NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat.

    New Zealand is far from immune. According to official advice in late March to Minister of Customs and Associate Minister of Police Casey Costello:

    The threat posed by organised crime in New Zealand has increased substantially in the last five years. Even with the best of will, New Zealand is losing the fight.

    New criminal groups are becoming active here – from Burma via Malaysia, to the Comancheros and Mongols gangs. Each brings new networks, violent tactics and the potential to corrupt institutions in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific.

    As of October 2024, the national gang list contained 9,460 names. While there is debate about the accuracy of the figures, gang membership has grown considerably. This is fuelled by the global trade in illegal drugs, with local criminal profits conservatively estimated at NZ$500–600 million annually.

    The one relative bright spot is that New Zealand hasn’t yet seen the levels of firearms-related violence driven by organised crime overseas. For example, European research shows the illegal trade in guns and drugs becoming increasingly intertwined.

    But waiting to catch up with those trends should not be an option. New Zealand already has a lot firearms. In the past six years, police conducting routine patrols have reportedly encountered 17,000 guns, or nearly ten every day, nationwide.

    In 2022, official figures showed, on average, approximately one firearms offence had been committed daily by gang members since 2019.

    The risk had become apparent much earlier, in 2016, with the discovery of fourteen military assault-grade AK47s and M16s in an Auckland house being used to manufacture methamphetamine. This year, another firearms cache, including assault rifles and semiautomatics, was found in Auckland.

    Progress and problems

    On the legal front, the main avenues New Zealand gangs use to obtain illegal firearms are being closed off. Under the Arms Act, members or close affiliates of a gang or an organised criminal group cannot be considered “fit and proper” to lawfully possess a firearm.

    These people may have specific firearms prohibition orders added against them, which allow the police additional powers to ensure firearms don’t fall into the wrong hands.

    The firearms registry is key to this. There are now more than 400,000 firearms fully accounted for, making it harder for so-called “straw buyers” to onsell them to gangs.

    Despite the progress, several challenges remain. In particular, the nature of the gun registry has been politicised, with the ACT and National parties disagreeing over a review of the system’s scope.

    Arguments over the types of firearms covered and which agency looks after the registry risk undermining its central purpose of preventing criminals getting guns.

    Theft of firearms from lawful owners needs more attention, too. Making it a specific offence – not just illegal possession – would be an added deterrent.

    Tighter and targeted policy

    Accounting for all the estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand will be very difficult – especially with the buy-back and amnesty for prohibited firearms after the Christchurch terror attack likely being far from complete.

    There are also tens of thousands of non-prohibited firearms in the hands of unlicensed but not necessarily criminal owners.

    Given all firearms must be registered by the end of August 2028, there should be another buy-back (at market rates) of all guns that should be on the register. This might be expensive, but the cost of opening a large pipeline to criminals would be worse.

    There needs to be greater investment in staff, education and technology within intelligence services and customs. This will help inform evidence-based policy, and support targeted law enforcement. A recent European Union initiative to track gun violence in real time is an example of how data can help in this way.

    New Zealand is a party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (and its two protocols on people trafficking and migrant smuggling). But it is not a party to a supplementary protocol covering the illicit manufacturing and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

    That should change. Amendments to the Arms Act since 2019 mean New Zealand law and policy fit the protocol perfectly. By joining, New Zealand could strengthen regional cooperation and increase public safety, given the scale of the problem and its potential to get worse.

    Alexander Gillespie is a member of the Ministerial Arms Advisory Group (MAAG). He is also the 2024 recipient of the Borrin Justice Fellowship, and is researching revision of the NZ Arms Act. His views and opinions here are independent of both the MAAG and the Borrin Foundation.

    – ref. Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it – https://theconversation.com/gangs-are-going-global-and-so-is-the-illegal-gun-trade-nz-can-do-more-to-fight-it-261827

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 25, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 25, 2025.

    Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat. New Zealand is far from immune. According

    Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu
    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”. The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change. The

    3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau, Research Fellow, Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies, Flinders University Conspiracy theories are a widespread occurrence in today’s hyper connected and polarised world. Events such as Brexit, the 2016 and 2020 United States presidential elections, and the COVID pandemic serve as potent reminders

    Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment. Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults

    Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Renwick, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Lincoln University, New Zealand RobynRoper/Getty Images The alarming rise of butter prices has become a real source of frustration for New Zealand consumers, as well as a topic of political recrimination. The issue has become so serious that Miles Hurrell, chief

    Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Carol Yepes/Getty Images Last week, the ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly received B Corp certification. This certification is designed to accredit for-profit businesses that provide social impact and environmental benefit. Established on the Gold Coast in

    AI will soon be able to audit all published research – what will that mean for public trust in science?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Kaurov, PhD Candidate in Science and Society, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Jamillah Knowles & Digit/Better Images of AI, CC BY-SA Self-correction is fundamental to science. One of its most important forms is peer review, when anonymous experts scrutinise research before it is

    Columbia’s $200M deal with Trump administration sets a precedent for other universities to bend to the government’s will
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Cantwell, Associate Professor of Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, Michigan State University Students at Columbia University in New York City on April 14, 2025. Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images Columbia University agreed on July 23, 2025, to pay a US$200 million fine to the federal government

    Miles Franklin 2025: Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities is a haunting comedy about tyranny. Is it the funniest winner ever?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joseph Steinberg, Forrest Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, English & Literary Studies, The University of Western Australia Siang Lu David Kelly/UQP The Miles Franklin judges described Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities, winner of the 2025 award, as “a grand farce and a haunting meditation on diaspora”. To my mind, it

    Keep fighting for a nuclear-free Pacific, Helen Clark warns Greenpeace over global storm clouds
    Asia Pacific Report Former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark warned activists and campaigners in a speech on the deck of the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior III last night to be wary of global “storm clouds” and the renewed existential threat of nuclear weapons. Speaking on her reflections on four decades after the bombing

    Business coalition calls for 25% cut in the cost of red tape by 2030
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Business, universities, and investors have jointly urged the federal government to commit to cutting the cost of red tape by 25% by 2030, in a submission for next month’s Economic Reform Roundtable. The push to reduce regulation is in line

    Grattan on Friday: net zero battle has net zero positives for Sussan Ley
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra There’s no other way of looking at it: Sussan Ley faces a diabolical situation with the debate over whether the Coalition should abandon the 2050 net zero emissions target. The issue is a microcosm of her wider problems. The Nationals,

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
    This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

    Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqueline Peel, Professor of Law and Director, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne Hilaire Bule/Getty Climate change “imperils all forms of life” and countries must tackle the problem or face consequences under international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has found. The court delivered its

    Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne Richard Hamilton Smith/Getty Two teenage boys were thrown from a jet ski during a ride on the Georges River in Sydney’s south this week. One died at the scene. The other

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Strong, Associate Professor, Music Industry, RMIT University

    On July 26, Triple J will broadcast the Hottest 100 Australian Songs, as voted by the public. While predictions for winners and even preemptive complaining about the shortlist are taking up column space and social media posts, there is an underlying question: what we mean when we talk about “Australian songs”?

    Do these songs sound a particular way? Do they express something about what it means to be Australian? Or is it purely about where the artist was born?

    Importantly, how will each of these factors influence voting?

    Can a song sound Australian?

    Musical cultures with their own unique sounds have existed on this continent for tens of thousands of years. The sound of the didgeridoo is often used as a shorthand to signify Australianness in films, television and, to a lesser extent, popular songs.

    However, the history of dispossession and genocidal practices that have accompanied settlement in Australia means much has been lost from these musical traditions. Indigenous performers have been actively excluded from the same music-making spaces where other songs we think of as “Australian” have been created.

    Since British colonisation in the late 18th century, Australian music has also been part of global music flows. Settlers arrived with songs and musical influences from their own cultures. Jazz, country, rock and pop inspired local versions of these genres.

    But is there anything truly Australian about such music, or is it just imitation? And this conundrum connects to wider issues of Australia’s identity debated during the 20th century: was it a country, or still just a colony?

    Back in the 1970s, this question was also on then prime minister Gough Whitlams’s mind. After his election in 1972, Whitlam gave a huge boost to funding for cultural and creative activities to “help establish and express an Australian identity through the arts”, as part of a suite of nation-building activities.

    Building the pub rock canon

    The dirty guitar sounds of the pub rock scene of the 1970s, with its associated subcultures, are sometimes said to be Australia’s first distinct offering in post-rock ‘n’ roll music.

    This was followed by the rise of bands such as Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel, who found success not just by drawing on more local sounds, but also by referencing Australian places, politics and cultures.

    The Whitlam government’s broadcasting reforms meant this music had homes on community radio and the new youth station 2JJ (now Triple J).

    The bands from this era have come to make up what might be described as the Oz rock canon – a collection of works seen to make up the “best” of the art form. Canons exert a strong influence over how we assess music, meaning these bands will probably appear in the tomorrow’s countdown.

    This idea of the rock canon is almost perfectly reflected in the ten entries by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to tomorrow’s countdown. His selection of almost 100% white male musicians encapsulates the exclusionary nature rock of this period.

    The fact that our last two prime ministers, despite being from opposite sides of politics, produced very similar lists, gives us insight into the persistence of this canon, and what ideas about “Australian culture” circulate in the halls of power.

    It’s questionable whether any of the bands or songs on Albanese’s list could be said to have a coherent “Australian” sound, yet they have come to hold a place in the national imagination.

    Changing canons and new sounds

    Triple J’s Hottest 100 of All Time in 2009 was seen as a surprising recapitulation of the (male) rock canon, especially given the station’s otherwise diverse playlists.

    However, the highest-placed Australian song on the list was The Nosebleed Section by Hilltop Hoods, representing the recent and rapid rise of Aussie hip-hop.

    The 2011 Hottest 100 Australian Albums of All Time (the closest forerunner to the current poll) further updated the canon, with Powderfinger’s Odyssey Number Five (2000) in the top spot, and other top ten entries by electronic groups The Presets and The Avalanches.

    Nonetheless, the canon remained male dominated, with the highest woman-fronted album being Missy Higgins’s The Sound of White (2004) at number 29.

    The past decade has seen a boom in Indigenous representation on Australian airwaves and stages, with artists such as Thelma Plum, Barkaa, A.B. Original and Baker Boy.

    These artists use a range of genres and styles to express pride in their Indigeneity, and critique Australian identity. A.B. Original’s song January 26 was number 17 in 2016’s Hottest 100 countdown. This was also the last year Triple J chose this date for its annual broadcast, speaking to the power of music to reflect – and even inform – popular sentiment.

    Given recent national debates, a strong contender for the upcoming poll is Treaty (Radio Mix) by Yothu Yindi (which ranked number 11 of all time in 1991). These shifts show how canons can be unsettled over time.

    What if we don’t all agree?

    Recently, Creative Australia came under fire for trying to stifle Khaled Sabsabi’s politically-informed art in the interests of “social cohesion”.

    But others pointed out art provides crucial space for challenging prevailing ideas, and that social cohesion in a democracy is not about reaching complete agreement, but being able to handle disagreement.

    A Hottest 100 that reflects the diversity and even the tensions in Australian society may provoke arguments, but it is in these spaces that we can reflect on what it means to live on these lands.

    Ben Green receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Australasian Performing Right Association.

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

    – ref. What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-song-australian-triple-js-hottest-100-reignites-a-bigger-question-of-national-identity-261560

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China Railway Express key link for China-Europe trade

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

    This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. The China-Europe Railway Express has now surpassed 110,000 trips, becoming a vital golden corridor linking Asia and Europe. The service currently reaches 229 cities across 26 European countries and over 100 cities in 11 Asian nations. It is without a doubt a key engine of Eurasian trade. CGTN’s Huang Yaohui has more.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cambodia, Thailand trade accusations

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

    Cambodia and Thailand on Thursday traded accusations following the escalating situation along the border areas.

    Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Thursday urged the United Nations Security Council to convene an urgent meeting to discuss the matter.

    In a letter to Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, whose country assumed the rotating presidency of the Security Council for July, Hun Manet said that since early Thursday, Thai armed forces have launched attacks on Cambodian positions.

    The attacks violated fundamental principles of international law, he said.

    Hun Manet said Cambodia calls on Thailand to immediately cease all hostilities, withdraw its forces to its side of the border, and refrain from any further provocative actions which could escalate the situation.

    On Thursday, Thailand’s foreign ministry said the Thai government called on Cambodia to take responsibility for the incidents, cease attacks against civilian and military targets, and stop all actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty.

    Otherwise, said the Thai foreign ministry in a statement, the Thai side is prepared to intensify self-defense measures in accordance with international law and relevant principles.

    The Thai embassy in Cambodia has urged Thai nationals to leave Cambodia.

    The situation escalated following skirmishes which began Thursday morning when Thai and Cambodian troops exchanged fire at a disputed area.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll in Thailand rises to 14 in border clashes with Cambodia: Official

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

    Evacuated residents are pictured in Surin Province, Thailand, following Thailand-Cambodia border clash on July 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fourteen Thai people were killed and 46 others injured in military clashes near the Thailand-Cambodia border as of 9:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, the deputy spokesperson of the Ministry of Public Health said.

    Cambodia had not released any information on its casualties as of Thursday evening.

    The situation escalated following skirmishes that began Thursday morning. Each of the two sides blamed the other side for violating international law.

    Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged the UN Security Council to convene an urgent meeting to discuss the matter.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Barcelona’s Ter Stegen to undergo back surgery

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

    Marc-Andre ter Stegen will be out for at least three months after the FC Barcelona goalkeeper announced on Thursday that he will undergo surgery for a back injury.

    FC Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen (3rd L) saves the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group F match between FC Barcelona and Inter Milan in Barcelona, Spain, Oct. 2, 2019. (Xinhua/Joan Gosa)

    The news comes at a difficult time for the German international, who missed nearly all of last season with a torn cruciate knee ligament.

    Barcelona signed Wojciech Szczesny to cover his absence and renewed the Polish goalkeeper’s contract earlier this month. The club has also activated the 25 million euros release clause to bring in Joan Garcia from Espanyol, casting doubt on ter Stegen’s place in the squad as the club looks to trim its wage bill.

    “Today is a personally difficult day for me,” ter Stegen wrote on Instagram, adding that he felt “in very good shape, although unfortunately I am not free from pain.”

    “After intensive discussions with the FC Barcelona medical team and external experts, the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery.”

    This will be the goalkeeper’s second back operation. He noted that he missed 66 days after the first procedure, but that “this time, the doctors believe about three months will be necessary as a precaution, to avoid any risks.”

    The operation means ter Stegen will be sidelined until at least the end of October, making it unlikely that Barcelona will register him in the first-team squad for the first half of the season. It also all but rules out a transfer before the window reopens in January 2026.

    Meanwhile, Barcelona’s planned tour of Asia is in doubt after the squad failed to fly to Japan on Thursday as scheduled, due to unresolved issues with the tour contract. The itinerary includes one match in Japan and two in South Korea.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: SIMPPLE Ltd. Fully Regains Compliance with Nasdaq’s Continued Listing Requirements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIMPPLE Ltd. (NASDAQ: SPPL) (“SIMPPLE” or “the Company”), a leading technology provider and innovator in the facilities management (FM) sector, today announced that it has received notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) notifying the Company that the Company has regained compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s minimum stockholders’ equity requirement and annual shareholder meeting requirement, as required by Nasdaq Listing Rules.

    As previously reported in the Company’s Form 6-K dated January 21, 2025, the Company did not comply with the minimum stockholders’ equity of $2,500,000 as required for continued listing on Nasdaq set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1).

    The Company has since filed a Form 6-K dated July 7, 2025, stating that the Company had executed a series of securities purchase agreements with investors to raise aggregate gross proceeds of $2.0 million resulting from the sale of 1,333,334 shares through a private investment in public equity (PIPE). As a result of the closing of the private placement on June 30, 2025, the Company’s shareholders’ equity exceeded $2.5 million. SIMPPLE intends to use the net proceeds from the PIPE to advance development of its technologies, extensive pipeline, and global expansion.

    On July 22, 2025, Nasdaq notified the Company that the Company complies with the Listing Rule 5550(b)(1), subject to the Company’s disclosure in a Form 6-K no later than July 25, 2025, providing a description of the completed transaction or event that enabled the Company to satisfy the stockholders’ equity requirement for continued listing. Nasdaq will continue to monitor the Company’s ongoing compliance with the stockholders’ equity requirement and, if at the time of its next periodic report, the Company does not evidence compliance, it may be subject to delisting. At that time, Staff will provide written notification to the Company, which may then appeal Staff’s determination to a Hearings Panel.

    “We are pleased to have successfully regained compliance with Nasdaq’s continued listing requirements and consider this latest notification a key milestone that underscores our broader business objectives” said Norman Schroeder, SIMIPPLE’s chief executive. “We believe it’s an important outcome that goes to SIMPPLE’s credibility, and best interest of our valued investors, partners, and stakeholders, as we continue to invest in our technology advancements and global growth objectives.”

    The Company will continue to monitor its ongoing compliance with all applicable Nasdaq listing standards and will provide further updates as and when required.

    About SIMPPLE LTD.

    Headquartered in Singapore, SIMPPLE LTD. is an advanced technology solution provider in the emerging PropTech space, focused on helping facilities owners and managers manage facilities autonomously. Founded in 2016, the Company has a strong foothold in the Singapore facilities management market, serving over 60 clients in both the public and private sectors and extending out of Singapore into Australia and the Middle East. The Company has developed its proprietary SIMPPLE Ecosystem, to create an automated workforce management tool for building maintenance, surveillance and cleaning comprised of a mix of software and hardware solutions such as robotics (both cleaning and security) and Internet-of-Things (“IoT”) devices. 

    For more information on SIMPPLE, please visit: https://www.simpple.ai

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. In addition, from time to time, we or our representatives may make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. We base these forward-looking statements on our expectations and projections about future events, which we derive from the information currently available to us. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future performance, including: our financial performance and projections; our growth in revenue and earnings; and our business prospects and opportunities. You can identify forward-looking statements by those that are not historical in nature, particularly those that use terminology such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “contemplates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projected,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “hopes” or the negative of these or similar terms. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including: our ability to change the direction of the Company; our ability to keep pace with new technology and changing market needs; and the competitive environment of our business. These and other factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement.

    Forward-looking statements are only predictions. The forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives, may not occur, and actual events and results may differ materially and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions about us. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives might not occur.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Hip hip hooray – government finally updates antiquated funding formula – Genaro

    Source:  General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

    25 July 2025 – General practice owners are delighted that the Government is modernising the way it funds community doctors to better reflect the needs of patients.

    Cabinet has broadened the range of factors which influence funding from just age and sex, to include deprivation, multi-morbidity, and rurality.

    “The capitation system, which determines how general practices are funded, hasn’t been meaningfully updated since it was established in 2002,” says Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

    “Despite numerous reviews and the widely supported recommendations of the 2022 Sapere report, little progress had been made. This lack of action by successive governments perpetuates inequities and undermines the sustainability of primary care.”

    “GenPro has been calling for a funding review for years, so hats off to Health Minister Simeon Brown for finally getting it done and implemented from July next year.

    “In particular we support the addition of funding criteria such as deprivation – a marker of high health needs – and rurality, as rural areas have less access to health services under the current formula. GenPro also supports regular updates of capitation every five years, starting in 2028.

    “GenPro also welcomes Minister Brown’s announcement of increased funding to support general practitioners in training, and putting more structure around feedback from the sector. We invite him to work with GenPro to design a health target so we can see patients as soon as we can.

    “GenPro is also pleased with the announcement of a group to advise the minister on primary care. We believe that decisions made by successive ministers have suffered from poor advice from the Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand leading to the current workforce and funding crisis affecting General Practice. Better advice will be essential to a high performing system in the future.

    “These are all positive signs and, along with recent funding increases announced in the Budget, indicate improvements that will make a real difference for patients.”

    GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – ProCare welcomes announcement from Minister to strengthen primary care funding and access

    Source: ProCare

    Leading healthcare provider, ProCare, has today welcomed the announcement from Health Minister Simeon Brown which outlines a number of initiatives aimed at improving access to primary care, particularly in rural and high-needs communities.

    The proposed update to the capitation funding model—set to take effect from 1 July 2026—is particularly encouraging.

    Bindi Norwell, Chief Executive at ProCare says: “The current model has been long overdue for reform. By factoring in multimorbidity, rurality, and socioeconomic deprivation, the new approach promises to better reflect the realities faced by general practices and the whānau and communities they serve.

    “This is a positive step forward for the health system and for patients across Aotearoa, and we’re pleased to see the Government recognising the critical role primary care plays in delivering timely, equitable, and community-based healthcare,” continues Norwell.

    “Additionally, the Minister stated that some practices would not see a benefit from re-weighting capitation, and whilst this might be so, we will be advocating hard to make sure additional money is invested in the new formula to avoid any practices going backwards through this change. It would be a shame to lose ground after such a successful PSAAP round only a month ago”

    ProCare also supports the introduction of a new national health target to ensure more than 80 percent of people can access a GP within one week.

    “As we’ve said time and time again, primary care is the fence at the top of the cliff, rather than the ambulance at the bottom. Timely access to care is essential for preventing more serious health issues and reducing pressure on hospitals. We look forward to working with the Government to help shape this target in a way that is both ambitious and achievable, and that works for both patients and practices,” says Norwell.

    “We also remain committed to recognising and mitigating unintended consequences of targets on the health system. We are well aware of issues when similar targets have been introduced in hospitals in NZ, and overseas in general practice, and will work on our members’ behalf to mitigate these”.

    The additional investment in general practice training is another welcome move.

    “Funding the full pathway for GPEP trainees is an absolute game-changer. We know how difficult financially it is for GPEPs, and anything that can be done to ease the financial burden and cover costs will be welcomed by those trainees.

    “The funding for GPEPs also s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – PM must act to end tobacco industry interference in his Government – Health Coalition

    Source: Health Coalition Aotearoa

    Health Coalition Aotearoa is calling on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to show leadership and strip NZ First of the tobacco and vaping portfolio, following damning revelations of collusion between NZ First and tobacco giant Philip Morris.

    A detailed RNZ investigation uncovered documents showing Philip Morris provided NZ First with a draft piece of regulation which the Deputy Prime Minister at the time Winston Peters supported.
    Winston Peters was described by JUUL representatives as “industry friendly and highly geared towards commercial interests.” NZ First reportedly assured Philip Morris they would “put that draft into the policy mix.”
    The World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which New Zealand signed in 2005, explicitly warns of the “irreconcilable conflict” between the goals of public health and the interests of the tobacco industry. Under this treaty, governments must protect health policy from tobacco industry interference.
    “By allowing tobacco industry influence, this Government is breaching its obligations under the World Health Organization convention, says Professor Chris Bullen, Health Coalition Aotearoa tobacco spokesperson and University of Auckland professor.
    “These documents confirm what many have long feared: tobacco companies are influencing health policy in Aotearoa. The Prime Minister must demonstrate he expects the highest standards of integrity from his Ministers and reallocate the tobacco and vaping portfolio,” says Professor Bullen.
    Tobacco companies’ intensive and covert lobbying comes as no surprise. However, evidence NZ First MPs have been complicit in these arrangements will shock the public, who expect higher standards from politicians.
    The evidence in the media today gives an explicit example of how officials are exposed to communications, meetings and relationships with a powerful industry on policy that is supposed to be protecting public health. And yet another example of this Government favouring commercial interests over people’s lives and health.
    Winston Peters told reporters yesterday “I’ve always been industry friendly”. Matching rhetoric of NZ First Minister Shane Jones last year confirmed Philip Morris External Relations Manager Api Dawson was involved in ‘soundings’ about the party’s tobacco policy.
    Professor Bullen says the revelations offer Luxon a clear opportunity to put New Zealanders’ health ahead of dirty politics.
    “This is a test of leadership. He must reassign the tobacco and vaping portfolio to someone with no ties to the industry. New Zealanders expect transparency and a Government that acts with integrity.
    “The Government has already damaged Aotearoa New Zealand’s international standing by repealing popular, widely acclaimed smokefree measures – a move that has seen a stall in the decline of smoking prevalence, while inequities persist.
    “The RNZ revelations show serious lack of judgement by this Government. It must end now. We are spending billions treating preventable diseases caused by smoking, while politicians allow the industry to keep selling the products that cause these harms. It’s reckless and it’s wrong,” says Professor Bullen.
    Health Coalition Aotearoa is calling for:

    • Immediate reassignment of the tobacco and vaping portfolio from NZ First to a politician free of any ties to the industry, and who will prioritise New Zealanders’ health over corporate profits.
    • The Ministry of Health to exclude the nicotine industry from policy processes, interact only when necessary, and document all interactions in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, to which Aotearoa is a Party.
    • Stronger rules on lobbying and conflicts of interest across government. Health Coalition Aotearoa is running a campaign to mitigate the harmful impact of industry involvement in public health policy.
    • The Government to prioritise the advice and expertise of those working to reduce tobacco and nicotine harm when changing tobacco policies.
    “All the current Government’s coalition parties have links to the tobacco industry. That must end,” said Professor Bullen. “The Prime Minister has a choice: run a government based on integrity or stoop to a new level of dirty politics. He must act now.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Does artificial intelligence help uni students learn smarter or just faster?

    Source:

    25 July 2025

    New research from the University of South Australia has revealed that tertiary students’ learning habits are deeply connected to how they engage with generative artificial intelligence tools.

    Surveying 435 students from Australia and Canada, the study investigated how confidence, motivation, and effort regulation influence perceptions of AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT.

    Researchers found that self-regulated learning skills play a significant role in whether students adopt AI as a meaningful learning aid or merely a quick solution for academic tasks.

    The findings show that university students who use AI for academic purposes benefit more than those using it for work or personal tasks. They also show that student who feel confident in their abilities are more likely to use Ai to benefit their learning.

    Lead researcher, UniSA’s Associate Professor Negin Mirriahi, says that the way students approach AI tools reflects their broader learning strategies.

    “Some students see AI as a shortcut, using it to finish assignments more quickly, but our research suggests that those with strong self-regulation skills actually harness it for deeper learning,” Assoc Prof Negin Mirriahi says.

    “It’s not just about speed; it’s about how students engage with knowledge.

    “When students feel confident in their capabilities, they are more likely to engage with and effectively use technological tools.”

    The study highlights a distinction between students who use AI for university studies and those who engage with it for non-academic purposes such as work or entertainment.

    Those using AI for learning were more likely to find it useful, reinforcing the connection between structured self-regulation and effective AI adoption.

    Assoc Prof Mirriahi says the findings should inform how universities integrate AI into education.

    “Artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education, and our study shows that students who are motivated and confident in their learning benefit the most from AI tools,” she says.

    “The challenge for universities is to ensure AI fosters independent thinking rather than becoming a crutch for students who lack self-regulation.

    “We need to help students develop the skills to critically engage with AI, not just rely on it for convenience.”

    The researchers say that universities should model AI use in classrooms, demonstrating ways that students can engage with the technology to strengthen their critical thinking and independent learning.

    “We need to see more engagement with AI in university environments, so that teachers can demonstrate how AI can benefit student learning,” Assoc Prof Mirriahi says.

    “This might include showcasing how AI can generate ideas, explain complex concepts, or even critique their work.

    “Importantly, through direct and guided engagement, students will learn how they can confidently and responsibly engage with AI to enhance their learning experiences, without cheating.”

    Study co-author, UniSA’s Associate Professor Vitomir Kovanović, says that while AI adoption is increasing, there is a risk that some students may rely on it superficially, rather than using it to refine study skills and deepen understanding.

    “The concern isn’t just whether students use AI, it’s about how they use it,” Assoc Prof Kovanović says.
    “If they approach AI critically and actively evaluate its responses, they can enhance their learning.

    “But if AI simply becomes a shortcut to completing tasks, we may see gaps in how students develop their problem-solving skills.”

    Assoc Prof Kovanović says that universities should focus on fostering self-efficacy and effort regulation in students.

    “Students who have confidence in their learning abilities and persist through challenges tend to find AI genuinely useful,” he says.

    “Universities must equip students with strategies to use AI effectively so that it enhances their critical thinking, rather than replacing it.

    “AI is already embedded in education, and it’s only going to become more prevalent. Our responsibility is to ensure students are equipped with the right strategies to navigate it effectively.”

    ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

    The full paper is available here: Mirriahi, N., Marrone, R., Barthakur, A., Gabriel, F., Colton, J., Yeung, T. N., Arthur, P., & Kovanovic, V. (2025). The relationship between students’ self-regulated learning skills and technology acceptance of GenAI. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology.

    ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:  Associate Professor Negin Mirriahi E: Negin.Mirriahi@unisa.edu.au
    Associate Professor Vitomir Kovanović E: Vitomir.Kovanovic@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia and Business – Intelligent Monitoring Group Results

    Source: Intelligent Monitoring Group

    Quarterly Activity Report and Appendix 4C

    Quarter ended 30 June 2025 – Intelligent Monitoring Group Limited (“Intelligent Monitoring”, “IMG” or “the Company”) (ASX: IMB) is pleased to provide its Quarterly Market Activity Update.

    Highlights

    • Reported net operating cash flow of $17.0m for 4Q 2025
    • First “clean” quarter post-debt refinance and acquisitions. 
    • Underlying operating cash flow for FY25 of $32.4m pre-refinancing, acquisition, and ADT/JCI transition costs
    • Unaudited EBITDA for FY25 $38.6m – timing of several large service contracts outstanding and expected early in FY26. Between $38-40m guidance
    • Unaudited underlying earnings growth of +8.2% for FY25
    • $24.0m cash in bank plus $35m acquisition facility available
    • IMG to prepare an on-market share buy-back capability

    Financial Update

    IMG is pleased to report an operating cash flow of $17.0m for 4Q FY25. This result confirms and validates the inherent cash flow strength of IMG.

    Cash in the bank grew $11.1m in the quarter.

    As expected, Q4 saw a strong step upward, driven by growth in underlying earnings and the cessation of non-recurring costs, including the earlier refinancing, ADT transition, and M&A-related costs and working capital drags.

    Unaudited underlying full year EBITDA of $38.6m, whilst around the middle of the guidance range, was a little behind the company’s target as some work under discussion and pending award took longer than expected to be realised. Whilst disappointing, the shortfall is primarily timing related, and this work contributes to a healthy and growing pipeline for FY26. The acquisition of DVL (Dec) and Kobe (March) contributed above expectations.

    Underlying earnings growth on FY24 (i.e. before acquisitions and adjusted for prior period capitalisation policies) was 8.2%. The business run rate in Q4, combined with the pipeline in hand, anticipates a strong growth result in FY26.

    The company will give further FY26 guidance at its AGM in late October.

    The underlying operating cash flow for the year was $32.4m, reflecting a year of investment in new service lines (and related products) and working capital, as DVL and Kobe were acquired and integrated into the IMG fold.

    Outside of further inventory or growth investments, EBITDA and operating cash flow are expected to converge closer to each other during FY26.

    Investing cashflow for the quarter was $4.0m with the majority (75%) relating to the NZ 4G telephony upgrade program (which was at its peak level during the half and is expected to tail off over the next six months). Other capital expenditures were less than $1m including project-related IT costs of $0.5m.

    In light of the strong and reliable cash flows and growing cash balance, the IMG board has determined to put in place the mechanics for an on-market share buyback, with Morgans Financial to be appointed as manager. It will assess the use of this facility against all other capital allocation options over coming periods to maximise shareholder returns and value creation.

    Operational and Management Comment

    The business remained highly productive during the fourth quarter.

    During Q4:

    IMG refined its go-to-market strategy in Australia to ADT: Direct, Signature: Industry Partnerships, and IMS: Bureau/Wholesale provider of monitoring services.

    Combined its service and installation tech base in Australia under a program #techsunite. Creating one of, if not the biggest, groupings of security technicians across Australia and NZ.

    Created a new internal service and operational model in Australia around shared HR, IT, Monitoring, and operations, employing new leaders in HR and Procurement, in particular.  

    Completed the successful introduction of ADT Guard across the Australian and NZ ADT business.  The group has assisted the police in apprehending over 30 criminals in the act, due to this new, highly effective service. It is now protecting over 300 sites around Australia.

    We are also immensely proud to announce that, after three years of hard work and platform investment and integration, IMG subsidiary Intelligent Monitoring Solutions (IMS) has achieved an ASIAL certified A1/R1A redundant grading in both its IMS control rooms.

    With instantaneous backup in case one room fails, IMS is at the top of the industry and in a position that few will be able to match. This provides a critical advantage to all IMS security partners, and we will seek to utilise this further with the launch of the Signature Security partner program for select partners in August.

    IMG has had a remarkable 2025 financial year.  With a refinanced balance sheet, positive operational cash flow, clear target markets, and a strong competitive position, IMG is now well positioned to grow and generate increasing returns for shareholders in FY26 and beyond.

    We look forward to providing further details at the full-year results release and presentation, scheduled for 26 August 2025.

    For more information please visit: https://intelligentmonitoringgroup.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia and Business – Intelligent Monitoring Group Results

    Source: Intelligent Monitoring Group

    Quarterly Activity Report and Appendix 4C

    Quarter ended 30 June 2025 – Intelligent Monitoring Group Limited (“Intelligent Monitoring”, “IMG” or “the Company”) (ASX: IMB) is pleased to provide its Quarterly Market Activity Update.

    Highlights

    • Reported net operating cash flow of $17.0m for 4Q 2025
    • First “clean” quarter post-debt refinance and acquisitions. 
    • Underlying operating cash flow for FY25 of $32.4m pre-refinancing, acquisition, and ADT/JCI transition costs
    • Unaudited EBITDA for FY25 $38.6m – timing of several large service contracts outstanding and expected early in FY26. Between $38-40m guidance
    • Unaudited underlying earnings growth of +8.2% for FY25
    • $24.0m cash in bank plus $35m acquisition facility available
    • IMG to prepare an on-market share buy-back capability

    Financial Update

    IMG is pleased to report an operating cash flow of $17.0m for 4Q FY25. This result confirms and validates the inherent cash flow strength of IMG.

    Cash in the bank grew $11.1m in the quarter.

    As expected, Q4 saw a strong step upward, driven by growth in underlying earnings and the cessation of non-recurring costs, including the earlier refinancing, ADT transition, and M&A-related costs and working capital drags.

    Unaudited underlying full year EBITDA of $38.6m, whilst around the middle of the guidance range, was a little behind the company’s target as some work under discussion and pending award took longer than expected to be realised. Whilst disappointing, the shortfall is primarily timing related, and this work contributes to a healthy and growing pipeline for FY26. The acquisition of DVL (Dec) and Kobe (March) contributed above expectations.

    Underlying earnings growth on FY24 (i.e. before acquisitions and adjusted for prior period capitalisation policies) was 8.2%. The business run rate in Q4, combined with the pipeline in hand, anticipates a strong growth result in FY26.

    The company will give further FY26 guidance at its AGM in late October.

    The underlying operating cash flow for the year was $32.4m, reflecting a year of investment in new service lines (and related products) and working capital, as DVL and Kobe were acquired and integrated into the IMG fold.

    Outside of further inventory or growth investments, EBITDA and operating cash flow are expected to converge closer to each other during FY26.

    Investing cashflow for the quarter was $4.0m with the majority (75%) relating to the NZ 4G telephony upgrade program (which was at its peak level during the half and is expected to tail off over the next six months). Other capital expenditures were less than $1m including project-related IT costs of $0.5m.

    In light of the strong and reliable cash flows and growing cash balance, the IMG board has determined to put in place the mechanics for an on-market share buyback, with Morgans Financial to be appointed as manager. It will assess the use of this facility against all other capital allocation options over coming periods to maximise shareholder returns and value creation.

    Operational and Management Comment

    The business remained highly productive during the fourth quarter.

    During Q4:

    IMG refined its go-to-market strategy in Australia to ADT: Direct, Signature: Industry Partnerships, and IMS: Bureau/Wholesale provider of monitoring services.

    Combined its service and installation tech base in Australia under a program #techsunite. Creating one of, if not the biggest, groupings of security technicians across Australia and NZ.

    Created a new internal service and operational model in Australia around shared HR, IT, Monitoring, and operations, employing new leaders in HR and Procurement, in particular.  

    Completed the successful introduction of ADT Guard across the Australian and NZ ADT business.  The group has assisted the police in apprehending over 30 criminals in the act, due to this new, highly effective service. It is now protecting over 300 sites around Australia.

    We are also immensely proud to announce that, after three years of hard work and platform investment and integration, IMG subsidiary Intelligent Monitoring Solutions (IMS) has achieved an ASIAL certified A1/R1A redundant grading in both its IMS control rooms.

    With instantaneous backup in case one room fails, IMS is at the top of the industry and in a position that few will be able to match. This provides a critical advantage to all IMS security partners, and we will seek to utilise this further with the launch of the Signature Security partner program for select partners in August.

    IMG has had a remarkable 2025 financial year.  With a refinanced balance sheet, positive operational cash flow, clear target markets, and a strong competitive position, IMG is now well positioned to grow and generate increasing returns for shareholders in FY26 and beyond.

    We look forward to providing further details at the full-year results release and presentation, scheduled for 26 August 2025.

    For more information please visit: https://intelligentmonitoringgroup.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Case Opposes Foreign Affairs Funding Measure That Weakens National Security By Slashing Critical Foreign Assistance Efforts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted in Committee against the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations bill that would our nation’s foreign affairs programs and agencies by 22%  

    This measure funds (or should fund) U.S. foreign policy efforts, including the Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), U.S. contributions to the United Nations and its agencies and more.  

    The bill historically provides for international diplomatic presence and outreach as well as foreign assistance in public health, basic education, educational and cultural exchanges, climate change and more. The bill’s proposed FY 2026 discretionary funding level is $46.2 billion. This is a decrease of $13 billion (22 percent) from the FY 2025 enacted level.  

    “While this measure did fund many critical Hawai‘i and Indo-Pacific priorities I requested, I had to vote against it because on balance it weakens our global leadership when the world most needs our continued full engagement,” said Case.

    Case spoke in Committee in opposition to the measure, saying it would “split our alliances, partnerships and friendships and cast our country as an unreliable partner”, allowing the People’s Republic of China to fill voids left by U.S. disengagement. His remarks are here.

    The bill continues the Trump administration’s gutting of U.S. foreign assistance across a broad array of efforts, including: 

    ·         Codifying the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development. 

    ·         Cutting international humanitarian aid by 42% in activities previously funded under International Disaster Assistance and Migration and Refugee Affairs.  

    ·         Cutting U.S. bilateral economic assistance by 21% in activities previously funded under Development Assistance, Economic Support Fund and other accounts.  

    ·         Creating a $1.7 billion transactional slush fund for the Trump administration called the “America First Opportunity Fund” with no effective congressional oversight.  

    However, Case did welcome support in the bill for various of his requests related to Hawai‘i and the Indo-Pacific, especially $16.7 million for the East-West Center in Honolulu.

    “As we continue to focus on the growing influence of the PRC in the Indo-Pacific, our national security interests must also include diplomatic engagement and assistance to promote peace and diplomacy in the region,” said Case. “Continued funding for our East-West Center and other world-leading institutions in Hawai‘i supports our country’s standing in an area widely seen as the most dynamic and critical on earth.” 

    “For all seven of my years on Appropriations, I have ranked full funding for the Center at the top of my annual requests to my committee because I believe not only in the Center’s invaluable work but in what it represents for Hawaii’s central role in the Asia-Pacific and in the broader benefits that bring high-quality … jobs to our overall economy,” he said.

    “Though we still have a long way to go this appropriations year, I’m grateful that my House colleagues have again favorably considered my request, especially when the President’s budget proposed zero funding for the Center.” 

    Other bill provisions requested by Case include:

    ·         $1.8 billion for the implementation of the Indo-Pacific Strategy, which promotes peace, prosperity and democracy in the region. 

    ·         $175 million for the Pacific Islands region, the same as FY 2025 enacted levels.  

    ·         $3 million for the Advancing Port Enhancement and Customs Security program in the Pacific Islands.  

    ·         Funding for Pacific Islands exchange programs, with a focus on partnering with universities in Pacific locations.  

    ·         Funding for small grants programs to assist local communities across the Pacific Islands.  

    ·         Funding for a Flexible Microfinance Facility for the Pacific Islands, launched by the Development Finance Corporation with the Department of State. 

    ·         Report language supporting funding for free and open media in the Pacific.  

    ·         Funding for trade capacity-building activities in the Pacific Islands. 

    ·         Report language supporting the Peace Corps’ expansion in the Pacific. 

    ·         Funding for a demand-driven initiative to diversify trade opportunities in the Pacific Islands.  

    ·         Language requiring a report on ways to strengthen U.S. trade and investment with the Pacific Islands.  

    ·         Funding for unexploded ordinance removal in the Pacific Islands, including Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.  

    ·         Language requiring a strategy for faith-based engagement for assistance in the Pacific Islands.  

    The bill further includes funding for several foreign policy programs supported by Case, although some at unacceptably low levels. Among them are: 

    ·         $411 million for the Peace Corps, a decrease of $20 million from FY 2025. 

    ·         $411 million for peacekeeping operations, the same as FY 2025. 

    ·         $562.3 million to support international peacekeeping activities, a decrease of $838 million. 

    ·         $701 million for educational and cultural exchange programs, which include the Fulbright programs, a decrease of more than $40 million. 

    ·         $310 million for contributions to international organizations, a decrease of $1.2 billion. 

    ·         $1.5 billion for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, a decrease of $200 million. 

    ·         $915 million for maternal and child health programs. 

    A summary of the bill is available here.  

    This is the ninth of twelve separate bills developed and approved by the Appropriations Committee that would fund the federal government at some $1.6 trillion for FY 2026 commencing October 1st of this year. The bill now moves on to the full House of Representatives for its consideration.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Consultation on reforms to non-compete clauses to boost wages and productivity

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    The Government is taking the next step in reforming non‑compete clauses that are holding back Australian workers from switching to better, higher‑paying jobs.

    Today we are releasing a consultation paper to gather insights and feedback from workers, business and the broader community about how we ban non‑compete clauses to boost productivity and wages across the Australian economy.

    Reforming non‑compete clauses is about encouraging aspiration, unlocking opportunity, lifting wages for working people, and making Australia’s economy more dynamic and competitive.

    Right now, more than three million Australian workers are covered by these clauses, including childcare workers, construction workers, disability support workers and hairdressers.

    Workers should not be handcuffed to their current job when there are better opportunities available for them and that’s what these reforms address.

    Research suggests a ban on non‑competes could lift the wages of affected workers by up to four per cent, or about $2,500 per year for a worker on median wages.

    Productivity Commission modelling suggests the changes could improve productivity and add $5 billion or 0.2 per cent to GDP annually, as well as reduce inflation.

    The Government committed to consult on policy details to support these reforms and to seek views on whether further changes are required to other worker restraints and what these changes could look like.

    The consultation paper also seeks views on complementary reforms to close loopholes in Australia’s competition laws that allow businesses to make anti‑competitive agreements that cap workers’ wages or block staff from being hired by competitors.

    This important step is just one part of the government’s broad and ambitious competition agenda, including progressing a national licensing scheme for electrical trades people.

    Both changes form part of a second tranche of reforms under the Government’s revitalised National Competition Policy.

    They are part of the Albanese Government’s economic plan to help workers earn more and keep more of what they earn, and build a stronger and more productive economy.

    The feedback we receive from this consultation will be used to inform legislation for these important reforms.

    Submissions can be made online on the Treasury consultation hub until 5 September 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ratepayers win in collaboration over Local Water

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Hamilton City and Waikato District Councils have delivered the first multi council water services delivery plan, an achievement that will be welcomed by all ratepayers, says Local Government Minister Simon Watts.

    “We have been very clear that local government needs to focus on core business and I am delighted that these two councils are the first to embrace the benefits to ratepayers of collaboration under Local Water Done Well.

    “Not only does this mean safe and reliable drinking and wastewater, it means cost increases necessary to fund vital infrastructure are more affordable for ratepayers.

    “This collaboration means 280,000 New Zealanders served by the combined local organisation will be assured of the ongoing financial sustainability of their water services at affordable cost. 

    “Investing in infrastructure is critical for our communities’ success and critical for growth. This plan significantly boosts investment in Hamilton and Waikato District’s water services infrastructure over the next decade, supporting new housing, businesses and improved service quality. 

    “The cost of delivering water services has been a driver of higher rates across the country. By getting water services on a stable footing and making critical investment now, councils keep rate increases down.”

    This increased investment is supported by better access to finance from the Local Government Funding Agency.

    “Mayors Paula Southgate of Hamilton and Jacqui Church of Waikato District have done a great job in getting this result and I congratulate them on working in the best interests of their respective ratepayers to establish this new joint water services organization,” Mr Watts says.

    “I am also pleased that both councils are willing to consider forming a larger regional model with other Waikato councils over time. 

    “I look forward to other councils following the example of Waikato and Hamilton in delivering excellent locally-directed services that benefit their communities.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nearly $25 Million for Maine Housing Projects Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $24,675,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for Maine housing infrastructure projects in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    “Maine continues to face a severe affordable housing shortage,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would help to improve the quality and safety of affordable and emergency housing throughout the state. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:

    Auburn Area Infrastructure for Workforce Housing

    Recipient: City of Auburn

    Project Location: Auburn, ME

    Amount Requested: $8,000,000

    Project Purpose: To expand the infrastructure needed for housing and economic development.

    Down East Community Hospital Workforce Housing

    Recipient: Down East Community Hospital

    Project Location: East Machias, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,190,000

    Project Purpose: To support housing units for hospital workforce.

    Maine Woods Housing Initiative

    Recipient: Northern Forest Center

    Project Location: Greenville, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,500,000

    Project Purpose: To support affordable housing in Piscataquis County.

    Indian Township Passamaquoddy Housing Initiative

    Recipient: Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township

    Project Location: Indian Township, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,985,000

    Project Purpose: To support affordable housing in Indian Township.

    York County Workforce and Senior Housing

    Recipient: Sanford Housing Authority Development Corporation

    Project Location: Springvale, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,500,000

    Project Purpose: To develop workforce and senior housing.

    York County Community College Workforce and Student Housing

    Recipient: York County Community College

    Project Location: Wells, ME

    Amount Requested: $6,500,000

    Project Purpose: To construct housing for year-round use.

    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Barcelona cancel friendly in Japan, citing contract breach

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

    FC Barcelona’s pre-season plans are in ruins after the club was forced to cancel its visit to Japan at short notice due to a contractual problem with the tour organizers.

    The Barca squad was due to fly to Japan on Thursday morning ahead of a game against Vissel Kobe on Sunday, before travelling to South Korea to face Seoul FC and Daegu FC. However, the Japanese leg of the tour has now been cancelled and the South Korean part is in the balance.

    Lamine Yamal (L) of FC Barcelona vies with Manu Sanchez of Deportivo Alaves during the LaLiga football match between FC Barcelona and Deportivo Alaves, in Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, Barcelona, Spain, on Feb. 2, 2025. (Photo by Joan Gosa/Xinhua)

    “FC Barcelona announces that it has been forced to suspend its participation in the match scheduled for next Sunday in Japan due to a serious breach of contract by the promoter. However, the Club will consider readjusting the South Korean portion of the summer tour…provided certain conditions are met by the promoter,” explained the club in a statement.

    The cancellation of at least part of the tour is a blow to Barcelona’s economy, with the cash-strapped club due to receive an important injection of around 15 million euros for playing the games, but it is also a sporting blow as Hansi Flick’s side will have to look for new rivals at short notice as Flick looks to prepare for the new La Liga season.

    Barca’s only other pre-season game that is currently scheduled is against Como on August 10, before the new La Liga campaign starts in Mallorca on August 16. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: CHINADA issues guidelines to protect rights of underage athletes

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

    The Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) has released its first comprehensive guidelines aimed at safeguarding the rights of underage athletes throughout the anti-doping process, marking a significant step toward a more athlete-centered approach.

    The “Guidelines on Protecting the Rights of Underage Athletes in Anti-Doping Work (Trial),” issued on Thursday, outline a full-chain protection framework covering testing, result management, and privacy protection.

    “This is not just a rule adjustment but a conceptual shift,” said Jiang Tao, associate professor at the China University of Political Science and Law. “The principle of prioritizing athletes’ best interests has now been implemented in detail.”

    A Chinese athlete competes during the women’s 4x100m medley relay final of swimming at the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, July 30, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

    The guidelines are based on the World Anti-Doping Code and Chinese regulations, focusing on creating a supportive environment for young athletes during investigations and testing. Measures include “customized conversations” tailored to the athlete’s personality, psychological state, and background, as well as careful attention to the testing environment to prevent psychological stress.

    In line with the International Standard for Education, the guidelines emphasize that a young athlete’s first anti-doping experience should start with education. Testing officers are required to explain rights, obligations, and procedures if the athlete has not received prior anti-doping education, allowing for a “buffer period” during testing.

    To address the heightened stress faced by minors during doping violation cases, the guidelines introduce a “triple protection” system: easing evidentiary requirements, waiving financial penalties for athletes without income, and providing legal aid for hearings. Privacy protection measures also limit mandatory disclosure of personal information in violation cases.

    CHINADA has established a coordinated mechanism involving national and provincial anti-doping bodies as well as frontline personnel. Specialized educators and a team of legal and psychological experts will provide professional support to both athletes and guardians, raising awareness of rights protection.

    “These measures aim to ensure that young athletes can train and compete in a fair, safe, and clean environment,” CHINADA stated, adding that the initiative reflects China’s determination to contribute to the global fight against doping.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xu Huiyan shines at Aquatics Worlds, eyes Olympic future

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

    At just 19 years old, Xu Huiyan has already emerged as one of China’s brightest stars in artistic swimming.

    At the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, she delivered a standout performance, earning three gold medals and one silver – including China’s first-ever world title in the women’s solo technical event.

    Ahead of the championships, Xu’s momentum had sparked speculation from World Aquatics about how many golds she might claim in Singapore. The answer, so far, is remarkable.

    Xu Huiyan in action during the women’s solo technical preliminary at the 2025 World Aquatic Championships. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

    Xu has competed in nine events over seven days, including preliminary rounds – a grueling schedule by any standard. Despite the demanding timeline, she continued to contribute to her team while excelling individually.

    She helped China capture two gold medals in team events and also added a silver in the women’s solo free. On Thursday morning, she competed in the team acrobatic preliminaries, helping China secure the top spot heading into the final.

    Reflecting on her solo technical gold, Xu said: “It feels pretty emotional, because something I hoped for but hadn’t dared to think about before is now a reality before me.”

    Still, she sees room to improve. “In the solo free event, there are still things I can improve on, whether it’s in terms of completion or connectivity.”

    Xu said competing in team events actually enhances her solo performances.

    “Doing the team event helped me feel freer, move more freely,” she explained. “The depth of the field in the team event isn’t that much different from the solo event, so doing that did help.”

    However, head coach Zhang Xiaohuan noted that some compromises were made to prioritize team success.

    “In fact, the preparation and training for the solo events were geared toward supporting the team events,” Zhang said. “Sacrifices were made in the solo competitions. Coach Tu Jun and Xu worked very well together, utilizing their spare time for solo training.”

    Even on days with back-to-back finals, Xu delivered high-caliber performances. Zhang praised her leadership and dedication.

    “She takes the initiative on everything – from the music selection to the choreography and artistic impression… she does all of that,” Zhang said. “I’m very glad we’ve found an excellent swimmer to help the Chinese team.”

    Xu’s rise has been rapid. She debuted at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, earning bronze in the solo technical and placing fourth in the solo free. Two months later, she claimed three golds at the Artistic Swimming World Cup in Beijing, sweeping both solo events and the team technical.

    Her success continued at the World Aquatics Artistic Swimming Junior Championships in Peru last August, where she won gold in the solo technical, team free, and team technical events.

    In 2025, her winning streak showed no signs of slowing. She secured individual titles at the World Cup in Canada in May, and then at the Super Final in Xi’an in June, she took home five gold medals from six events.

    “The past year has been a grueling one in training for me. It’s been a lot of growth,” Xu said.

    “I needed to work on my artistic impression – that was something I was lacking last year. My growth is completely linked to my team and my coaches. I get a lot of support from so many people who work behind the scenes.”

    “Competing in more events also means I got more opportunities to test myself,” she added.

    Coach Zhang highlighted the magnitude of her progress.

    “As a young athlete, Xu went from a bronze and a fourth place in Doha to the achievements she’s already had here in Singapore – all within just a year,” Zhang said. “She is only 19 years old and has already achieved a breakthrough here, doing something we’ve never achieved before. She’s already made one of our dreams come true.”

    Looking ahead, Zhang sees even greater potential.

    “As one of China’s top artistic swimmers, Xu can still elevate her performance – particularly in achieving more fluid extensions and refining the delicate precision of her leg movements. She has the potential to be even better.”

    For Xu, there’s still much to strive for. This is only her second World Championships, and she has her sights set on the Olympic Games.

    “I still need to work harder on my path of growth,” she said.

    Xu will compete in her 10th and final event of the competition – the team acrobatic final – on Friday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chen to face An at badminton China Open quarterfinals

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

    China’s Chen Yufei is set to face South Korea’s world No. 1 An Se-young in the women’s singles quarterfinals at the badminton China Open, after both shuttlers defeated respective rivals on Thursday.

    Tokyo Olympic champion Chen showed resilience, rallying from one game down to beat teammate Gao Fangjie 13-21, 21-5, 21-9.

    “We know each other very well, but a tournament is different from daily training. Whoever performs better on the court will win,” said the 27-year-old Chen.

    Her next opponent An secured a comfortable 21-13, 21-15 win over fellow South Korean Sim Yu-jin in the second round. Chen, who lost to An in the quarterfinals of the Japan Open just six days ago, is eager for revenge.

    “I’ll learn from last week’s defeat and go all out to challenge her,” she added.

    In the men’s singles, home favorite Shi Yuqi advanced with a straight-game victory over Ireland’s Nhat Nguyen. Fifth-seeded Li Shifeng of China also progressed, defeating Ng Ka Long Angus of Hong Kong, China 21-17, 21-9.

    Meanwhile, a major upset unfolded as Indonesia’s fourth seed Jonatan Christie was edged out by unseeded French shuttler Christo Popov in a three-game battle, 21-12, 13-21, 21-16.

    In the women’s doubles, top-seeded Chinese duo Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning cruised into the quarterfinals with a dominant 21-9, 21-13 win over American players Lauren Lam and Allison Lee.

    China also shone in the mixed doubles, as Feng Yanzhe/Huang Dongping, Jiang Zhenbang/Wei Yaxin and Guo Xinwa/Chen Fanghui all claimed victories to reach last eight.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu

    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila

    Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”.

    The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change.

    The ruling marks a major shift in the global push for climate justice.

    Vanuatu — one of the nations behind the campaign — has pledged to take the decision back to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to seek a resolution supporting its full implementation.

    Climate Change Minister Regenvanu said in a statement: “We now have a common foundation based on the rule of law, releasing us from the limitations of individual nations’ political interests that have dominated climate action.

    “This moment will drive stronger action and accountability to protect our planet and peoples.”

    The ICJ confirmed that state responsibilities extend beyond voluntary commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

    It ruled that customary international law also requires states to prevent environmental and transboundary harm, protect human rights, and cooperate to address climate change impacts.

    Duties apply to all states
    These duties apply to all states, whether or not they have ratified specific climate treaties.

    Violations of these obligations carry legal consequences. The ICJ clarified that climate damage can be scientifically traced to specific polluter states whose actions or inaction cause harm.

    As a result, those states could be required to stop harmful activities, regulate private sector emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, and provide reparations to affected states and individuals.

    “The implementation of this decision will set a new status quo and the structural change required to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and sustainable future,” Minister Regenvanu added.

    He said high-emitting nations, especially those with a history of emissions, must be held accountable.

    Despite continued fossil fuel expansion and weakening global ambition — compounded by the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement — Regenvanu said the ICJ ruling was a powerful tool for campaigners, lawyers, and governments.

    “Vanuatu is proud and honoured to have spearheaded this initiative,” he said.

    ‘Powerful testament’
    “The number of states and civil society actors that have joined this cause is a powerful testament to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth activists.”

    The court’s decision follows a resolution adopted by consensus at the UNGA on 29 March 2023. That campaign was initiated by the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change and backed by the Vanuatu government, calling for greater accountability from high-emitting countries.

    The ruling will now be taken to the UNGA in September and is expected to be a central topic at COP30 in Brazil this November.

    Vanuatu has committed to working with other nations to turn this legal outcome into coordinated action through diplomacy, policy, litigation, and international cooperation.

    “This is just the beginning,” Regenvanu said. “Success will depend on what happens next. We look forward to working with global partners to ensure this becomes a true turning point for climate justice.”

    Republished from the Vanuatu Daily Post with permission.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivers its historic climate ruling in The Hague on Tuesday. Image: VDP

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rangatahi to lead negotiations in international climate meeting simulation – Save the Children

    Source: Save the Children

    Kiwi young people will tomorrow come together to negotiate climate policy, find solutions and create a statement for climate action during Aotearoa Youth COP, New Zealand’s youth-led national simulation event of the UN’s international climate meeting.
    Held at Auckland University, around 200 young people aged between 14 and 30 (more than half under 18) have registered to attend the simulation of the UN’s annual climate meeting, to be held later this year in Belém, Brazil.
    The event – supported by Save the Children, Youth Climate Collective and Ngā Ara Whetū (Centre for Climate, Biodiversity and Society) – builds on last year’s first-ever COP simulation event, with interactive workshops, climate policy negotiations and debates on some of the most pressing issues facing youth today. The event will also include a panel discussion and talk from British High Commission’s Lead Climate Change Advisor Rick Zwaan.
    Participants will take on roles representing different groups, from journalists to policy makers, indigenous communities to NGOs. Working in teams, they will create, debate and negotiate agreements, like real global leaders, with each session designed to build leadership, negotiation, systems thinking and collaboration skills in a supportive and action-focused environment.
    At the end of the day, the insights and policies developed will be collated into an Aotearoa Youth Climate Statement , which will be delivered to the New Zealand Government and presented at COP30 in Brazil by a delegation of young leaders.
    Save the Children Generation Hope youth ambassador Lily, 15, says she is most looking forward to seeing how rangatahi reflect on climate change and the impact they can have on it.
    “Events like this give rangatahi like me a voice, an opportunity to discuss how we believe we can solve a collective problem without judgement or difficulty. I think, as rangatahi, we have the right to be at the forefront of discussions on climate change.
    “We may not be the past, but we are the present and future, and the outcome of what we do now will impact us and future generations to come.”
    Save the Children New Zealand CEO Heather Campbell says this week’s landmark ICJ advisory opinion, which acknowledges the impacts of climate change on children and young people, gives voice to the millions of children at the forefront of the climate crisis – and offers hope for greater climate action.
    “The climate crisis is a children’s rights crisis. Children, particularly those affected by inequality and discrimination, bear the brunt of climate change impacts, despite being least responsible.
    “It was Pacific youth leaders who began this fight for climate justice and took it to the highest court in the world, which shows the power of young people to implement their ideas for a better future. Children want and deserve to be heard. Their voices matter.”
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 110 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz, Murphy Introduce New Legislation To Improve Wages, Operations Transparency For Rideshare Drivers, Delivery App Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) today introduced the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, new legislation to improve transparency on how app companies operate and help boost wages for rideshare drivers and delivery app workers.

    “Every day rideshare drivers and delivery app workers work long hours and travel many miles to make a living, often without knowing how much money they’ll make. Our bill would shed some light on how apps determine work assignments and pay, ensuring workers are treated and paid fairly,” said Senator Schatz.

    Millions of workers across multiple industries, report to work by turning on an app. These platforms collect data from both workers and consumers to shape working conditions, evaluate workers, and make work-related decisions, including decisions on how much to pay a worker, which workers get which assignments, and whether, when, or for how long a worker will be suspended or ‘deactivated.’ All this is done with systems that are not transparent to workers, consumers, or regulators, creating information imbalances that mask wage theft, discrimination, and price-gouging.

    The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would create a level playing field for workers managed by digital labor platforms by:

    • Requiring disclosure of electronic monitoring and automated decision systems uses, including how they are used to determine pay and other work decisions;
    • Providing itemized receipts to workers and consumers after every work assignment;
    • Providing workers receive weekly pay statements with relevant information on their compensation;
    • Ensuring rideshare workers receive at least 75 percent of the amount paid by consumers; and
    • Stopping platforms from using interfaces that contain unfair or deceptive information on compensation.

    “We applaud Senators Schatz and Murphy for listening to workers’ demands and introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act,” said Rebecca Dixon, President and CEO of NELP. “App-based workers have long sought better pay and greater accountability from corporations that use hidden algorithms to determine pay, work assignments, and discipline. This legislation is an important step forward in building a good-jobs economy where all workers have expansive rights and thrive in good jobs.”

    “Senator Schatz’s bill is a great first step toward protecting app-based workers from hidden fees, undue surveillance, and algorithms that violate their civil rights. It also creates mechanisms to hold Big Tech accountable when their greed harms workers,” said Jody Calemine, AFL-CIO Director of Advocacy.

    The bill is supported by the ACE Collaborative of New Virginia Majority, Action Center on Race and Economy, AFL-CIO, Athena, Center for Law and Social Policy, Color Of Change, Colorado Independent Drivers United, Connecticut Drivers United, Coworker, Data & Society, Drivers Union Washington/Teamsters Local 117, Economic Policy Institute, Fair Work Center, Groundwork Collaborative, Hawai‘i Workers Center, Los Deliveristas Unidos, Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association, Make the Road New Jersey, National Women’s Law Center, National Employment Law Project (NELP), New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New School Center for NYC Public Affairs, NLAN/GLOW, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Open Markets Institute, Portland Drivers United, Rideshare Drivers United, PowerSwith Action, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Tech Equity Collaborative, Tennessee Drivers Union, The People’s Lobby, Towards Justice, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, and Working Washington.

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – Susanna Elliffe is winner of the 2025 NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize!

    Source: New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc)

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) congratulates Susanna Elliffe on winning the 2025 NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize with her manuscript Relic Party.

    The prize was created by the NZSA and the Solomon family to fulfil the wishes of Laura Solomon, a novelist, poet and playwright who was a longstanding member of the NZSA and a beloved member of the Solomon family. It awards new writing of ‘unique and original vision’ with a cash prize of $2,000 and a publishing contract with The Cuba Press. Publication will be in 2026.

    The winning manuscript, Relic Party, is a short story collection that studies loss, both intimate and global, human and nonhuman, ranging through ugly ghosts, false relics, and desperate pilgrimages, to a dysfunctional 80’s farmhouse and the speculative worlds of climate affected futures.

    We also congratulate Belinda O’Keefe who is the runner-up, winning a cash prize of $1,000 with her manuscript Trespassers Will Be Baked, Scrambled, Fried and Eaten.
    Susanna Elliffe’s manuscript was selected by a final judging panel of Mary McCallum (The Cuba Press), Nicky Solomon (Solomon Family) and panel convenor and award-winning writer Cassie Hart.

    Cassie Hart, convenor of the judges, says: “The quality of entries this year was amazing – choosing the finalists was not an easy task, and then selecting just one winner? A huge challenge. I so appreciate the writers of New Zealand for not making this easy!

    “The final four were all so different from each other, spanning from a very lyrical collection of short stories to a humorous contemporary novel, a middle grade adventure, through to a memoiresque non-fiction book exploring the experience of immigrants! There is almost no way to compare the four, as they are each such a success in their own right. The winner, Relic Party, stood out as being the most unique and original of the three though, and I know that readers will fall in love with Susannah Elliffe’s prose and storytelling just like we did.”

    Nicky Solomon says: “It is so wonderful to see interest in the prize continue to grow, as we mark its fifth year. We are extremely grateful to the NZSA and The Cuba Press for taking Laura’s idea and turning it into a true legacy. She would be absolutely delighted by the calibre of the work and I know that she would echo me in congratulating all of the finalists, and in fact all of the entrants. The judges are continually challenged, in a good way, by such high quality writing in such a diverse range of genres, and our family ext

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Over half of mid-year nursing graduates miss out on jobs – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Te Whatu Ora has again failed nursing graduates – and Aotearoa New Zealand’s future nursing workforce – by employing just 45% of the 2025 mid-year cohort, Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) says.
    The mid-year graduation cohort sat their state final exams last week. Figures released by Te Whatu Ora to nursing magazine Kaitiaki on its job-matching programme ACE show just 323 of 722 applicants were matched to supported-entry roles in hospitals.
    NZNO National Student Unit President Bianca Grimmer says it is a “huge blow” to nursing graduates.
    “Hospital jobs are highly sought after and often the reason students want to get into nursing.
    “Te Whatu Ora used to hire 80-90% of all graduates. We were blindsided this time last year when only three in every five mid-year graduates were hired.
    “This year is even worse and will make some students reassess whether they continue with their studies,” Bianca Grimmer says.
    A recent survey of 1246 nursing students found 62% would consider seeking a nursing job overseas if they were unable to get a new graduate job in Aotearoa New Zealand. This increased to 73% for Māori students.
    About 36,000 of NZNO’s Te Whatu Ora members are preparing for a 24-hour national strike next Wednesday 30 July after Collective Agreement negotiations stalled with a refusal by Health NZ to commit to its obligation to employ new graduates one of the sticking points.
    Bianca Grimmer says nursing students recently attended a jobs expo where an Australian stand was luring graduates with better wages and conditions.
    “We have a health system in crisis and desperately need more homegrown nurses. With 30,000 Kiwis leaving for Australia in the past year, this shortsighted decision by Te Whatu Ora will see more graduate nurses packing their bags.”
    Bianca Grimmer says a recent media release from Te Whatu Ora urging nursing graduates to look outside the hospital system seemed to be an attempt to “soften the blow” to the mid-year cohort.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, international partners conclude Operation Nasse in Pacific region

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    07/24/2025 07:56 PM EDT

    HONOLULU – The U.S. Coast Guard completed participation July 11 in Operation Nasse, a three-month operation conducted by Australia, France, New Zealand, and the U.S. to safeguard the marine resources of Pacific Island nations.

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GLP1 weight loss injections may reduce asthma symptoms GLP1 agonist drugs, commonly known by brand names such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, reduce asthma symptoms in obese people according to a new study from the University of Aberdeen and The Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute (OPRI), Singapore.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    GLP1 agonist drugs, commonly known by brand names such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, reduce asthma symptoms in obese people according to a new study from the University of Aberdeen and The Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute (OPRI), Singapore.
    This is the latest reported benefit of GLP1s, originally prescribed for diabetes management and now prescribed widely for obesity.
    An international team of scientists led by University of Aberdeen Chair in Primary Care Respiratory Medicine, Professor David Price, analysed the medical records of more than 60,000 patients. Using the OPCRD database – a primary care patient database containing over 28 million patients, they compared measures of asthma severity between those who had been prescribed GLP1s and those who hadn’t over an entire year.
    They found that as well as the expected weight loss in people who were taking GLP1s, the asthma measures such as steroid and medication prescriptions, were also reduced.
    GLP1s, mimic the naturally occurring hormone GLP1 and help regulate blood sugar, insulin and control appetite. The drug is also known to reduce inflammatory cells through multiple signalling pathways, and it is this mechanism that may be instigating this beneficial effect on the airway disease.
    The author suggests that their findings mean that GLP1s should be considered as a potential treatment for respiratory diseases.
    Professor David Price explains: “People with obesity and asthma are unique in that they are often resistant to steroid treatments.

    We found compelling evidence that GLP1s, as well as increasing weight loss, also improved asthma symptoms.” Professor David Price

    “We know that GLP1s work on inflammatory responses in the airways in a different way to traditionally used steroids.
    “We found compelling evidence that GLP1s, as well as increasing weight loss, also improved asthma symptoms.
    “In addition, it is important to note that the benefits to asthma symptoms occurred despite fairly modest weight loss of around 0.9kg over the course of the year.
    “Our findings suggest that GLP1s may have beneficial effects on asthma control for people with obesity and this should be explored further.”
    Professor Alan Kaplan, Chairperson of the Family Physician Airways Group of Canada and the Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute, added: “Our findings suggest that GLP1-RAs have benefits on asthma control in people with obesity, and this information should contribute to the discussions around the decision to use these drugs.”
    The full paper is published in Advances in Therapy

    Related Content

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Objects of all kinds causing obstructions on state highways

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Glass, spare tyres, metal sheets and poles, building materials, furniture, hay bales – these are just some of the objects causing obstruction on South Island state highways and needing to be cleared daily by contractors.

    Reports of the obstructions come into New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) each day as contractors are dispatched to remove these items that can cause a hazard by blocking or interfering with traffic flows.

    “Sometimes it is as simple as tree branches falling onto the highway, or road cones having been shifted; but often we are talking about heavy items that have fallen from vehicles that weren’t properly secured or became dislodged in accidents,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.

    “It underlines the need for vehicles such as trucks, or lighter vehicles towing trailers, to ensure that any loads are well secured. The Road Code does state that motorists must not drive an unsafe vehicle or a vehicle with an unsafe load which isn’t tied down, could fall from the vehicle, or is dragging on the ground.”

    “Sometimes the reports that come in from road users about items on the road are quite vague and we don’t really know what we are dealing with until the contractors arrive onsite to deal with them.”

    “The risk is not only that items or material that fall onto the roads may disrupt traffic, but it can also potentially lead to injury if there is a collision or evasive action is taken by drivers. This is why we act fast to clear the obstruction, or we may put in place closures or traffic management if needed to keep people safe while the object is cleared.”   

    People can report objects and obstructions 24/7 on the state highway network by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).

    More about securing loads safely 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –