NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: Older Australians are also hurting from the housing crisis. Where are the election policies to help them?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Cornell, Research Fellow, Flinders University

    shutterstock beeboys/Shutterstock

    It would be impossible at this stage in the election campaign to be unaware that housing is a critical, potentially vote-changing, issue. But the suite of policies being proposed by the major parties largely focus on young, first home buyers.

    What is glaringly noticeable is the lack of measures to improve availability and affordability for older people.

    Modern older lives are diverse, yet older people have become too easily pigeonholed. No more so than in respect to property, where a perception has flourished that older people own more than their fair share of housing wealth.

    While the value of housing has no doubt increased, home ownership rates among people reaching retirement age has actually declined since the mid-1990s.

    Older people can also face rental stress and homelessness – with almost 20,000 homeless people in Australia aged over 55. Severe housing stress is a key contributing to those homelessness figures.

    It’s easy to blame older Australians for causing, or exacerbating, the housing crisis. But doing so ignores the fact that right now, our housing system is badly failing many older people too.

    No age limits

    Owning a home has traditionally provided financial security for retirees, especially ones relying on the age pension. This is so much so, that home ownership is sometimes described as the “fourth pillar” of Australia’s retirement system.

    But housing has become more expensive – to rent or buy – for everyone.

    Falling rates of home ownership
    combined with carriage of mortgage debt into retirement, restricted access to shrinking stocks of social housing, and lack of housing affordability in the private rental market have a particular impact on older people.

    Housing rethink

    Housing policy for older Australians has mostly focused on age-specific options, such as retirement villages and aged care. Taking such a limited view excludes other potential solutions from across the broader housing system that should be considered.

    Furthermore, not all older people want to live in a retirement village, and fewer than 5% of older people live in residential aged care.

    More than 20,000 older Australians are homeless, blamed in part on severe housing stress.
    Michael Heim/Shutterstock

    During my Churchill Fellowship study exploring alternative, affordable models of housing for older people, I discovered three cultural themes that are stopping us from having a productive conversation about housing for older people.

    • Australia’s tradition of home ownership undervalues renting and treats housing as a commodity, not a basic need. This disadvantages older renters and those on low income.

    • There’s a stigma regarding welfare in Australia, which influences who is seen as “deserving” and shapes the policy responses.

    • While widely encouraged, “ageing-in-place” means different things to different people. It can include formal facilities or the family home that needs modifications to make it habitable as someone ages.

    These themes are firmly entrenched, often driven by policy narratives such as the primacy of home ownership over renting. In the past 50 years or so, many have come to view welfare, such as social housing, as a last resort, and have aimed to age in their family home or move into a “desirable” retirement village.

    Variety is key

    A more flexible approach could deliver housing for older Australians that is more varied in design, cost and investment models.

    The promises made so far by political parties to help younger home buyers are welcome. However, the housing system is a complex beast and there is no single quick fix solution.

    First and foremost, a national housing and homelessness plan is required, which also involves the states and territories. The plan must include explicit consideration of housing options for older people.

    Funding for housing developments needs to be more flexible in terms of public-private sector investment and direct government assistance that goes beyond first home buyer incentives.

    International models

    For inspiration, we could look to Denmark, which has developed numerous co-housing communities.

    Co-housing models generally involve self-managing communities where residents have their own private, self-contained home, supported by communal facilities and spaces. They can be developed and designed by the owner or by a social housing provider. They can be age-specific or multi-generational.

    Australian policy makers could look to the success of social housing developments in Copenhagen, Denmark.
    ToniSo/Shutterstock

    Funding flexibility, planning and design are key to their success. Institutional investors include

    • so-called impact investors, who seek social returns and often accept lower financial returns

    • community housing providers

    • member-based organisations, such as mutuals and co-operatives.

    Government also plays a part by expediting the development process and providing new pathways to more affordable ownership and rental options.

    Europe is also leading the way on social housing, where cultural attitudes are different from here.

    In Vienna, Austria, more than 60% of residents live in 440,000 socially provided homes. These homes are available for a person’s entire life, with appropriate age-related modifications permitted if required.

    At over 20% of the total housing stock, social housing is also a large sector in Denmark, where the state and municipalities support the construction of non-profit housing.

    Overcoming stereotyes

    Our population is ageing rapidly, and more older people are now renting or facing housing insecurity.

    If policymakers continue to ignore their housing needs, even more older people will be at risk of living on the street, and as a result will suffer poor health and social isolation.

    Overcoming stereotypes – such as the idea that all older people are wealthy homeowners – is key to building fairer, more inclusive solutions.

    This isn’t just about older Australians. It’s about creating a housing system that works for everyone, at every stage of life.

    Victoria Cornell is employed by Flinders University, and received The AV Jennings Churchill Fellowship to investigate alternative, affordable models of housing that could help older Australians to age-in-place

    – ref. Older Australians are also hurting from the housing crisis. Where are the election policies to help them? – https://theconversation.com/older-australians-are-also-hurting-from-the-housing-crisis-where-are-the-election-policies-to-help-them-255391

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pocket Maps

    Source: Walking Access New Zealand

    Pocket Maps is a mobile mapping app for the outdoors. Find out what publicly accessible areas are local to you and explore somewhere new.

    Download now

    Download Pocket Maps via the Apple App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android.

    What is Pocket Maps? 

    Pocket Maps allows you to view public access areas and conservation land all across Aotearoa – right from your device, anytime and anywhere. Maps can be viewed online with a Wi-Fi connection or downloaded to be viewed offline.

    How does it work?

    Pocket Maps lets you search your exact location by region and through the map layers, understand what type of access land you are currently on or looking to walk, hunt, fish or mountain bike across. 

    The maps are split into regions and available to be downloaded to use offline.  

    App features include:

    • Publicly accessible areas in Aotearoa, shown by type
    • Range of map layers for outdoor recreation
    • Ability to generate elevation profiles
    • Get coordinates and share
    • Selection of high quality basemaps
    • Offline topographic maps for each region
    • Find your location
    • Draw and measure routes

    Pocket Maps was developed by Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa | Outdoor Access Commission, in partnership with our GIS technology partner, Eagle Technology.

    Pocket Maps Topographic

    Learn about the new topographic default basemap: Pocket Maps Topographic.

    Now available for online and offline use. 

    Get help

    Pocket Maps help guide

    Disclaimer

    This app is not a substitute for a GPS unit and should be used in conjunction with one if going outdoors. 

    Please read our data disclaimer before using the app. 

    Privacy policy

    Read the latest version of the Pocket Maps privacy policy.

    Changelog

    See a full summary of the latest changes to Pocket Maps in our changelog.

    Feedback

    If you have questions or want to provide feedback, get in touch with the Pocket Maps team at: 

    GIS@herengaanuku.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Regional field advisors

    Source: Walking Access New Zealand

    Senitra Nathan-Marsh

    senitra.nathan-marsh@herengaanuku.govt.nz

    027 229 1285

    Senitra considers herself a “fruitsalad” being a descendent of many iwi from Te-Ika-a-Māui and Rarotonga, however, she considers her ukaipō beneath her maunga Koro Ruapehu.

    For the majority of her life, Senitra ventured between Tokoroa and Central Hawkes Bay, between her kui and koro. Throughout her upbringing, Senitra absorbed the Mātauranga of her koroua and embraced their old values and ways.

    Senitra’s career has traversed many landscapes, starting from (the fun stuff) scaling her own maunga, Koro Ruapehu, tracking and catching manu on her whenua, and mahi the ngahere back home.

    Since her “good old ranger days,” she has worked for local regulatory bodies such as district councils, DOCs, and post-settlement governance entities. Her “niche” is navigating governmental and regulatory processes, as she likes to ” geek out ” about legislation.

    Senitra created her business, Uehā Environmental, to continue to be of service to our communities whilst also completing her Masters in Māori and Indigenous Leadership, focusing rangatiratanga (self-determination and leadership) when receiving taonga from Tangaroa (whale strandings)

    She currently fulfils a role of passion as a kaimanaaki (helper) alongside mana moana (people of the sea), mana whenua (people of the land), DOC and Massey University for when taonga strand, and considers her happy place alongside Ikanui (whales and dolphins), activating and supporting kaitiakitanga and rangatiratanga.

    You will often see Senitra with her four-legged buddy Tex (included in the picture), exploring along rivers and in outdoor recreational areas.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Suspected network intrusion probed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Health Bureau’s Primary Healthcare Commission announced the suspected hacking of the outsourced network system of the Kwai Tsing District Health Centre (Kwai Tsing DHC) on April 27, resulting in a possible leakage of members’ data.

     

    Such data include members’ names, membership numbers, dates of birth, residential districts, and the first four digits of the Hong Kong Identity Card of some members who have enrolled in a vaccination programme. The operator is currently assessing the possible number of members affected and the data involved.

     

    The commission stressed that it is highly concerned about the incident, and has instructed the Kwai Tsing Safe Community & Healthy City Association, the operator of the Kwai Tsing DHC, to seriously follow up and submit a report within three working days.

     

    According to the operator, the system involved is managed independently by its outsourced service provider, and is mainly used to assist with administrative work such as service booking or members sign-in at the Kwai Tsing DHC.

     

    The Primary Healthcare Commission noted that in addition to reporting the incident to Police as well as the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, the operator has also notified the Digital Policy Office.

     

    As required by the commission, the operator has immediately suspended the operation of the Kwai Tsing DHC’s network system and all external connections to its computer servers to prevent further intrusion attempts by hackers. An independent cybersecurity expert has also been hired to conduct an investigation and review.

     

    Due to the system suspension, the appointments on blood taking and seasonal influenza vaccination of relevant Kwai Tsing DHC members will be rescheduled. The operator has started to notify those members via phone calls and text messages, and will also inform all its members of the hacking incident.

     

    Furthermore, for the sake of prudence, as the Kwai Tsing DHC is a registered healthcare provider on eHealth, the operator’s eHealth registration has been suspended in order to protect the data privacy and system security of eHealth. During the suspension period, the Kwai Tsing DHC is unable to gain access to any electronic health record in eHealth.

     

    The Kwai Tsing DHC’s connection with eHealth will only resume once security risks are fully eliminated.

     

    Call 1878 222 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: One year from extinction day: Minister urged to act

    Source: ACT Party

    “We are now less than one year away from a potential mass extinction event for small incorporated societies across New Zealand,” warns ACT MP Laura McClure, who has a bill in Parliament’s ballot to address the issue.

    With the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 set to require all existing societies to re-register under a new regime by April next year, McClure is raising the alarm again that it will impose unsustainable costs on many grassroots small societies.

    RNZ has reported that around 18,000 incorporated societies are yet to re-register under the new legislation.

    “Small societies are telling me that they lack the expertise to deal with the upcoming regime’s unworkable rules. Stamp collecting groups and running clubs can’t necessarily afford the thousands of dollars in financial and legal advice to stay above board,” says McClure.

    “These are not large societies. These are local clubs and community associations that have operated successfully, providing valuable services to the community, and now they face the real risk of folding entirely.

    “I have lodged a member’s bill that would define small societies, and effectively carve them out from the most onerous new liabilities and financial reporting requirements. This week I have written to the new Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister to urge that he either implement my suggested changes to legislation, or defer the looming compliance deadline.

    “It is not too late to act, but the clock is ticking.”

    Laura McClure’s Incorporated Societies (Small Societies) Amendment Bill can be found here.

    Her letter to the Minister can be found here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future of the Aratere

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Rail Winston Peters says the decision by the KiwiRail board to retire the Aratere from service is about the next 60 years of rail on the Cook Strait. Ferry Holdings supports this decision. 

    “We will not waste one tax dollar on shuffling infrastructure to keep the vessel in service for the sake of it or add any infrastructure risk to our objective of completion in 2029.  That would have cost $120 million.

    “Building marine infrastructure while ferries are berthing there can’t be done.

    “The Aratere berth in Wellington requires work to be done on it, saving the taxpayer considerable money compared to iReX’s brand new infrastructure,” Mr Peters says.

    The Aratere berth in Picton will be demolished and a new, double lane linkspan will be built in its place to serve road and rail for the next 60 years.

    “Under iReX, a whole temporary operation was to be built at taxpayers’ expense only to knock it down when permanent infrastructure was built, plus ‘Taj Mahal’ terminal buildings and expensive works across the wider yards in Wellington and Picton. That is not good use of funds, and we are getting the taxpayer a superior deal. 

    “KiwiRail has briefed us on their plans to serve the market in the interim. Goods will still get from A to B by shifting freight on to the Kaitaki and Kaiārahi, making use of coastal shipping for some heavy freight such as grain, and adapting their rail and ferry schedules to best suit the market. 

    “Passengers will still have capacity, and we may see some evening sailings being busier than normal around Christmas and Easter. 

    “We know that job losses are hard. KiwiRail advise us that voluntary redundancy will be offered across the wider Interislander team, and they will be seeking redeployment opportunities where possible,” Mr Peters says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Safeguarding Pastures, Increasing Dairy Income for Mongolian Herders

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    A recent study by the Asian Development Bank indicates that developing modern milk production based on inclusive contractual arrangements has the potential to address seasonal fluctuations in milk supply, while alleviating the overgrazing problem and supporting the livelihood of herder households at the same time.

    As part of the private sector-led Inclusive Dairy Value Chain Investment Project, which was implemented from 2019 to 2023, ADB supported the Mongolian dairy processor, Milko Limited Liability Company, in expanding the collection of raw milk from herder households in six soums (sub-provinces) in three aimags (provinces) of Mongolia. With this project support, collection points were installed in soum centers located as far as over 400 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar, where Milko’s processing plant is located. Each collection point was strategically identified to gather raw milk from around 200 herder households located within a radius of around 70 kilometers. Once sufficient milk is collected, it is transported to the processing facility in Ulaanbaatar by a larger truck. This system ensures that the raw milk can reach the processing facility in less than 24 hours after milking during the peak milk production months.

    The impact study reveals that herder households supplying raw milk to Milko could increase their inflation-adjusted household income by 3.6% per year, compared to 2.6% of the comparison group or non-supplying herders, while controlling for other factors. Despite having smaller herd sizes, milk supplier households earn 20% more in monthly income than non-suppliers on average.

    The Milko-type supply chain enables herders to sell milk and improve their livelihood while still engaging in traditional livestock herding. This helps reduce grazing pressure on grasslands as they can earn more from milk production even with a small number of livestock units. When herders have the opportunity to earn income from milk sales, they take full advantage of it. They often move closer to the collection route, diligently protect their milk from spoiling, and aim for maximum milk output by any means possible.

    Herders can supply milk to dairy processors only if they have access to collection points. Collection by Milko and other large dairy processors is feasible only if there are paved roads that allow for fast and efficient transport. Other factors, such as availability of sufficient milk resources and electricity, also influence this decision. To facilitate milk collection, improvements in road infrastructure, electricity supply, herd structure, and breed quality are needed. These can be encouraged through targeted government policies.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Inflation is easing, boosting the case for another interest rate cut in May

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

    Daria Nipot/Shutterstock

    Australia’s headline inflation rate held steady at a four-year low of 2.4% in the March quarter, according to official data, adding to the case for a cut in interest rates at the next Reserve Bank board meeting in May.

    A key measure of underlying inflation closely watched by the RBA fell to 2.9%, returning to within the 2-3% inflation target band for the first time since 2021.

    Food and beverages, tobacco, education and housing were the main contributors to the rise in the headline Consumer Price Index.

    Financial markets are pricing in a quarter-percentage point cut in the cash rate to 3.85% in May.

    The inflation report was the last piece of major economic data before Saturday’s federal election.

    Prices are still rising, just at a slower rate

    A fall in inflation does not mean prices are falling. Overall, prices are continuing to rise, but at a slower pace.

    Moreover, prices continue to rise at a higher rate for some things people notice most, such as meat, fruit and vegetables. Concerns about the high cost of living will not go away. But it is good news for households that prices are now rising less than wages, which are growing by 3.2%.

    Some of the CPI components rising fastest are services such as health, which rose 4.1% in the year to March, and education, up 5.7%.

    Rents increased by 5.5% over the year, still rapid but less than in 2023 and 2024. The movements differed across the country. Rents were up almost 9% in Perth but fell in Hobart.

    New home prices only rose by 1.4% over the year as project-home builders made promotional offers to attract buyers in a more subdued market.

    Some of the recent fall in inflation represents the effect of government measures such as temporary electricity rebates and lower public transport fares. These represent some relief for households from cost-of-living pressures. But they may obscure trends in underlying inflationary pressures.

    The Reserve Bank’s preferred measure of underlying inflation, the trimmed mean measure, removes such impacts by excluding items with the largest price movements up or down. This measure of inflation has fallen to 2.9%, back within the central bank’s target, from 3.3%.

    Green light for an interest rate cut

    Headline inflation is around the middle of the Reserve Bank’s 2-3% medium-term target band. The large 1% quarterly increase in the June quarter of 2024 will drop out of the next annual calculation. So inflation may soon be below the bottom of the band. This has been forecast by Westpac’s economics team (headed by former RBA assistant governor Luci Ellis), for example.

    In its most recent published forecast the Reserve Bank expected inflation to be 2.4% in June. So it may be pleased to see it already there for two quarters. It would also be relieved to see the underlying rate back within the target band.

    In February, Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock conceded the bank had arguably been “late raising interest rates on the way up”. It did not want to be late on the way down.

    At its April 1 meeting, the Reserve Bank board called the May 19-20 meeting “an opportune time to revisit the monetary policy setting with the benefit of additional data about inflation” and other factors.



    Read more:
    Reserve Bank holds rates steady, cautious about the economic outlook

    Global economic outlook darkens

    The outlook for global economic activity has weakened as the US’s trade war with China has escalated. The International Monetary Fund cut its forecast for global economic growth in 2025 from 3.3% to 2.8%.

    The negative outlook for the global economy and rising business uncertainty certainly adds weight to the case for an official interest rate cut. It would help Australian businesses weather a possible downturn.

    Tariff rises will push up inflation in the US. But there is a bipartisan commitment in Australia not to engage in retaliatory tariff increases. This means there will not be any such inflationary impetus here.

    Indeed, as Bullock pointed out in her April press conference, if China diverts exports that are effectively blocked from entering the US to Australia, then the US tariffs may lower inflationary pressures here.

    Concerns about the inflationary impact of a weaker Australian dollar have eased in recent days. The currency has rebounded to 64 US cents from its early April low of 59.5 US cents.

    The Reserve Bank will, as always, consider a wide range of information in deciding whether to cut interest rates in May. But the single most important piece of information is now giving it the green light.

    Market economists expect another couple of rate cuts in 2025 after May, depending on the impact of the erratic US economic policies on the global economy.

    What does it mean for the election?

    After the CPI release, Treasurer Jim Chalmers noted core inflation was at a three-year low. “This is a powerful demonstration of the progress that Australians have made together in the economy,” he said.

    Chalmers will be hoping the Reserve Bank and the electorate share his view. Labor is more likely to be re-elected if voters regard the cost-of-living pressures as abating.

    John Hawkins was previously a senior economist in the Reserve Bank.

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

    – ref. Inflation is easing, boosting the case for another interest rate cut in May – https://theconversation.com/inflation-is-easing-boosting-the-case-for-another-interest-rate-cut-in-may-255116

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shipping expands from Guangzhou to west coast of S. America

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

    Shipping expands from Guangzhou to west coast of S. America

    A shipping vessel docked at the Phase II Terminal of the Nansha Port in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, on Tuesday, marking the launch of the first direct route from Guangzhou to the western coast of South America.

    After loading 400 containers of electronics, household appliances and other products manufactured in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the vessel will start its journey bound for South America.

    The WSA3 route, operated with 11 vessels of 10,062 TEU container capacity, will connect Guangzhou’s Nansha Port with key ports in Latin America including Chancay Port in Peru, Manzanillo Port in Mexico and San Antonio Port in Chile.

    “The route’s opening will help boost the comprehensive upgrade of the logistics channel between the Greater Bay Area and the western coast of Latin America, further enhancing the golden channel for economic and trade exchanges between China and Latin America,” said Sun Bangcheng, deputy general manager of Guangzhou Port Company Limited.

    China has become the second-largest trading partner of Latin America, following the signing of the first free trade agreement between China and Latin American countries 20 years ago.

    The trade volume between China and Latin America has grown from around $12 billion in 2000 to approximately $500 billion in 2024, according to Customs data.

    The new route directly connecting Chancay Port in Peru, operated by COSCO Shipping Ports Limited, is an important project under the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative between China and Peru.

    Serving as South America’s first smart and green port, the operation of Chancay Port is seen as a model of infrastructure cooperation between China and Latin America, helping shorten the sea transportation time between Peru and China to 23 days, saving over 20 percent in logistics costs.

    “This route not only provides a fast lane for ‘Made in China’ products like household appliances, electronics, furniture and toys from the Greater Bay Area to venture into the Latin American market, but also enables high-quality tropical fruit, Pacific coast seafood, Andean wines, as well as commodities like pulp, fishmeal and minerals to enter the Chinese market,” said Sun.

    Located in the Nansha port area, the Nansha International Cold Chain Project has built three multistory cold storage facilities, offering a total storage capacity of 227,000 metric tons, according to the port company.

    With the ability of inspecting 162 refrigerated containers simultaneously, the facilities ensure that the seamless cold chain services for temperature-controlled goods are never broken, from inspection through to storage.

    Dubbed “Asia’s largest refrigerator”, the project has supported the Chilean cherry express route at Nansha Port since 2019. Chile’s cherry exports surged 51.4 percent year-on-year in 2024, with China remaining the South American country’s top cherry export market.

    “With the operation of the new shipping route and other logistics support, more refrigerated cargo such as beef, lamb, white shrimp, salmon, squid, grapes, avocados, prunes and plums are expected to efficiently reach Chinese consumers through Nansha port,” said Sun.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Whānau Ora reset to support vulnerable whānau

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is backing four new community-based Whānau Ora commissioning agencies to ensure whānau with significant needs continue to benefit from the best possible support services.

    Whānau Ora Minister Tama Potaka today announced the following agencies will take-over the commissioning of services from July 2025:

    • National Hauora Coalition, Te Tiratū and Ngaa Pou Hauora o Taamaki Makaurau Consortium operating as Rangitāmiro, which will commission Whānau Ora services in the North Island, north of Taupō.
    • Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, which will commission Whānau Ora services in the North Island, south of Taupō.
    • Te Tauraki Limited, a subsidiary of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, which will commission Whānau Ora services in the South Island.
    • The Cause Collective, operating as The Tātou Collective, which will commission Whānau Ora services for Pasifika families across Aotearoa. 

    “These agencies will ensure Whānau Ora care and support continues for thousands of whānau across the country whether it’s help accessing better healthcare, improving home budgeting to help ease the cost of living, or getting on top of household maintenance.

    “Since Whānau Ora was launched in 2010, the model has grown to provide a strong foundation to now further improve services. National backed the development of Whānau Ora in last year’s Budget with a $182 million investment.

    “Te Puni Kōkiri has carefully selected these agencies to deliver on the Government’s focus on providing better public services. The agencies will:

    • Introduce greater participation from local communities in decision-making.
    • Expand the reach of Whānau Ora to engage with more whānau most in need across Aotearoa New Zealand.
    • Gather data to strengthen evidence of positive outcomes for whānau and targeted support for whānau in greatest need.
    • Invest in the workforce to develop the capability and retention of Navigator kaimahi working with whānau.

    “I also welcome the recent Court of Appeal decision – Te Pou Matakana Limited v Secretary for Māori Development and others 2025 – which cleared the way for this progress,” Mr Potaka says.

    “The case unsuccessfully challenged aspects of the procurement process – it wasted time and created uncertainty for whānau and service providers. The delay means that the move to new commissioning agencies will be more complex than necessary but, with the Court’s decision now made, we can move forward with certainty.

    “I’d like to acknowledge and thank the outgoing commissioning agencies: Te Pou Matakana, Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu, and Pasifika Futures for their mahi over the past decade to implement the important kaupapa of Whānau Ora,” Mr Potaka says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 322nd CA Soldiers Strengthen Ties at Tontouta Air Base

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NOUMEA, New Caledonia — Soldiers from the 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade’s functional specialty team, part of the crisis response team for Exercise Croix du Sud 2025, toured Tontouta Air Base on April 24, 2025, alongside Australian and Fijian military and civilian partners. The visit, about 50 kilometers northwest of Noumea, focused on sharing capabilities, strengthening interoperability and building partnerships.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Balikatan 25 | 3d MLR Participates in Integrated Air and Missile Defense

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NAVAL STATION LEOVIGILDO GANTIOQUI, Philippines — U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, alongside Philippine Airmen with 960th Air and Missile Defense Group, concluded one of six Combined Joint All-Domain Operations (CJADO) events during Exercise Balikatan 25, April 27, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Patient care still at risk from Govt’s deep cuts to health IT workers – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government is deliberately ignoring risks to patient safety and the security of sensitive information as it green lights damaging cuts to specialist IT health workers.
    Health NZ Te Whatu Ora today confirmed deep cuts to the Data and Digital team, with impacted staff informed of their roles being disestablished and redeployment opportunities in the new structure.
    “These cuts are dangerous – they threaten patient care and ignore the risks of sensitive patient information falling prey to cyber-attacks,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    PSA legal action over the original restructure resulted in 175 roles being added back into the Data and Digital team, but there will still be a much smaller team with 758 vacant roles being disestablished.
    “The cuts just go too deep and too wide if the Government expects to deliver the timely and quality patient care it’s promising New Zealanders.
    “IT workers play a vital role in building a modern, secure and effective health system – ensuring clinicians can access patient records 24/7, maintaining ageing legacy systems, and integrating new nationwide IT systems.
    “Now more than ever, Te Whatu Ora should be retaining a much larger workforce of highly skilled data and digital experts, but it’s bowing to pressure from the Government to slash numbers with little regard to consequences.
    “We are seeing this reckless approach throughout the public sector and the price will be paid in the degrading of services New Zealanders need.
    “The PSA remains deeply concerned that sensitive patient information will be at greater risk from cyber security breaches because of these cuts. We urge the Privacy Commissioner to reconsider his refusal to investigate these changes before they are set in concrete.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand: New Independent Information and Debate Platform PodTalk.Live calls for Foundation Members

    Source: NewzEngine.com

    After a successful beta-launch in April PodTalk.live is now ready to invite people in New Zealand to register as foundation members. Foundation members are free to join the post and podcast social platform.

    The Foundation Membership soft-launch is a great opportunity for founders to help shape a brand new, vibrant, algorithm-free, info discussion and debate social platform.

    Developer of the platform, Selwyn Manning said: “PodTalk.live has been put to test by selected individuals and we are pleased to report that it has performed fabulously.”

    Manning is founder and managing director of the company that custom-developed PodTalk.live – Multimedia Investments Ltd (MIL: milnz.co.nz).

    MIL is based in New Zealand, where PodTalk.live was developed and is served from.

    And now, PodTalk.live has emerged from its Beta stage and is ready for foundation members to shape the next phase of its development.

    About PodTalk.Live:

    PodTalk.live was designed to be an alternative platform to other social media platforms. PodTalk has all the functions that most social media platforms have but has placed the user-experience at the centre of its backend design and engineering.

    PodTalk.live has been custom-designed, created and is served from New Zealand.

    “We ourselves became annoyed at how social media giants use algorithms to drive what content their users see and experience. And, we also were appalled at how some social media companies trade user data, and were unresponsive to user-concerns” Selwyn Manning said.

    “So we decided to create a platform that focuses on ‘discussion and debate’ communities, and we have engineered PodTalk to ensure the content that users see is what they choose – rather than some obscure algorithm making that decision for them.

    “PodTalk.live is independent from other social media platforms, and at best will become an alternative choice for people who seek a community where they are the centre of a platform’s core purpose.

    “And today, we invite people to sign up now and become foundation members of this new and ethically-based social community platform,” Selwyn Manning said.

    PodTalk.live provides:

    • user profiles with full interactivities with other users and friends
    • user created groups, posts, video, images, polls, and file sharing
    • private and secure one-on-one (and group) messages
    • availability of all the above for entry users with a free membership
    • premium membership for podcasters and event publishers requiring easy to use podcast publication and syndication services
    • next-level community engagement tools that users all on the one platform.

    In addition, PodTalk.live will host:

    • Live audio and video webcasts with special guests and member talkback events
    • premium video and audio podcasts (on-demand and live)
    • premium posts on big issues from prominent writers
    • featured documentaries on interesting and important topics.

    Security Safety Moderation:

    Security and safety has been baked into PodTalk’s function and culture. And at PodTalk, free-speech is welcomed but hate speech is rejected.

    “With PodTalk, we recognise that many people, wherever they live, require security and at times anonymity so to avoid reprisals from authorities and other actors,” Selwyn Manning said.

    “Along with a strong focus on security, and guidance on how to remain anonymous when necessary, we have built robust member-moderation into the core of PodTalk to ensure users are in control of their experience.”

    “PodTalk has robust moderation tools so that members can easily block and report those who they feel disrupt their experience,” Selwyn Manning said.

    And now, we invite all who seek an information, discussion and debating community to register as foundation members.

    To do so, simply go to: https://PodTalk.Live and register. Once on the platform, members can familiarise themselves with what PodTalk.Live has to offer, and begin to create their own online community experience.

    “We are working on audio-to-text multi-language translation+transcription tools, and will soon push the boundaries of cutting edge on-platform communication tools,” Selwyn Manning said.

    The platform already has cutting edge tech, also smart community and premium publishing tools – including an invitation tool so you can invite your friends and grow your community.

    PodTalk.live is founded on the belief that for social, political and economical progress to occur people need to discuss issues in a safe environment and embark on robust debate.

    Register free as a founder. Check out the platform. See you there…

    – Published by MIL OSI in partnership with NewzEngine.com

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Awakino, Waitomo District

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following an earlier crash on State Highway 3 at Awakino, in the Waitomo District.

    The two vehicle crash happened at around 9:50am.

    State Highway 3 at Awakino remains closed.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on April 29, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,14,702.89 5.85 0.01-6.30
         I. Call Money 16,789.55 5.90 4.95-6.10
         II. Triparty Repo 4,07,447.80 5.85 5.73-6.20
         III. Market Repo 1,88,703.54 5.84 0.01-6.30
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,762.00 5.96 5.95-6.00
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 1,323.74 5.81 5.35-5.95
         II. Term Money@@ 110.00 – 6.10-6.10
         III. Triparty Repo 9,594.00 6.04 5.90-6.25
         IV. Market Repo 125.00 3.50 3.50-3.50
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 9.00 6.25 6.25-6.25
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Tue, 29/04/2025 1 Wed, 30/04/2025 5,901.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 29/04/2025 1 Wed, 30/04/2025 716.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 29/04/2025 1 Wed, 30/04/2025 1,21,701.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,15,084.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       8,709.21  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     34,440.21  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -80,643.79  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on April 29, 2025 9,53,154.22  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending May 02, 2025 9,51,938.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ April 29, 2025 5,901.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on April 04, 2025 2,36,088.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/212

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Construction starts on South Tuggeranong Health Centre

    Source: Australian National Party

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 30/04/2025

    Southsiders are set to benefit from expanded services closer to home as construction kicks off for the South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder.

    Today Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith and Head Contractor, Shape, will break ground on the new facility, which will enhance healthcare options for residents in Canberra’s south. This is part of the ACT government’s largest ever investment into ACT health care.

    “This milestone means we are a step closer to improving access for people on Canberra’s southside. The new health centre will enable Tuggeranong residents to access to care closer to home, including supported telehealth appointments that will reduce the need to go into our busy hospitals or travel to other community sites,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

    “The design of the centre has been shaped by extensive engagement with clinicians and the local community to ensure it meets their needs. With 11 consultation rooms and a flexible layout, the centre will support a range of healthcare services delivered by Canberra Health Services and our non-government partners.

    “The new facility is the first of the four new health centres for the ACT, with another three coming to the Inner South, North Gungahlin and West Belconnen. They will all provide localised, multidisciplinary care with a focus on preventive care and advice, early intervention and the management of chronic illnesses.”

    The services for the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre include paediatrics, pathology collection, dementia care, diabetes clinics, falls and falls injury prevention, chronic disease programs and a virtual care room.

    Construction is expected to be completed in August 2026, with the centre planned to open for operation in September 2026.

    Site planning and preliminary design work are underway for the new health centres in North Gungahlin and the Inner South.

    You can find out more about the government’s health projects at builtforcbr.act.gov.au/projects/health.

    Quotes attributable to Tom Sparkes, General Manager at Shape:

    “We are honoured to be part of this important project that will bring essential healthcare services closer to the South Tuggeranong community. Our team is committed to delivering a facility that meets the highest standards of quality and functionality.”

    – Statement ends –

    Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Chris Swasbrook appointed as Chair of Te Papa

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Chris Swasbrook has been appointed as Chair of the Te Papa Board says Chris Bishop, Acting Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage.

    “Chris Swasbrook is a prominent New Zealand investor with more than 25 years’ experience working in finance. He has an extensive resume in executive and governance roles in many large-scale New Zealand businesses and organisations,” Mr Bishop says.

    “Born in Auckland, he has been a long-time supporter of local business and arts communities. Chris is Chair of the Auckland Future Fund and an Inaugural Member and current Chair of the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki Advisory Committee – roles which have shown his commitment to thriving arts infrastructure in New Zealand.

    “Chris will bring valuable commercial, financial and investment governance experience to Te Papa. His strategic insights and international perspective will undoubtedly prove valuable to our national museum.

    “I would like to thank Jackie Lloyd who has stepped up as acting Chair following the departure of Hon Dame Fran Wilde. Both Jackie and Dame Fran have made immense contributions to the leadership of Te Papa which have enhanced the museum’s standing on the world stage.”

    Media contact: Mikaela Bossley Clark: +64 21 275 0454

    Biography:

    Chris Swasbrook has more than 25 years’ experience in stockbroking and funds management. He is currently Managing Director of Elevation Capital and Co-Founder and Director of NZX-listed New Zealand Rural Land Company. He is also Chair of the Auckland Future Fund, Executive Chair of McCashin’s Brewery, a board member of the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) and member of the NZX Listing Sub-Committee.

    Mr Swasbrook is also an Inaugural Member and current Chair of the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki Advisory Committee.

    He was previously a partner at Goldman Sachs, JBWere, and was Chair of Allied Farmers, Chair of Bethunes Investments, Director of NZX-listed Mowbray Collectables, Director of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts and Director of NZX-listed Satara Co-Operative Group.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons condemns President Trump’s disastrous first 100 days in speech on Senate floor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) delivered a floor speech tonight criticizing President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office, describing a period marked by weakened global alliances, harsh cuts to foreign aid, and an overhaul of key federal agencies. 
    Today marks the 100th day of President Trump’s second term, and Senator Coons’ early review of his presidency is that he has made Americans less prosperous and less secure, both at home and abroad. Trump has disrupted long-standing diplomatic relationships and global partnerships by recklessly imposing tariffs on nearly every country and asserting that he will take over Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal. Our closest allies and partners have responded with unease and outright resistance. In his speech, Senator Coons remarked on Prime Minister Mark Carney’s victory in Canada’s national election yesterday, an outcome viewed as a rejection of Trump’s policies. 
    He also expressed concern over the administration’s dismantling of foreign aid and health programs, warning that it makes Americans less safe and creates an opportunity for our adversaries like China. Additionally, Senator Coons highlighted his visit to Taiwan this month to bolster U.S.-Taiwan relations and stand against China’s attempts to limit Taiwan’s role on the global stage. 
    Senator Coons also called for Congress to reassert its constitutional responsibilities as Trump pushes the boundaries of executive power. 
    A video and transcript of Senator Coons’ comments are available below.
    WATCH HERE
    Senator Coons: In a hundred days – in a hundred days – what can a president accomplish?
    The last hundred days, President Trump has made Americans less safe, less prosperous, and less free.
    He has chosen to move us in a direction at home and abroad that is the opposite of what those who voted for him expected, and that is aligned with what those of us who worked against him feared. 
    What I’ve heard my whole life, whether in business or in foreign policy, as a lawyer or in my community as a local elected official – folks need trust, and they need predictability. Businesses say they need predictability in order to decide what to invest in, who to hire, where to grow. Other countries around the world say that they need to know they can trust us, that they can rely on us. And in the last hundred days, President Trump has shattered both of them. I’m going to speak for a few minutes about foreign policy because so many of my colleagues in my caucus have stood to talk about the disastrous cuts led by Elon Musk and DOGE, and the ways they’ve impacted Americans all over the country. 
    But if you think about our reputation globally –statement after statement, tweet after tweet by President Trump has puzzled, concerned, even alarmed our allies. He’s going to invade Greenland, a NATO ally. He’s going to take back the Panama Canal. He’s going to take over the Gaza Strip and make it ‘Mar-a-Gaza.’ He’s going to turn Canada into the 51st State. One of my Republican colleagues said, ‘don’t pay so much attention to what he says, look what he does.’ Well, lots of our partners and allies looked at what he has done by imposing tariffs on allies and partners, and recoiled. 
    In an election in Canada last night, where Trump was the issue, [they] elected a new prime minister, Mark Carney, who ran on a platform of standing up to America, of standing up to Donald Trump. Look, folks, the actions he’s taken, in slashing foreign aid, in abandoning decades-old bipartisan programs around the world that save lives, and that help other countries to trust and rely on us, have weakened us abroad and created openings for our pacing threat – the People’s Republic of China. I was recently in the Philippines, a nation that faces more natural disasters than any country on Earth – more typhoons, more earthquakes, more volcanoes. And for decades, they’ve relied on the United States and the help of USAID, volunteers, nonprofits – coordinated through our government – to respond to these disasters. It has built a long and close partnership of trust. Gone. 
    I was recently in Taiwan, a country looking to decide whether they can rely on us should China make real their threats to reunite Taiwan with the mainland by force. Can they trust us? Well, what I’m going to say is that in a hundred days, President Trump has shown weakness in Europe and created openings for China. We have long relied on a global network of allies and partners to keep us safe and strong, to make us prosperous, and to build our role in the world. China doesn’t have that. They have nervous neighbors and client states, countries that can’t count on them and view them as predatory. Yet, now through the actions of President Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE, and the silence and collaboration of Republicans in this chamber, even our closest, most trusted allies, like Canada, question whether they can count on us. 
    Back to the Reagan days, Republicans have talked about ‘peace through strength.’ What we’ve seen from Donald Trump in a hundred days: ‘weakness through chaos.’ A hundred days in, he’s not stopping Putin, he’s preparing to sell out Ukraine and Europe to Putin. A hundred days in, he’s not deterring Xi Jinping––he’s backing down every time he says he’s going to stand up to him. At the end of the day, these first hundred days have shown that we are weaker. The world is less stable. Americans are less safe.
    And I have to say, Madam President, a hundred days is more than enough time for my Republican colleagues to have seen enough, to stand up to this president, and to restore the role of this Senate and return our position of strength to the world. Thank you. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Rethinking Personal Income Taxation in Asia and the Pacific: Future Directions

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Personal income taxes remain weak in the developing countries of the region. Several factors have contributed to this weakness, including a rapidly changing economic environment. Traditional approaches to taxation, focused mainly on corporate tax incentives to attract foreign direct investment and layers of sometimes overlapping and poorly structured sales and international trade taxes, have failed to capture growing sources of personal income or address the gaps in the distribution of income and wealth.

    The weaknesses in tax policy are compounded by shortcomings in tax and customs administration. Labor forces characterized by widespread informality, a lack of a culture of tax compliance, and weak governance structures undermine the collection of revenues, especially of the personal income tax. Even when they can identify required reforms, tax and customs administrations often lack the political independence to implement them.

    Reform of the region’s personal income taxes presents an opportunity to bolster revenues and help address income and wealth inequality. A well-structured personal income tax system with broad bases and moderate and internationally competitive rates can facilitate higher growth and much-needed revenue to fund government spending. A progressive personal income tax (i.e., where the average tax rate rises with higher income) can contribute to the reduction of income and wealth inequality, especially when supported by adequate spending on human capacity development.

    The region has made significant, though widely varying efforts, to improve tax and customs administrations in recent years, including through institutional reorganization of tax administrations on a functional basis, better coordination between tax and customs administrations, and the creation of large taxpayer units. Countries in the region have focused on automating their systems, strengthening training and staff quality, and improving legal systems that underpin tax enforcement.

    In the region, improvements in the structure and administration of the personal income tax have facilitated sensible reforms of corporate income and broad-based sales taxes while allowing continued reduction of reliance on international trade taxes. In recent decades in the Asia and Pacific region, there has been some increase in reliance on personal income taxes, but the growth has been uneven and insufficient (Figure 1). In the region as a whole but excluding certain key countries, fiscal policies have contributed to some narrowing of income and wealth gaps (Figure 2).

    Figure 1: Tax Revenue by Source Comparison 2017-2021 to 2002-2006

    Notes: Appendix 1 in the original paper provides the economies by region. Data for the People’s Republic of China and India are missing. Data for East Asia include only Mongolia in 2006; thus, the comparison is limited. Table A1.2 in the original paper lists the economies by region. The percentage change in tax revenue by source compares each tax type’s average share of total tax revenue over two periods: 2002–2006 and 2017–2022.
    Source: OECD. Global Revenue Statistics Database (accessed 31 August 2024).

    Figure 2: Change in Market Gini Coefficients over Time in the Asia and Pacific Subregions

    Source: Standardized World Income Inequality Database Version 9.7 (accessed December 2023).

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Which Roman emperor was most like Donald Trump?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Edwell, Associate Professor in Ancient History, Macquarie University

    SvetlanaVV/Shutterstock

    Something tells me US president Donald Trump would love to be a Roman emperor. The mythology of unrestrained power with sycophants doing his bidding would be seductive.

    But in fact, Roman emperors were heavily constrained by institutions, the economy and popular mood. Yes, some challenged and sidelined the institutions of their day – but this often sparked a powerful backlash.

    As someone who’s studied Ancient Rome for years, I’ve recently been asked which Roman emperor was most like Donald Trump. In some ways he’s a pastiche of several Roman leaders.

    Julius Caesar

    Of course, Julius Caesar was never an emperor. He was a military leader and politician when the Roman Republic was in its death throes.

    While Trump has no military experience, some have compared him with Caesar.

    English classicist Mary Beard explains the appeal of this comparison for Trump’s foes and supporters alike.

    The Roman Republic was originally a system of shared political authority. The Senate, the people and elected magistrates shared power.

    But in the first century BC, powerful and charismatic figures became more prominent. The old power-sharing arrangements broke down.

    Caesar was the ultimate populist who overthrew the conventional means of Republican government.
    Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913/The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    Caesar was the most significant of these figures. He was the ultimate populist who overthrew the conventional means of Republican government. Due to his military successes, vast fortune and enormous popular appeal, Caesar broke the system entirely.

    Caesar fast-tracked the development of executive power in one person. This doomed the Roman Republic itself.

    Trump has also sidelined key institutions and increased the powers of singular executive government. Threatening judges and the chair of the Federal Reserve are further examples of over-reach.

    Trump draws on popular appeal to escape ramifications for these actions. His TV career, political rallies and domination of the news cycle contribute to a cult of personality.

    Caesar paid the ultimate price for concentrating executive power in himself. He was stabbed to death by a group of angry senators. The republic, however, was beyond saving.

    Caesar and the Roman Republic were different to Trump and America. Caesar was a blue-blood patrician, which Trump isn’t. Rome had its most powerful centuries ahead of it, while America is in decline.

    Octavian: the man who became Augustus

    Caesar didn’t manage the transition from Republic to autocracy. It was his nephew, Octavian, who did that.

    After more than a decade of civil wars following Caesar’s murder in 44 BCE, Octavian became Augustus (27 BCE–14 CE) or emperor.

    While he claimed to restore the republic, Augustus exercised ultimate power over the army, political institutions and the courts. He finished the process Caesar and others began, dominating the Senate and once-powerful positions such as consulships.

    Augustus’ domination of the entire political system draws parallels with Trump. Some observers liken Trump to Augustus. They see similarities in Trump’s intimidation of institutions (including the courts and media) that provide checks on presidential power.

    Augustus also developed a cult of personality, which is a feature of Trump’s rise.

    Nero: from populist to pariah

    Nero (54–68 CE), a colourful successor of Augustus, employed advisors with no political backgrounds. Epaphroditus, for example, was a former slave who became Nero’s secretary. He controlled the flow of information to and from the emperor. He became very wealthy and was intensely loyal to Nero.

    Trump has shown similar instincts. Think of the wide-ranging powers to cut government programs granted to Elon Musk and his inexperienced team.

    Like Trump, Nero could entertain a crowd. He publicly sang and recited poetry, which previous emperors never did. The elites detested this but the broader population loved it. Nero also put on lavish palace banquets.

    But by the time of his death by suicide aged 30, Nero had isolated everyone.

    It’s too simplistic, though, to say Trump is a Nero, as others have done. Trump remains connected to a large support base, as evidenced by his two presidential election victories.

    Like Trump, Nero could entertain a crowd.
    Ivan Moreno sl/Shutterstock

    Roman emperors were constrained by institutions

    While Roman emperors dominated the institutions of state, they were still constrained by them. Some who fell foul of the army, the most important state institution, met ignominious ends.

    In 217 CE, the unpopular emperor Caracalla was knifed by a soldier while relieving himself.

    Emperor Caracalla was eventually stabbed by a soldier while relieving himself.
    Samuel D. Lee Fund, 1940/The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    Emperor Severus Alexander was murdered in 235 CE by his own troops while clutching his mother’s knees.

    Some speculate the US army might intervene to protect the Constitution against Trump. But the army’s relationship to the US government is more complex than in ancient Rome.

    Some emperors became unpopular due to their arrogance toward the Senate, court officials and their own bodyguards.

    In 96 CE, Domitian was killed in a conspiracy of the court chamberlain. His death was cheered by many due to his autocratic style.

    And Emperor Commodus, once popular due to his eccentric antics and public games, was murdered by a champion wrestler in 192 CE. His mistress, Praetorian prefect and court chamberlain arranged it. The Senate declared Commodus a public enemy.

    The creeping power of executive authority

    The over-reach of executive authority will likely define Trump’s second term. But there are many constraints he can’t ignore. Some of the most powerful operate outside America. Bond-holders, of whom China is the second largest, are a notable example.

    The eventual displeasure of support bases may hasten the demise of the Trump phenomenon. I sincerely hope it doesn’t end with the brutality some of the emperors met with.

    Executive over-reach and intimidation of key institutions may permanently damage America’s reputation. In the case of ancient Rome, we know the outcomes. What comes next in America is the great unknown.

    Peter Edwell receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Which Roman emperor was most like Donald Trump? – https://theconversation.com/which-roman-emperor-was-most-like-donald-trump-254573

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is your child anxious about going on school camp? Here are 4 ways to prepare

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Micah Boerma, Researcher, School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland

    Nitinai Thabthong/Shutterstock

    One of the highlights of the school year is an overnight excursion or school camp. These can happen as early as Year 3.

    While many students are very excited about the chance to go away with their classmates, some may experience anxiety and even fear about being away from home and their usual routines.

    Anxiety disorders are the second most common mental disorder among children and adolescents in Australia. One in 14 young people are affected.

    Separation anxiety (fear or dread about being separated from caregivers) is the most common anxiety disorder amongst young people in Australia. This affects about 4% of young people aged four to 17. Students with anxiety may refuse to attend the camp. Or they may go and not participate in activities or have periods of intense anxiety.

    While these trips are a small part of a young person’s school year, positive and negative experiences can form important beliefs about their self-confidence and independence.

    Here are four ways to prepare your anxious child to attend and enjoy camp.

    1. Understand the anxieties

    Anxiety isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. For one child, it may be the fear of not fitting in or the dread of being homesick. For another, it may be the fear of being away from parents, believing something bad will happen.

    So the first step is to really listen to a child about their anxietty.
    Asking open-ended questions, such as “what is the one thing about going to camp that worries you most?” can help to determine their core fear.

    When they tell you, avoid jumping in quickly to reassure them they “will be fine”. This can feel dismissive and invalidate their concerns.

    Instead, reflect what you hear so they feel understood. For example, “I hear you a really worried about what it will be like to spend the night away from us. You’ve never done this before.”

    Ask your child what they are worried about. Maybe it’s a certain activity on camp.
    Andrew Angelov/Shutterstock

    2. Understand the ‘cycle of avoidance’

    Anxious people tend to overestimate the likelihood of something terrible happening and underestimate their ability to cope if it occurred.

    When a young person sidesteps something scary, they feel initial relief. But this avoidance prevents them from learning the feared situation may not be as dangerous as think. Importantly, they do not get the opportunity to test their coping skills and build confidence. This inadvertently increases their anxiety.

    It can help to talk to your child about how avoiding camp might feel better in the short term but it makes fun activities – such as sleepovers or trips – harder in the future.

    4. Build the ‘bravery muscle’

    You also might want to talk about how you can build the “bravery muscle”.

    This involves gradually exposing a child to their fears and building confidence in their ability to cope. This way fears lose their power.

    Start with easier tasks. For example, if the main worry is “something bad will happen to mum and dad if I am not with them at night”, start with your child staying with a grandparent while you go out for dinner. Then you could try staying overnight at a grandparent or a trusted friend’s house.

    You can also pair these tasks with coping tools. Your child could do a breathing exercise or a grounding excercise, where they focus on things around them, rather than the thoughts and feelings distressing them.

    When organising these tasks, it is crucial parents acknowledge the distress their child might experience, while communicating their confidence the child can do it.

    Celebrate every effort and task completed, no matter how small.

    You could prepare for camp with a sleepover somewhere else.
    NataliyaBack/Shutterstock

    4. Make a plan with school

    Parents and caregivers are not in this alone. So make sure you talk to your class teacher or year group leader if you haven’t already. Some helpful tips are:

    • organise a “camp buddy” for the bus ride or to share a tent/room with

    • organise a “go-to” teacher for your child to gain support from during camp

    • access information about the accommodation and activities as soon as possible so you can practice. This could include your child camping in a tent with a friend, bike riding, or bush walking.

    It’s not expected the steps above will erase your child’s anxiety entirely – that is not realistic. But they can give them coping tools to face their anxiety and come out the other side stronger. School camps can be an exciting experience where a young person may discover they are braver than they thought.

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

    – ref. Is your child anxious about going on school camp? Here are 4 ways to prepare – https://theconversation.com/is-your-child-anxious-about-going-on-school-camp-here-are-4-ways-to-prepare-252290

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Palau Establishes Steering Committee to Guide Passport Digitalization

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Ngerekebesang, Palau – The Government of Palau, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and with support from the Government of Japan, has launched its first official meeting under the Enhancing Border Management Capacity through the Introduction of an E-Passport for the Republic of Palau project.

    Launched at the Embassy of Japan in Ngerekebesang on 18 April 2025., the project marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to align Palauan passports with international good practices to augment security of the passport issuance system. This shift will not only protect Palauan passport holders from identity theft but also ensure seamless access to passport application for all citizens.

    The meeting convened key stakeholders including Gustav Aitaro, Minister of State, Hiroyuki Orikasa, Ambassador of Japan to Palau, senior officials from the Ministry of State, Finance, Justice and the Judiciary Branch along with representatives from IOM and the Embassy of Japan.

    The USD 4.5 million initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, will transition Palauan passports to electronic, machine-readable passports (e-MRPs) that feature embedded biometric data, significantly improving security and global compatibility. Over the next three years, the project will digitalize Palau’s passport application and issuance systems and introduce new technologies and infrastructure to strengthen the country’s identity management capacity.

    In his opening remarks, Minister Aitaro, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening travel document integrity and enhancing service delivery to Palauan citizens.

    Ambassador Orikasa emphasized Japan’s strong partnership with Palau in building effective border systems.

    Salvatore Sortino, IOM Chief of Mission for Micronesia, highlighted the project’s potential to improve travel convenience, reduce identity fraud, and strengthen regional security.

    A key outcome of the meeting was the formal establishment of the Project Steering Committee, which will provide strategic oversight and ensure inter-agency coordination throughout the life of the project. Chaired by the Minister of State, the Committee comprises senior representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Justice, Judiciary Branch, and Embassy of Japan (as an observer), with IOM serving as the Secretariat.

    The E-Passport Project is a timely intervention that responds to the evolving mobility needs of Palauans and the realities of international travel in a post-pandemic world. It represents a major step forward in strengthening Palau’s border infrastructure and expanding access to secure, reliable travel documents for all its citizens. The members of the Steering Committee will meet again in August to review project progress.

    ***

    For more information, please contact at IOM Micronesia: Yohan Senarath at ysenarath@iom.int in Palau or Haimanot Abebe at haabebe@iom.int, +691 320 8735 in the Federated States of Micronesia

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 30, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 30, 2025.

    Locked up for life? Unpacking South Australia’s new child sex crime laws
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xanthe Mallett, Criminologist, CQUniversity Australia Melnikov Dmitriy/Shutterstock It’s election time, which means the age old “tough on crime” rhetoric is being heralded by many politicians aiming to score votes. Opposition leader Peter Dutton is pushing for a national public sex offender register. Currently only Western Australia has

    Why do dogs eat poo? A canine scientist explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mia Cobb, Research Fellow, Animal Welfare Science Centre, The University of Melbourne nygi/Unsplash When miniature dachshund Valerie was captured after 529 days alone in the wilds of Australia’s Kangaroo Island, experts speculated she survived partly by eating other animals’ poo. While this survival tactic may have saved

    On ‘moral panic’ and the courage to speak – the West’s silence on Gaza
    Palestinians do not have the luxury to allow Western moral panic to have its say or impact. Not caving in to this panic is one small, but important, step in building a global Palestine network that is urgently needed, writes Dr Ilan Pappé ANALYSIS: By Ilan Pappé Responses in the Western world to the genocide

    Sick of eating the same things? 5 ways to boost your nutrition and keep meals interesting and healthy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Clare Collins, Laureate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Newcastle Loquellano/Pexels Did you start 2025 with a promise to eat better but didn’t quite get there? Or maybe you want to branch out from making the same meal every week or the same lunch for work

    Peace in our time? Why NZ should resist Trump’s one-sided plan for Ukraine
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert G. Patman, Professor of International Relations, University of Otago GettyImages Getty Images Is it possible to reconcile increased international support for Ukraine with Donald Trump’s plan to end the war? At their recent meeting in London, Christopher Luxon and his British counterpart Keir Starmer seemed to

    ‘A living collective’: study shows trees synchronise electrical signals during a solar eclipse
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Monica Gagliano, Research Associate Professor in Evolutionary Biology, Southern Cross University Zenit Arti Audiovisive Earth’s cycles of light and dark profoundly affect billions of organisms. Events such as solar eclipses are known to bring about marked shifts in animals, but do they have the same effect on

    Greenpeace slams deep sea mining bid as ‘rogue’ disregard for global law
    By Reza Azam Greenpeace has condemned an announcement by The Metals Company to submit the first application to commercially mine the seabed. “The first application to commercially mine the seabed will be remembered as an act of total disregard for international law and scientific consensus,” said Greenpeace International senior campaigner Louisa Casson. “This unilateral US

    State of the states: the campaign is almost over, so how has it played out across Australia?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Clune, Honorary Associate, Government and International Relations, University of Sydney While many Australians have already voted at pre-poll stations and by post, the politicking continues right up until May 3. So what’s happened across the country over the past five weeks? Here, six experts analyse how

    ‘No compassion… just blame’: how weight stigma in maternity care harms larger-bodied women and their babies
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Briony Hill, Deputy Head, Health and Social Care Unit and Senior Research Fellow, Monash University Kate Cashin Photography According to a study from the United States, women experience weight stigma in maternity care at almost every visit. We expect this experience to be similar in Australia, where

    Renewables, coal or nuclear? This election, your generation’s energy preference may play a surprising role
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Magnus Söderberg, Professor & Director, Centre for Applied Energy Economics and Policy Research, Griffith University Christie Cooper/Shutterstock In an otherwise unremarkable election campaign, the major parties are promising sharply different energy blueprints for Australia. Labor is pitching a high-renewables future powered largely by wind, solar, hydroelectricity and

    Trump says diversity initiatives undermine merit. Decades of research show this is flawed
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paula McDonald, Professor of Work and Organisation, Queensland University of Technology Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock US President Donald Trump declared earlier this year he would forge a “colour blind and merit-based society”. His executive order was part of a broader policy directing the US military, federal agencies and other public

    Housing affordability is at the centre of this election, yet two major reforms seem all but off-limits
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matt Garrow, Editorial Web Developer This federal election, both major parties have offered a “grab bag” of policy fixes for Australia’s stubborn housing affordability crisis. But there are still two big policy elephants in the room, which neither side wants to touch. The first is negative gearing.

    The Vietnam War ended 50 years ago today, yet films about the conflict still struggle to capture its complexities
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Scarlette Nhi Do, Sessional Academic, The University of Melbourne Scene from Apocalypse Now (1979) Prime Video The Vietnam War (1955–1975) was more than just a chapter in the Cold War. For some, it was supposed to achieve Vietnam’s right to self-determination. For others, it was an attempt

    Willis warns of a ‘tight’ budget to come, but NZ should be going for productivity, not austerity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dennis Wesselbaum, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, University of Otago Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images Finance Minister Nicola Willis has warned her 2025 “Growth Budget” will be “one of the tightest budgets in a decade”, with plans to reduce spending by billions. It’s clear New Zealand is following a

    50 years after the ‘fall’ of Saigon – from triumph to Trump
    30 April 1975. Saigon Fell, Vietnam Rose. The story of Vietnam after the US fled the country is not a fairy tale, it is not a one-dimensional parable of resurrection, of liberation from oppression, of joy for all — but there is a great deal to celebrate. After over a century of brutal colonial oppression

    Labor maintains clear lead in all polls and is likely to win election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Labor leads by between 52–48 and 53–47 in four new national polls from Resolve, Essential, Morgan and DemosAU. While Labor’s vote slumped from a high 55.5–44.5 in

    Election Diary: Albanese will be encouraged by ‘Trump’ effect in helping Canadian Liberals to victory
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Labor will be encouraged by the Liberals’ victory in Canada’s election, undoubtedly much helped by US President Donald Trump. Trump’s extraordinary attack on the United States’ northern ally, with his repeated suggestion Canada should be the 51st American state, galvanised

    French Minister Valls warns New Caledonia is ‘on a tightrope’, pleads for ‘innovative’ solutions
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls, who is visiting New Caledonia this week for the third time in two months, has once again called on all parties to live up to their responsibilities in order to make a new political agreement possible. Failing that, he said

    Did ‘induced atmospheric vibration’ cause blackouts in Europe? An electrical engineer explains the phenomenon
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian, Professor of Electrical Engineering, School of Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology The lights are mostly back on in Spain, Portugal and southern France after a widespread blackout on Monday. The blackout caused chaos for tens of millions of people. It shut down traffic lights and

    Tarakinikini appointed as Fiji’s ambassador-designate to Israel
    By Anish Chand in Suva Filipo Tarakinikini has been appointed as Fiji’s Ambassador-designate to Israel. This has been stated on two official X, formerly Twitter, handle posts overnight. “#Fiji is determined to deepen its relations with #Israel as Fiji’s Ambassador-designate to Israel, HE Ambassador @AFTarakinikini prepares to present his credentials on 28 April, 2025,” stated

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Festival celebrates Greater Bendigo’s heritage

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the festival program enabled community members and visitors to experience and explore many heritage places.
    “Greater Bendigo has a rich and diverse range of heritage places and open spaces that collectively illustrate the region’s history.” Cr Metcalf said.

    “The festival program brings heritage to life including exclusive access to all kinds of special historical places from miners cottages to the former Gas Works site.”

    National Trust Bendigo & District Branch President Peter Cox OAM said the annual Heritage Festival was an opportunity for people of all ages to celebrate the region’s heritage in many different ways.

    “At the Heritage Festival, you can hear stories of the unusual and unknown from amazing experts and guides. With tours, talks, workshops and special events, there’s something for curious minds of all ages,” Mr Cox said.

    “It is not often that people get the chance to gain access to incredible places and it’s a sneak peek not to be missed so I encourage you to browse the program and register for events.”

    Other highlights from the festival program for Greater Bendigo include:

    • A free Open Day on May 17 at Bendigo Heritage Attractions’ sites including Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways and the Bendigo Joss House Temple
    • A tour of the former Bendigo Post Office with a guide on May 10. Prebooking and entry fee applies
    • Join Djaara Elder Uncle Rick Nelson on Country (Castlemaine and surrounds) from 10am to 4pm on May 3. Booking and fees apply
    • A rare glimpse of the former Gas Works on May 11 with a special tour of the site. It is one of around three remaining intact 19th century gas works in the world, and the only one in Australia. Prebooking and entry fee applies
    • An exclusive behind the scenes at the Bendigo Military Museum including the breathtaking band rotunda with panoramic views of Bendigo’s stunning streetscape on May 10. Prebooking and entry fee apply
    • Visit three miners cottages and hear two talks on heritage by noted historians on May 3. Prebooking and entry fee applies
    • Exclusive tours of the former Bendigo Law Courts on May 1, May 4 and May 10. Prebooking and entry fee applies

    For the full program, visit:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Huffman, Fitzpatrick Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect the Arctic Refuge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (April 29, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), today reintroduced the Arctic Refuge Protection Act, legislation that will restore critical protections to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge—the nation’s largest national wildlife refuge—by designating the Coastal Plain ecosystem as wilderness under the National Wilderness Preservation System. This legislation would permanently halt any new oil and gas leasing, exploration, development, and drilling on the Coastal Plain, and would safeguard the subsistence rights of the Arctic Indigenous Peoples who depend upon the Arctic Refuge.
    “Trump’s reopening of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas is another attempt to revive his old and failed promise of a fictional financial windfall from leasing the Refuge—all to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. The urgency to protect the wilderness of the Coastal Plain and the Refuge more broadly and reaffirm the sovereignty of Arctic Indigenous peoples is paramount—my Arctic Refuge Protection Act would do just that,” said Senator Markey. “We must put a law on the books to affirm these lands are not for sale and defend the Arctic landscape—a sacred home for Indigenous peoples, including the Gwich’in and Inupait—from Trump’s disastrous business plan.”
    “What we choose to protect says everything about who we are. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is too special to destroy, and we have a responsibility to keep it that way,” said Ranking Member Huffman. “The Refuge is one of the last truly wild places left on the planet — home to caribou herds, polar bears, migratory birds, and breathtaking landscapes. But it’s more than that. It’s about standing with the Gwich’in people, who’ve spent generations protecting this land, living with the caribou herds, and preserving a way of life that predates the fossil fuel industry by thousands of years and continues to this day. Now, President Trump wants to turn the Arctic Refuge into a corporate cash grab, a place where oil companies could frack up the tundra while trampling tribal sovereignty and leaving Americans with nothing but spills and broken promises. This land belongs to the American people and to the Gwich’in, not to Big Oil.”
    “Protecting the Arctic Refuge is not only an environmental imperative—it’s a strategic one. This land holds immense ecological value, cultural significance, and climate importance. Reckless development would endanger wildlife, violate Indigenous rights, and yield little economic return. As Co-Chair of the World Wildlife, Oceanic, Environmental and Biodiversity Caucus, I’m proud to support this legislation to protect one of America’s last wild frontiers—because conservation is not a cost, it’s a long-term investment in our security, economy, and planet,” said Representative Fitzpatrick.
    “The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a pristine, million-year-old ecosystem unlike anything else we have in the United States, which is why it should be permanently protected,” said Senator Cantwell. “The future of the Arctic is in tourism, and with new sea routes opening up the real value of this land is conservation, not exploitation.”
    “The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of our country’s most unique and beautiful areas of land. We must work with our indigenous communities to protect our wildlife, and the environment put at risk by oil and gas development in this spectacular refuge. Rather than catering to the interests of the oil companies, we must focus our efforts on diversifying our energy sources with renewable energy and prevent further harm to the environment,” said Senator Schiff.
    “We commend our congressional champions for taking a stand to protect one of America’s last great wild places. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge’s Coastal Plain is not only a sanctuary for wildlife—it is sacred land for the Gwich’in and a symbol of our nation’s commitment to conservation. Selling off this land for oil and gas is not only destructive, it’s bad economics. The last Arctic Refuge lease sale was a failure, proving there is no real demand—only a handout to billion-dollar corporations at the expense of taxpayers. This legislation is a crucial step in permanently protecting this irreplaceable landscape from exploitation. Now, more than ever, Congress must prioritize our public lands and Indigenous rights by restoring protections to the Arctic Refuge and ensuring this land remains unexploited for generations to come,” said Kristen Miller, Executive Director, Alaska Wilderness League.
    “We applaud the leadership of Sen. Markey and Reps. Huffman and Fitzpatrick for reintroducing the Arctic Refuge Protection Act,” said Mary Glaves, Alaska Coordinator for Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “For hunters and anglers, the 1.5-million-acre coastal plain is the birth place of wild pursuits of caribou, waterfowl, and iconic fish species including Dolly Varden and Arctic Char. The abysmal interest in both the 2020 and 2025 lease sales demonstrates the bad economics of drilling in the Arctic Refuge. The wetlands and rivers weave together one of the last truly wild landscapes that are essential for the North American heritage of hunting and fishing and subsistence for local Alaskan communities. The Arctic Refuge is a national treasure that should be protected as such through a wilderness designation.”
    “The Arctic Refuge is no place for drilling. It is a sanctuary for caribou, musk oxen, polar bears, wolves, and other wildlife. The Arctic Refuge Protection Act is a clear acknowledgment of that fact. Even the biggest players in the oil industry recognized that drilling in the Refuge was an absurd proposition when they failed to show up for recent lease sales,” said Alexandra Adams, Chief Policy Advocacy Officer at NRDC. “This bill would end an ongoing threat to this treasured place by forever barring industrialization of the Refuge.”
    Background
    The Arctic Refuge is one of the last truly wild places left in America. The Coastal Plain is the calving ground of the Porcupine caribou herd, the source of the Indigenous Gwich’in people’s way of life and subsistence for generations. It also provides a critical denning habitat for threatened Southern Beaufort Sea populations of polar bears. Oil and gas exploration, seismic testing, and all of the infrastructure that comes with oil drilling – from roads to pipelines to pumpjacks – would threaten polar bears in their dens, disrupt caribou and bird migration patterns, and result in significant and irreversible harm to the unique Arctic Refuge habitat and the Indigenous communities who depend on it.
    For the Gwich’in people, who refer to the Coastal Plain as “Iizhik Gwats’an Gwandaii Goodlit” or the Sacred Place Where Life Begins, this land is more than wildlife habitat. It is cultural identity, food security, and a foundation for traditions that span millennia into the current day. The caribou herd is central to their traditions and survival, and industrial development in the region threatens not just an ecosystem, but an entire way of life. The Gwich’in, which span across Alaska and Canada, have been united in their opposition to drilling in the Refuge for decades and have called on the federal government to uphold its trust responsibilities and protect these lands permanently.
    Developing the Refuge’s unproven oil and gas reserves would also pose a serious danger to the climate, locking in decades of emissions in a region already warming four times faster than the global average.
    For decades, the Refuge’s coastal plain has been targeted for highly speculative oil and gas drilling. In 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act established an oil and gas leasing program along with a requirement that the Department of the Interior conduct two lease sales in the coastal plain before the end of 2024. According to the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate at the time, these lease sales would result in $1.82 billion in revenue over 10 years. Seven years later, those projections have proven wildly inaccurate.
    The first lease sale brought in only $14.4 million in bids on 11 tracts, a far cry from the nearly $2 billion in estimated revenue. Major oil companies didn’t participate in the sale, and most major financial institutions have pledged not to finance drilling there. The most recent lease sale in January of this year generated no interest. Despite the lack of interest or activity, the risk of development and drilling in the Arctic Refuge remains.
    On his first day in office, President Trump restarted the Coastal Plain Oil and Gas Leasing Program and reinstated seven leases from the state development corporation, which were previously canceled by the Biden administration. Congressional Republicans may once again use oil and gas leasing to pay for tax cuts for billionaires, despite its catastrophic failure to raise revenue in 2017.
    The Senate bill is cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
    The House bill is cosponsored by Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), Sharice Davids (D-Kan.), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Bill Foster (D-Ill.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Val Hoyle (D-Ore.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Madeline Dean (D-Pa.), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Lucy McBath (D-Ga.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.), André Carson (D-Ind.), Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.), Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.), Kelly Morrison (D-Minn.), George Latimer (D-N.Y.), Gabe Amo (D-R.I.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Rob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Sarah McBride (D-Del.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), Emily Randall (D-Wash.), Dave Min (D-Calif.), Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ed Case (D-Hawaii), James McGovern (D-Mass.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), Becca Balint (D-Vt.), Mike Levin (D-Calif.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.).
    The bill was endorsed by National Audubon Society, Gwich’in Steering Committee, Alaska Wilderness League, Trustees for Alaska, The Wilderness Society, League of Conservation Voters, Defenders of Wildlife, National Wildlife Refuge Association, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, World Wildlife Fund, Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Environment America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Mud pies for some, barriers for others

    Source:

    30 April 2025

    When we think of nature play, we envision children swinging from trees, decorating mud pies with gum nuts, and delving through creek beds. But nature play must be more than this and needs to cater to children of all ages and capabilities, say researchers at the University of South Australia.

    Now, as Australians head to the polls – and with equity and education on the national agenda – new research has revealed a gap in how nature playspaces are designed and delivered across the country.

    Despite the growing popularity of nature play areas that help children climb, dig, and connect with nature, a new study has found no clear, evidence-based guidelines to ensure all children – regardless of age, ability, or location – can access and benefit from these spaces.

    The review of more than 7000 documents identified only one regulatory guideline, with most offering inconsistent, vague or incomplete advice for those planning nature play in schools, early learning centres, and communities.

    UniSA researcher, Dr Kylie Dankiw, says that without a national approach to the design and development of nature playspaces, some children will be left on the sidelines.

    “Nature playspaces are known to support children’s health, development, and well-being. But without national practice guidelines, families, educators, councils and planners may struggle to know the best way to create them,” Dr Dankiw says.

    “These spaces offer hands-on experiences with nature, plants, sand, stones, and even sounds – which foster creativity, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the environment.

    “Being in and around nature sparks children’s imagination and, with the right design, can inspire creativity, problem-solving, and meaningful discoveries.

    “As more playspaces are created in early learning centres, schools and communities, it’s vital they’re made safe, inclusive and enriching for all.

    “While many guidelines highlight key features that can support the design of nature playspaces, the advice is often unclear, inconsistent, or lacking in detail, making it hard to apply in different settings, age groups, and developmental needs.

    “Without national guidelines, different advocacy and regulatory groups are using different approaches, which can lead to confusion around safety, accessibility, and the best way to support children’s development.”

    Co-researcher, UniSA’s Dr Margarita Tsiros, says that national, research-backed recommendations are needed to ensure consistency and quality across the country.

    “All children can benefit from nature play. While many existing spaces include engaging and inclusive elements, there is a real need for evidence-based guidance to help designers, educators, and councils create high-quality nature experiences,” Dr Tsiros says.

    “We need to champion nature play with a shared understanding that it’s about giving children joy, freedom and opportunities to connect with the natural world.

    “With practical safe and inclusive national guidelines, Australia’s nature playspaces can truly support the needs of all children.”

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

    Contacts for interview:  Dr Kylie Dankiw E: Kylie.Dankiw@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Severe Weather brings a suite of warnings for both Islands – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Wednesday 30th – Friday 2 May – Stormy conditions starting to impact New Zealand today will bring strong damaging winds, heavy rain and choppy seas over the next few days to various parts of the country. MetService has issued numerous Severe Weather Warnings and Watches.
     
    North Island
     
    Widespread rain is currently affecting many parts of the North Island, with some areas experiencing heavy downpours. These conditions are forecast to become more persistent and spread further across the island by this afternoon (Wednesday).
     
    •  A Orange Heavy Rain Warning is in place east of Bay of Plenty, from 10am today valid until 3pm tomorrow.
    •  Heavy Rain Watches have been issued for Bay of Plenty and Southern Wairarapa until Wednesday evening. Wellington is also on Watch from 6pm Wednesday until 3pm Friday.
    •  Strong to gale-force winds are expected along the Wairarapa and Wellington coastlines, generating rough seas and wave heights of up to 7 metres on Thursday afternoon and a Heavy Swell Warning has been issued.
    •  Strong Wind Watch for Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula, and north of Hamilton in Waikato, from 7am to noon Thursday.
     
    Conditions in Wellington over the next day and a half will be something to keep a close eye on, as a combination of wet weather, very strong southerly winds, and large waves are expected.
     
    The winds are of particular interest. While Wellingtonians are no strangers to blustery days, this event stands out due to the unusually strong southerlies, with gusts of 130 km/h possible. This means that trees and structures that may be accustomed to very strong winds from the north may be more vulnerable to strong winds from the south, making them more prone to damage. These winds will also be whipping up large waves, which may impact travel along coastal roads on Thursday.
     
    South Island
     
    •  An Orange Heavy Rain Warning for the Kaikōura Coast and ranges plus areas of Canterbury north of Timaru, easing from 6pm Thursday.
    •  Orange Road Snowfall Warnings for Porters, Arthur’s, Lewis and Lindis Pass are in force into Thursday.
    •  An Orange Heavy Snow Warning for Canterbury High Country, south of the Rangitata River, in place from 9pm tonight (Wednesday) through to 9am on Thursday.
    •  Yellow Strong Wind Watches for Buller, Grey, Westland, Nelson Lakes Districts (from noon today), and the Marlborough Sounds (from 6pm today through Thursday afternoon).
     
    The South Island is currently experiencing cloudy and wet conditions, with more rain forecast through to Thursday.  For the eastern South Island, this could be a significant weather event, with large amounts of rainfall expected between today and Friday. For regions under Orange Heavy Rain Warnings, possible impacts include areas of flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions.
     
    MetService meteorologist Kgolofelo Dube says, With the hazardous weather conditions approaching, we strongly encourage all New Zealanders to stay informed by regularly checking the MetService app or website, as well as updates from local Civil Defence and council channels.”
     
    Friday looks to be a better day, with rain easing in most areas across the country. However, eastern parts of the North Island and the north-eastern South Island may still experience heavy rain and strong winds.
     
    The good news is that by Saturday, more settled conditions are expected to return to most regions, although some areas may still see isolated showers.

    Please keep up to date with the most current information from MetService at http://bit.ly/metservicenz  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China draws foreign investment as ‘oasis of certainty’

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

    BEIJING, April 29 — In an increasingly unpredictable global environment, China is becoming an “oasis of certainty” as it continues to build up industrial strength and foster institutional opening-up, drawing influential foreign investors from tech giants to automakers into the world’s second-largest economy.

    Latest data from the Ministry of Commerce shows that foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Chinese mainland in actual use climbed by 13.2 percent year on year last month. In the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, 12,603 new foreign-invested enterprises were established nationwide, representing a year-on-year growth of 4.3 percent.

    ANCHOR FOR GLOBAL ECONOMIC GROWTH

    At a petrochemical plant rising a hundred meters from the ground, the sounds of welding, cutting and roaring interweave … The over 80 billion yuan (about 11 billion U.S. dollars) cooperation project co-invested by Saudi oil giant Aramco and Chinese enterprises in Panjin, northeastern Liaoning Province, has progressed to more than 60 percent.

    Aramco is currently investing in projects in China that have a collective and total value of over 240 billion yuan, covering petrochemical projects and equity acquisition deals. “China is already the world’s largest consumer and producer of petrochemicals, accounting for nearly half of global demand,” said Amin H. Nasser, president and CEO of the company. He noted, “China is becoming an oasis of certainty in an increasingly unpredictable global environment.”

    Since the start of this year, more and more foreign brands from various sectors have beefed up investment in China, leveraging its super-large market advantage. For example, fast fashion brand Zara opened its Asian flagship store in Nanjing, while U.S. hair care brand Aveda opened its first store in south China in Guangzhou. German retail giant ALDI entered China’s Jiangsu market.

    Besides a vast market size, China’s crucial role in fueling world economic growth has been harnessed by solid economic fundamentals and a stable policy framework, according to foreign institutions.

    China’s gross domestic product registered a 5.4 percent year-on-year growth in Q1. This expectation-beating performance is attributed to the fact that it has increased fiscal spending, vigorously boosted consumption, and introduced a series of measures to stabilize the property market and the stock market, Nathan Chow, senior economist at DBS Bank said.

    The stable growth momentum in China’s economy is stability that serves as an important global public good, helping to buffer uncertainties across international markets, said Bernd Einmeier, president of the German-Chinese Association for Economy, Education, and Culture.

    According to the 2025 Kearney Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Index, which measures investor expectations for FDI over the next three years, China has led all emerging markets for three consecutive years. The market is expected to become a “stabilizer” for business confidence worldwide, with its steady growth, open attitude and innovative vitality, said He Xiaoqing, president of Kearney Greater China.

    INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH, INNOVATION DRIVE

    Industry experts believe China’s industrial strength and innovation drive have become key factors drawing foreign investment. At the same time, its market solidifies its crucial role in the integrated development of global industries, contributing to economic growth.

    During an earlier business trip to China, Apple’s COO, Jeff Williams, visited the company’s supplier, Goertek, in east China’s Shandong Province and praised its automated manufacturing and artificial intelligence technology on the production lines. Among the company’s top 200 suppliers worldwide, more than 80 percent have factories in China engaging in related businesses.

    China’s ability to integrate industrial chains is almost irreplaceable on a global scale, whether in terms of engineer supply, industrial supporting capabilities, or scale advantages, noted Xing Ziqiang, chief economist at Morgan Stanley China.

    This has attracted more and more foreign investment into the global manufacturing powerhouse and innovation hub, with Toyota committing to a 14.6-billion yuan strategic cooperation agreement in Shanghai, and AstraZeneca signing a landmark agreement to invest 2.5 billion U.S. dollars in a global strategic research and development center in Beijing.

    In Rugao City in east China’s Jiangsu Province, welding robots are busy on the production lines of Swedish truckmaker Scania. “The Scania Rugao Industrial Hub, the most advanced and sustainable in Scania’s world, will add significant capacity to Scania’s global production system, easing previous bottlenecks and benefiting both the Chinese and global markets,” said Ruthger de Vries, president of Scania Industrial Operations Asia.

    INSTITUTIONAL OPENING-UP ACCELERATES

    Translating its opening-up pledge into concrete actions, China’s growing economic openness spanning various sectors has further cemented its position as the world’s second-largest FDI destination.

    While all restrictions on foreign investment in the manufacturing sector were removed in China last year, the country has now extended its opening-up efforts to the service sector. China approved value-added telecommunications business operations of 13 foreign-funded enterprises in Q1, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

    The number of foreign-invested telecommunications enterprises surged 26.5 percent from a year earlier and topped 2,400 in China at the end of last month. Over 40 foreign-funded biotechnology projects have kicked off, and three new wholly foreign-owned hospitals have been approved for operation by late March, according to the country’s commerce ministry.

    The constant opening-up in China’s service sector has brought new development opportunities to foreign-funded enterprises and injected confidence into deepening the Chinese market, said Jacqueline Jiang, chair of the Chinese mainland at John Swire & Sons. Last month, a subsidiary of the group obtained the first foreign-owned cardiovascular specialty hospital practice license in China.

    In the financial sector, an increasing number of foreign financial institutions have cast a vote of confidence in China by establishing new securities entities and expanding the scope of their existing businesses in recent years, with the latest move by UBS increasing its equity stake in UBS Securities from 67 percent to 100 percent.

    Despite deficits in service trade, China seeks to further open sectors like medical and internet services in a well-conceived way. Pilot opening-up programs in free trade zones and select cities have been accelerated, with wholly foreign-owned hospitals now allowed in certain areas. According to the MIIT, China seeks to remove restrictions on the percentage of foreign capital for service businesses such as app stores and internet access in certain regions.

    “In China, foreign companies can invest here because they find a good business environment, and those investments are also long-term and not only short-term,” said Maximilian Butek, executive director and board member of the German Chamber of Commerce in China, the east China region.

    “We have a strong business commitment here in China,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sony Corporation and BandLab Technologies Announce Strategic Partnership To Empower Creators With Cutting-Edge Technology And Opportunities That Make Music Creation More Accessible

    Source: Sony

    April 30, 2025

    Collaboration Brings New Technology and Artist Support to Millions of Creators, Starting with Spatial Sound Integration in BandLab

    April 30, 2025 (New York, NY) – Sony Corporation’s Personal Entertainment Business and BandLab Technologies today announced a strategic partnership set to redefine music creation for independent and emerging artists worldwide. By bringing together Sony’s legacy of audio excellence with BandLab, the world’s fast-growing social music creation platform, this collaboration reflects a shared mission to empower creators with cutting-edge technology and opportunities that fuel their growth, spark innovation, and build their careers—starting from the earliest stages of their musical journeys.

    The initial phase of this partnership integrates Sony’s Spatial Sound technology, 360 Reality Audio, directly into the BandLab app, giving millions of users around the world on any smartphone with a standard pair of headphones or earbuds the ability to both experience and make music in spatial audio.

    Starting this summer, BandLab users will be able to explore a curated collection of spatial-enabled beats in the BandLab Sounds marketplace and then build on them in BandLab Studio, adding vocals, instruments, and additional production to expand their creative possibilities within the immersive world of 360 Reality Audio.

    As the partnership evolves, a dedicated, co-branded hub within BandLab will act as a gateway for future offerings—integrating new technology and accessible tools for music creation while providing exclusive access to newly developed educational programs. Additionally, the collaboration will create additional opportunities to amplify BandLab artist success stories to a global audience, offering artists greater visibility as they reach new heights in their creative journeys.

    With over 100 million users across genres, skill levels, and geographies, BandLab is the world’s largest social music creation platform and a driving force in today’s music landscape. Together, Sony and BandLab are not only breaking down the barriers to make music, but also laying the foundation for a future where every artist has the means to create, connect, and share their music on a global stage.

    “This partnership reflects a shared belief that the technology and opportunities to create music should be available to everyone, not just a select few,” said Meng Ru Kuok, CEO & Co-Founder of BandLab Technologies. “By working with Sony Corporation, we’re combining our strengths to empower creators at every step of their journey. It’s not just about what artists can do today, but about what becomes possible when they’re given the right support to experiment and grow.”

    “Sony has long been committed to delivering premium audio experiences, and this partnership with BandLab allows us to deliver such experiences to music creators of all levels,” said Masaaki Oshima, Head of Personal Entertainment Business Unit, Sony Corporation. “By integrating our audio products and technology into BandLab’s ecosystem, we’re not only expanding access to immersive audio tools, but also strengthening our connection with the pro-consumer market, enhancing the way music is created and experienced. We’re excited to see how artists push creative boundaries with these new possibilities.”

    About Sony Corporation

    Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world.

    For more information, visit: Sony Corporation | Home

    • *Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

    About BandLab Technologies

    BandLab Technologies is a collective of global music technology companies on a mission to break down the technical, geographic, and creative barriers for musicians and fans. Empowering creators at all stages of their creative process, the group’s wide range of offerings includes flagship mobile-first social music creation platform BandLab, award-winning, legendary desktop DAW Cakewalk, powerful artist services platform ReverbNation, and global beat and music marketplace Airbit. BandLab Technologies is headquartered in Singapore and is a division of Caldecott Music Group. For more information on BandLab Technologies, visit bandlabtechnologies.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –