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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI: Valeura Energy Inc.: Q1 2025 Operations and Financial Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE, OTCQX:VLERF) (“Valeura” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on Q1 2025 operations.

    Highlights

    • Operations continuing smoothly, with oil production averaging 23.9 mbbls/d(1);
      • Continual programme of development and appraisal drilling throughout the quarter;
      • Strong ongoing safety performance, with no lost time injuries;
    • Strong cash position at March 31, 2025 of US$238.3 million, and no debt;
      • Taxes paid of US$39.2 million in Q1;
      • Repurchased 963,401 shares in Q1;
    • Resilient ongoing business based on strong balance sheet and cash flow, creating growth optionality in the current volatile climate.

    (1) Working interest share oil production, before royalties.

    Dr. Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:

    “Our strong operational and financial performance continued throughout Q1 2025, and our business is more resilient than ever. With our corporate restructuring completed in November 2024, and the final tax payment under the previous structure now behind us, we see an energised ability to generate cash flow as we look at the remainder of 2025. 

    We are carefully monitoring the current volatile market conditions while simultaneously reviewing and optimising our expenditures. However, our strong financial position with cash of US$238 million and no debt makes Valeura not only resilient, but also well positioned for attractive inorganic opportunities that may emerge during such a turbulent market environment.

    Notwithstanding the recent market volatility, we are maintaining all of our previously disclosed guidance assumptions for the year.” 

    Q1 2025 Update

    Valeura’s working interest share production before royalties averaged 23.9 mbbls/d during Q1 2025, a decrease of 8.4% from Q4 2024. Rates were affected by a planned seven-day annual maintenance shutdown of the Nong Yao field near the end of the quarter. All planned work on the Nong Yao facilities was conducted safely and under time and budget with production resuming on April 1, 2025. Valeura re-iterates its full year 2025 production guidance outlook of 23.0 – 25.5 mbbls/d.

    Oil sales totalled 1.88 million bbls during Q1 2025, less than the 2.15 million bbls produced. Sales were lower than in Q4 2024 and reflect the fact that at the beginning of the quarter, the Company had record low crude oil in inventory. At the end of the quarter Valeura had 0.89 million bbls in inventory, which is expected to be sold in Q2 2025 (including a lifting of approximately 0.25 million bbls which was sold on April 1, 2025).

    Price realisations averaged US$78.7/bbl during Q1 2025, reflecting a US$2.9/bbl premium over the Brent crude oil benchmark. Oil revenue during Q1 2025 was US$148.1 million, 35% lower than Q4 2024. The quarter-on-quarter difference is due to less oil volumes sold, and also one sale occurring very late in the quarter, for which revenue is expected to be received in April 2025. Accordingly, the Company recorded a receivable associated with that lifting of approximately US$30 million as at March 31, 2025.

    In addition to routine operating costs and planned capital spending, the Company has made a final tax payment of US$39.2 million in connection with its corporate restructuring that was completed in November 2024. This payment effectively completes the tax obligations for its Thai III licences under their previous organisation structure, and became due in Q1 2025, earlier than usual tax payments for Thai III licences which are payable in May and August of each year. Following the restructuring, petroleum income tax loss carry-forwards that were previously associated with only the Wassana asset are now being applied to all of the Company’s Thai III petroleum concessions, being Wassana, Nong Yao, and Manora, thereby resulting in a more efficient tax structure for the business.

    While the Company acknowledges the global market and oil price volatility experienced in early April 2025, at this time, Valeura re-affirms all of its guidance outlook expectations for 2025. The Company maintains a scenario-based approach to planning its investments, driven largely by forecast oil prices. Recent market conditions underscore the importance of such an approach, but more importantly highlight the value of maintaining a strong balance sheet so as to capitalise on emerging inorganic growth opportunities. As of March 31, 2025, Valeura had US$238.3 million in cash, with no debt.

    During the quarter, the Company acquired 963,401 shares as part of its NCIB programme.

    Operations Update

    Valeura provided an operations update on March 25, 2025, along with its announcement of results for Q4 and the full year 2024. Since that time, the Company has been conducting a drilling campaign on the Jasmine / Ban Yen field, and will provide an update in due course. 

    On March 28, 2025, an earthquake struck central Myanmar, which borders Thailand to the north-west. All Valeura’s personnel were confirmed safe, and all facilities continue to operate safely.

    Results Timing and AGM

    Valeura intends to release its full unaudited financial and operating results for Q1 2025 on May 14, 2025, and will discuss the results in more detail through a management webcast hosted in conjunction with its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the “meeting”) later that day. The notice of meeting and related Management’s Information Circular have been mailed to shareholders and are available on the Company’s website at www.valeuraenergy.com/governance and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For further information, please contact:

    Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries)
    +65 6373 6940
    Sean Guest, President and CEO
    Yacine Ben-Meriem, CFO
    Contact@valeuraenergy.com

    Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries)
    +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495
    Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations
    IR@valeuraenergy.com

    About the Company

    Valeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Türkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.

    Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Advisory and Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this news release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is for the purpose of explaining management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “target” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

    Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s anticipated full year 2025 guidance assumptions, being full year working interest share oil production before royalties of 23.0 – 25.5 mbbls/d, capex of US$125 – 150 million, exploration expense of approximately US$11 million, and adjusted opex of US$125 – 245 million, all as more fully described in the January 9, 2025 press release; the anticipated receivable of approximately US$30 million as at March 31, 2025; and Valeura’s expectation that it will benefit from a more efficient tax structure as a result of the corporate restructuring. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things: political stability of the areas in which the Company is operating; continued safety of operations and ability to proceed in a timely manner; continued operations of and approvals forthcoming from governments and regulators in a manner consistent with past conduct; ability to achieve extensions to licences in Thailand and Türkiye to support attractive development and resource recovery; future drilling activity on the required/expected timelines; the prospectivity of the Company’s lands; the continued favourable pricing and operating netbacks across its business; future production rates and associated operating netbacks and cash flow; decline rates; future sources of funding; future economic conditions; the impact of inflation of future costs; future currency exchange rates; interest rates; the ability to meet drilling deadlines and fulfil commitments under licences and leases; future commodity prices; the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine; the impact of conflicts in the Middle East; royalty rates and taxes; management’s estimate of cumulative tax losses being correct; future capital and other expenditures; the success obtained in drilling new wells and working over existing wellbores; the performance of wells and facilities; the availability of the required capital to funds its exploration, development and other operations, and the ability of the Company to meet its commitments and financial obligations; the ability of the Company to secure adequate processing, transportation, fractionation and storage capacity on acceptable terms; the capacity and reliability of facilities; the application of regulatory requirements respecting abandonment and reclamation; the recoverability of the Company’s reserves and contingent resources; future growth; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the impact of increasing competition; the availability and identification of mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to successfully negotiate and complete any mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to efficiently integrate assets and employees acquired through acquisitions; global energy policies going forward; international trade policies; future debt levels; and the Company’s continued ability to obtain and retain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost efficient manner. In addition, the Company’s work programmes and budgets are in part based upon expected agreement among joint venture partners and associated exploration, development and marketing plans and anticipated costs and sales prices, which are subject to change based on, among other things, the actual results of drilling and related activity, availability of drilling, offshore storage and offloading facilities and other specialised oilfield equipment and service providers, changes in partners’ plans and unexpected delays and changes in market conditions. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Exploration, appraisal, and development of oil and natural gas reserves and resources are speculative activities and involve a degree of risk. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company including, but not limited to: the ability of management to execute its business plan or realise anticipated benefits from acquisitions; the risk of disruptions from public health emergencies and/or pandemics; competition for specialised equipment and human resources; the Company’s ability to manage growth; the Company’s ability to manage the costs related to inflation; disruption in supply chains; the risk of currency fluctuations; changes in interest rates, oil and gas prices and netbacks; the risk that the Company’s tax advisors’ and/or auditors’ assessment of the Company’s cumulative tax losses varies significantly from management’s expectations of the same; potential changes in joint venture partner strategies and participation in work programmes; uncertainty regarding the contemplated timelines and costs for work programme execution; the risks of disruption to operations and access to worksites; potential changes in laws and regulations, including international treaties and trade policies; the uncertainty regarding government and other approvals; counterparty risk; the risk that financing may not be available; risks associated with weather delays and natural disasters; and the risk associated with international activity. See the most recent annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the Company for a detailed discussion of the risk factors.

    Certain forward-looking information in this news release may also constitute “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Financial outlook involves statements about Valeura’s prospective financial performance or position and is based on and subject to the assumptions and risk factors described above in respect of forward-looking information generally as well as any other specific assumptions and risk factors in relation to such financial outlook noted in this news release. Such assumptions are based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and any financial outlook included in this news release is made as of the date hereof and provided for the purpose of helping readers understand Valeura’s current expectations and plans for the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on any financial outlook may not be appropriate for other purposes or in other circumstances and that the risk factors described above or other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from any financial outlook.

    The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, including where such offer would be unlawful. This news release is not for distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Ireland, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which its publication or distribution would be unlawful. 

    Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    This information is provided by Reach, the non-regulatory press release distribution service of RNS, part of the London Stock Exchange. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Coalition’s domestic gas plan would lower prices – just not very much

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Hepburn, Professor, Deakin Law School, Deakin University

    A LNG carrier departs Gladstone. Ivan Kuzkin/Shutterstock

    It surprised many Australians when the Coalition announced a plan straight from the progressive side of politics: force large gas companies to reserve gas for domestic use – at a lower cost than they could sell it for overseas.

    As a populist move during a cost-of-living election, it’s a good one. Australia’s gas producers sell 70% of gas extracted on the east coast overseas under long-term contracts, even as southeastern states such as Victoria face possible gas shortages. Western Australia has long had an effective policy requiring up to 15% of offshore gas to be reserved for domestic use.

    After a fortnight’s delay, the Coalition has now publicly released the modelling behind its policy. Undertaken by Frontier Economics, the modelling indicates that reserving 50 to 100 petajoules of gas in the first year would cut wholesale prices by 23%. This would mean a 15% drop in prices for large-scale users – but only a 7% fall for household gas bills and a 3% fall in electricity bills.

    This doesn’t sound like much, because it isn’t. Gas prices soared during the Ukraine war and haven’t yet returned to their pre-war levels. Labor has dubbed the plan “gaslighting”, and will rely instead on a gas policy released last year to open up more gasfields and build import terminals. Gas producers don’t like the Coalition’s plan, and neither does billionaire Liberal benefactor Gina Rinehart. Dutton’s plan isn’t crazy – it’s just not likely to make a big difference.

    Most of Queensland’s gas is exported at present.
    Chris Andrews Fern Bay/Shutterstock

    How would this gas reservation policy work?

    The Coalition has proposed what it calls an East Coast Reservation Scheme, with the goal of progressively decoupling Australia’s east coast gas market from the volatile international market.

    It has two parts. First, it would require new exporters, in the first year of operation, to reserve an additional 50–100 petajoules for the domestic market. Second, it would create a gas security charge, to be imposed on gas producers seeking to export “additional” (non-contracted) gas on the international market.

    This would give gas producers an incentive to sell non-contracted gas to the domestic market, because they would get greater profits selling in Australia, even at a lower base price.

    Further, the policy would prevent gas producers from charging domestic buyers international prices, setting a competitive price.

    In effect, the gas security charge is akin to a levy or a reverse tariff. The levy can be avoided if producers supply up to 100 petajoules to domestic markets. That’s about as much gas as New South Wales’ gas pipelines deliver each year – 101 petajoules (PJ) as of 2022–23, or the equivalent of 26 full liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, which hold about 3.8 PJ on average.

    What are the issues with this plan?

    There are legitimate concerns. First, the policy does not directly address domestic gas pricing and won’t help with the cost of living crisis. Over time, it could create a more competitive domestic market, but the fact producers could make marginally more money selling gas on the domestic market doesn’t guarantee change.

    Second, the policy does not directly address the looming gas supply crisis. That’s because existing gas producers would not be legally obliged to commit to more gas domestically – they could still export it. The obligation to commit an additional 50-100 petajoules to the domestic market only applies to gas exporters in their first year of operation.

    If policymakers want to solve the supply crisis, they would be better served by imposing direct export controls in the form of a clear gas reservation mandate. This works, as Western Australia’s long experience shows.

    How did we get here?

    When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, it led to huge spikes in global gas prices and shortages in Europe as the world moved away from Russian gas.

    In the 2010s, Australia had already been ramping up gas production. But in the wake of the Ukraine war, Australia became a major gas exporter. Producers traded as much gas as possible on the international market, selling it for over A$40/GJ. Meanwhile, Australia’s coal production was falling.

    Domestic gas demand shot up, and prices went from $8 to $30 a gigajoule. In response, the Albanese government introduced an emergency price cap for the wholesale gas market, prohibiting producers from entering into supply contracts with domestic purchasers for prices above a cap, currently set at $12/GJ. While the cap did partly insulate domestic consumers, it was always intended as a temporary measure.

    The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recently predicted a gas supply shortfall of up to 40 petajoules in the southern states as early as September due to declining production in Victoria and South Australia as well as higher demand. Without access to uncontracted Queensland gas, supply will run very low. This is a significant energy security risk, and one the Coalition’s gas policy doesn’t directly address.

    Victorian residents are more reliant on gas than other states – and shortfalls are looming.
    M-Production/Shutterstock

    What’s next?

    Australia is one of the world’s top three LNG exporters. The fact a gas giant could be facing domestic shortages is both unnecessary and embarrassing. Reaching this point represents decades of policy failure.

    Reserving gas for domestic use works for the west coast, and it would work for the east. But the Coalition’s plan is not quite a gas reservation scheme. It doesn’t create a comprehensive reservation mandate and questions remain about its capacity to address domestic pricing and supply.

    At present, it seems like a lot of effort without great benefit. Will households really notice their gas bill is 7% cheaper?

    Samantha Hepburn 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. The Coalition’s domestic gas plan would lower prices – just not very much – https://theconversation.com/the-coalitions-domestic-gas-plan-would-lower-prices-just-not-very-much-254194

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Child sexual exploitation and abuse is a multibillion-dollar industry – new report shows who benefits

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Deborah Fry, Professor of International Child Protection Research and Director of Data at the Childlight Global Child Safety Institute, University of Edinburgh

    271 EAK MOTO/Shutterstock

    The sexual exploitation and abuse of children has become a multibillion-dollar global trade. The chilling reality of this profit-driven, highly lucrative industry is laid bare by new findings from myself and colleagues at the University of Edinburgh’s Childlight Global Child Safety Institute.

    Our new report shows child abuse isn’t just a crime restricted to a hidden corner of the dark web. Based on a review of 20 publications across multiple disciplines (including big data reports, systematic reviews, discussion papers and qualitative studies), the report paints a picture of the financial mechanisms enabling abuse on a global scale.

    Our previous work estimated that 3.5% of children globally had experienced sexual extortion in the last year. This is when children and their families face threats to share sexual content of a child if they do not comply with monetary demands.

    Offenders aren’t the only ones who profit. Financial institutions, tech companies and online payment platforms — sometimes unknowingly, sometimes by omission — facilitate the flow of profits made from the abuse of children. Some of the money moves through legitimate payment systems and advertising revenue streams. Other financial flows are deliberately obscured through cryptocurrencies and the dark web.

    Many organisations do take proactive steps to detect and report this activity. Inhope, a global network of hotlines, works with law enforcement and tech companies to remove child sexual abuse material and disrupt the associated financial streams. And the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children in the US receives and acts on reports from tech companies of child sexual abuse material, alerting companies and authorities to suspicious financial activity.

    But these systems remain inadequately checked or challenged by financial regulators and laws.

    Sexual extortion has also spawned the creation of companies that provide cybersecurity and reputation management services to victims to combat the extorters. Fees are often paid upfront and can amount to thousands of dollars. In effect, this forces victims to pay for a solution to the crime committed against them.

    An estimated 3.5% of children globally had experienced sexual extortion in the last year.
    Andrew Angelov/Shutterstock

    There is also a market for the sale of child sexual abuse material, both recorded and livestreamed, delivering profit for the offender and the systems they use. One video file of on-demand child sexual abuse can cost US$1,200 (£940). With the estimated prevalence of technology-facilitated abuse experienced by 300 million children annually, this is a massive industry.

    The scale of profit is staggering, in contrast with the price some perpetrators pay to sexually abuse children. One particularly haunting finding is abusers paying as little as 27 pence (UK) to offend against children.

    Taken together, the industry is estimated to reach multiple billions of dollars annually.

    While the financial value placed on a child may be measured in pennies, the lifelong cost to that child in trauma, health and opportunity is incalculable. It is a grotesque marketplace where takings are vast and suffering is immeasurable.

    Changing markets

    Our findings also expose how perpetrators themselves are rapidly changing their approach, constantly exploiting gaps in legislation and regulatory frameworks to continue harming children.

    For example, we find in the Philippines, a livestreaming hotspot, that technology is enabling large organised crime syndicates to be replaced by smaller, covert groups. Often operating within families, these perpetrators have profited as crime shifts online, facilitated by cryptocurrency and digital payment systems.

    The proliferation and growing sophistication of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has also opened troubling new frontiers. Child abusers can now produce realistic AI-generated child sexual abuse material, using the photos of real children in order to extort. This can make detection harder and muddy the water in terms of legal accountability. Many jurisdictions are still playing catch-up.



    Read more:
    Our research on dark web forums reveals the growing threat of AI-generated child abuse images

    Stopping the flow of money and abuse

    The world’s financial and tech infrastructure — knowingly or unknowingly — has become complicit in sustaining these crimes. In some cases, advertising revenue generated from abusive content on mainstream platforms flows back into criminal networks with little-to-no intervention. Cryptocurrencies allow for rapid and anonymous transfers of payment between perpetrators and content creators.

    There is no one-size-fits-all approach to preventing child sexual exploitation, and the changing nature of the market and technology makes it even harder.

    One promising measure is the use of blocklists — lists of known child sexual abuse material that, once identified, can be blocked across major internet service providers. These lists compiled and shared by organisations including Internet Watch Foundation are proving invaluable in stopping people from accessing abuse material.

    However, even here, our findings are disturbing. On average, there are five attempts per second globally to access material that has already been placed on these blocklists.

    We need to start addressing child sexual exploitation and abuse as a public health emergency, with a coordinated response to halt its growth. This requires not just reactive law enforcement measures, but proactive prevention strategies that tackle the financial and technological ecosystems that sustain the abuse. For example, imposing regulation and sanctions on financial institutions that do not take appropriate steps to prevent their services being exploited.

    Deborah Fry receives funding from Human Dignity Foundation and UK Research and Innovation.

    – ref. Child sexual exploitation and abuse is a multibillion-dollar industry – new report shows who benefits – https://theconversation.com/child-sexual-exploitation-and-abuse-is-a-multibillion-dollar-industry-new-report-shows-who-benefits-252431

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese rescue teams leave Myanmar after completing mission

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The China Search and Rescue Team, the China International Search and Rescue Team, and the search and rescue team from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region left Myanmar on Wednesday after completing their mission in the earthquake-stricken areas.

    Before their departure, a ceremony was held at Myanmar’s Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Ministry. Soe Win, vice chairman of the State Administration Council, presented a letter of gratitude to the Chinese teams.

    The teams have boarded four Chinese Air Force planes to return home from Myanmar’s capital Nay Pyi Taw.

    Myanmar’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Lwin Oo, and Cao Jing, chargé d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, saw them off at the airport. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Book, New Edition – The Question of Palestine by Edward W. Said

    Source: Text Publishing Company (Australia)
     
    The groundbreaking account of the history of Palestine by one of the world’s most eloquent scholars of the Middle East
     
    Featuring a new foreword by Saree Makdisi

    This original and deeply provocative book was the first to make Palestine the subject of a serious debate – one that is now more critical than ever. 

    With the rigorous scholarship that he brought to his influential Orientalism and an exile’s passion (he was Palestinian by birth and had been a member of the Palestine National Council), Edward W. Said traces the fatal collision between two peoples in the Middle East and its repercussions in the lives of both the occupier and the occupied – as well as in the conscience of the West. 
    He updated this landmark work to portray the changed status of Palestine and its people in light of such developments as the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, the intifada, the Gulf War, and the ongoing Middle East peace initiative.

    For anyone interested in this region and its future, The Question of Palestine remains the most useful and authoritative account available.

    Edward W. Said (1935-2003) was one of the world’s most influential literary and cultural critics. Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University, he was the author of twenty-two books, including Orientalism, Culture and Imperialism and Out of Place. He was also a music critic, opera scholar, pianist and the most eloquent spokesman for the Palestinian cause in the West.
     
    Saree Makdisi is an American literary critic and professor. He is of Palestinian and Lebanese descent, and is the nephew of Edward Said. In 2009 he delivered the Edward Said Memorial Lecture at Adelaide University.

    Praise for Edward W. Said on The Question of Palestine

    ‘For those of us who see the struggle between Eastern and Western descriptions of the world as both an internal and an external struggle, Edward Said has for many years been an especially important voice.’ Salman Rushdie
     
    ‘Edward Said is among the truly important intellectuals of our century.’ Nadine Gordimer
     
    ‘[A]rguably New York’s most famous public intellectual after Hannah Arendt and Susan Sontag, and America’s most prominent advocate for Palestinian rights.’ Pankaj Mishra, New Yorker
     
    ‘In this seminal text, Edward Said stridently diagnoses western hypocrisy and makes the case for Palestinian liberation, paving the way for so many thinkers who came after him.’ Isabella Hammad, author of Enter Ghost.

    Available: MAY 13, 2025 Non-fiction Paperback, 320pp AU $36.99 / NZ $45.00 ISBN 9781923058200

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UniSA-Calvary Hospital surgical escape room puts nurses to the test

    Source:

    09 April 2025

    Bright lights, gleaming surgical tools, and a patient ready on the operating table. All seems to be in order, but then an alarm sounds and all eyes immediately look to you ­– what happens next is in your hands.

    Luckily, this is not a critical scenario but part of UniSA’s new perioperative escape room, designed especially for nursing staff at the Calvary Adelaide Hospital.

    Set in a state-of-the-art operating room, this patient simulation puts experienced nurses to the test as they solve complex scenarios and respond to perioperative emergencies. Working together, participants must adeptly and efficiently manage whatever challenges are put before them before they can successfully ‘escape’.

    Nursing and Perioperative Nursing lecturer, and UniSA escape room creator, Dr Michelle Freeling, says the experience is transforming nursing education.

    “Perioperative nursing is a specialty that requires nurses to work quickly and efficiently, collaborating with surgeons and anaesthetists in high-pressure environments,” Dr Freeling says.

    “But with surgical advancements continually reshaping the field, perioperative nurses need to stay ahead of the latest techniques and practices – this is where experiences like our escape room can help.

    “Participants will practice managing complex patient scenarios in the operating room, understanding and responding to perioperative emergencies, working cohesively with their team, and maintaining situational awareness, all of which are critical for success.

    “As a hands-on, immersive activity, the escape room lets perioperative nurses learn or refine their expertise in a controlled yet realistic environment, so they can test their skills safely, without risk.”

    The innovative experience is also part of a new Calvary Scholarship Program created to support nurses undertaking UniSA’s Graduate Certificate in Nursing with a focus on Perioperative Nurses. Calvary has supported 12 scholarships for nurses to undertake the Perioperative Nursing course, with the potential opportunity for additional scholarships in the future.

    Calvary Adelaide Hospital General Manager Tanya Brooks says the hospital is dedicated to advancing perioperative nursing education and leadership.

    “High quality, safe healthcare is our priority, and we’re committed to delivering excellence in clinical quality and patient care,” Brooks says.

    “UniSA’s perioperative nursing escape room demonstrates a contemporary, engaging and innovative approach to learning that will advance our team’s specialist perioperative skills while also developing their leadership capabilities, staff culture, and excellent person-centred care.

    “By investing in our team’s skill development and professional growth, we continue to champion the high standards, compassionate and professional healthcare, for which we’re known.

    “The Calvary Scholarship Program reflects this commitment, and our partnership with UniSA will empower our team to reach their full potential.”

    The inaugural cohort of scholarship recipients has commenced their studies this week.

    The University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide are joining forces to become Australia’s new major university – Adelaide University. Building on the strengths, legacies and resources of two leading universities, Adelaide University will deliver globally relevant research at scale, innovative, industry-informed teaching and an outstanding student experience. Adelaide University will open its doors in January 2026. Find out more on the Adelaide University website.

    About Calvary: In 1885, six courageous Sisters sailed into Sydney to continue the mission of Venerable Mary Potter and the Sisters of the Little Company of Mary to care for those in need. Thus begun Calvary’s enduring legacy of care in Australia. Today, we continue their mission, in our hospitals, home and virtual care services, retirement living and residential aged care homes across four states and two territories. For more information, visit www.calvarycare.org.au

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

    UniSA Contact for interview:  Dr Michelle Freeling E: Michelle.Freeling@unisa.edu.au
    UniSA Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au
    Calvary Health Care media enquiries: T: 1300 450 108 E: media@calvarycare.org.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Grosse, Director of the Master of Business Analytics, Senior Lecturer, Accounting, University of Technology Sydney

    Along with the many benefits of artificial intelligence – from providing real time navigation to early disease detection – the explosion in its use has increased opportunities for fraud and deception.

    Large and small businesses and even the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may be hit with fraudulent reimbursement claims, which are almost impossible to distinguish from legitimate receipts and invoices.

    Individuals also need to be wary.

    Look at the photos of the receipts shown below. One documents a genuine transaction. The other was created using ChatGPT. Can you spot the fake?

    Now have a look at this one.

    You possibly couldn’t – and that’s exactly the point. Systems which can reproduce near perfect counterfeits of legitimate financial documents are increasingly prevalent and sophisticated.

    Last week, OpenAI released an improved image generation model which can create images with photorealistic outputs including text.

    Why should we care?

    Fraud involving fake financial documents is a massive global issue. The international Association of Certified Fraud Examiners estimate organisations lose approximately 5% of revenue to fraud each year.

    In its 2024 report, the association documents losses exceeding US$3.1 billion across 1,921 cases. Billing and expense fraud constitute 35% of asset misappropriation cases, with firms reporting median losses of US$150,000 per incident.

    Most concerning, fraudsters primarily conceal these crimes by creating fake documents or altering files, exactly what AI now simplifies.

    Fake documents enable fraud in various ways. An employee might create a fictitious receipt for a business lunch that never happened, or a contractor might fabricate receipts for expenses never incurred. In each case, the fraudster uses counterfeit documentation to extract money they’re not entitled to.

    This problem is likely more widespread than recognised. A 2024 survey revealed 24% of employees admitted to expense fraud, with another 15% considering it.

    Even more concerning, 42% of UK public sector decision makers confessed to submitting fraudulent claims.

    AI removes barriers to deception

    Understanding how AI technology may lead to a surge in potential fraud requires examining the classic “fraud triangle”. This explains that fraud requires three elements: incentives, rationalisation and opportunity.

    Historically, technical barriers limited the ability to create fake documentation even when motivation existed.

    AI eliminates these barriers by making fake documentation easy to create. Research confirms when opportunity expands, fraud increases.

    When fake claims become everyone’s problem

    When fake receipts support tax deductions, we all pay.

    Consider a marketing consultant earning $120,000, who uses an AI image generator to create several convincing receipts for non-existent expenses totalling $4,000. At their marginal tax rate of 30%, this fraud saves them about $1,200 in taxes – if they are not caught.

    The Australian Taxation Office estimates a $2.7 billion annual annual gap from incorrectly over-claimed deductions by small businesses. With digital forgery becoming more accessible, this gap could widen significantly.

    Fake receipts and invoices

    Consumers are also becoming increasingly vulnerable to scammers using AI-generated receipts and invoices.

    Imagine receiving what looks like an official invoice from your energy provider. The only difference? The payment details direct funds to a scammer’s account.

    This is already occurring. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission reported more than $3.1 billion lost to scams in 2023, with payment redirection fraud growing rapidly.

    As AI tools make creating and editing convincing business documentation easier, these scam numbers have the potential to increase.

    The growing threat

    This vulnerability for both businesses and consumers is amplified by our increasing reliance on digital documentation.

    Today, many businesses issue receipts in digital formats. Expense management systems typically require employees to submit photos or scans of receipts. Tax authorities also accept electronically stored documentation.

    With paper receipts becoming increasingly rare and paper’s physical security features gone, digital forgeries become nearly impossible to spot through visual inspection alone.

    Is digital authentication the answer?

    One potential countermeasure is the Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) standard. The C2PA standard embeds AI generated images with verifiable information about file origin.

    However, a major weakness remains, as users can remove metadata by taking a screenshot of an image. For businesses and tax authorities, digital authentication standards are just part of the answer to sophisticated digital forgery. Yet reverting to paper documentation isn’t feasible in our digital era.

    Seeing is no longer believing

    AI’s ability to create realistic fake financial documents fundamentally changes our approach to expense verification and financial security.

    The traditional visual inspection of receipts and invoices is rapidly becoming obsolete.

    Businesses, tax authorities and individuals need to adapt quickly by implementing verification systems that go beyond simply looking at documentation.

    This might include transaction matching with bank records, and automated anomaly detection systems that flag unusual spending patterns. Perhaps the use of blockchain technology will expand to help verify transactions.

    The gap between what AI can create and what our systems can reliably verify continues to widen. So how do we maintain trust in financial transactions in a world where seeing is no longer believing?

    Matthew Grosse 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. Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud – https://theconversation.com/can-you-spot-a-financial-fake-how-ai-is-raising-our-risks-of-billing-fraud-253912

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: US tariffs on Vietnamese imports trigger strategic pivot as growth forecast trimmed to 6.5% for 2025: GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Following the news that the 10% US import tariff, including a 46% hike specifically targeting Vietnamese goods, will take effect on 09 April 2025;

    Annapurna Pillutla, Analyst, Economic Research at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers her view:

    “In response to the US tariffs, Vietnam reaffirmed its commitment to fair trade and transparency. Diplomatic engagement has been stepped up, with efforts to negotiate exemptions and clarify Vietnam’s trade and monetary policies. Vietnam is eliminating tariffs on US imports following Trump’s announcement of a 46% levy. Vietnam also proposed zero tariffs on the US goods and requested a delay of 45 days in tariff implementation, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement.

    “Vietnam’s economy is heavily dependent on the export of goods and services, which constitute nearly 100% of its GDP. In 2024, goods exports to the US amounted to $136.6 billion, representing 30.1% of Vietnam’s GDP. The sharp escalation in tariffs on Vietnamese imports signals a critical juncture in Vietnam-US trade dynamics. Given the US accounts for close to a third of Vietnam’s GDP through goods exports, the latest measures introduce significant downside risks, particularly to export-reliant industries such as textiles and footwear, where cost pressures and competitive positioning are already under strain. “Against this backdrop, GlobalData has revised the forecast of Vietnam’s GDP growth to 6.5% in 2025, down from 6.7%, as demand from one of its largest trading partners softens.

    “This development is expected to fast-track Vietnam’s strategic shift toward economic diversification. Beyond intensified trade negotiations, the government is now likely to double down on initiatives to attract high-value foreign investment, scale up digital capabilities in manufacturing, and strengthen bilateral trade ties with economies in the EU, India, and Latin America. Over time, such moves could reduce Vietnam’s exposure to single-market volatility and set the foundation for more resilient and balanced growth.”

    About GlobalData

    4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education Governance – Principals Reject removal of Objectives for School Boards – NZ Principals Federation

    Source: NZ Principals Federation

    Principals are urging the Government to retain all four core objectives in the Education and Training Act 2020, warning that proposed changes risk narrowing the purpose of education, and undermining the conditions that enable student success. 
    Currently, school boards must meet four equal objectives: achievement, safety, inclusion, and giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The proposed changes to Section 127 would replace these with a single “paramount objective” – to raise achievement – supported by several secondary objectives. 
    The amended section also introduces two new supporting objectives: to increase student attendance and to require boards to use high-quality assessment and aromatawai information to monitor progress. 
     Leanne Otene, President of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF), says the new version tilts the law too heavily towards compliance and performance measurement.
    “We all want children to be successful learners, but that doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” she said. Attendance, assessment, safety, inclusion, and connection to culture all need to work together, and should be recognised equally by the law,” she said. 
    “The Treaty is a constitutional foundation document and must remain independently visible in legislation” said Otene. 
    “Achievement should not be elevated above equity, identity, or safety,” said Otene. “Boards need balanced legislative guidance that reflects the whole purpose of education, not just the bits that are easy to measure,” she said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Significant reforms proposed to cultural heritage protections in the Northern Territory

    Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

    Strengthening safeguards and streamlining approvals for sacred sites in the NT 4 min read

    Protection of sacred Indigenous sites is a cornerstone of preserving Australia’s First Nations heritage. The Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 1989 (the Act) requires project proponents operating in the Northern Territory (NT) to obtain approval to operate in the vicinity of sacred sites and comply with any conditions imposed to ensure their activities do not harm such sites.

    The NT Government has proposed amendments to the Act. The Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 (the Bill) aims to improve the regulatory framework by tightening timeframes and reducing red tape, while also enhancing protections for sacred sites. The NT Legislative Scrutiny Committee is considering the Bill and will provide its report to Parliament by 7 May 2025.

    In this Insight, we outline the key changes proposed by the Bill and consider how they may impact stakeholders navigating the approval process.

    The current framework

    The Act provides the framework for the registration and protection of sacred sites in the NT. Under the legislation, the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (the Authority) is empowered to issue Authority Certificates (Certificates) to people who want to enter, use, or carry out works on sacred sites.1

    After receiving an application, the Authority can request a conference with custodians to discuss the application and potential conditions of the Certificate.2 A Certificate will be issued where the Authority is satisfied that the work or use of the land could proceed without substantive risk of damage to a sacred site on the land.3

    The Certificate will set out the relevant conditions the Authority considers accords with the custodian’s wishes or any agreement in place between the custodians and the applicant.4 The Act also establishes criminal offences for damaging sacred sites.5

    What is changing and why?

    The Bill proposes several key amendments aimed at improving efficiency while maintaining robust protections for sacred sites. Key changes include provisions for transferring Certificates to new parties in continuing projects and introducing enforceable undertakings for minor contraventions.

    We consider these changes in detail below.

    Transferring Authority Certificates

    Currently, the Act does not allow for the transfer of a Certificate. Certificates are specific to the original applicant and identified works. For example, if a development is sold, the new developer must apply for a new certificate, even if the works remain unchanged, requiring repeated approvals and negotiations with custodians.

    The Bill establishes a mechanism allowing for transferring a Certificate when prior consultations were conducted, and a Certificate was previously issued.6 Now, a person may apply for a transfer of a Certificate, subject to the land areas and usage conditions remaining the same.

    This change aims to improve efficiency by eliminating repetitive applications within long-term projects involving multiple parties over time.

    Recorded parties

    The Bill also establishes a mechanism for a holder of a Certificate to apply to have additional individuals or groups added as ‘recorded parties’. Subject to the area, use of the land and the conditions of the existing Certificate remaining unchanged, the Authority must issue a new Certificate to the applicant holder, which includes the added recorded parties. This will have practical benefits for proponents, who wish to ensure that contractors or joint venture partners will also have the benefit of acting in accordance with an existing Certificate.

    New enforceable undertakings

    New Part IVA of the Bill will establish a process for dealing with contraventions of the Act or conditions in a Certificate. The Authority will have the power to enter into an enforceable undertaking with a person regarding alleged contraventions. This amendment aligns the Act with enforcement mechanisms commonly used in environmental and development legislation.

    The undertaking may contain any terms or conditions that the Authority considers necessary to ensure compliance with the Act or a Certificate.7 Time limits for performing obligations and methods to monitor compliance must be stated in the undertaking.8 Additionally, notice of both the alleged contravention and the undertaking must be published by the person giving it.9

    When accepting an undertaking, various factors must be considered by the Authority, including:

    • the nature and gravity of the conduct;
    • the maximum penalty for the alleged contravention;
    • the benefits of the proposed undertaking; and
    • matters of public interest.10

    To promote transparency, notice of decisions to accept an undertaking along with reasons must be published by the Authority.11

    If a proponent fails to comply with an enforceable undertaking, an application can be made to the Supreme Court for enforcement.12 The Supreme Court may issue orders requiring payment of costs incurred by the Authority in mitigating any harm resulting from non-compliance or compensation to individuals who suffered loss due to such contraventions.13

    Notably, entering into an enforceable undertaking precludes criminal proceedings against a person who has agreed to it.14 If full compliance with an undertaking is achieved, reasonable steps must be taken by the Authority to discontinue prosecution efforts.15

    Composition and Membership of Authority

    The amendments formalise practices concerning appointments to the Authority. The Authority will be constituted of ten First Nations members nominated by Land Councils and two members nominated by the Minister.16

    Members appointed via Land Councils can face termination on grounds such as incompetence or misbehaviour. Conversely, ministerial appointees may only face termination following written recommendations from the Minister.17

    What do the changes mean for me?

    It is important to remember that these reforms are still being considered by Parliament and are not yet law.

    If the Bill is passed, the introduction of enforceable undertakings will provide a more flexible way to address minor contraventions without immediate resort to criminal prosecution.

    If you are involved in ongoing or long-term projects in the Northern Territory, the proposed amendments may also simplify your compliance obligations by allowing the transfer of Certificates, and the addition to a Certificate of other parties working on a project as recorded parties.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Unveils Odyssey Gaming Monitors, First-Ever Glasses-Free 3D & 4K 240Hz OLED in India

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the availability of the 2025 line-up of Odyssey gaming monitors, which includes the revolutionary glasses-free Odyssey 3D, the industry-first 4K 240Hz Odyssey OLED G8, and the ultra-immersive curved Odyssey G9.
     
    Designed to push immersion and performance, these monitors cater to gamers, content creators, and professionals demanding superior visual fidelity. The new 27” Odyssey 3D (G90XF model) is a game-changer for the Indian market with its ground-breaking Glasses-free 3D gaming experience.
     
    Available in sizes of 27” and 32”, the Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF model) sets a new industry benchmark as the world’s first 4K OLED monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate. The Odyssey G9 (G91F model) delivers an unmatched ultra-wide experience with a 49” Dual QHD display and a 1000R curved screen, wrapping high-quality visuals especially playing 32:9 or 21:9 games.
     
    “At Samsung, we have remained committed to democratizing cutting-edge display technology, making world-class innovation accessible to Indian consumers. With the introduction of the innovative Odyssey 3D, Odyssey OLED G8, and Odyssey G9 monitors, we are not just bringing global firsts to India but also elevating the way gamers experience immersion, speed and visual excellence,” said Puneet Sethi, Vice President, Enterprise Business, Samsung India.
     
    Odyssey 3D: India’s First Glasses-Free 3D Gaming Monitor
    Featuring advanced eye-tracking technology and view mapping algorithms, it delivers high-definition, stunning 3D visuals that make games and video content more lifelike. The Reality Hub app detects the video content and offers a choice to run it in 3D.
     
    Samsung is actively collaborating with major global game developers, including Nexon for The First Berserker: Khazan to optimize this next-gen 3D technology.
     
    Beyond gaming, the Odyssey 3D features AI-powered video conversion, transforming standard content into 3D infusing new energy to almost all content. With 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, AMD FreeSync Support, Odyssey 3D ensures smooth, lag-free gameplay. Spatial Audio (built-in speakers) and the Edge Lighting feature further enhance gaming experience, bringing games out of the screen and into your world.
     
    Odyssey OLED G8: Industry-First 4K 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor
    Powered by Quantum Dot technology, the Odyssey OLED G8 delivers enhanced colours, deep contrast, and superior viewing angles. VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400 certification ensures near-infinite contrast, making vibrant colours pop even at typical brightness levels of 250 nits. Samsung’s proprietary OLED Safeguard+ and Dynamic Cooling System extend screen longevity that effectively cools down the screen temperature to prevent burn-in by applying the Pulsating Heat Pipe to monitor for the first time ever.
     
    The glare-free technology, certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), makes the screen 56% less glossy for distraction-free gaming. With 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time, the Odyssey OLED G8 ensures a smoother viewing experience eliminating lag time and motion blur for exhilarating game-play with ultra-smooth action.
     
    The Odyssey OLED G8 is designed to upgrade any gaming station with its slim metal body, Core Lighting+ and ergonomic stand.
     
    Odyssey G9: Expanding the Ultrawide Gaming Revolution
     
    Certified with VESA DisplayHDR 600 and HDR10+ GAMING, the Odyssey G9 enhances brightness, contrast, and colour range for vivid, dynamic visuals.
     
    With 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium, the Odyssey G9 ensures seamless gameplay free from tearing and stuttering.
     
    Not just that, multitasking is made effortless with Picture-by-Picture and Picture-in-Picture modes, allowing users to view content from multiple sources simultaneously. The Auto Source Switch+ feature further streamlines the experience by instantly detecting and displaying connected devices.
     
     Price and Offers
     
    Model
    Listing Price (INR)
    Odyssey 3D G90XF
    127299
    Odyssey G8 27″ G81SF
    91299
    Odyssey G8 32″ G81SF
    118999
    Odyssey G9 49″ G91F
    94099
     
    Customers can avail launch benefits of upto INR 10,000/-. The products are available on Samsung.com, leading online platforms and retailers across India.
     
     
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN gives interview to Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA)

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today granted an interview to the Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA) on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. During the interview, he highlighted ASEAN’s efforts in advancing sustainability and inclusivity during Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN gives interview to Malaysian National News Agency (BERNAMA) appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rise in dangerous dirt bike rider behaviour in Hamilton

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Senior Sergeant Scott McKenzie, Hamilton Area Manager; Youth and Community

    Police are noticing a rise in incidents involving people riding dirt bikes in an unsafe and dangerous manner around Hamilton City.

    Riding motorcycles or dirt bikes in dangerous and anti-social ways is unacceptable. It puts not only the rider but other members of our community at risk.

    Yesterday, Police were called to a single vehicle crash on Hukanui Road, Hamilton, where a dirt bike rider was seriously injured after coming off his bike around 2:15pm.

    Police will be making further enquires into these types of behaviours and will take enforcement action where necessary.

    We are asking the public to help us, by reporting any unsafe or dangerous behaviour.

    If you witness any riding behaviour that could put anybody at risk, please call 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.

    Gain as much information as you are safely able to, including the type of activity, any descriptions of the bikes and riders, and any photos or video footage.

    If Police are not able to attend these incidents immediately, follow-up action will be taken.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Reserve Bank acts while Govt shrugs

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Nicola Willis continues to sit on her hands amid a global economic crisis, leaving the Reserve Bank to act for New Zealanders who are worried about their jobs, mortgages, and KiwiSaver.

    “While the Reserve Bank is doing its job to cushion the blow of a global economic downturn, Nicola Willis continues to pretend like everything is fine,” Labour finance and economy spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

    “New Zealanders are rightfully nervous about their jobs, mortgages, and KiwiSaver right now, yet all they’re getting from their Government is ‘we’ve got this.’ That’s not a plan, that’s complacency.

    “Nicola Willis spent so much of her time in Opposition criticising the Reserve Bank, it’s ironic she’s now claiming their decisions as a win. If she wanted to show real leadership she would invest in jobs, health, and homes, and adapt when New Zealand’s economy needs it.

    “Her Government put New Zealand into the sharpest recession in 30 years, excluding COVID, helped along by decisions to stop public housing and infrastructure projects. That’s cost New Zealand 13,000 construction jobs. Now they’re sitting on their hands in the face of major economic headwinds.

    “Even worse, they’re not being honest with Kiwis about what a continued global slowdown could mean for the budget: more draconian cuts to public services. That means fewer jobs, worse healthcare, and more Kiwis without a home.

    “Now is the time we need to be investing in jobs, health, and homes to boost our economy and lift people up, especially as U.S. tariffs cause more turmoil. Rather than working to weather the storm, they’re pretending as if it is business as usual.

    “New Zealand needs a Government that steps up and adapts when the global system falters, not one that stands still,” Barbara Edmonds said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Game-changing employment bill to tackle PGs passes first reading

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Small Business spokesperson Laura McClure is celebrating the first reading passage of her member’s bill, the Employment Relations (Termination of Employment by Agreement) Amendment Bill.

    The bill would allow employers to open protected negotiations for the termination of an employment contract, avoiding costly unfair dismissal or personal grievance claims.

    “Sometimes when one person employs another it just doesn’t work out. Relationship breakdowns, poor performance, or personal circumstances can make an employment relationship unsustainable,” says McClure.

    “Some employers would happily offer an employee money to leave, and in many cases the employee would happily accept. But this is not an option under current law.

    “I know from experience that a common fear for employers is a long and costly personal grievance or unfair dismissal claim, even when the employer has adhered to due process. These processes are stressful for both employers and employees, and often end in a settlement anyway either due to entering the without prejudice process or from a PG.

    “Hefty legal fees for personal grievance and unfair dismissal claims should not be seen as ‘the cost of doing business’.

    “My bill makes it easier for two adults to come to an agreement, shake hands, and move on to greener pastures before any dispute is escalated to the Employment Relations Authority.

    “An employer could approach an employee and say, ‘This doesn’t seem to be working out. Would you be open to sitting down and coming to an agreement about your employment?’ The employee is under no obligation to take up that offer, or any offer made in the subsequent meeting.

    “An employer could seek termination of the contract with the employee’s consent, in return for specified compensation. These conversations would be without prejudice, meaning they could not be used as a part of any future unfair dismissal or personal grievance case, unless certain exemptions apply.

    “I want this legislation to be as effective as it possibly can be, so I’m now encouraging workers, employers, and advocates to engage with the select committee process around my bill.”

    Laura McClure’s opening speech can be found here.

    A copy of the bill can be downloaded here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police arrest senior Comanchero leader

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The last of the Comanchero Motorcycle Gang leadership group not facing charges, is now facing court over two major investigations into drug importations.

    Police have charged the National Vice President in relation to offences linked to the importation of methamphetamine and cocaine into the country.

    Assistant Commissioner: Investigations Paul Basham says every member of the gang’s leadership is now facing serious charges.

    “This is a significant milestone and represents years of relentless investigative work to disrupt and hold the Comancheros to account for criminal activity.

    “There is no doubt that this sustained enforcement activity has had considerable impact on the gang’s ability to conduct their offending.”

    The 36-year-old man was arrested in Howick yesterday.

    Assistant Commissioner Basham says members of the National Organised Crime Group were there to make the arrest.

    “This man has been charged over the investigation into the importation of methamphetamine at the Port of Tauranga in December last year,” he says.

    “He has also been charged over offending linked to the importation of cocaine into New Zealand earlier this year.

    “It will be alleged that this man played a significant role in working across transnational organised criminal groups with these importations.”

    This week’s arrest comes off the back of three major investigations which culminated at the end of 2024 with nearly every Comanchero member facing criminal charges.

    Assistant Commissioner Basham says: “This is tenacious investigative work and I’d like to acknowledge the investigation staff based in Auckland and the Bay of Plenty.

    “We have not wavered in enforcing the law with gangs and organised criminal groups who are causing a high level of harm in communities right across this country.”

    The 36-year-old man will appear in the Auckland District Court today charged with importing methamphetamine, attempted possession of cocaine for supply and participating in an organised criminal group.

    • Background notes for editors:

    – Operations Avon, Scuba and Embargo targeted the Comancheros over a three year period
    – Those investigations resulted in 137 charges laid against the gang’s members and associates
    – Operation Bridle saw four arrests over the alleged importation through the Port of Tauranga
    – Three men are before the Auckland District Court over the importation of cocaine earlier this year

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: MyForex.co.nz launches as a Trusted Gateway to Forex Products and Broker Access for New Zealand Traders

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: MyForex.co.nz launches as a Trusted Gateway to Forex Products and Broker Access for New Zealand Traders

    MyForex.co.nz is a new, transparent platform designed specifically for Kiwi forex traders, simplifying access to trusted products and reputable brokers. Amid an industry filled with aggressive marketing, the site prioritizes clarity and local support through its Introducing Broker initiative, guided by an experienced forex trader, ensuring genuine value without hidden complexities.

    The post MyForex.co.nz launches as a Trusted Gateway to Forex Products and Broker Access for New Zealand Traders first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Running for parliament is still a man’s world, with fewer female candidates – especially in winnable seats

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Elise Stephenson, Deputy Director, Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, Australian National University

    Despite progress towards gender equality in Australian elections, women remain underrepresented among candidates vying for office on May 3. They are also overrepresented in “glass cliff” seats, which are the ones that are difficult to win and precarious to hold.

    The Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at the Australian National University has analysed 591 candidates in the election by gender, political party, and the seats they are contesting.

    Our report published today finds that while the major parties are increasing the number of women they pre-select, they are more likely to be running in harder-to-win seats.

    From the glass ceiling to the glass cliff

    Women are inching towards gender parity and now make up 45% of candidates across all parties and independents.

    Labor has made the strongest gains. More than half (56%) of its candidates are women, a jump of about 10 percentage points on the previous election. By comparison, only 32% of Coalition candidates are female, an increase of just 3% on the 2022 poll.

    Coalition women are not only outnumbered two to one by male candidates – 84% of them are running in risky glass cliff seats.

    Contesting from opposition necessarily means Coalition candidates are coming from a more challenging starting point. Indeed, by comparison, 50% of female Labor candidates are running in safe seats, compared to 57% of their male collegaues.

    Nonetheless, Labor women are also more likely to be running in unsafe seats than Labor men. This persistent glass cliff across both major parties continues to disadvantage women in politics.

    A woman’s place in the current parliament

    Women make up approximately 39% of the current House of Representatives. Labor is closest to parity, with women accounting for 47% of the caucus.

    By comparison, the Coalition continues to languish with four times the number of male MPs: 80% men to 20% women.

    And there are stark differences in gender balance across states and territories, with Queensland and South Australia lagging the furthest behind. Queensland fares the worst, with nearly five times as many men than women representing the state in federal parliament (83% men to 17% women).

    This reflects a strong gender imbalance across both major parties. Our report shows that in Queensland, 80% of Labor and 86% of Coalition MPs are men.

    Western Australia and the Northern Territory are the only two states or territories to have equal or more women MPs elected in the 2022 federal election – at 53% and 50%, respectively.

    Diversity and the 2025 election

    According to our analysis, 21% of the nearly 600 declared candidates self-identified as diverse. This includes:

    • culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people
    • people from First Nations backgrounds
    • people with disabilities
    • people belonging to the LGBTIQ+ community.
    How well do the candidates in the federal election represent Australia’s diverse community?

    Diversity is fairly evenly spread across the parties, at around 26% of Labor’s candidates, 24% of the Coalition’s and 30% of the Greens’.

    Men are much more likely to self-identify as “diverse” than women at this election. This could reflect the unique barriers faced by minoritised women. For example, women of colour, First Nations women and women with disability can be discouraged or find it harder to seek public office.

    Our findings reflect the added challenges diverse women and non-binary people face, particularly when in the public eye.

    For instance, our research on the 2022 election found that while LGBTIQ+ politicians faced similar rates of online harassment during the campaign, they were more targeted by personal vitriol throughout. They suffered nasty, queer-specific slurs, transphobic messages and ableist language – commentary that had nothing to do with their policies or politics.

    Are we making progress?

    Yes, progress is being made with more women running for election. That is particularly true of the Labor Party and the Greens, where 56% and 50% of candidates are women respectively. Plus some who are beyond the gender binary.

    And the fact that 80% of “teal” candidates are female is a noted characteristic of the community independents movement.

    However, achieving true gender and diversity parity in politics requires more than increasing candidate numbers. It demands a fundamental shift in how, and where, women and diverse candidates are positioned to compete.

    This is a message for political parties to take seriously going into future elections. Are parties always putting the same people up for the same seats?

    Without addressing these systemic barriers, representation in parliament will continue to fall short of reflecting the electorate’s true and growing diversity.

    Elise Stephenson receives funding from the Australian Government and Australian Research Council. She is affiliated with Women in International Security Australia. The Global Institute for Women’s Leadership is a non-partisan research institute at the ANU.

    – ref. Running for parliament is still a man’s world, with fewer female candidates – especially in winnable seats – https://theconversation.com/running-for-parliament-is-still-a-mans-world-with-fewer-female-candidates-especially-in-winnable-seats-254187

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Adam Bandt says the Greens can deliver ‘real change’ – but the party should choose its battles more wisely

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Crowley, Adjunct Associate Professor, Public and Environmental Policy, University of Tasmania

    Federal Greens leader Adam Bandt says the federal election offers “an opportunity for real change”, saying his party would use the balance of power in the next parliament to help deliver serious policy reforms.

    In a speech to the National Press Club on Wednesday, Bandt outlined the party’s election priorities and said the poll represents:

    A once-in-a-generation chance to create a country where everyone has a right to the basics – food, health, and a home. A safe climate and a healthy environment. An economy which puts people before the profits of the obscenely wealthy and the excessively profitable.

    The Greens broke new ground at the last federal election, snatching three new lower house seats and winning the balance of power in the Senate. The gains suggested the Greens were moving beyond their roots as a party of protest, and becoming a true policy force.

    But the Greens broadly failed to make the most of its greater political presence this term. In the next parliament, it should focus on building political capital and picking its battles more wisely.

    Meagre parliamentary success this term

    As a traditional party of protest, the Greens have historically tended to stick firmly to the party’s policy agenda rather than make major concessions to the government of the day.

    However, as the new Labor government focused on delivering its mostly modest reform agenda this term, the Greens party was forced to negotiate on its demands, much as the Teals have done.

    The Greens helped Labor pass its signature climate change policy, the safeguard mechanism, which seeks to limit emissions from Australia’s most polluting companies. In return, Labor agreed to the Greens’ call for a hard cap on emissions under the scheme. But it refused to bow to Greens demands for a ban on new gas and coal projects, and limiting the use of carbon credits.

    The Greens were then tested by Labor’s housing agenda – specifically, two schemes to make buying or renting a home more affordable.

    The Greens’ initially teamed up with the Coalition to block the laws, arguing they would drive up housing prices and give tax breaks to property developers. The party’s opposition was at odds with public opinion, including most Greens voters.

    The party eventually waved the housing bills through in November last year without winning any concessions from Labor, and after burning much political capital.

    The chastened Greens helped pass a flurry of other legislation late in 2024, including Reserve Bank governance reforms and a supermarket code of conduct. In return, Labor offered Greens fairly piecemeal concessions, including more money for social housing electrification and a ban on fossil fuel subsidies under the Future Made in Australia scheme.

    The Greens also offered to help salvage Labor’s troubled proposal to reform Australia’s environmental protection laws. It shelved its calls for a “climate trigger” – which would force regulators to consider the potential climate damage of a proposal before it was approved. Instead, the Greens insisted only on stronger protections for native forests.

    However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese intervened at the eleventh hour to scuttle the deal.

    All this suggests the Greens party is yet to strike the right balance between pursuing its own policy agenda and supporting Labor to the extent that a healthy working relationship is achieved. So far, it has gained only meagre concessions, and its policy grandstanding has not worked.

    Flare-ups outside parliament

    Scoring political points outside parliament can be easier for the Greens than influencing policy within it.

    Environmental conflict has always fuelled the Greens’ vote, and the party continues to campaign on issues such as protecting Tasmania’s native forests, opposing salmon farming and calling for a ban on new coal and gas projects.

    But outside parliament this term, the Greens have faced controversies that may hurt them at the ballot box.

    Greens senator Lidia Thorpe quit the party over its support for the Voice referendum, and Bandt copped criticism for allegedly failing to confront bullying claims against West Australian Greens senator Dorinda Cox.

    The Gaza conflict triggered significant ruptures between the Greens and the pro-Israel movement. There were also reports that a new Muslim political movement may siphon votes from the Greens and hurt them electorally.

    There is no ready formula, then, for the Greens to shore up – let alone expand – its vote outside parliament.

    What’s next for the Greens?

    The Guardian’s polls tracker suggests the Greens’ primary vote has increased since the 2022 election, from 12.3% to 14%.

    However, the party faces several tough political contests to retain or extend the gains it won in 2022. And its disappointing results at recent elections in Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory suggest the party has its work cut out.

    As ABC election analyst Antony Green has noted, Labor holds three seats with margins below 5% where the Greens have a chance. However, the Greens also hold seats on slim margins that Labor or another candidate could win.

    The Greens’ lower-house gains at the last election came in the inner-Brisbane seats of Ryan, Brisbane and Griffith. The Greens will have to fight hard to retain all three next month.

    The most recent polls suggest Labor will be returned by a narrow margin at the May 3 election – probably helped along by the return of United States’ President Donald Trump.

    On Wednesday Bandt said the Greens “are within reach of winning seats right across the country and, in the minority government, we can make things happen”.

    However, seven new Independents won lower house seats at the last election. Should that trend continue, and if Labor does need to form a minority government, the Greens may find themselves fighting for the balance of power on a crowded crossbench.

    Picking fights or delivering policy?

    If the Greens party wants to be seen as a serious political force, it must decide if its traditional political approach – hard-nosed policy opposition and picking political fights – is still the best strategy.

    Bandt’s mentor, former Greens leader Christine Milne, got results from minority pacts with both sides of politics. She believed the Greens’ role was to build political capital and then, when an opportunity such as minority government arose, to spend that capital on achieving significant policy outcomes.

    On Wednesday, Bandt indicated a willingness to work towards meaningful policy outcomes in the next parliament. He claimed the Greens were willing to compromise in the event of minority government, saying:

    we understand the need to cooperate and to come up with an arrangement that forms stable, effective and progressive government […] We will go into any discussions with goodwill and with [an] open mind.

    Kate Crowley 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. Adam Bandt says the Greens can deliver ‘real change’ – but the party should choose its battles more wisely – https://theconversation.com/adam-bandt-says-the-greens-can-deliver-real-change-but-the-party-should-choose-its-battles-more-wisely-253851

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Cuts to fraud & audit jobs mean millions of health dollars overpaid or stolen will be lost – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Underfunded frontline health services will be further impacted
    The ability of Health NZ to claw back millions of scarce health dollars lost to fraud and overpayment each year will be undermined by proposed cuts to the jobs of audit and fraud experts.
    The Audit Assurance and Risk team is a critical Health NZ Te Whatu Ora unit focused on ensuring some $12 billion of annual funding of the primary health care sector is paid out correctly and not subject to fraud.
    But Health NZ is proposing to remove 23 roles, a cut of 28% of the workforce, at a time when the health dollar has never been scarcer.
    “We see every day how underfunded the health system is so cutting the very team that claws back overpayments and tackles fraud makes no sense,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “By not detecting overpayments or cracking down on fraud, it means precious health dollars are not being used for their proper purpose of improving outcomes for patients no matter where they are in the health system.
    “The system will just be ripe to be exploited by more fraudsters and the loser will be all users of the health system from patients to clinicians.
    “This is just more evidence of how poorly thought through many of the spending cuts we have seen throughout the public sector have been.
    “The Government has imposed a health funding crisis in this country and should be doing all it can to make the health dollar go further, including properly funding the health system in the first place.
    “These workers are highly specialised auditors and fraud investigators who save the Government millions of dollars each year – it’s simply penny wise and pound foolish to scrap these roles.
    “Each year they carry out audits and fraud investigations of those receiving health funding like medical clinics, midwives, pharmacies and disability support providers to ensure the money is being used correctly for the specified purposes.
    “The amount saved in salary cuts pales beside the loss of money not being clawed back with a minimum of 80 providers or fraudulent actors not being held to account each year. These experts are good at what they do, recovering $6 for every $1 invested in the team. One audit recently recovered $6 million from a provider which was overpaid.
    “But they face a big challenge. The team estimates that Health NZ is currently losing at least 3% of the $12 billion of annual provider funding due to civil and criminal fraud and error – that’s a huge loss of $360 million annually.
    “Part of the problem is that the payment systems at Health NZ are antiquated, but you don’t fix that by axing the very people who are doing their best to save scarce health dollars.
    “The PSA calls for these proposed cuts to be reversed.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Extended support on the way during the Low Fixed Charge Tariff phase-out

    Source: Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ)

     

    The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) and Electricity Networks Aotearoa (ENA) are pleased to announce that members from both organisations will extend the industry-funded Power Credit Scheme from 2027 to 2032. 

     

    The Power Credits Scheme is a $5 million fund that began in June 2022. It assists low-electricity-use households struggling to pay their power bills as the Low Fixed Charge Tariff (LFC) regulations are phased out.

     

    ERANZ Chief Executive Bridget Abernethy says the LFC phase-out is working as intended, rebalancing consumer bills’ fixed and variable components.

     

    “We understand that the phase-out isn’t easy for everyone, so ERANZ and ENA members are extending the scheme for five years, putting $1 million per year back into the hands of struggling consumers.”

     

    Abernethy says she is pleased to see the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Mid-Point Review of the Phase-out of the Low Fixed Charge, which was released today, confirm that the phase-out of the LFC regulations means more equitable electricity bills for standard users.

     

    “Before the phase-out, high-income households with low electricity consumption received lower electricity bills, which came at the expense of larger low-income households with relatively high electricity consumption.”

     

    Abernethy says anyone who is struggling should get in touch with their retailer to see what support is available to them. Consumers can also check with their retailer that they are on the right plan for their needs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three gang members charged following Gang Conflict Warrant in Tairāwhiti

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attribute to Tairāwhiti Area Commander Inspector Danny Kirk:

    Three gang members have been charged following a significant operation in Tairāwhiti.

    On Monday 24 March, Police were issued a Gang Conflict Warrant under the Criminal Activity Intervention Legislation Act 2023, giving Police special search powers to address recent gang conflict in the area.

    Police sought this warrant following eight incidents reported between 16 March and 23 March, involving firearms and disorder.

    A number of staff across the Eastern District supported the operation, joining the heavy Police presence in the Gisborne area while the Warrant was in place.

    Police have been able to hold offenders accountable for their offending, and send a clear message to gang members that their dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated.

    A 20-year-old man faces charges of possession of an offensive weapon, prohibited display of gang insignia and possession of methamphetamine. He is due to appear in Gisborne District Court on 15 May.

    A 25-year-old man was charged and convicted with possession of an offensive weapon. 

    A 49-year-old man was charged with unlawful possession of an imitation firearm, he now has a warrant to arrest for failing to appear in court on this charge and is still outstanding.

    My focus, and the focus of all Police staff is to ensure public safety. The events leading up to the issuing of this Warrant posed a real risk to the community.

    Our staff will continue to engage with gang leadership, and we have made it clear we will continue to take any necessary action against offending gang members.

    We still require the help of the community, and people can do that by reporting any unlawful or suspicious activity to Police on 111 in an emergency, or 105 for non-emergencies.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Going For Growth: backing NZ wool producers

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is backing New Zealand sheep farmers and the wool industry with a change to government procurement rules, Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis and Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson announced today.

    “From 1 July, government agencies will be directed to use woollen fibre products in the construction and refurbishment of government buildings, where practical and appropriate,” Nicola Willis says.

    “The move delivers on a New Zealand First and National Party coalition agreement to preference the use of woollen fibres in government buildings.

    “We’re showing our commitment to woollen fibres by leveraging government spending, to provide more targeted opportunities for wool producers. This will help to increase jobs, employment, and drive economic growth. 

    “The new requirement will encourage innovation in the building materials industry which will lead to more investment and new markets opening up. Woollen fibres have a wide range of uses in buildings including carpet, upholstery, insulation, and acoustic panels. 

    “There are also sustainability and health benefits to using wool. Wool’s natural qualities allow it to dampen sound and absorb pollutants, and woollen fibres contribute to healthier indoor environments by naturally regulating humidity and improving air quality.   

    Mark Patterson says “the new requirements go beyond procurement’s immediate aim of purchasing goods and services. They demonstrate the Government’s support for the wool industry and farmers by encouraging increased demand for woollen fibre products in government-owned buildings. 

    “We’re walking the talk. This move will hopefully inspire private businesses to follow suit.”

    “We are acting to get even greater value from our investments. It is the Government’s role to create the conditions for businesses to grow the economy and invest in creating more jobs.

    “The wool sector contributed $549 million to the New Zealand economy in the financial year ending 2024 from exporting processed and unprocessed wool products. 

    “Wool has been synonymous with New Zealand since the early settlers bought sheep here 200 years ago, and New Zealand remains the world’s third largest wool producer, after China and Australia and accounts for about 9 per cent of total world wool production.” 

    “Supporting the NZ wool industry is a key part of the positive steps the Government is taking to add value to the economy.

    “Our wool industry has recently been through a tough time with competition from synthetic fibres in global markets and a decline in both sheep numbers and the volume of wool produced. The sector is turning the tide with wool prices now covering the shearing costs, but we know there is more to be done.

    “There’s a real swing back to natural fibres with consumer interests moving back to renewable fibres such as wool.”

    The new procurement requirements will apply to the construction of government owned buildings that cost $9 million and more, and to refurbishments of $100,000 and more. The requirement will apply to about 130 agencies. 

    A wider review to improve the Government Procurement Rules is underway to remove red tape and promote responsible spending and competition. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Supporting Kiwis with the costs of power

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Energy Minister Simon Watts is welcoming an extension to the industry funded Power Credit Scheme which is supporting lower income Kiwis with the costs of power. 
    The Scheme supports those who are struggling to pay their energy bills and are affected by the phase-out of a low fixed electricity charge by offering them a $110 power credit from their providers. 
    “Extending the Scheme will help alleviate the financial burden on households by providing them financial relief in the face of rising costs,” Mr Watts says.
    “It has been a challenging time for many Kiwis, with cost-of-living pressures making it difficult for households to budget for everyday necessities including food, rent, and power. That’s why this Government is working hard to grow the economy to reduce the cost of living and help Kiwi households get ahead.
    “Things won’t change overnight but our plan to support Kiwis is working. We have gotten inflation under control, delivered tax relief which has put more money back into Kiwis pockets, and supported families with childcare payments through FamilyBoost. 
    “Recent increases in power prices are likely to put further pressure on household budgets. That’s why I have worked with larger electricity retailers and lines companies to secure a five-year industry funded extension to the Power Credit Scheme, through to 2032.
    “I acknowledge the large retailers and lines companies for providing the scheme as the Regulations are phased out and afterwards.
    “I encourage anyone coming off a low fixed charge plan to check with their power company to see if they are eligible for a power credit,” Mr Watts says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Military Support to Search and Rescue Efforts in Thailand Conclude

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    BANGKOK, Thailand — At the request of the Kingdom of Thailand, more than 100 U.S. Army, Marine, Air Force and Navy servicemembers from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command deployed to Thailand March 28 to April 4 to assist Thai military and first responders in search and rescue efforts after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake affected Thailand and its neighbor countries on March 28, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – OCR: 3.5% – Further reduction in OCR appropriate – Reserve Bank

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    9 April 2025 – The Monetary Policy Committee today agreed to reduce the Official Cash Rate by 25 basis points to 3.5 percent.

    Annual consumer price inflation remains near the mid-point of the Monetary Policy Committee’s 1 to 3 percent target band. Firms’ inflation expectations and core inflation are consistent with inflation remaining at target over the medium term.

    Economic activity in New Zealand has evolved largely as expected since the February Monetary Policy Statement. Higher-than-expected export prices and a lower exchange rate have supported primary sector incomes and overall economic growth. While monetary restraint has been removed at pace, household spending and residential investment have remained weak.

    The recently announced increases in global trade barriers weaken the outlook for global economic activity. On balance, these developments create downside risks to the outlook for economic activity and inflation in New Zealand.

    Having consumer price inflation close to the middle of its target band puts the Committee in the best position to respond to developments. As the extent and effect of tariff policies become clearer, the Committee has scope to lower the OCR further as appropriate. Future policy decisions will be determined by the outlook for inflationary pressure over the medium term.

    Read the full statement and Record of meeting: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=a3744a921f&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy Commentary – Tariff uncertainty keeps OCR ‘downward bias’ in place – CoreLogic’s Kelvin Davidson

    Source: CoreLogic – Commentary from Kelvin Davidson, Chief Property Economist at CoreLogic, soon to rebrand to Cotality

    As widely expected, the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cut the official cash rate today by 0.25%, taking it to 3.5%. The decision reflected the fact that inflation remains well within the target band and that the economy is still subdued.
    Today’s release was an ‘interim’ Monetary Policy Review rather than a full Statement, which means we don’t get the updated economic forecasts and detailed analysis. But the MPC’s commentary today still took the time to discuss tariffs and possible effects.
    In a nutshell, uncertainty remains high, but the central view right now is that inflation effects are not clear-cut; a weaker NZ$ could raise imported inflation, but a diversion of goods away from the US and towards NZ by large global exporters could work in the opposite direction.
    Then in regard to NZ’s economic growth itself, the general tone of the commentary is that it’s likely to be slower than in a world without tariffs. As such, the MPC noted they have scope to lower the OCR further as appropriate and as the effects of tariffs become clearer.
    In other words, NZ’s interest rate environment still has a ‘downward bias’ and it’ll be interesting to see what happens to mortgage rates in the coming weeks. The next OCR decision is 28 May, and prior to that we’ll have had a bit more information in the form of Q1’s CPI data (17 April) and labour market figures (7 May).
    For the property market and mortgage borrowers, ‘uncertainty’ is also a buzzword. February’s Reserve Bank lending data shows that borrowers continue to hedge their bets, with floating debt still popular (41% of loans) but fixed terms of longer than 12 months also coming back into focus. At 20% of activity in February, fixes of greater than 12 months were the most popular they have been since July last year.
    For now, tariff-uncertainty aside, our expectation is a subdued upturn for the property market in 2025, with sales volumes and house prices rising slowly. For individual borrowers, it will mean finding a balance between securing the best/lowest mortgage rate but also weighing up the certainty that a longer-term fixed loan can offer.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Principals Support NZEI’s Call for Learning Support Boost

    Source: NZ Principals Federation

    The New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF) supports the New Zealand Education Institute’s (NZEI) call for a $2.5billion investment in learning support services by 2030.
    “For years, Learning Support has been the neglected link in all conversations about learning progress and achievement,” said NZPF President, Leanne Otene. 
    “The current Minister and former Ministers of Education have all agreed that learning support is a weakness in our system, but none has had the courage to fix the problems, said Otene.
      “Instead they look to lift achievement through national standards, assessment, testing and now the science of learning with yet another new assessment tool,” she said.
    “None of these options will make a jot of difference to improve the learning progress of a single child in need of learning support because they don’t come with early intervention teachers, education support workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, special education advisors or speech and language therapists,” she said.
    “We have been clear with the Minister from the very beginning, saying that the major problem in our education system is not the teachers or their ability to teach.  It is not the curriculum or what we teach.  It is the lack of behavioural and learning support services that hinder our teachers’ ability to teach and our principals to lead,” she said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank Announcements – Recruitment of new External Member to the Monetary Policy Committee

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    9 April 2025 – A public appointment process has started for a new external member of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to replace Professor Bob Buckle when his term expires on 30 September 2025.

    Under its remit, the MPC is responsible for maintaining a stable general level of prices over the medium term.

    The MPC is made up of 4 internal RBNZ members and 3 external members. Monetary policy decisions, such as setting the Official Cash Rate, are made by the 7 members of the committee. This appointment process is to replace one of the external members; the Committee is also carrying one vacancy for an internal member which will be filled towards the end of the year.

    MPC appointments are made by the Minister of Finance, on the recommendation of the RBNZ Board.

    Board Chair Neil Quigley said that “suitably qualified candidates will be interviewed later this year and assessed against the appointment criteria, then the name of the candidate recommended by the Board will be provided to the Minister of Finance.”

    Applications will be assessed by the MPC Appointments Committee against various criteria including:

    expertise in monetary policy and macroeconomics (which may be demonstrated by research and/or professional practice)
    relevant professional knowledge, skills and experience in public policy and banking.  

    Applicants will require a strong understanding of conflicts of interest, the market sensitivity associated with monetary policy decisions, and the constraints on other activities that are necessarily associated with membership of the MPC.

    “The final appointment decision and timing is up to the Minister, but we anticipate an appointment to be announced by the end of September,” Professor Quigley said. The new MPC member is expected to officially begin their appointment on 1 October 2025.

    More information

    Application Pack External Member – Monetary Policy Committee (PDF, 158KB): https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=05041b903f&e=f3c68946f8
    More information about the Monetary Policy Committee: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1af91dff21&e=f3c68946f8
    For further information on this appointment process contact: https://www.appointbetterboards.co.nz/contact-us/

    Length of appointments

    MPC members serve fixed terms:

    Internal members must be appointed for a term of up to 5 years and can be reappointed for 2 further terms as an internal member of up to 5 years each.
    External members must be appointed for a term of up to 4 years and can be reappointed for 1 further term as an external member of up to 4 years.

    Latest OCR decision: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=07ddc5e261&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Asia-Pacific ministers to tackle urban challenges and shape path for future cities at upcoming UN meet

    Source: United Nations – ESCAP

    Home to over 2.2 billion city dwellers and many of the planet’s largest megacities, Asia and the Pacific is the world’s urban powerhouse. But the region also faces a number of challenges, with population growth slowing and key vulnerabilities, such as economic volatility, climate-related risks and social disparities, requiring integrated sustainable development strategies.
     
    Ministers and other key stakeholders will gather this April at the 81st session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific to underscore the critical role of regional cooperation in overcoming the challenges faced in cities and advocate shared approaches to realize the ambitions of the global development agendas, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement and the New Urban Agenda.
     
    Discussions at the session will also be guided by the theme study Urban Transformation in Asia and the Pacific which explores the future of urbanization, focusing on the dynamic shifts in the region’s urban landscape. It highlights the region’s demographic transformations, including population ageing and the persistent challenges of urban poverty and inequality. The analysis covers urban areas of all sizes, from megacities to smaller towns, and emphasizes the need for innovative governance models and sustainable development strategies to meet the region’s unique urban needs.
     
    Various side events and an Urban Innovations Fair will also be held at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok throughout the week.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –