NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Keeping kids safe, one lifejacket at a time

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime Officer Steve Hainstock recently spent a weekend doing safety checks on recreational craft users before they headed out on the water.

    Steve checked over 20 boats and jet skis at Lake Brunner and was happy to find that almost all were well-prepared and following the Safer Boating Code.

    But as one group was wrapping up its day, Steve experienced a “Goldilocks moment” – three boys with lifejackets that weren’t quite right.

    “One lifejacket had a broken buckle, one was a bit small, and the other was a hand-me-down that was too big. None of them were just right,” Steve said.

    Thanks to Safer Boating’s fuel excise levy funding, Steve was able to provide the boys with properly-fitted lifejackets. This meant that the group was ready to safely go out again the next day, and be safe in the water for at least another year or two. It’s fairy tale endings like this that make Steve’s job so worthwhile.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: MTOCs are expiring – apply early to renew yours

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ will let you know when your Maritime Transport Operator Certificate (MTOC) is expiring – to avoid delays, please then apply as soon as you can. Don’t wait.

    MTOCs are reaching the end of their 10-year lives and are starting to expire. Six months before yours expires, we’ll send you everything you need to renew it. We’re making that straightforward so it’s easy for you.

    It’s most important to apply before your MTOC expires because we can’t renew an expired MTOC. Applying for a new one is a much longer process which includes a site visit. You’d also be unable to operate until we issue a new MTOC. We don’t want that to happen.
    If you haven’t applied within three months of our email, we’ll send you a reminder but it’s best to not wait.

    We want to help your application go smoothly. If you have any questions, need assistance or think you might have missed your six-month email, please:
    • talk to your maritime officer
    • email [email protected]
    • phone, toll-free, 0508 22 55 22 (press 1 from the menu)
    • see our MTOC page.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Collaboration key to successful Earl Mountains Rescue

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Our Rescue Coordination Centre is lauding a multi-agency operation resulting in three people being rescued after getting stuck in the Earl Mountains, north of Te Anau.

    Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) was notified of the party being in distress at about 6.30 PM on Friday, 21 February via an In Reach SOS message. 
     
    “After assessing the situation, our search and rescue officers confirmed the party of three was bluffed on the northern side of Triangle Peak,” RCCNZ, Duty Manager Mike Clulow says.
     
    Search and rescue officers quickly dispatched the Southern Lakes Helicopters rescue helicopter from Te Anau.

    Following several failed attempts to rescue the party, the experienced helicopter crew decided that, due to the terrain and weather conditions, an Alpine Cliff Rescue (ACR Team) from LandSAR would be required.
     
    “These are highly experienced operators, who were focused on getting the bluffed party back to safety. They always, however, take a safety first approach, and it just wasn’t possible during the initial attempts to get the party safely out,” Mike Clulow says.
     
    As a result of the conditions and fading daylight the party was forced to spend the night on the side of Triangle Peak.
     
    In order to safely recover the party at first light RCCNZ’s search and rescue officers, along with the Southern Lakes Helicopters team, the Heli Otago Rescue Helicopter team, Heliworks Queenstown, Wakatipu ACR team, and local police planned and positioned equipment and personnel to effect a rescue as early as possible on Saturday morning.
     
    “It would’ve been a chilly night for the party, but everyone involved was focused on putting the safe and deliberate steps in place to ensure we could carry out a rescue as soon as safe to do so, and work continued through the night.
     
    “Early Saturday morning, a successful rescue was made – by Action Helicopters Queenstown, Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team and Heli Otago Rescue Helicopter.
     
    “The relationships our search and rescue officers hold with our key partners meant planning was able to quickly occur, and the best result possible eventuated, with all three rescued from a precarious position,” Mike Clulow says.
     
    Maritime NZ wants to extend thanks to everyone involved in this highly technical rescue.
     
    Anyone heading out into the wilderness should understand the area they’re heading into and what their skills are, as well as ensure they have the right equipment and an emergency plan for when things go wrong.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update from the International Maritime Organization

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The work of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has rolled on over the past few months. New Zealand continues to be engaged on issues that impact our maritime industry and has attended IMO meetings to represent our views.

    Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers Convention

    The Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping met in February for its 11th session (HTW11). Maritime NZ attended to pursue New Zealand’s interests in the comprehensive review of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers Convention.

    New Zealand’s primary objective for this review is to give seafarers and employers greater mobility and flexibility by allowing training and sea-going service between fishing and non-fishing roles to be recognised. To improve the implementation of STCW and reduce administrative burden New Zealand is promoting efforts to bring audit functions into the IMO Member State Audit Scheme framework. Without prejudice to countries conducting their own due diligence of States they recognise for certification purposes, this move would raise the baseline understanding of training quality systems. New Zealand has been working closely with other countries towards these goals and will continue to collaborate as the STCW review progresses. Read summary.

    Mid-term measures for the reduction of greenhouse gases from ships

    Agreeing mid-term measures for the reduction of greenhouse gases from ships is one of the most important international issues for New Zealand right now. This year there have been a series of meetings to reach consensus on what the mid-term measures should be, including what economic mechanism could be used. Discussions have focused on whether a levy should be introduced, with strong arguments on both sides.

    There has also been discussion of a bridging proposal to create steady revenues to fund the reduction of greenhouse gases from ships. It’s hoped that agreement will be reached at the Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting in April (MEPC83). If countries agree on mid-term measures they will be sent for approval to an extraordinary MEPC meeting in October 2025. These measures have the potential to significantly change the way international shipping operates in the future, the impact of which could stretch well beyond the shipping industry.

    Maritime Safety Committee

    Other IMO meetings include the Maritime Safety Committee, which had its 109th meeting in December 2024. The rules change to make pilot transfer arrangements safer was completed, which has been a key issue for New Zealand. The work now needs to get the final stamp of approval at the Assembly meeting in November before it can be implemented.

    Improvements to how the Committee works and manages its workload were also agreed to, which allowed a moratorium on new work outputs to be lifted. The Committee will start accepting new output proposals this year. New Zealand is particularly interested in the proposed reviews of the International Safety Management Code and Casualty Investigation Code. New Zealand will remain involved in the work should it be accepted by the Committee. Read summary.

    Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response

    The Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response met in January for its 12th session (PPR12). New Zealand attended this meeting in person and virtually. It progressed a wide range of work on pollution including: reviewing the Action Plan to address marine plastic litter, ongoing discussions around mandatory rules for transporting plastic pellets, agreeing draft guidelines on in-water cleaning for biofouling, and continuing work on how to regulate Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (also known as scrubbers). Read summary.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Extending the Arrangement of “Providing Employment Flexibility for Aided Primary Schools to Promote STEAM Education”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    From the 2022/23 to 2024/25 school years, aided primary schools (including special schools with a primary section) are provided with more flexibility for employment of teachers having expertise in STEAM-related subjects in aided primary schools with a view to promoting school-based STEAM education.  The above arrangement is implemented on a pilot basis for three years.

    EDBCM No. 87/2025  

    New

    EDBCM No. 150/2022

    Frequently Asked Questions (Chinese version only)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First Chest Pain Centre in Hong Kong receives national accreditation (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    First Chest Pain Centre in Hong Kong receives national accreditation  
         QMH began preparations for establishing the Chest Pain Centre in 2023, aligning with the Policy Address initiative to establish Hong Kong’s first chest pain centre at QMH according to national accreditation standards, aimed at improving the diagnosis process and treatment outcomes for cardiovascular patients. QMH experts subsequently visited various chest pain centres on the Mainland to learn from their experience and processes in managing cardiac patients. Mainland experts were also invited to Hong Kong to exchange insights in preparation for developing operational procedures. Hong Kong’s first chest pain centre at QMH commenced operations in November 2024. Following national accreditation standards, the centre has improved the diagnosis process for acute high-risk cardiac patients, including those with acute myocardial infarction, while promoting national chest pain centre certification as an international standard. These standards encompass standardised management, treatment efficiency improvement, and interdepartmental collaboration.
     
         The Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, said, “QMH’s successful accreditation according to national standards validates its professional expertise in acute cardiac care and strengthens the HA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing cardiac services in public hospitals. The HA maintains a patient-centred approach, continuously improving healthcare service quality through multidisciplinary collaboration, streamlined treatment processes, and innovative technology adoption.”
     
         Dr Ko added that QMH Chest Pain Centre’s successful experience will serve as an important reference for developing similar services across other HA clusters. The HA will continue to invest resources to enhance service efficiency and quality, providing better healthcare services for the public.
     
         The China Chest Pain Centre Accreditation Committee recently sent experts, including the Chairman of the China Chest Pain Centre Expert Committee, Professor Huo Yong, and the Chairman of the China Chest Pain Centre Executive Expert Committee, Professor Xiang Dingchen, to conduct an on-site evaluation at QMH. The experts affirmed QMH Chest Pain Centre’s appropriate timing control for patient examinations and treatments, standardised and efficient overall processes, and reasonable patient care pathways, reflecting that the centre meets all certification requirements for proper handling of acute cardiac patients.
     
         The Hospital Chief Executive of QMH, Dr Theresa Li, thanked the Mainland expert team and the Health Bureau for their support in establishing Hong Kong’s first chest pain centre and obtaining national accreditation. Dr Li said, “Every step in the treatment process is interconnected and affects patient outcomes. The accreditation standards strictly regulate each component, requiring close cooperation between different departments to ensure smooth implementation. With the completion of QMH’s new building, both hardware and software capabilities have been enhanced, which we believe will help patients secure golden treatment time and improve survival rates and post-operative recovery.”
     
         Dr Li also expressed gratitude to the various hospital teams for their efforts in establishing and achieving accreditation for the Chest Pain Centre.
     
         The HA will continue to optimise services and, drawing from QMH’s experience, establish a second chest pain centre at Prince of Wales Hospital according to national accreditation standards. The goal is to build a chest pain treatment network in Hong Kong to improve diagnostic efficiency, enhance treatment effectiveness, and increase patient survival rates.
    Issued at HKT 16:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sharing Knowledge on Clinical Advances at Hospital Authority Convention (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) Convention 2025 begins today for three consecutive days (May 26 to 28) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, in both in-person and online formats. This marks the first time the convention has been extended to three days, making it the HA’s largest-scale event to date. Approximately 190 overseas, Mainland and local distinguished speakers will exchange expertise on various healthcare topics with over 8,000 participating healthcare professionals and academics, achieving record-high participation levels.
     
         The HA Convention this year is focusing on the HA’s core values, namely People-centred Care, Professional Service, Committed Staff and Teamwork. Topics include healthcare development, smart hospitals, artificial intelligence, organ transplantation, cancer management, and innovation technology in support of staff training. The HA convention aims to promote the sharing of knowledge and experience on clinical advances and approaches to modern healthcare service, and facilitate exploration and discussion of contemporary concepts among healthcare professionals and stakeholders.
     
         The convention was officially opened this morning by Vice-Minister of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China Professor Cao Xuetao; the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; the HA Chairman, Mr Henry Fan; and the HA Chief Executive, Dr Tony Ko.
     
         In his address, Mr Chan said that the HA has been continuously reforming and enhancing service efficiency and quality through its professional team and robust management system. Notably, the Institute for Medical Advancement and Clinical Excellence (IMACE), which brings together different areas of expertise from Hong Kong’s healthcare sector, was formally established this May.
     
         “The HA will be very much involved in the IMACE’s research work, collaborating with other major public and private healthcare institutions to collect data and cases for detailed deliberations on clinical practices in the screening, diagnosis, treatment and management of various diseases, evaluating the efficacy of various medical options, and devising clinical guidelines and standards for healthcare professionals. This collective effort aims to enhance Hong Kong’s healthcare service standards for the benefit of patients throughout Hong Kong.”
     
         In his welcome address, Mr Fan said that 2025 marks the commencement of an era of reformation at the HA. A key initiative is supporting the Government’s public healthcare fees and charges reform aimed at rationalising public hospital services, reducing wastage and misuse, and enhancing support for patients with financial difficulties.
     
         Mr Fan said, “2025 is a crucial year for the HA’s reform initiatives. Facing challenges such as an ageing population, an increase of chronic diseases, and rising medical costs, the HA needs to undergo fundamental reforms to meet public needs, enhance service efficiency, and maintain the sustainability of the public healthcare system while building a public healthcare system that meets the needs of the community that enhances the well-being of citizens.”
     
         Additionally, the HA established the Review Committee on the Management of the Public Hospital System last year, proposing 31 recommendations to strengthen governance, enhance accountability, and foster a culture of safety. Building on this foundation, in order to advance reform, the HA further established a high-level Governance and Structure Reform Committee (Reform Committee) last year to provide strategic guidance, oversight, and reform advice to promote the sustainable development of healthcare services.
     
         Mr Fan continued, “Among the many topics that the Reform Committee will be looking into, remuneration structure, financial management and clinical management are particularly crucial. This includes introducing the concept of ‘more contribution, more gain’, with remuneration commensurate with performance and contributions to provide motivation for colleagues, reviewing the financial management system to achieve cost savings, and utilising modern technology to optimise clinical outcomes.”
     
         Delivering his keynote address at the opening ceremony, “Advancing Sustainable Excellence”, Dr Ko reviewed the HA’s 35 years of experience and shared his vision for a sustainable, patient-centred public healthcare system.
     
         “With a rapidly ageing population, swift medical technological advancements, and unpredictable threats of global pandemics, we must remain proactive in driving bold reforms. Digital transformation is central to our strategy in addressing rising healthcare demands. The HA is committed to enhancing digital innovation, integrating big data and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve service efficiency and performance while enhancing both patient and healthcare staff experiences,” Dr Ko said. 
        He said that the HA Go mobile application continues to stand as a transformative patient empowerment platform, significantly improving patient experience through technology. “HA Go now has over 3.1 million registered users, empowers patients with easy access to self care and direct interaction with healthcare services. HA Go streamlines the patient journey through offering seamless features such as outpatient appointment management, registration, payments, digital queuing updates, all accessible within a few clicks. The platform also provides patients with options for medication delivery services, which embodies our patient-centred service mission”, Dr Ko said.
     
         He emphasised, “While technology advances, staff remain the irreplaceable core of quality healthcare services. We are committed to providing our staff members with opportunities for personal growth and professional development. The HA sponsored more than 2,600 staff members to participate in training programmes in various places in 2024/25. Through immersive exchange and training initiatives, our healthcare professionals have gained valuable exposure to diverse clinical practices and perspectives. Such experiences foster mutual learning and encourage broader horizons for all staff.”
     
         In addition to retaining and cultivating existing personnel, Dr Ko said that it is equally important to reach out to new talent from outside. The HA actively recruits non-locally trained doctors and nurses. As of mid-March this year, nearly 300 non-locally trained doctors have joined the HA team, nearly double in comparison to last year. Following the Nurses Registration (Amendment) Ordinance 2024, more than 100 non-locally trained nursing candidates have also been employed, further reinforcing Hong Kong’s clinical capabilities. Over 240 individuals have taken part in expanded clinical exchange programmes, while more than 100 Chinese Medicine practitioners in the HA received training from Mainland experts.
     
         Dr Ko stressed that the HA must highlight the deep collaboration with counterparts in the Mainland, which is vital to the growth and evolution of the local healthcare landscape. A key area of collaboration is enhancing services for major diseases such as cardiac illnesses and strokes. To drive integrated and high-quality care, the HA is establishing chest pain centres and national stroke centres, harmonising treatment protocols and elevating outcomes through national accreditation. The first chest pain centre in Hong Kong at Queen Mary Hospital has been established according to national accreditation standards, further optimising treatment options for cardiovascular patients.
     
         “In line with the Chief Executive’s policy direction to enhance Hong Kong’s healthcare standards, the first batch of public hospitals, including Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital, have been awarded accreditation status under the China’s International Hospital Accreditation Standards (2021 Version). To ensure consistent quality improvement across hospitals throughout the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, three additional acute hospitals will embark on their accreditation journey in 2025-26, further strengthening their international presence and raising the quality and safety of healthcare services.”
     
         In conclusion, Dr Ko said, “We are living in an era of profound transformation. Let us uphold the spirit that ‘reform is an ongoing journey’, embrace technological innovation, sustain healthcare excellence, optimise resource allocation, and enhance service efficiency and quality to swiftly respond to the community’s evolving needs.” He expressed confidence that with the determination of all members of the HA and the support from the community and partners, the HA will collectively shape a brighter, more sustainable future for in public healthcare.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH’s Community Dental Support Programme provides subsidised dental services for underprivileged over all 18 districts in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH’s Community Dental Support Programme provides subsidised dental services for underprivileged over all 18 districts in Hong Kong 
    Service users of the CDSP must be a holder of a Hong Kong identity card, be enrolled in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHealth), and be a current beneficiary or recipient of any of the following measures:
     Under the CDSP, each service user can apply for subsidised dental services once every 180 days. Subject to the assessment by the attending registered dentist, a service user will be provided with specified subsidised dental services, including:
     Each service user is required to pay an administration fee of $50 directly to the NGO for each tooth (teeth filling or teeth extraction services), that is, a maximum fee of $150 is required (treatment for a maximum of three teeth will be provided for every 180 days). If the service user receives IHCS (Frail Cases), EHCCS or HSS (Level 1 fee charge or co-payment category) of the SWD, or is eligible under the Medical Fee Waiver (full waiving) of the HA (including recipients of OALA aged 75 or above), the Government will subsidise the administration fee in full. While current beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme under the SWD may apply for the CDSP for the above-mentioned subsidised dental services, they can also make use of the dental grants under the CSSA to receive comprehensive dental services.

    Interested and eligible persons can refer to the list of NGO dental clinics participating in the CDSP on the DH’s thematic webpage 
    Through the eHealth app, service users can check their consultation records, including consultation date and treatment items. Later this year, relevant electronic oral health records will also be available through the e-Health app for service users to better understand and monitor their dental conditions.
     
    The Government formulated the Oral Health Action Plan according to the development strategies and recommendations made by the Working Group on Oral Health and Dental Care in December 2024. The CDSP is an initiative that focuses on providing subsidised dental services to the underprivileged who have difficulties in accessing dental care.
     
    For more information about the CDSP, please visit the DH’s CDSP     webpageIssued at HKT 16:40

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) LimitedIssued at HKT 17:20

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited relating to fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

    The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or One-Time Password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

    Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites or login screens concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    Ends/Monday, May 26, 2025
    Issued at HKT 17:20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – In the midst of conflict and suffering “the faithful live a deep faith and do not lose hope”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Yangon (Agenzia Fides) – “The country is divided. The situation in Yangon, where I currently live, is quite calm. In the big cities in the central part of the country, people’s lives continue, and even our liturgies and pastoral activities can proceed in churches. Of course, there is always a curfew, we live with a series of restrictions due to the ongoing conflict in the country, but we try to live our faith always, with our hearts turned towards the mission and those who suffer. This is what Father Stephen Chit Thein, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Myanmar, shared with the Fides, providing an overall picture of the situation in the troubled Southeast Asian country.The situation, however – he continues – is very different in the peripheral areas of the country, in the border regions: there is still ongoing fighting, and there is great suffering and displacement. We must remember that, in addition to the conflict, the pain and hardship caused by the earthquake have also been added.”Father Stephen Chit Thein adds: “What strikes me the most is to see so many people suffering, who have been living in extreme precarious conditions for the past four years, yet they continue to live and practice a deep faith: the faithful continue to trust in God and hope, they do not sink into despair, but keep the light of hope alive.” “We are living in a time of great trial, which involves the entire Burmese people, and our hope, as the special theme of this Jubilee Year reminds us, is grounded and rooted in Christ, who never disappoints and never abandons us. This conviction is deeply present in the suffering population of Myanmar,” he notes.While the humanitarian situation has worsened over the past four years, Father Stephen Chit Thein notes: “We continue to hope also thanks to the words and appeals that come from the Holy See, which shows us deep closeness. We remember and thank Pope Francis, who visited and mentioned Myanmar many times and always kept us in his heart. Pope Leo XIV also reminded the international community of Myanmar’s suffering and launched an appeal for peace. We hope that he will continue to speak about us and speak about peace, so that the international community does not forget us.”Meanwhile, at the diplomatic level, a new initiative is underway within the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), of which Myanmar is a member. Malaysia, which currently holds the rotating presidency of ASEAN, has requested an extension of the ceasefire following the earthquake in Myanmar, while also intensifying calls for the implementation of the “Five-Point Peace Plan” that ASEAN proposed in the past. The military junta in power had declared a ceasefire in the ongoing civil war after a violent earthquake in late March, which killed about 3,800 people and left tens of thousands homeless. The agreement, which was previously extended, is set to expire at the end of May, although UN observers state that the junta’s airstrikes have never stopped.In an ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting on May 25, Malaysian President Mohamad Hasan “officially proposed” the extension and expansion of the ceasefire beyond the currently affected areas, to facilitate the long and difficult path to recovery and alleviate the suffering of the people of Myanmar”. Hasan stated that in June, he will visit the Burmese capital Naypyidaw as a member of ASEAN, “to assess humanitarian needs and the distribution of aid to the people affected by the earthquake.”ASEAN political leaders are meeting in a summit in Kuala Lumpur today, May 26. So far, ASEAN has not been able to implement the Five-Point Peace Plan agreed upon in April 2021. Due to the lack of implementation of that plan, representatives of the Burmese military junta have been banned from participating in ASEAN summits. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 26/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Port industry welcomes Approved Code of Practice for loading and unloading cargo at ports and on ships

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The port industry enthusiastically welcomes the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for loading and unloading cargo at ports and on ships coming into effect today, November 29.

    For the first time, all commercial ports in New Zealand now have a code of practice approved by the Minister to follow. The ACOP replaces all other existing industry codes of practice related to stevedoring.

    The Port Health and Safety Leadership Group – made up of ports and stevedoring companies, the Port Industry Association, unions and Maritime NZ – is pleased to see one of its key priorities under its multi-year work programme to address inconsistency of practice and reduce harm on New Zealand’s ports, come into force.

    The ACOP has now been signed by the Minister for Work Place Relations and Safety, Hon Brooke van Velden, and the Associate Minister for Transport, Hon Matt Doocey.

    A criticism of the current health and safety system from several industries’ leaders has been that it does not have the regulations, approved codes of practice and guidance to support businesses to understand what they need to do to comply with the law.

    Leadership Group Chair, Director of Maritime NZ, Kirstie Hewlett, said the ACOP provides assurance and clarity under the Health and Safety at Work Act. If a business can show what they have done is equivalent to or better than the requirements in the ACOP, then they are likely to be meeting the test of what is reasonably practicable under HSWA.

    Maritime NZ will take the ACOP into account when undertaking inspections, assessments and investigations and when deciding the appropriate enforcement action. Courts may also take the ACOP into account in their deliberations.

    The National President of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union, Aubrey Wilkinson, said the focus is rightly on loading and unloading ships because that is the most dangerous activity on ports – it is when most incidents and injuries happen.

    Port Industry Association Chair, Pat Kirk, said development of the ACOP has been strongly supported by the port sector. It has involved a large amount of work and effort from the sector, there is collective buy-in of the sector to it, and it will make a significant impact on the health and safety on ports.

    Demonstrating the level of buy-in, and collaborative approach taken, the ACOP took only 15 months to develop and reach agreement on. In addition, many businesses on ports are already considering how to implement and integrate it into their health and safety systems and processes, and some are already implementing it.

    We would like to thank all the industry and WorkSafe subject matter experts who gave their time to the development of the ACOP.

    Alongside the ACOP, the Leadership Group are working on further guidance, case studies, and educative tools and training to support implementation of the ACOP.

    – Port Sector Insights Picture and Action Plan

    In 2022 the Port Health and Safety Leadership Group developed the Port Sector Insights Picture and Action Plan so that we could target actions based on evidence.

    The plan pulls together information from fatalities, injuries, incidents, near-misses, regulatory notifications, investigations and assessments, worker surveys, and worker interviews and workshops to build a picture of what drives serious harm on ports – who it is happening to, and why. It lays out six key interventions where changes can have a real impact:

    • Putting in place an ACOP for loading and unloading cargo to implement more consistent regulatory standards for some of the highest risk activities on ports. (ACOP approved.)
    • Implementing the Fatigue Risk Management System: Good Practice Guidelines to reduce the risks associated with worker fatigue. (All businesses on ports have started implementing a fatigue risk management system.)
    • Recommending the Government extend Maritime NZ’s designation to cover the whole port. (Government has amended HSWA. Maritime NZ’s extended designation takes effect July 1.)
    • Action to improve training and workforce issues. (Initial micro credentials have been referred to NZQA for review and approval, and a roles and skills matrix is being developed, which will identify additional training and build career pathways.)
    • Work to improve incident reporting, notifications, insights and learning across the Ports, so the sector can get better real time understanding of harm and take necessary action. (Work is underway.)
    • Actions to ensure there are easier ways of sharing good practice that the sector is doing here, or overseas, to encourage continuous improvement on Ports. (Work is underway.)

    “We owe it to those working on ports every day, the people who have died, their families, and those who have been injured, to improve safety on ports.”

    The Leadership Group:

    Jon Moore Chief Executive, North Port

    Roger Gray Chief Executive, Port of Auckland

    Gavin Hudson Chief Executive, C3 Limited

    Aubrey Wilkinson National President Rail and Maritime Transport Union

    Carl Findlay National Secretary, Maritime Union of New Zealand

    Pat Kirk Chair, Port Industry Association

    Paul Cameron Chief Executive, ISO Limited

    Kirstie Hewlett Leadership Group Chair and Director of Maritime NZ

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rescuers remind Kiwis – make sure you can summon help these holidays

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) is reminding outdoors enthusiasts to use established rescue response devices, particularly distress beacons and VHF radios, if they need help in an emergency.

    As technology develops, RCCNZ is seeing more capability coming into the market as telecommunication providers roll out products, such as satellite text message services and increased coverage areas.

    “We support emerging technologies that could be used by people in an emergency who require assistance. These tools have the potential for enabling communication from remote locations. However, distress beacons remain the most reliable and effective way to initiate a rescue,” says Justin Allan, General Manager RCCNZ and Safety Systems.

    “Distress beacons access multiple satellite constellations ensuring there is always coverage across New Zealand, which means an alert will quickly make its way to RCCNZ.”

    “Services such as text messages via satellite can be used to complement your beacon and add value alongside existing emergency communication networks.”

    “Distress beacons continue to be instrumental in saving lives on land and water. They provide a direct link to expert rescuers who work 24/7. You hit a button and the beacon shares your precise location – a crucial detail that allows for an effective rescue response.”

    “Just this week, a family of three fell into the Whanganui River from a canoe. Thanks to their registered hire beacon, an immediate response was initiated, resulting in all three being quickly rescued. They were cold and wet but unharmed.”

    “Beacons are designed to be robust with battery power that can transmit a rescue signal for many hours.”

    “When you register your distress beacon on beacons.org.nz, it gives our team important details to assist your rescue.”

    For maritime emergencies on New Zealand’s coastline, VHF Radio channel 16 remains the best option for immediate communication with rescue services and other boaties in the area.

    “Boaties should carry at least two waterproof ways to communicate that work where you’re going, including a VHF radio and a distress beacon.”

    “If you’re heading outdoors, we recommend having an emergency plan and sharing it with family or friends. Boaties can also register their plans with Maritime Radio or with Coastguard NZ through their app.”

    Register your beacon.

    Learn more about coastal radio.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Think about the risks on the water this holiday season

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ and its Safer Boating partners are appealing for people to know the risks and be prepared before they head out on the water this holiday period.

    Tragically, 17 people have lost their lives in incidents involving recreational boats or other water craft, in New Zealand during 2024. On average 18 people lose their lives on the water every year in avoidable incidents.

    Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor Recreational Craft, Matt Wood says, we do not want to see any more families in New Zealand mourning for loved ones due to incidents on the water.

    “Last summer we had two dozen incidents reported to us, including some serious harm incidents, and sadly one person lost their life just before Christmas last year,” Mr Wood said.

    “Nearly every death on a recreational boat or craft is avoidable.

    “We know over the last few years there have been significant number of incidents close to shore.

    “Over the last 11 years 70% of the fatal incidents occurred within one nautical mile (1,852 meters) from shore.
    “Just because you can see land, doesn’t mean you are safe.

    “Our research has found people forgo wearing a lifejacket, and taking two forms of communication, because they believe they can safely reach shore by swimming if something goes wrong.

    “It is too late to try to put on a lifejacket after you have been tossed out of your vessel and in the water.”

    Recent research by Drowning Prevention Auckland found just under 95% of people cannot swim 100m in a pool in less than five minutes. The number is even lower in open water.

    “The environment along our coast, in our lakes and rivers is far more challenging than swimming pools,” Mr Wood says.
    “It will likely be choppier, swells and currents can take you away from land, the water can be significantly colder, and you are often not dressed for swimming.

    “You may be able to swim well in a pool. However, if you are wearing layers of clothes, and in variable conditions, swimming becomes much more challenging.

    “That is why it is important to wear a life jacket, so you can float, and have two communication options to call for help if things go wrong.”

    Anyone planning on heading out on the water over the summer period needs to prepare their vessels, ensure they have done a day skippers course, always wear a properly fitted lifejacket, take two forms of communication and check the marine weather forecast.

    “We want you to have fun this holiday season, but we really want you to come home safely,” Mr Wood says.

    ENDS

    For more information contact:
    Maritime New Zealand Media
    Email: [email protected], Mobile: +64 (0)4 499 7318

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Driving positive change in the seafarer welfare sector

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Last year Maritime NZ established the New Zealand Seafarer Welfare Council, a body aimed at driving positive change within the seafarer welfare sector. It was created with the help of an advisory group also set up by Maritime NZ.

    The council membership is made up of a balance of industry, government, union and service delivery organisations.

    The purpose of the council is to provide guidance and leadership to ensure that New Zealand continues to meet its obligations in relation to seafarer welfare under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). The council is also responsible for protecting the welfare of New Zealand seafarers not covered by the MLC. It focuses on strategy and policy and looks at how New Zealand represents itself on the international stage with regards to seafarer welfare.

    The council had its first meeting in August 2024 and is currently developing its priorities, which we’ll share on our website as soon as they’re finalised. The council is also strengthening relationships with the Australian Seafarers’ Welfare Council to share learnings, look for joint initiatives, and help address issues more effectively.

    If you have any questions, feel free to email the council at [email protected].

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and safety obligations highlighted in sentencing of former port chief executive

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A chief executive who oversaw the Port of Auckland for more than a decade has been sentenced on 21 February, in a significant case in relation to a 2020 fatal incident at the port.

    In November last year, Judge Bonnar KC in the District Court at Auckland released a decision finding Tony Gibson guilty of one Health and Safety at Work charge, after stevedore Pala’amo Kalati was killed in August 2020.

    This is the first time in New Zealand an officer of a large company has been convicted of a breach of their due diligence duty.

    The Judge’s decision is seen as one that clarifies legislative health and safety obligations for officers of large companies.

    Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett, says people are at the centre of prosecutions such as this, and Mr Kalati’s family, will forever feel the impact of what occurred at the Port of Auckland nearly four and a half years ago.

    “Our thoughts continue to go out to Mr Kalati’s family, friends, as well as those also impacted by this tragic incident, including the other surviving victim.

    “This has not been a quick process, and we fully understand how difficult the ongoing proceedings against the Port and Mr Gibson would have been for those close to Mr Kalati, and the other victim,” says Ms Hewlett.

    The District Court found that, as the chief executive of Port of Auckland, Mr Gibson did not exercise his due diligence responsibility for ensuring that the Port complied with its health and safety responsibilities.  

    “This was a serious departure from the duty of care he should have provided to the workers at the port as the senior officer in charge (the chief executive).

    “Mr Gibson had the knowledge, influence, resources and opportunity to address safety gaps and ensure that appropriate systems were in place at the port, but failed to do so,” Ms Hewlett says.

    During his more than a decade managing it, the port company was convicted of several offences under health and safety legislation. These past incidents resulting in fatalities and serious injuries.

    Mr Gibson knew of safety issues raised around the critical risks that could hurt people on the Port, but did not take timely action to address them, even though it was in his control and influence to do so.

    It is hoped this case will serve as a strong reminder to chief executives of large companies that they need to understand the critical risks at their businesses; and assure themselves, through reliable sources, that there are controls and systems in place, and that these are working effectively on the ground.

    “In saying this I recognise there are many officers in New Zealand who are meeting their health and safety obligations, and they should be confident this decision reaffirms the work they do to keep their people safe at work.

    “More broadly I also want to recognise the work of the Port sector- port companies, stevedores and unions since the death of Mr Kalati to improve safety on New Zealand ports. This work has included the delivery of the Approved Code of Practice (for loading and unloading cargo at ports and on ships) which was launched last year to ensure consistent base line safety standards. It is important that this work continues to ensure we prevent tragedies like this and that workers come home healthy and safe,” Ms Hewlett says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Fiji can’t compete with Australia and NZ on teacher salaries, says deputy PM

    By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/bulletin editor

    Fiji cannot compete with Australia and New Zealand to retain its teachers, the man in charge of the country’s finances says.

    The Fijian education system is facing major challenges as the Sitiveni Rabuka-led coalition struggles to address a teacher shortage.

    While the education sector receives a significant chunk of the budget (about NZ$587 million), it has not been sufficient, as global demand for skilled teachers is pulling qualified Fijian educators toward greener pastures.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad said that the government was training more teachers.

    “The government has put in measures, we are training enough teachers, but we are also losing teachers to Australia and New Zealand,” he told RNZ Pacific Waves on the sidelines of the University of the South Pacific Council meeting in Auckland last week.

    “We are happy that Australia and New Zealand gain those skills, particularly in the area of maths and science, where you have a shortage. And obviously, Fiji cannot match the salaries that teachers get in Australia and New Zealand.

    USP vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia, Fiji’s Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad and Education Minister Aseri Radrodro at the opening of the 99th USP Council Meeting at Auckland University last week. Image: RNZ Pacific/Lydia Lewis

    According to the Education Ministry’s Strategic Development Plan (2023-2026), the shortage of teachers is one of the key challenges, alongside limited resources and inadequate infrastructure, particularly for primary schools.

    Hundreds of vacancies
    Reports in local media in August last year said there were hundreds of teacher vacancies that needed to be filled.

    However, Professor Prasad said there were a lot of teachers who were staying in Fiji as the government was taking steps to keep teachers in the country.

    “We are training more teachers. We are putting additional funding, in terms of making sure that we provide the right environment, right support to our teachers,” he said.

    “In the last two years, we have increased the salaries of the civil service right across the board, and those salaries and wages range from between 10 to 20 percent.

    “We are again going to look at how we can rationalise some of the positions within the Education Ministry, right from preschool up to high school.”

    Meanwhile, the Fiji government is currently undertaking a review of the Education Act 1966.

    Education Minister Aseri Radrodro said in Parliament last month that a draft bill was expected to be submitted to Cabinet in July.

    “The Education Act 1966, the foundational law for pre-tertiary education in Fiji, has only been amended a few times since its promulgation, and has not undergone a comprehensive review,” he said.

    “It is imperative that this legislation be updated to reflect modern standards and address current issues within the education system.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Activists call for Pacific nuclear justice, global unity and victim support

    By Te Aniwaniwa Paterson of Te Ao Māori News

    Eighty years after the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki to end the Second World War, the threat of nuclear fallout remains.

    Last Monday, the UN Human Rights Council issued a formal communication to the Japanese government regarding serious concerns raised by Pacific communities about the dumping of 1.3 million metric tonnes of treated Fukushima nuclear wastewater into the ocean over 30 years.

    The council warned that the release could pose major environmental and human rights risks.

    A protest against the release of Fukushima treated radioactive water in Tokyo, Japan, in mid-May 2023. Image: TAM News/Getty.

    Te Ao Māori News spoke with Mari Inoue, a NYC-based lawyer originally from Japan and co-founder of the volunteer-led group The Manhattan Project for a Nuclear-Free World.

    Recently, at the UN, they called for global awareness, not only about atomic bomb victims but also of the Fukushima wastewater release, and nuclear energy’s links to environmental destruction and human rights abuses.

    Formed a year after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, the group takes its name from the original Manhattan Project — the secret Second World War  US military programme that raced to develop the first atomic bomb before Nazi Germany.

    A pivotal moment in that project was the Trinity Test on July 16, 1945, in New Mexico — the first successful detonation of an atomic bomb. One month later, nuclear weapons were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing an estimated 110,000 to 210,000 people.

    Seeking recognition and justice
    Although 80 years have passed, victims of these events continue to seek recognition and justice. The disarmament group hopes for stronger global unity around the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and more support for victims of nuclear exposure.

    Mari Inoue attended the UN as a representative of the Manhattan Project for a Nuclear-Free World as an interpreter for an atomic bomb survivor. Image: TAM News/UN WebTV.

    The anti-nuclear activists supported the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which seeks to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Their advocacy took place during the third and final preparatory committee for the 2026 NPT review conference, where a consensus report with recommendations from past sessions will be presented.

    Inoue’s group called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to declare Japan’s dumping policy unsafe, and believes Japan and its G7 and EU allies should be condemned for supporting it.

    Hanford Site is a decommissioned nuclear production complex established in 1943 as part of the Manhattan Project . . . The contaminated site once belonged to several Native American tribes. Image: TAM News/Jeff T. Green/Getty

    Nuclear energy for the green transition?
     Amid calls to move away from fossil fuels, some argue that nuclear power could supply the zero-emission energy needed to combat climate change.

    Inoue rejects this, saying that despite not emitting greenhouse gases like fossil fuels, nuclear energy still harms the environment.

    She said there was environmental harm at all processes in the nuclear supply chain.

    Beginning with uranium mining, predominantly contaminating indigenous lands and water sources, with studies showing those communities face increased cancer rates, sickness, and infant mortality. And other studies have shown increased health issues for residents near nuclear reactors.

    Protests at TEPCO, Tokyo Electric Power Company, in Tokyo in August 2023. Image: bDavid Mareuil/Anadolu Agency

    “Nuclear energy is not peaceful and it‘s not a solution to the climate crisis,” Inoue stressed. “Nuclear energy cannot function without exploiting peoples, their lands, and their resources.”

    She also pointed out thermal pollution, where water heated during the nuclear plant cooling process is discharged into waterways, contributing to rising ocean temperatures.

    Inoue added, “During the regular operation, [nuclear power plants] release radioactive isotopes into the environment — for example tritium.”

    She referenced nuclear expert Dr Arjun Makhijani, who has studied the dangers of tritium in how it crosses the placenta, impacting embryos and foetuses with risks of birth defects, miscarriages, and other problems.

    Increased tensions and world forum uniting global voices
     When asked about the AUKUS security pact, Inoue expressed concern that it would worsen tensions in the Pacific. She criticised the use of a loophole that allowed nuclear-powered submarines in a nuclear-weapon-free zone, even though the nuclear fuel could still be repurposed for weapons.

    In October, Inoue will co-organise the World Nuclear Victims Forum in Hiroshima, with 2024 Nobel Peace Prize winner Nihon Hidankyo as one of the promoting organisations.

    The forum will feature people from Indigenous communities impacted by nuclear testing in the US and the Marshall Islands, uranium mining in Africa, and fisheries affected by nuclear pollution.

    Republished from Te Ao Māori News with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 5.23.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 23, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Andrew “Tristan” Peery, of Sacramento, has been appointed Senior Product Manager at the Office of Data and Innovation. Peery has been Director of Web and Interactive Communications at University of California, Davis since 2020, where he was previously Web Applications Development/Web Designer from 2014 to 2020. He held multiple positions at Oregon State University from 2006 to 2013, including Researcher/Web Applications Developer and Graduate Research Assistant. Peery was a Staff Scientist at Woods Hole Group from 2001 to 2005. He earned a Master of Science degree in Physical Oceanography from Oregon State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science from Texas A&M University at Galveston. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $150,348. Peery is registered without party preference. 

    Ramank Bharti, of Napa, has been appointed Director of Risk Management and Project Controls at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Bharti held multiple positions at ALSTOM Inc from 2004 to 2025, including Project Director, United States West Coast Services, Site Controller, Services North America, Region Controller, Controller, Budgeting and Reporting, and Work Package Controller. He was a Program Director at Transportation and Transit Associates from 2003 to 2004. Bharti was an MBA Intern at the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority from 2002 to 2003. He was a Deputy Chief Mechanical Engineer at the North Eastern Railway from 1996 to 2001. Bharti was a Manager, Industrial Engineering at Diesel Component Works from 1992 to 1996. He was a Mechanical Engineer at Northern Railway from 1990 to 1992. Bharti earned a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance from Tulane University and a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Railway Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $225,000. Bharti is a Democrat.

    Kevin Parzych, of San Luis Obispo, has been appointed Chief of Primary Care Services at Atascadero State Hospital. Parzych has been Chief Medical Officer at Wilshire Health and Community Services since 2013 and Owner of Wilshire Connected Care and K Parzych a Medical Corp since 2017. He was Medical Director of Hospice at Good Shepard Homecare and Hospice from 2004 to 2013. Parzych was Owner of Parzych Family Practice from 2002 to 2013. Parzych earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Albany Medical College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $374,400. Parzych is registered with no party preference.

    Madelynn McClain, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of the Division of Administrative Services at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. McClain has been Assistant Deputy Director of the Division of Adult Institutions at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation since 2024. McClain held several positions at the Department of General Services from 2023 to 2024, including Deputy Director of the Real Estate Services Division and Chief Financial Officer. She held several positions at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from 2020 to 2023, including Deputy Director at the Office of Fiscal Services and Associate Director of the Budget Management Branch. McClain was a Principal Program Budget Analyst at the California Department of Finance from 2017 to 2020. She was a Judicial Fiscal Supervisor at the Judicial Council of California from 2015 to 2017. McClain was a Finance Budget Analyst at the Department of Finance from 2003 to 2015. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $208,440. McClain is a Democrat.

    Raul Morales, of Visalia, has been appointed Warden at Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison. Morales has been Acting Warden at Substance Treatment Facility and State Prison since 2024. He was Acting Warden at Valley State Prison in 2024. He held several positions at Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison from 2001 to 2024, including Chief Deputy Warden, Associate Warden, Captain, Correctional Lieutenant, Correctional Sergeant, and Correctional Officer. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $193,524. Morales is registered without party preference. 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    May 23, 2025

    News What you need to know: The City of Tustin received a new water treatment system filtering “forever chemicals,” or PFAS, from local drinking water. TUSTIN – As the federal government announces plans to weaken regulation of “forever chemicals” in drinking water,…

    May 23, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is providing $56 million in grants to help counties provide services for young adults at risk of homelessness. SACRAMENTO – Continuing California’s success in reducing homelessness in youth, Governor Gavin Newsom and the…

    May 23, 2025

    News What you need to know: Six canine officers joined the force to fight back against crime and drug trafficking — the first class trained from day one to detect fentanyl. Sacramento, California – After months of specialized and intensive training, six K-9 teams…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: A Model of UN Peacekeeping: Timor-Leste | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Human Stories of an UN Peacekeeper: Timor-Leste

    ———————————

    Since 2012, Timor-Leste has demonstrated to the world that a path to peace is possible. In the years prior, the Pacific Island nation hosted six UN missions amid prolonged instability and conflict.

    The legacy of peacekeeping remains strong in Timor-Leste, as the Timorese people are now sharing their peacebuilding experience with other conflict-affected regions.

    ———————————

    Summary
    During the turbulent early years of Timor-Leste’s independence, the UN was a constant presence, helping to maintain peace and stability. Twenty-four years on, the country has made the successful transition from a host nation for UN peacekeeping operations, to one that contributes to supporting missions elsewhere.

    ———————————

    Related links:
    United Nations Peacekeeping Operations:
    https://peacekeeping.un.org/en

    Timor-Leste turns peacemaker – News Website:
    https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/02/1159576

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osfHaCEG-GQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Charter boat operator sentenced over fatal incident

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A company’s failure to ensure health and safety policies and procedures were correctly followed played a key role in the tragic death of a passenger on a luxury charter vessel.

    Zefiro Charters Limited was today sentenced in the District Court at Auckland for a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, in relation to the death of Danielle Tamarua on 1 April, 2021, after she fell overboard off the Zefiro. At the time Ms Tamarua was on the vessel with work colleagues on a trip around the Hauraki Gulf.  

    Maritime NZ’s General Manager Investigations, Pete Dwen says the company had been operating the Zefiro for 17 years, and it had policies and procedures in place to keep passengers safe while it was underway.  

    “Tragically these procedures were not followed on 1 April, 2021,” he says.  

    In accordance with the Maritime Operator Safety System, Zefiro Charters’ was operating under a Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP).  This plan identified various health and safety risks, including the hazard of passengers being on the bow of the vessel while it is underway. Ultimatley, the company failed to ensure the systems and processes in the MTOP were properly implemented and enforced on board. 

    “All crew members are meant to know, understand and enforce the health and safety procedures on the vessel.  

    “The MTOP plan also covered a safety briefing which stated passengers were not allowed on the bow, side decks or the duckboard (the very rear of the boat) while it is underway.  

    “Some crew were unaware it was a policy for the vessel,” Mr Dwen says. 

    There was also a lack of a physical barrier for the passengers indicating the no-go areas. 

    Prior to Ms Tamarua falling overboard, the vessel was returning to berth, and weather conditions had worsened.  Ms Tamarua had gone up to the bow of the vessel with another passenger.  

    “When returning to go back inside the vessel, Ms Tamarua slipped and fell overboard. She was struck by the vessel and died, despite the efforts to save her.

    “If the prescribed health and safety procedures were followed, this incident would have likely been avoided,” Pete Dwen says.  

    “This should have been a fun day out on the water. This incident is a horrific example of what can go wrong when a company fails to ensure health and safety procedures are followed. 

    “I want to offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms Tamarua, as well as those on-board the Zefiro on 1 April, 2021. 

    “I also want to thank the emergency service personnel who responded quickly and professionally to a very difficult situation,” Pete Dwen says.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Risks of berthing highlighted in sentencing of barge operator

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A range of factors have been identified as contributing to an incident where a barge crew member was fortunate to survive.

    Nelson Ranger Fishing Company Limited was recently sentencing in the District Court at Christchurch for failing to comply with its duties under the Health and Safety to Work Act 2015.  

    The company, was in 2023 operating the mussel barge, St George. A crew member of the barge was injured while retrieving berthing lines (lines connecting the barge to the wharf) at Lyttelton Port.  

    The St George was crewed by five people.  

    Issues with the company’s safety systems for berthing (1), failings around training and supervision of the crew, and monitoring of procedures were identified as factors in the incident which saw the crew member suffering crushing injuries.  

    “There is risk when berthing a vessel of any type. In this instance the appropriate steps were not undertaken to ensure the safety of the crew,” Investigation’s Manager at Maritime NZ, John Maxwell says.  

    To manage the tidal changes when berthing, Nelson Ranger Fishing Company Limited installed nails on the wharf piles to secure the lines. The system meant on occasion, crew members needed to lean over the side to tie and untie the lines of the vessel while berthing, putting their bodies between the vessel and the wharf. This is what occurred the day the crew member got crushed between the barge and the wharf. 

    While the victim was leaning over the railing and attempting to untie the line, the St George drifted back into the wharf and crushed the victim’s head and neck between the side of the barge and the wharf pile.  

    “This was an incredibly serious incident, and it is very fortunate we are not talking about a fatality,” John Maxwell says.  

    There were other safe options available which could have enabled the crew to securely and safely retrieve berthing lines.  

    The berthing process was identified as a hazard in the vessel manual. With injury to crew listed as a risk.  

    “Unfortunately, this incident is an example of the consequences of what happens when berthing is incorrectly undertaken.  

    “This should serve as a strong reminder to everyone in the maritime industry, from recreational right through to commercial, full attention needs to be given when coming alongside,” John Maxwell says.  

    ENDS  

    Sentencing notes:  

    Nelson Ranger Fishing Company Limited was fined $250,000 and ordered to pay costs of $10,000.  

    Terminology:  

    Berthing: (bringing a vessel alongside to its allotted location at the wharf) 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Safer Boating Week: Come Home Safe

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    As the summer boating season begins, Maritime New Zealand and the Safer Boating Forum are urging all boaties and watercraft users to prioritise safety.

    Safer Boating Week, starting Monday, 21 October, highlights the importance of safety as recreational boaties, and craft users (whether in a power boat, waka ama, kayak, canoe or paddle board) return to the water. For many, this will be the first time since last summer they venture out, making this year’s theme, ‘ Come Home Safe’, more relevant than ever. It builds on last year’s theme and reinforces the need for safe boating practices and encourages everyone to make safety a priority to ensure they return home.

    Maritime NZ’s Director, Kirstie Hewlett, highlighted the ongoing importance of Safer Boating Week in promoting safety messages year-round. “This is our 11th Safer Boating Week, and it’s as important as ever. Over the past decade, more than 170 people have lost their lives in recreational craft incidents.

    “These figures are deeply concerning, and the Safer Boating Forum is committed to reducing the number of deaths on the water,” she says.

    The Safer Boating Forum represents a wide range of recreational craft activities, and this year’s launch event will focus on paddle craft safety.

    Paddle craft users accounted for a significant portion of last year’s fatalities, with 5 out of 11 fatal incidents involving paddle craft.

    At the launch event, we’ll hear from newly crowned Paris Olympic champions Tara Vaughan and Olivia Brett (members of the women’s K4 team with Lisa Carrington), and five-time NZ surf lifesaving Ironwoman champion Danielle Mackenzie. They will share their journeys to becoming elite athletes and how they want to encourage others to take up their sports -safely. Coming from surf lifesaving backgrounds, they know how crucial it is to stay safe around water.

    Maritime NZ’s Harm Prevention Lead for Recreational Craft, Victoria Slade, says paddle craft are particularly vulnerable due to their design and the environments in which they operate.

    “Paddle craft are more likely to capsize than non-paddle craft, and most incidents occurred within one nautical mile of shore or on inland waterways like lakes and rivers. This highlights that danger isn’t just far out at sea,” she says.

    New Zealand’s waters can turn rough quickly, especially for paddle craft users. A calm day can become dangerous within minutes, with strong winds and waves easily overwhelming smaller vessels.

    “If you’re planning to head out on the water, check the marine weather forecast, take two forms of waterproof communication to call for help, and always wear a properly fitting lifejacket,” Ms. Slade says.

    As of 15 October this year, 14 people in recreational craft have died or gone missing after heading out on the water. These tragic incidents occurred in 10 separate incidents.

    Therefore, to help reduce the number of these fatalities, this year’s launch event will also feature a safety campaign called Come Home Safe Deals.

    Research conducted for Maritime NZ about how diverse communities engage with recreational craft safety shows that whānau, family, and friends want to support each other in being safe on the water. These groups are key sources of information and strength.

    Ms. Slade explains, “This safety campaign taps into the importance of these connections, encouraging children, partners, whānau, and friends to influence our target audience and promote safe behaviour.”

    Come Home Safe Deals involves individuals pledging to take certain actions if people they care about follow key safety rules. For example, “If you promise to always wear a lifejacket, I’ll promise to clean my room,” or “If you check the marine weather forecast, I’ll cook your favourite dinner.”

    As part of this initiative, a dedicated web app allows participants to enter into these agreements.

    “Our safety campaign efforts will target this broader audience, guiding them to the Come Home Safe Deals webpage, where they can enter for a chance to win prizes by setting up their deal online,” Ms. Slade says.

    The website, comehomesafe.nz, goes live on October 21 and will run for one month.

    For more safety advice, visit www.saferboating.org.nz, where recreational craft users can find guidance on planning their trips, staying safe on the water, maintaining their boats, and using different types of recreational crafts safely.

    Come home safe. Kia Mataara.

    Editor’s Notes:

    – The Safer Boating Forum is a formal network of 30 organisations including central and local government, boating organisations, and the marine industry.

    – The research was conducted by Litmus, a social research and evaluation agency with specialist multi-disciplinary teams. Maritime NZ commissioned Litmus to conduct a qualitative study on how different communities in Aotearoa New Zealand use craft in interactions with marine environments, how they kept themselves safe while doing so and what ideas they had for how safety could be improved.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Judge finds former CEO guilty of HSWA charge in relation to fatal port incident

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    A court’s decision this week to find a former Port of Auckland (POAL) CEO guilty in relation to the death of a stevedore, clarifies legislative health and safety obligations for senior officers of large companies.

    Following the death of Pala’amo Kalati in August 2020, Maritime NZ filed two alternative charges against former POAL CEO Tony Gibson under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), for a breach of his duties as an officer. Mr Kalati was killed in an accident while loading containers on a ship berthed at the port.

    Judge Bonnar found in favour of Maritime NZ on the charge that alleged: that by failing to comply with his duty under s 44 to exercise due diligence to ensure that POAL complied with its duties under HSWA, Mr Gibson exposed POAL’s stevedores to a risk of death or serious injury, namely, the risk of being struck by objects falling from operating cranes.

    POAL was also charged and previously pleaded guilty to two charges under section 48 of HSWA and was sentenced in late 2023 to a fine of $561,000.

    Maritime NZ Director Kirstie Hewlett says she hopes this decision helps bring closure for Mr Kalati’s loved ones and the surviving victim, and clarity to the health and safety role of senior officers in large companies.

    “I want to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr Kalati’s family, loved ones, and colleagues. And also to the other victim who was working closely with Mr Kalati at the time,” she says.

    “The law Mr Gibson was prosecuted under was introduced following the Pike River tragedy to ensure officers of large companies take responsibility for the health and safety of their workers. We hope this result provides useful case law and clarification around the obligations, and helps prevent future tragedies.”

    This was the first time an officer of a large complex company had been charged under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, for a breach of health and safety duties.

    “Once we have time to considered the judgment we will work with WorkSafe NZ and the Institute of Directors to see whether the insights in the case could usefully be used to further support those in officer roles to understand their responsibilities,” Ms Hewlett says.

    “It is important to recognise that many officers in New Zealand take health and safety seriously and that this case was only taken after considering the harm caused, the compliance history on the port, and taking into account the broader public interest. As with any case it is important to understand the facts are specific to the case and what a reasonable Chief Executive would do in that situation.”

    Maritime NZ will now take time to consider the judgement and await to learn if Mr Gibson will appeal. We will not be able to comment further at this time.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Data requirements: Other Fund Actuals – Data System Refresh programme

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 12 November 2024
    Last updated 12 November 2024

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    This page contains information about the data requirements for Other Fund Actuals data submission from 1 October 2024.
    This page contains information about the data requirements for Other Fund Actuals data submission from 1 October 2024.

    Other Fund Actuals data submissions transition to DXP Ngā Kete on 1 October 2024, in time for submissions relating to the year to 30 September 2024.
    Table of changes to Other Fund Actuals data requirements

    Date

    Version

    Explanation of the Change

    25 September 2024

    V0.3

    Corrected field name for National Student Number

    11 September 2024

    V0.2

    Removed ‘Name ID code’ field previously added in V0.1

    24 August 2024

    V0.1

    Added ‘Name ID code’ field for some templates
    Updated some ‘field names’
    Removal of fields no longer required
    Added validation rules for some templates
    Added a check for duplicate rows
    CSV template format replaces Excel workbook

    Data requirements – Other Fund Actuals
    These documents detail the data that the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) needs when you submit Other Fund Actuals on DXP Ngā Kete from 1 October 2024. They include any new or changed fields and an explanation of the new validation rules (if applicable).
    Data Requirements for all Other Fund Actuals v0.3 (DOCX 259 KB)
    Examples of required templates
    Please note: Some macrons do not display correctly in the .csv template but the data uploads correctly in DXP Ngā Kete.

    Schedule of what is changing
    This document lists the current (pre-1 October 2024) data requirements and a description of the changes required for 1 October 2024.
    Data Requirements for Other Fund Actuals: schedule of changes v0.3 (DOCX 254 KB) 
    Reference Data
    The reference data lists values for specific fields referred to in the Data Requirements. Reference data is aligned to the Stats NZ definitions (where possible). 
    Reference data for Other Fund Actuals v1.0 (XLSX 70 KB)
    Helpful resources
    View a recording of these online events to learn more about DXP Ngā Kete:

    The following resources are available in DXP Ngā Kete user guides:

    User Guide: Other Fund Actuals data submission – step-by-step instructions on how to submit your Other Fund Actuals data submission.
    User Guide: Documents – step-by-step instructions on how to view, add/upload, edit and delete documents in DXP Ngā Kete. 

    Data System Refresh programme
    For more information, see Data System Refresh (DSR) programme.
    Need help?
    Our Customer Contact Group (CCG) is your first point of contact as you begin to use DXP Ngā Kete. If you have any questions, please call 0800 601 301 or email customerservice@tec.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Data requirements: Gateway data submissions – Data System Refresh Programme

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 17 February 2025
    Last updated 17 February 2025

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    This page provides information about transition to DXP Ngā Kete and changes to data requirements for Gateway-funded schools.
    This page provides information about transition to DXP Ngā Kete and changes to data requirements for Gateway-funded schools.

    What is DXP Ngā Kete?
    The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) has a major initiative under way to create a new and sustainable solution for collecting, managing and reporting data that supports investment decisions.
    The new portal (DXP Ngā Kete) will replace Workspace 2 on 1 October 2024. You will be able to use it to:

    access and submit Gateway data submissions
    view and upload documents.

    What are the main changes?
    The main changes you will see are:

    a new portal (DXP Ngā Kete) with a modernised look and feel
    an online data-entry option (to simplify data entry for smaller Gateway data submissions)
    a file upload process similar to the existing process on Workspace 2 but uses a CSV file format. Options are:

    the new ‘Gateway-Actuals-template.csv’ in the portal, or
    the ‘Gateway Actuals alternative template’ below (using WS2 columns).

    Gateway Actuals alternative template (CSV 445 bytes)
    There are also some changes to data requirements for Gateway Actuals:

    ‘Employer NZBN’ added – optional
    ‘Comments field’ removed
    gender now aligned with the Stats NZ data standard.

    Table of changes

    Date
    Version
    Explanation of the change

    21 September 2024
    v0.3
    Corrected field name for National Student Number

    10 September 2024
    v0.2
    Removed Name ID code field added in version 0.1

    For more information, see Data Requirements for Gateway Actuals 2024.
    Data Requirements for Gateway Actuals 2024 v0.3 (DOCX 216 KB)
    Reference data
    The reference data lists values for specific fields referred to in the data requirements. Reference data aligns to the Stats NZ definitions (where possible).
    For more information, see Reference Data for Gateway Actuals 2024.
    Reference data for Other Fund Actuals v1.0 (XLSX 70 KB)
    How do I access DXP Ngā Kete?
    You don’t need to do anything to transition to DXP Ngā Kete. The Ministry of Education will add the DXP Ngā Kete roles to existing Education Sector Login (ESL) user profiles on 26 September 2024.
    Going forward, you can request a DXP Ngā Kete role through the normal ESL processes.
    For more information on DXP Ngā Kete roles, see DXP Ngā Kete access and roles – Data System Refresh.
    For more information on how to login to DXP Ngā Kete, see Accessing DXP Ngā Kete user guide. 
    When do I start using DXP Ngā Kete?
    You start using DXP Ngā Kete from 1 October 2024. 
    Gateway Actuals and Gateway Standard Actuals templates will be provisioned onto DXP Ngā Kete in the week starting 21 October 2024.
    For now, continue using:

    Ngā Kete (not DXP Ngā Kete) to access TEC Information Products/Qlik Reports, including My Gateway Provision: Data quality issues sheet
    Workspace 2 to view historical returns and documents (until early 2025).

    Learn more about DXP Ngā Kete
    You are welcome to attend these online events to learn more about DXP Ngā Kete.

    Helpful resources
    The following resources are available in DXP Ngā Kete user guides:

    User Guide: Gateway data submission – step-by-step instructions on how to submit your Gateway data submission (coming soon)
    User Guide: Documents – step-by-step instructions on how to view, add/upload, edit and delete documents in DXP Ngā Kete
    Gateway Handbook (PDF 786 KB)

    Data System Refresh programme
    For more information, see Data System Refresh (DSR) programme.
    Need help?
    Our Customer Contact Group (CCG) is your first point of contact as you begin to use DXP Ngā Kete. If you have any questions, please call 0800 601 301 or email customerservice@tec.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Learner eligibility – final-year Fees Free

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    This page sets out the learner eligibility criteria for the final-year Fees Free policy.
    This page sets out the learner eligibility criteria for the final-year Fees Free policy.

    From 2025, to get Fees Free for the final year of study or training, learners must:

    complete a qualification or a programme that’s eligible for Fees Free, and
    meet the residency criteria at the time they complete, and
    meet the prior study and training criteria, and
    not have already used Fees Free.

    Learners who have used first-year Fees Free are not eligible for final-year Fees Free, even if they did not use their full first-year entitlement.
    For more information, see:

    Learner eligibility FAQs
    Are there any age requirements for Fees Free?
    There are no age requirements or restrictions for final-year Fees Free.
    Are learners studying part-time eligible for Fees Free?
    Learners eligible for Fees Free can study either part-time or full-time. However, Fees Free will not cover fees for study or training undertaken more than 5 years before the qualification or programme completion date.
    Does a learner have to have a student loan to be eligible for Fees Free?
    No. A learner with or without a student loan who meets the eligibility criteria will be eligible for final-year Fees Free.
    If a learner defers or fails courses during their study, or takes longer than usual to complete a qualification, can they still get Fees Free?
    There is no time limit within which a learner must start and complete a qualification or programme to be eligible for Fees Free. However, on completion, Fees Free will only cover the final 1 EFTS / 24 months / $12,000 used within the last 5 years. Fees Free will not cover fees for study or training towards the learner’s final year that was undertaken more than 5 years before completion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Prior study and training criteria – final-year Fees Free

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    This page sets out the prior study and training criteria for final-year Fees Free learner eligibility.
    This page sets out the prior study and training criteria for final-year Fees Free learner eligibility.

    On this page: 

    Prior study and training eligibility will depend on:

    if the learner has completed any other qualifications or programmes on or after 1 January 2025, and
    if the learner has undertaken any study or training before 2025.

    Fees Free is for the first qualification or programme a learner completes
    Fees Free is to be used for the first qualification or programme a learner completes on or after 1 January 2025.
    In most circumstances, learners will not be able to claim Fees Free for a qualification or programme that is not the first qualification or programme they have completed on or after 1 January 2025.
    If a learner has completed any overseas tertiary qualification or programme at any level or any duration, on or after 1 January 2025, they are not eligible for Fees Free.
    Learners will not be able to claim Fees Free if they have completed one or more qualifications or programmes that were:

    completed on or after 1 January 2025, and
    completed before they completed the qualification or programme they are seeking Fees Free for, and
    at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF, and were

    provider-based study equal to or greater than 0.5 equivalent full-time student (EFTS) units, or
    work-based learning made up of at least 120 credits.

    Exceptions
    The following New Zealand qualifications will not affect a learner’s eligibility even if it was completed first:

    school learning programmes and secondary tertiary programmes
    certificates of proficiency
    pathway qualifications
    zero fee qualifications
    qualifications funded through the Youth Guarantee (YG) Fund, Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT), or the Refugee English Funds. 

    Any study or training undertaken on or after 1 January 2025 that a learner does not complete will not impact their eligibility for Fees Free.
    Learners starting study or training for the first time on or after 1 January 2025
    Learners can get Fees Free if they are starting study for the first time on or after 1 January 2025 and they meet the other residency and prior study criteria.
    Learners are not considered to be starting study for the first time if they have undertaken any study or training before 1 January 2025. This includes study or training that:

    was undertaken overseas
    wasn’t funded by the Tertiary Education Commission
    not completed, or was withdrawn from, outside the refund period
    received a fail grade for
    had no fees
    was paid for by the learner or by a student loan (whether the loan is now repaid or not)
    was part of workplace training or an apprenticeship
    you undertaken while enrolled in secondary education as an adult learner.

    Learners who have undertaken study or training before 1 January 2025
    Learners will not be eligible for Fees Free if they have undertaken study or training before 1 January 2025 that is:

    more than half a year of equivalent full-time tertiary education (0.5 EFTS or 60 credits), and
    at Level 3 or above on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF), and
    any tertiary education at an equivalent level and duration undertaken in any country prior to 1 January 2025.

    The following do not count as prior study or training undertaken before 1 January 2025:

    any tertiary education undertaken while enrolled in secondary school
    any credits achieved as part of an industry training programme of fewer than 120 credits that were reported on after 1 January 2018
    any zero fee courses undertaken from 1 January 2023
    any tertiary study or training that was funded through the Youth Guarantee, Māori and Pasifika Trades Training or Refugee English Funds
    any study or training undertaken from 1 January 2025.

    Targeted Training Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF)-funded programmes are included when assessing a learner’s prior study.
    Definition of “undertaken”
    If a learner has “undertaken” study or training, it means they have previously enrolled in tertiary education. For the purposes of Fees Free eligibility, this includes any tertiary education before 2025 that:

    was undertaken in New Zealand and/or overseas
    was not funded by the TEC
    was part-time or full-time study or training
    was workplace training or an apprenticeship
    was New Zealand study or training that pre-dated the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) or New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF)
    was not completed, including where a learner withdrew after the refund period
    received a fail grade
    was undertaken as a domestic or international student
    before 2023 had no fees associated with it
    was paid for by the learner accessing a student loan, using a scholarship, or paying for it themself.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Entitlement – final-year Fees Free

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    On this page:

    Final-year Fees Free entitlement is for the final year of the first provider-based qualification or work-based programme a learner completes from 1 January 2025, if that programme meets the qualification and programme eligibility criteria.
    Learners starting study or training for the first time on or after 1 January 2025 can receive Fees Free for the final year of the first eligible qualification they complete.
    Learners may still be able to claim Fees Free for a qualification or programme that is not the first qualification or programme they have completed on or after 1 January 2025. Refer to the prior study and training criteria.
    Learners can’t choose which qualification or programme they use final-year Fees Free for.
    Entitlement is to be used for one provider-based qualification or work-based programme.
    Fees will not be covered for study or training undertaken prior to 1 January 2025.
    Provider-based study and work-based learning each have their own definition of the “final year”, and what fees final-year Fees Free entitlement covers.
    Final year of provider-based study
    The “final year” of provider-based study covers up to 1 EFTS, or up to $12,000 including GST (whichever the learner reaches first).
    Learners can study either part time or full time.
    Final-year Fees Free covers tuition fees, compulsory course costs and student services fees for provider-based learners. No other fees, such as administration fees from StudyLink, will be covered.
    The “final year” of study may also be the first year of study for provider-based qualifications that are only 1 equivalent full-time student (EFTS).
    Final year of work-based study
    The “final year” of work-based learning covers up to 24 months, or up to $12,000 including GST (whichever the learner reaches first).
    Learners can study either part time or full time.
    Final-year Fees Free covers all fees for training and assessment charged to eligible work-based learners and their employers, including fees paid to tertiary education organisations funded from the Delivery at Levels 3–7 (non-degree) on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework and all industry training (DQ3-7) Fund, or directly to training and assessment providers.
    Entitlement cannot be carried over
    Entitlement must be used for the final year of one provider-based qualification or work-based programme. Entitlement cannot be carried over to another qualification or programme if the learner does not reach 1 EFTS, 24 months, or $12,000 including GST for their first qualification or programme.
    Limit on calculating total fees
    There is a 5-year limit on how we will calculate the total fees for the final year of study or training. Fees will not be covered for study or training undertaken more than 5 years before qualification or programme completion. For example, a learner who starts their final year, takes a break from study and then returns to complete their study more than 5 years later will only be covered for their final year of study within the 5-year period.
    Training Incentive Allowance
    Learners who use the Training Incentive Allowance (TIA) to cover some or all of their course fees during their final calendar year of their qualification will not be able to access Fees Free for the same course fees.
    A learner may still use TIA to cover other costs, such as childcare or transport, during their final year and still receive Fees Free for their tuition, compulsory course costs, and student services fees. TIA used for fees in earlier years doesn’t impact eligibility for Fees Free in the learner’s final year.
    Learners who opt to use TIA for course fees in their final year of an eligible qualification that they complete will not be eligible to receive Fees Free for the final year of a second eligible qualification.
    The Ministry of Social Development will work with those applying for the TIA to help them make an informed decision on their use of the TIA and Fees Free.
    Training Incentive Allowance – Work and Income
    Mana in Mahi
    Learners who trained at Level 3 or above and had their fees covered by an employer through the Mana in Mahi – Strength in Work programme will not be able to access Fees Free for final-year fees.
    Receiving entitlement
    From 2026, after completing their first provider-based qualification or work-based programme, learners will log in to myIR on Inland Revenue’s website to confirm their eligibility and claim their final-year Fees Free entitlement. The first payments for completed qualifications and programmes will be made in early 2026.
    Learners have 12 months to claim their entitlement once they have completed their qualification or programme. Learners that complete their first qualification in 2025, before the claim process is available, will have until the end of 2026.
    If eligible, the entitlement will either be paid against the learner’s student loan balance if they have one or, if not, will be paid to the learner’s nominated bank account. The first payments for completed qualifications will be made in early 2026.
    Only learners can claim their Fees Free entitlement. Employers that have paid learners’ fees may consider if it is appropriate to update employment agreements and/or arrangements with their employees.
    Changing TEOs part way through study or training
    Fees Free entitlement will only be for the final year of the first completed eligible provider-based qualification or work-based programme.
    Generally, when cross-crediting from different qualifications or programmes, learners will not be able to claim Fees Free for the study undertaken towards another qualification or programme that they did not complete.
    Where a learner changes their TEO but continues in the same qualification or programme, Fees Free will cover the final year of that qualification or programme across both TEOs.
    Exit qualifications
    For acceptance of a provider-based qualification at a lower level of the NZQCF, or an “exit qualification”, learners will be able to claim Fees Free for the final 1 EFTS or $12,000 of the qualification they were enrolled in prior to being awarded the exit qualification. In these circumstances, and where the learner’s qualification expires during their final year, TEC will need to collect additional data from provider-based TEOs to accurately calculate the learner’s entitlement.
    Overseas exchange programmes
    Learners undertaking the final year of their qualification on a formal overseas exchange arranged through their domestic provider are entitled to Fees Free.  
    Learners’ entitlement will be calculated on their last 1 EFTS or $12,000 of study or training (whichever occurs first) that they undertook at their domestic provider. For example, if a student goes on exchange for the last year of their study, their eligibility will be calculated based on their second to last year of study.
    Learners who go overseas and study abroad in their final year (ie, they are not on a formal exchange programme) are not eligible for final-year Fees Free.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority and National Conference of University Hospital General Managers of France sign declaration of intent (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

    The Hospital Authority (HA) and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers of France signed a three-year declaration of intent today (May 26) to strengthen collaboration and exchanges between the two parties in various areas of hospital management and development, including promoting green hospital initiatives and the development of smart hospital, coping with an ageing population, and research and innovation.
     
    The signing ceremony was held during the HA Convention 2025. The Special Envoy of the President of the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers, Mr Frédéric Rimattei, and the HA Chief Executive, Dr Tony Ko, signed the three-year (2025-2028) declaration of intent, witnessed by the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe; the Counsellor for Health, Social Affairs and Labor from the Embassy of France in China, Mr Romain Jacquet; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; and the HA Chairman, Mr Henry Fan.
     
    The National Conference of University Hospital General Managers is composed of 32 university hospital centres in France, covering about 40 per cent of the public healthcare services in the country, and is responsible for promoting the development of medical education and clinical research. Mr Fan said that there is ample room for collaboration between the two parties in various healthcare-related areas. The signing of the declaration of intent has laid the foundation for various collaborative initiatives in the future.
     
    Mr Fan said, “The French public healthcare system is highly acclaimed internationally, and we have much to learn from each other. I look forward to deepening our collaboration in the future, particularly in the areas of sustainable development of the healthcare system, application of smart technologies, talent exchange and training, as well as research and innovation to jointly enhance the quality and standards of healthcare services.”
     
    The President of the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers, Mr Philippe El Saïr, said, “We are delighted to embark on an extensive collaboration with the HA. I believe that both parties will leverage their respective strengths, share experiences and expertise in various aspects of hospital management and development, and promote in-depth exchanges among healthcare professionals in the two places, as well as explore opportunities for clinical research collaboration in different areas.”
     
    Going forward, the HA and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers will organise regular meetings to plan various collaborative initiatives in detail, and actively arrange reciprocal visits and exchange activities to jointly foster the development of healthcare services in both places.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Panel on Public Service conducts duty visit to Shenzhen (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

          The Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Public Service conducted a duty visit to Shenzhen today (May 26) to gain insight into the developments in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for assisting public officers in handling government administrative work. The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, and other government officials also participated in the visit.
     
          Members visited the Government Services and Data Management bureau of the Shenzhen Municipality in Futian District in the morning to learn about how the local government has introduced “AI digital employees” to assist public officers in their work. The system began development in 2023 and utilised DeepSeek to enhance the capability of its large language model for public administration early this year. Members were informed about how public officers make use of the “AI digital employees” installed on computers and mobile phones, including for drafting official documents and handling public cases more efficiently.
     
          Members then visited the Shenzhen Government Service Center and received a briefing by its representatives on how AI is used for providing various public services. During the visit, Members observed the services provided by the Center, and learned about the operation of the platform for addressing public concerns.
     
          Members went to the Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court in the afternoon to learn about the operation of the nation’s first “Vertical Domain-specific Large Model” dedicated to judicial trials, which was established last year. Members observed the use of the AI-Enhanced Adjudication Assisting System, and exchanged views with representatives of the Court. The system covers the legal processes of civil, criminal and administrative litigation, helping judicial officers analyse case details, summarise facts and clarify points of contention. It also assists judges in accurately citing authoritative precedents in their rulings.
     
          Members also toured an innovative and technology company in Nanshan District to learn how AI is being used to enhance the efficiency of legal services. The company specialises in providing enterprises with large-model services and solutions for legal compliance. Members received a briefing from company representatives on innovations in the legal services sector, followed by an exchange session.
     
          Members who participated in the duty visit were the Chairman of the Panel, Ms Nixie Lam, the Deputy Chairman of the Panel, Mr Benson Luk, Panel members Ms Doreen Kong, Dr Johnny Ng, Mr Lam San-keung, Mr Dennis Leung, Mr Kingsley Wong, and Dr So Cheung-wing; as well as a non-Panel member Ms Maggie Chan. They returned to Hong Kong in the evening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –