 13, 2018, the undercover agent submitted a W2 and a Form 1098-T showing wages of $142,217. About two weeks later, one of Mr. Castro’s employees called the agent to discuss deductions, noting that Mr. Castro would make any decisions regarding what items would be included on the tax filing.

    The agent denied having any unreimbursed employee expenses, charitable contributions, or other items that could lead to deductions.

    On March 12, 2018, Mr. Castro sent the undercover agent his tax analysis. He said that if the agent used another preparer, he would receive a refund of $373, but that if he used Mr. Castro, he would receive a refund of $6,007. Mr. Castro would take half, netting him $3,008. The analysis said the return would include $29,339 in deductions but did not specify which deductions would be used.

    Two days later, Mr. Castro filed the agent’s return, which claimed $29,339 in fraudulent deductions, including $2,400 in employee expenses, and 28,600 in other expenses that the undercover agent had never discussed with Mr. Castro or his employees.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Mr. Castro engaged in a similar pattern with his other clients. When the victim-taxpayers learned what Mr. Castro had done, many of them demanded copies of their tax returns. Mr. Castro refused to engage in conversation and even delayed providing returns for months at a time.  Mr. Castro often acted in a highly vindictive manner when questioned or challenged by clients or others, often berating individuals in emails, threatening legal actions, or by filing amended tax returns, without clients’ permission or knowledge, that removed all deductions, causing the taxpayer-victim to then owe the IRS tens of thousands of dollars. 

    During the trial, Mr. Castro took the stand in his own defense, and upon cross-examination, admitted that his positions were extreme, outlandish, and not supported by the law.  He also admitted to a bevy of prior falsifications and vindictive actions.

    Many of the victim-taxpayers have since been audited and/or filed amended returns, causing them significant financial hardship.

    IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys P.J. Meitl and Nancy Larson are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Enstar Announces Changes to Executive Leadership Team

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Appoints Paul Brockman as Chief Commercial Officer

    • Names Adrian Thornycroft as Chief Administrative Officer from May 2025

    HAMILTON, Bermuda, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enstar Group Limited (“Enstar”) (Nasdaq: ESGR), today announces changes to its executive leadership team in connection with the upcoming retirement of Orla Gregory, President, at the end the year, and the expanding role of Enstar in the insurance industry.

    Paul Brockman has been appointed as Chief Commercial Officer with immediate effect. Paul has been with Enstar since 2012, most recently in the role of Group Chief Operating Officer. This newly created role reflects the continued expansion of the scope of solutions Enstar can bring to the global insurance industry. Paul has over three decades of experience across the legacy and (re)insurance sectors. His new responsibilities will include corporate development, serving as one of the primary liaisons to the insurance market, engaging with industry leaders, and optimising market opportunities.

    Adrian Thornycroft will join as Chief Administrative Officer in May 2025. Adrian will be based in Bermuda and will assume a number of responsibilities from Orla as well as take a leading role with respect to change strategy. Adrian has extensive operational and leadership experience, having successfully delivered significant business and change programmes at companies such as Brit, Lloyd’s, and MS Amlin.

    The remaining responsibilities under the role of the outgoing President will be assumed by the wider leadership team.

    Dominic Silvester, Enstar CEO, said:

    “With Paul’s depth of legacy expertise and his versatile, wide-ranging experience, we are confident Paul will continue to make a significant impact as we continue to maintain and expand our industry relationships and drive forward our reputation as the leading provider of legacy solutions.

    Adrian’s skillset and expertise aligns perfectly with Enstar’s strategic direction with regard to our operating platform at an important juncture and will further strengthen Enstar’s leadership team.”

    About Enstar
    Enstar is a NASDAQ-listed leading global insurance group that offers capital release solutions through its network of group companies in Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Australia and other international locations. A market leader in completing legacy acquisitions, Enstar has acquired over 117 companies and portfolios since its formation. For further information about Enstar, see www.enstargroup.com.

    Cautionary Statement
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that include words such as “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “may,” “will” and similar statements of a future or forward-looking nature identify forward-looking statements for purposes of the federal securities laws or otherwise. These statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management team. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those related to the satisfaction of any post-closing regulatory requirements.

    Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, in addition to those identified above, include: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on the anticipated terms and timing, (ii) the satisfaction of other conditions to the completion of the proposed transaction, including obtaining required shareholder and regulatory approvals; (iii) the risk that the Company’s stock price may fluctuate during the pendency of the proposed transaction and may decline if the proposed transaction is not completed; (iv) potential litigation relating to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against the Company or its directors, managers or officers, including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (v) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction (including the ability of certain customers to terminate or amend contracts upon a change of control) will harm the Company’s business, including current plans and operations, including during the pendency of the proposed transaction; (vi) the ability of the Company to retain and hire key personnel; (vii) the diversion of management’s time and attention from ordinary course business operations to completion of the proposed transaction and integration matters; (viii) potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction; (ix) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (x) potential business uncertainty, including changes to existing business relationships, during the pendency of the proposed transaction that could affect the Company’s financial performance; (xi) certain restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that may impact the Company’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including but not limited to acts of terrorism, outbreaks of war or hostilities or global pandemics, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; (xiii) the possibility that the proposed transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; (xiv) unexpected costs, liabilities or delays associated with the transaction; (xv) the response of competitors to the transaction; (xvi) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the proposed transaction, including in circumstances requiring the Company to pay a termination fee; (xvii) those risks and uncertainties set forth under the headings “Forward Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as such risk factors may be amended, supplemented or superseded from time to time by other reports filed by the Company with the SEC from time to time, which are available via the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov; and (xviii) those risks described in the Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on October 11, 2024 and available from the sources indicated below.

    These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed in the Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on October 11, 2024 in connection with the proposed transaction. There can be no assurance that the proposed transaction will be completed, or if it is completed, that it will close within the anticipated time period. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any written or oral forward-looking statements or publicly announce any updates or revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, or to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, except as required by law. If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, our actual results may vary materially from what we may have expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. We caution that you should not place undue reliance on any of our forward-looking statements. You should specifically consider the factors identified in this communication that could cause actual results to differ. Furthermore, new risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict those events or how they may affect the Company.

    Contact:

    For Enstar:
    For Investors: Matthew Kirk (investor.relations@enstargroup.com)
    For Media: Jenna Kerr (communications@enstargroup.com)

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) returns from Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise 

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Members of the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) have returned to Victoria, B.C., after participating in Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise 24 (MN-MIWEX 24), hosted by the Republic of Korea Navy from October 14-25, 2024, off the coast of Busan, South Korea.

    October 29, 2024 – Esquimalt, B.C. – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Members of the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) have returned to Victoria, B.C., after participating in Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise 24 (MN-MIWEX 24), hosted by the Republic of Korea Navy from October 14-25, 2024, off the coast of Busan, South Korea.

    Eleven members from FDU(P), alongside two support staff, participated in the exercise aboard the Republic of Korea Ship (ROKS) Cheon Wang Bong, focusing on mine countermeasures and promoting collective deterrence. During the exercise, the teams conducted drills aimed at detecting and neutralizing mines to establish safe navigation routes, enhancing interoperability among participating nations and improving understanding of the mine warfare environment in the Korean theatre of operations.

    Nations participating alongside FDU(P) on ROKS Cheon Wang Bong included the United States Navy, Royal Australian Navy, and the Philippine Navy. In total, 19 nations took part in MN-MIWEX 24, with dive teams operating on multiple ships throughout. The exercise also included a mine countermeasures symposium held prior to sailing.

    This year, MN-MIWEX 24 was conducted under Operation HORIZON, Canada’s mission to enhance peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative expands the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) opportunities to collaborate closely with partners and allies in the region, allowing Canada to play a more active role in strengthening regional security.

    Media Relations
    Department of National Defence
    Phone: 613-904-3333
    Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Meet the Whitebait | Conservation blog

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Freshwater Ranger Suze Harris is based in Hokitika and studies migratory galaxiids on the West Coast. Here she explains a summary of what whitebait grow up into, and what habitats you can find them in.

    There are 5 whitebait species in the Galaxiidae family (excluding smelt/cucumber fish, which are not a true galaxiid). Each have their own habitat preferences and unique behaviours! They do not have scales and tend to be nocturnal to feed on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates while avoiding predation by bigger fish.

    Īnanga (Galaxias maculatus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    The most famous of the whitebait species, making up 90% of any whitebait fritter (depending on the river). Highly fecund (produce a lot of eggs) and live close to the coast. They are weak swimmers and cannot climb, so they stick to slow-moving waters such as wetlands, swamps and lowland streams. Their greatest threats are fish passage barriers (such as overhanging, perched culverts or structures with high velocities running through them), habitat loss, and introduced species. Īnanga spawn in autumn on spring tides on the sides of creeks and rivers. Generally, they live 1-2 years, some spawn twice. Like the rest of the whitebait species, they can live a lot longer in captivity.

    Giant kōkopu (Galaxias argentus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    Giants are the largest of the whitebait species, with the record length being 450mm, and were the first Galaxiidae to be described in 1789. The golden spots are very distinctive, and its colour pattern inspired the generic name of Galaxias to the whitebait family – referring to the profusion of stars in the galaxy. They are territorial in nature, usually lurking in slow-flowing waters in lowland runs and pools, and feast on large insects like cicadas and wēta. Their spawning ecology is still being unravelled by ecologists, a recent study suggests there are freshwater migrations to and from their domain to spawn.

    Eggs are deposited in floods during autumn on the banks of dense canopy cover. They usually run later in the whitebait season. Because they require instream cover with overhanging vegetation, they are disappearing from the east coasts of both islands. Some can live beyond 20 years, up to 40 years in captivity.

    Banded kōkopu (Galaxias fasciatus)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Alfonso Siciliano

    Bandeds are common throughout the coast, and are the smallest in the whitebait stage, often golden in colour. They are difficult to differentiate from the other kōkopu when they are young, but the key feature in larger fish are stripes connect over their backs, which is easiest to see towards their tail. They rely on terrestrial insects and are sensitive to intensive land development and sedimentation, hence why they are less common on the east coasts of both islands. They are happy in any type of forests, including pine, beech, and rainforests.

    Shortjaw kōkopu (Galaxias postvectis)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    The rarest of the whitebait species, shortjaws are named due to their overbite. They do not have distinct markings other than a black patch behind their gill plate, a blue-green eye, and a dark fringe on their fins. Territorial in nature, they like rocky streams with stable pools to live out their adult lives, likely ranging between 7-15 years. Little is known about these fish due to their solitary nature, but like the other kōkopu species, they spawn in autumn floods on the banks of streams, eggs develop in moist leaf litter and get carried away by floods out to sea. They tend to not coincide with beech forests, so are very rare south of Ōkārito.

    Smoothwater River is the furthest southern record on the West Coast, and none have ever been recorded in Fiordland. They are now thought to be extinct from Canterbury. The West Coast is the densest area for shortjaws nationally due to habitat availability and decent water quality.

    Kōaro (Galaxias brevipinnis)

    Image supplied by: Suze Harris. Image credit: Angus McIntosh

    Also called climbing galaxias, Kōaro are the best climbers of the galaxiid family. They have elongated bodies with similar golden markings to a leopard. Their enlarged pectoral fins are ribbed, helping them climb any wet vertical surface. They can be found at the headwaters of rivers such as the Arahura and the Haast, even in the heart of the Southern Alps, which makes their larval migration out to sea incredible. There are lake-locked populations in NZ, including Lake Wānaka. They like rocky, tumbling streams and can be seen “moon bathing” on top of wet rocks in streams at night, which is likely a tactic to avoid tuna (eel) predation.

    Whitebait season

    Remember if you’re unsure of what the whitebait fishing regs are or would like to know more about the whitebait fishery go to our DOC website Whitebaiting: Things to do (doc.govt.nz). If you’re wanting to speak to one of our local rangers, please contact your local DOC office for more information or email whitebait@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Historic redress inequities finally resolved for Lake Alice Unit survivors

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is addressing historic redress inequities for some survivors abused at the Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit.

    In 2001, the Crown reached a $6.5 million group settlement with 95 survivors subjected to abuse at the Lake Alice Unit. Law firm Grant Cameron & Associates (now GCA Lawyers) represented the group and deducted an estimated $2.6 million in legal fees from the total settlement before individual payments were made.

    This resulted in survivors receiving, on average, an estimated $41,000, after approximately $27,000 was deducted in legal fees. Subsequently, further claimants received an average of $70,000 due to the Crown meeting legal costs.

    “This inequitable treatment has been a historic injustice for over 20 years. As a society we should have done better. This Government is determined to do better,” Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford says.

    “This decision directly relates to recommendation 18 of the Royal Commission’s final report. It recommended an independent person be appointed to review settlements, however Cabinet agreed this was an unnecessary step. The facts of this matter are clear and it was important to us that survivors be reimbursed as quickly as possible.” 

    Survivors can lodge a claim with the Ministry of Health claims service for reimbursement until 30 June 2025. Payments will be made on an ex-gratia basis, meaning they will not be treated as income for tax or benefit purposes.

    $2.6 million will address the parity issue, cover Ministry of Health administration of the claims process, as well as meet the costs of additional claims that have been made recently for historic abuse at Lake Alice.

    “Since July, we have acknowledged some children and young people experienced torture at the Lake Alice Unit and set up urgent financial assistance to those who are terminally ill.

    “While we can never fully make redress for or right the harm survivors experienced, the Government is continuing to respond to the Royal Commission’s final report with the respect and care it deserves,” Ms Stanford says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Government and philanthropy partner to empower communities

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Joint with:

    The Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP
    Treasurer 
    Member for Rankin

    The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
    Minister for Social Services
    Member for Kingston

    The Albanese Labor Government is co-investing alongside philanthropy to develop a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the needs and aspirations of local communities and addressing entrenched disadvantage.

    Our Government recognises that there are disadvantaged communities right around Australia where a national approach on its own will never be enough.

    This is about listening to and empowering local leaders, working with communities and designing services in a way that meets their bespoke needs.

    That’s why the Government is investing $19.3 million over five years to establish Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment (PLACE).

    This funding will be matched by five philanthropy partners: Minderoo Foundation, Paul Ramsay Foundation, the Ian Potter Foundation, the Bryan Foundation and the Dusseldorp Forum.

    PLACE will act as a one-stop shop to identify, support and enhance place-based programs in areas like the early years, youth development, health, education, employment and youth justice.

    PLACE will focus on strengthening the capacity of communities to design and deliver these programs, promote evidence sharing, and improve data governance across place-based initiatives.

    Hundreds of communities and thousands of Australians are expected to be helped by PLACE’s work in its first five years.

    Place-based approaches involve government partnering with local communities to develop collaborative, long-term solutions to complex social problems tailored to individual community needs.

    Place-based programs in Burnie, Tasmania have helped increase year 12 completion from 56 per cent in 2011 to 86 per cent in 2020, and helped reduce unemployment stemming from youth education and employment connection.

    Place-based work in Logan, Queensland over the past decade has helped child vulnerability fall significantly – from about 37 per cent of kids not doing as well as we would like in 2009 down to 29 per cent in the last Australian Early Development Census.

    PLACE will provide the forum and practical tools to replicate the successes of these initiatives in more communities and to enhance existing initiatives.

    This is the next step in the Albanese Government’s efforts to address complex social problems through place-based approaches, building on the $200 million Targeting Entrenched Disadvantage package in the 2023-24 Budget.

    This is all about ensuring no Australian is left behind or held back because of where they grew up.

    More information on PLACE can be found on the Department of Social Services website.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth:

    “Our Government is pleased to be part of this unique partnership with philanthropy to help empower communities and the people who live in them.

    The need for PLACE emerged from community, which called out the fragmented nature and widespread gaps in local capability of place-based work and the lack of shared learning and best practice solutions to make progress locally.

    I’m excited to see what comes out of PLACE to help those communities and Australians experiencing disadvantage that need it most to thrive.”

    Quotes attributable to Treasurer Jim Chalmers:

    “This is a passion of ours because too many kids in communities like mine are trapped in the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage.

    The best way to solve issues communities face is by listening to them, developing solutions led by local people.

    Place-based support has and can have a profound impact, and now more Australian communities will benefit from these kinds of initiatives.”

    Quotes attributable to CEO of the Paul Ramsay Foundation Professor Kristy Muir:

    “Place-based approaches recognise that local knowledge and experience are essential for creating thriving communities.

    PLACE will be a valuable mechanism for bringing together expertise and resources so we can achieve more through place-based projects, supporting programs and practitioners to create stronger outcomes for local communities. Philanthropy is proud to be partnering with government to help bring PLACE to life.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden in Press Gaggle | Baltimore,  MD

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    BMORE LICKSBaltimore, Maryland
    3:02 P.M. EDT
    Q    Mr. President, will you be watching the vice president’s speech tonight?
    THE PRESIDENT:  I will.
    Q    Why are you not attending?  It’s right there on the Ellipse?
    THE PRESIDENT:  Because it’s for her.  This is her night.
    Q    What do you expect to hear out of her tonight?  What’s the closing message from the vice president?
    THE PRESIDENT:  I’ll let you hear it first.
    Q    Mr. President, are you worried about the North Korean troops in Kursk, in Russia?
    THE PRESIDENT:  I am concerned about it, yes.
    Q    Should the Ukrainians strike — strike back?
    THE PRESIDENT:  If they cross into Ukraine, yes.
    3:03 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Information sought following crash north of Waipawa

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police investigating a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 2, north of Waipawa on Tuesday 29 October are wanting to speak to anyone who witnessed the crash.

    The crash was reported at about 7pm.

    Police would also like to speak to anyone who may have dashcam footage of a black Toyota hatchback or a silver Nissan sedan, who were both travelling in the northbound lane of State Highway 2.

    Initial enquiries suggest speed was not a factor in this crash. Thankfully nobody was injured.

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

    Please use the reference number 241029/0687.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge IPCA’s ruling in case of alleged inappropriate behaviour, Wellington

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police acknowledges the IPCA’s findings into the handling of allegations of inappropriate behaviour and sexual harassment between a junior officer and their senior supervisor in 2023.

    We also acknowledge that both Officers A and B raised concerns about the process, some aspects of which Police also agree could have been better.

    Wellington District Commander, Superintendent Corrie Parnell, says everyone who works for Police deserves to feel safe at work, and to be supported and kept informed fully through situations where they are involved in a workplace allegation and/or disciplinary process.

    “In this instance, Officer A’s response to the allegations was sought, support was offered to them and communication maintained throughout the process, and we did consider making alternate arrangements such as suspending or moving Officer A for the duration of the process.

    “We also maintain support was offered to Officer B through their new supervisor and another senior officer during the process, along with other welfare support,” Superintendent Parnell says.

    Police believe that, from a process perspective, Officer A was not unfairly prejudiced by the decision to commence a disciplinary process and form preliminary views.

    “In saying that, Police can always learn from situations like this, and we will continue to do so, to ensure our people are safe and feel safe at work, and are treated fairly,” Superintendent Parnell says.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –