NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ‘monogamy superiority myth’: new research suggests unconventional relationships are just as satisfying

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joel Anderson, Associate Professor in LGBTIQA+ Psychology, La Trobe University

    Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock

    From The Bachelor to Married at First Sight, reality TV sells us the idea that one perfect partner will complete us.

    The formula is familiar: find “the one,” lock it down and live happily ever after.

    But behind the rose ceremonies and fairytale weddings lies a very different reality.



    Read more:
    Is reality TV ‘harmful’? We asked 5 experts – including an ex-reality TV participant

    Monogamy as a gold standard?

    A new meta-analysis challenges the long-held belief that monogamous relationships are more satisfying than non-monogamous ones.

    The study used data from more than 24,000 people from around the world, including Australia. It reported no significant difference in relationship or sexual satisfaction between people in monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships.

    This changes the way we can think about relationships.

    For years, people have assumed monogamy (the exclusive romantic and sexual commitment to one person) is the gold standard.

    But it turns out the secret to fulfilling relationships might not be about exclusivity at all. It seems to be more about honesty, communication and mutual agreement – regardless of how many people are involved.

    A long-held assumption

    The belief that monogamy leads to more satisfying relationships feels like common sense for most people.

    It’s consistently reinforced by our experiences of the world, ranging from childhood fairytales to government policies – there’s no “polyamorous” box on your tax return, for example. Most movies end with one couple walking off into the sunset together to live happily ever after.

    Popular culture hasn’t done much to challenge this assumption.

    Non-monogamous relationships are rarely depicted on screen and when they are – like in Wanderlust or You Me & Her – they’re often shown as chaotic, emotionally fraught and destined to collapse.

    These ideas create what we have called the “monogamy-superiority myth”: the assumption monogamous relationships are more satisfying, more loving and more stable than alternative forms of relationships.

    So what is consensual non-monogamy?

    Consensual non-monogamy comes in many forms but the key aspect is everyone involved agrees that having multiple romantic or sexual partners is okay.

    The explicit awareness of all involved means these relationships are grounded in consent, communication and mutual respect.

    They come in many forms, such as:

    • open relationships: where couples may have sex with others but maintain a strong emotional bond to each other
    • polyamory: where people may have multiple romantic or emotional partnerships at the same time
    • monogamish: where mostly monogamous couple allow some degree of sexual activity with others, usually with clear, consensual boundaries (such as when travelling)
    • swinging: where committed couples engage in sexual activities with other people, often in a social or party setting.

    These relationships typically involve detailed conversations about values, needs and boundaries.

    As a result, people in these relationships often report higher levels of trust, communication and intentionality in their relationship.

    New research suggests non-traditional relationships can be just as satisfying as monogamous ones.
    NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock

    What our study found

    Our recent meta-analysis explored how people in monogamous and non-monogamous relationships compare on a range of relationship and sexual satisfaction dimensions. These included intimacy, passion, trust, sexual fulfilment and overall relationship happiness.

    We concluded people in non-monogamous relationships are just as satisfied as those in monogamous ones.

    The study also found this to be true for both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ participants, challenging another stereotype: that non-monogamy is a “lifestyle choice” for queer people, rather than a legitimate relationship preference.

    So if non-monogamous relationships aren’t less satisfying, why do people think they are?

    Openness and stigmas

    In many monogamous relationships, the most common cause of dissatisfaction or breakup is cheating: when exclusivity is assumed but not upheld, trust can be shattered.

    Consensual non-monogamy relationships, by contrast, build openness into their structure. By agreeing on boundaries from the start, partners may avoid some of the betrayals that hurt monogamous relationships most.

    People in these relationships often face stigma, discrimination and systemic barriers. They may be less likely to disclose their relationship status to doctors, therapists, or employers, fearing judgement or misunderstanding.

    Their relationships are rarely recognised legally and social assumptions often paint them as unstable, overly sexual, or emotionally detached.

    Yet many people in non-monogamous relationships are thriving despite the stigma – most likely because of the trust and communication these relationships require.

    The secret to satisfaction

    These findings are not suggesting everyone should be non-monogamous; monogamy works well for lots of people.

    But this research shows us that relationship satisfaction doesn’t depend on exclusivity – it depends on whether partners feel seen, supported and aligned in their values.

    Health-care providers, educators and policymakers should be aware that not all families or partnerships follow a traditional relationship structure – and that’s OK.

    Recognising consensual non-manogamy relationships can help reduce stigma, improve access to support, and promote wellbeing for people in all types of partnerships.

    Love and relationships simply aren’t a one-size-fits-all situation.

    While reality TV may keep trying to churn out monogamous fairytales, real life is a lot more diverse and, as it turns out, just as fulfilling.

    Joel Anderson receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. The ‘monogamy superiority myth’: new research suggests unconventional relationships are just as satisfying – https://theconversation.com/the-monogamy-superiority-myth-new-research-suggests-unconventional-relationships-are-just-as-satisfying-253443

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Chinese-Australian voters were key to Labor’s win in 2022. Are some now swinging back to the Liberals?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wanning Sun, Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, University of Technology Sydney

    Chinese-Australian voters were pivotal to Labor’s win in the 2022 election, with the swing against the Liberals in several key marginal seats almost twice that of other seats.

    Many traditionally pro-business Liberal supporters switched sides in protest against the Coalition’s anti-China rhetoric under then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison. This exacerbated the widespread anti-Chinese racism many people felt in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

    A new survey by Sydney Today, a digital Chinese-language media outlet, suggests Labor will most likely retain the support of many of these Chinese-Australian voters.

    Nearly two-thirds (64%) of the 3,000 respondents in the ongoing survey have said they would vote for Labor in the upcoming federal election, while just 27% were backing the Liberals, 2% the Greens and 5% independents.

    If these results mirror the views of the wider Chinese-Australian community, it bodes well for Labor’s prospects, at least in seats with a high concentration of Chinese-Australian voters.

    However, Labor may not succeed in improving on its performance in the last election. One in five voters said they would vote differently this time compared to 2022, with 55% of this group indicating they would switch from Labor to the Coalition and just 18% going the other way.

    When asked why they were changing their vote, 51% said economic management, while 26% said Australia–China relations.

    Survey respondents were predominantly first-generation migrants from China. Nearly four in five were born outside Australia, but have lived here for more than ten years. Most (73%) were Australian citizens and eligible to vote.

    What issues are most important

    The 2021 census counted approximately 1.39 million Australian residents with Chinese heritage, around 536,000 of whom were born in mainland China. As this group continues to grow rapidly, first-generation Chinese-Australians are becoming a significant political force.

    The survey results reveal a complex and shifting picture of party loyalties and preferences among these voters.

    Participants were asked to identify one issue out of a list of 17 that concerns them most in this election. This list included things such as housing, income, taxes, welfare, health, education, immigration and the environment. The economy ranked first with 14% of respondents, followed closely by Australia–China relations (12%).

    The fact that many Chinese-Australians see the Liberals as better economic managers may account for the shift back to the party among some swing voters.

    Yet, most Chinese-Australians seem to agree Labor has handled Australia–China relations much better than the Liberals. This may be why the majority of respondents overall have preferred to stick with Labor.

    About 70% of respondents said they would consider voting for a party that is friendly to Chinese-Australian communities, while 72% said they would consider voting for a party that adopts a moderate approach to China.

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, long a hardline critic of the Chinese Communist Party, has attempted to soften his stance in the lead-up to this election. He said last year, for instance, he was “pro-China” and wanted to see the trade between the two countries double.

    In recent days, however, he has attacked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his “weak” response to the presence of a Chinese research vessel off the coast of Australia.

    Some Chinese-Australian voters would prefer Australia to adopt a more independent foreign policy that is less reliant on the US for its national security. Research suggests Chinese-Australians tend to be more critical of the bipartisan AUKUS agreement with the United States and United Kingdom than the general public.

    And I’ve observed anecdotal evidence in conversations with Chinese-Australian voters suggesting some are unhappy with both major parties’ positions on China and the US. This is convincing a small number of rusted-on Labor supporters to consider voting for the Greens, minor parties or independents.

    Support for Chinese candidates not a guarantee

    There is a widespread assumption that ethnic voters tend to vote for a candidate who shares their cultural or ethnic background. This seems to be the thinking behind both major parties’ choice of candidates to run in electorates with high concentrations of Chinese voters.

    The Liberals’ preselection of Grange Chung (Reid), Scott Yung (Bennelong), and Howard Ong (Tangney) are cases in point.

    But the survey indicates this may not be a foolproof strategy. When asked whether they would support a candidate on the basis of their Chinese or Asian appearance, respondents were split down the middle. Only slightly more than half (52%) said they would.

    Much can change between now and election day on May 3. Whether the Liberals can retain the small swing they seem to have gained among Chinese-Australians may depend on Dutton’s stance on China. They will no doubt be watching closely to see what he says.

    Wanning Sun 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. Chinese-Australian voters were key to Labor’s win in 2022. Are some now swinging back to the Liberals? – https://theconversation.com/chinese-australian-voters-were-key-to-labors-win-in-2022-are-some-now-swinging-back-to-the-liberals-254052

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Silicon Valley Start-Up Founder Sentenced To 2.5 Years In Prison For Securities Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Former YouPlus CEO Shaukat Shamim Presented False Financial and Product Information to Raise Money for his Artificial Intelligence Startup

    SAN FRANCISCO – Shaukat Shamim was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison in connection with his scheme to defraud investors into investing in the technology start-up he founded and led, announced Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani. The sentence was handed down April 7 by the Hon. James Donato, U.S. District Judge.

    Shamim, 53, of Santa Clara, Calif., pleaded guilty to the charges on September 16, 2024.  According to agreed facts in the plea agreement, Shamim founded Silicon Valley-based YouPlus in 2013.  By 2015, the focus of YouPlus was to develop artificial intelligence software tools to analyze online video content.  From its inception until Shamim resigned from the company in November 2019, YouPlus raised approximately $17 million from investors, including angel investors and venture capital firms.

    Shamim admitted that he made false representations to investors and potential investors about YouPlus’s product, sales, and customer adoption. For example, Shamim told investors that YouPlus had developed a search engine that used neural networks to analyze videos and predict marketing outcomes despite knowing that YouPlus had not, in fact, developed software with fully operational artificial intelligence functionalities. Instead, to perform pilot projects or marketing studies, YouPlus had employees in India manually review videos and then create PowerPoint presentations with marketing insights. Shamim also admitted to investors and prospective investors about YouPlus’s revenue and customers. Shamim admitted that, in August and September 2018 he prepared and provided to prospective investors documents that claimed that YouPlus had customers who had signed up for continuing services and paid recurring subscription fees.  In fact, no customers had signed on to pay monthly fees for the service.  Shamim provided some victims a spreadsheet that showed 90 customers were paying a total of $600,000 per month. Nevertheless, in reality, every one of the purported customers were paying for YouPlus subscriptions and YouPlus had only ever earned minimal revenue—less than $200,000 total—working on small and non-recurring projects.

    In February 2019, Shamim told investors that Youplus had earned $4.6 million in revenue in the year 2018, when in fact its revenue was less than $100,000 that year.  In May 2019, Shamim falsely claimed that YouPlus had earned $3.5 million in revenue in only the first four months of 2019 when, in reality, YouPlus ultimately earned less than $280,000 in revenue for all of 2019.

    By September 2019, YouPlus was running short on cash and Shamim was seeking to raise money for YouPlus in a Series A financing from venture capital investors. During the same time period, Shamin, also sought bridge loans from existing investors to cover YouPlus’s costs.  In connection with these efforts to raise funds, investors and potential investors requested that Shamim provide more detailed financial information about YouPlus and populate a data room with bank statements, customer contracts, and other materials that would back up the revenue Shamim claimed YouPlus was earning.  Shamim admitted that, in response to these requests and to conceal the fact that he had previously provided false information about YouPlus revenue, Shamim altered bank statements for YouPlus’s bank accounts in India and the United States.  The false documents reflected revenue Shamim knew did not exist.  For example, Shamim altered a statement for an account YouPlus held at a U.S. bank so that it showed totaling over $600,000 from 35 different companies, including Coca-Cola, Kraft, and Netflix. The deposits did not actually exist. The true bank statement for that month reflected only one $65,000 customer deposit.  Shamim also admitted to forging or altering contracts purporting to show subscription agreements between YouPlus and purported customers.

    Shamim admitted that, from August 2018 through October 2019, he used these false statements about revenue and customers to obtain about $6.4 million from investors.

    On June 14, 2022, a federal grand jury handed down an indictment that charged Shamim with three counts of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343, and one count of securities fraud, in violation of 15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) and 78ff and 17 C.F.R. § 240.10b-5.  Pursuant to the plea agreement, Shamim pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud and the court dismissed the remaining counts during the sentencing hearing.

    In addition to the 30-month prison term, Judge Donato ordered Shamim to pay a $50,000 fine and to serve three years of supervised release, which will begin after he leaves prison.  Shamim is currently released on bond, and Judge Donato ordered that Shamim report to begin serving his sentence on April 28, 2025.  In addition, Judge Donato scheduled a hearing for June 23, 2025, to determine issues regarding restitution.

    The case is being prosecuted by the Corporate and Securities Fraud Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lloyd Farnham and Noah Stern are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Madeline Wachs, Sara Slatterly, and Claudia Hyslop.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI thank the San Francisco Regional Office of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  An SEC civil enforcement action is currently pending against Shamim in the Northern District of California.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: ADB: Developing Asia-Pacific economies to grow 4.9% in 2025

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Developing economies in Asia and the Pacific are forecast to expand by 4.9 percent on average this year and 4.7 percent in 2026, partly due to trade uncertainty and higher U.S. tariffs, a new report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Wednesday.

    The Asian Development Outlook (ADO) for April 2025 forecast that inflation in the region would moderate further to 2.3 percent in 2025 and 2.2 percent in 2026, as declining global oil and other commodity prices will continue to reduce price pressures in the region.

    ADB Chief Economist Albert Park said in the highlights of the report that forecasts for the region, which were finalized before new U.S. tariffs were announced on April 2, show growth in developing Asia “moderating” this year and next.

    Park said the region will be challenged by rising trade barriers and significant trade uncertainty, but solid domestic demand and electronics exports will support growth.

    Park also warned of looming downside risks, saying that full implementation of the new U.S. tariffs and escalating geopolitical tensions could disrupt prospects.

    “Asia and the Pacific stands at a critical juncture,” ADB President Masato Kanda said in the foreword of the report. “The region now faces a complex economic landscape, with increasing trade tensions, policy shifts, and geopolitical conflict.”

    Kanda said further enhancing regional cooperation is “essential” to address shared vulnerabilities, such as supply chain fragility, energy security, and disasters.

    “Strengthening institutions for cross-border cooperation will provide solid fundamentals for sustained growth and stability,” Kanda said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BSMI Reminds Parents to Put Toy Safety First This Children’s Day

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Children’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to children-a day filled with joy, laughter, and thoughtful gifts from parents and loved ones. To help make this day truly happy and safe, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI), Ministry of Economic Affairs, would like to extend its warmest wishes to all children in Taiwan and remind parents that when it comes to toys, safety should always come first. The Commodity Inspection Mark on toys is a clear sign that the product meets national safety standards.

    To protect children’s health and safety, all toys intended for children under 14 years old are required by law to undergo inspection and must bear the official Commodity Inspection Mark. Both imported and locally-made toys are subject to this requirement before they can be sold on the market.

    The BSMI encourages parents to keep the following safety tips in mind when buying and using toys:
    1.Choose toys with the Commodity Inspection Mark. (Refer to the attached diagram. Information on certified toys is available on the BSMI website: https://civil.bsmi.gov.tw/bsmi_pqn/)
    2.Check product labels. Ensure that information on age suitability, usage instructions, materials, and safety warnings is clearly marked in Chinese-and take the time to read them carefully.
    3.Buy age-appropriate toys. Toys that are not suitable for a child’s age may lead to accidental injuries.
    4.Check toys thoroughly. Make sure parts are securely attached and that there are no small, loose components that could be swallowed.
    5.Check for sharp edges. Broken or poorly made toys may cause cuts or injuries.
    6.Watch out for long strings or cords. These may pose a risk of strangulation for young children.

    Additionally, the BSMI would like to highlight several recent incidents, both in Taiwan and abroad, related to certain popular toys. Parents are advised to pay special attention to the followings:
    1.Slime toys: Some may contain excessive levels of boron, which can cause skin irritation or other health risks. Limit your child’s playtime with slime and ensure they wash their hands after use.
    2.Expandable toys (water-absorbing toys): These can grow in size after absorbing water and may cause choking if swallowed. They are not suitable for children under three years old.
    3.Floating balloons: Always ask the seller about the type of gas used. If the gas is flammable (such as hydrogen) or if the seller cannot confirm the gas type, do not purchase them.
    4.Magnetic Buckyballs: These small, strong magnets can cause severe internal injuries if swallowed. Keep them out of reach of young children.
    5.Pimple Popping Injection Squishy Toys: If these toys come with a syringe or needle, they do not meet safety standards and should not be purchased for children.
    6.Automatic inflatable grenade toys: These toys can produce loud noises and potentially cause hearing damage. Heat and flying fragments from these toys may also harm children’s skin or eyes.
    7.Plastic toy gravity knives: While they may seem harmless, these toy knives can still cause injury. Teach children to use them responsibly and never point them at others.

    To help parents and children better understand toy safety risks, the BSMI has also produced an educational animation video on the dangers of magnetic Buckyballs, available on our website: https://www.bsmi.gov.tw/wSite/public/Data/6.mp4. We encourage parents and teachers to watch this video with children to raise awareness.

    Let’s work together to make this Children’s Day happy and safe for every child.

    Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
    Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
    Tel. (O):+886-2343-1763
    Email:ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Change forecast for Govt’s weather agencies

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Merging the Government’s weather forecasting agencies will make for a more efficient, connected weather forecasting system, supporting a resilient economy and delivering benefits for everyday Kiwis State Owned Enterprises Minister Simeon Brown and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti say.

    Legislation will be introduced this year to enable NIWA’s acquisition of MetService, bringing government meteorology and climate science capabilities together. 

    “New Zealanders rely on timely and accurate weather forecasts to make critical decisions every day,” Dr Reti says. 

    “Data from NIWA and MetService inform some of our most important industries, from farming and agriculture, to insurance, to emergency management. This makes timely and accurate climate and weather forecasting critical for a resilient economy.”

    Bringing the two organisations together will create efficiencies to reinvest in improvements to our climate science and weather forecasting capabilities, Mr Brown says.

    “Having two taxpayer funded agencies with separate scientists, infrastructure and back office staff makes no sense. 

    “Bringing these two agencies together is not simply a ‘lift and shift’. NIWA and MetService are expected to deliver efficiencies, like merging weather forecasting capabilities, assets and services and streamlining back-office functions. 

    “Any resulting cost-savings achieved must then be reinvested to improve the critical science and services they deliver.” 

    These changes come at a time when the Government is undertaking the largest reforms to the science sector in 30 years, merging seven Crown Research Institutes into three focused Public Research Institutes and establishing a fourth new organisation focused on advanced technology. 

    Merging NIWA and MetService is a positive first step in these reforms, resolving a structural issue that has resulted in duplication and at times conflicting advice, Dr Reti says.  

    “Recent severe weather events have highlighted the importance of accurate weather forecasting and unified public weather warning messaging.

    “I expect this move to result in a single, trusted authority during severe weather events, using consolidated infrastructure and world-class scientists working to a common purpose.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZCTU announce transformative policy vision for Aotearoa

    Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

    The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi has launched a new policy platform, Aotearoa Reimagined, which has been developed by engaging workers, community leaders and policy experts over the past year.

    “Today we are announcing a transformative policy vision that reimagines our society and economy to ensure that Aotearoa New Zealand works for the many, not just the few. We challenge political parties to make a strong commitment to working people by adopting these policies in the lead up to the next general election,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.

    “Our country is heading in the wrong direction. We have a broken economy, rising inequality and poverty, soaring unemployment, and stagnating wages. The rich keep getting richer at the expense of ordinary people. We need to do things differently. It’s time for bold change.

    “We’ve spent the last year listening to workers who have told us that they are angry at a system that doesn’t meet their needs or aspirations. They fear their children are facing a future of increasing hardship.

    “Everyone deserves security, dignity, and to have enough to thrive. Changing the country’s trajectory is possible—we just need to make different choices. We have listened to working people and created a plan to build a society that works for everyone. 

    “Our plan would ensure everyone can have good, well-paid jobs underpinned by strong workers’ rights.

    “It will deliver world-leading public health and education, a cradle-to-grave care and support system, modern infrastructure, warm dry, affordable homes, clean and publicly owned energy, and low-cost transport.

    “The plan would ensure that Aotearoa meets its climate obligations and guarantees a just transition for the workers and communities who will bear the brunt of the climate crisis and technological change.

    “We are also calling on politicians to reject the politics of division and honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi by implementing it in law and in our constitutional frameworks.

    “We can fund the transformative change we desperately need by rebalancing the tax system, taxing capital gains and ensuring that the wealthy pay their fair share.

    “The union movement is challenging political parties to make this vision a reality and create an Aotearoa that works for the many, not just the few. It’s time for a new approach,” said Wagstaff.

    Read the full policy platform here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: More children at risk of losing family connections

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Karen Chhour is proposing to scrap Oranga Tamariki targets which aim to connect more children under state care with family and their culture.

    These targets include aiming to place more children in the care of their wider whānau and investing in iwi organisations who support our tamariki.

    “These reckless changes will discourage the search for the wider family of children in care and risks isolating them from their whakapapa and cultural identity,” Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

    “The law already puts a child’s welfare above all else when making decisions on their future care arrangements. Karen Chhour’s proposed changes opens them up to more disconnection.

    “Testimonies from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care have been clear about the generational harm that comes from being separated from one’s whānau and culture. We should not go back down this road.

    “Last week, with no evidence, against official advice and the warnings of iwi, hapū and the Waitangi Tribunal, the Government scrapped legislation that committed them to closing the gaps for tamariki Māori in our care system.

    “It was a divisive decision and served no real purpose, and now it looks like Karen Chhour is taking our care system even further backwards,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Innovation – Nigel Latta Launches Parentland, a Groundbreaking Parenting App

    Source: www.parentland.app

    AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Wednesday 9th April 2025 – Parentland, a revolutionary new app offering tailored, evidence-based parenting advice launches this week.

    The brainchild of renowned New Zealand clinical psychologist Nigel Latta, Parentland is like having an experienced psychologist in your pocket, offering personalised, science-backed solutions when parents need them the most.

    Unlike other parenting apps, Parentland delivers advice that is specific to the age, temperament, and individual needs of each child. Whether you’re dealing with a persistent 5-year-old or an easy-going 11-year-old, the app adapts its guidance to ensure it’s the right fit for your child. This level of individualisation, backed by current scientific research, sets Parentland apart from the competition.

    Nigel has long recognised the challenges that modern parents face; he is the author of 7 parenting books which have now been published in 19 countries and 10 languages and has presented numerous TV shows on the subject.  He is regarded as the trusted authority on the topic for New Zealanders.

    “In 2025, parents face unprecedented pressures, from navigating the digital age to dealing with issues like sleep, eating, and behaviour. Many parents are struggling with not having access to immediate, reliable, and evidence-based advice.

    “The internet is full of mostly well-meaning people offering advice that can often be ineffective or even harmful, and unfortunately the cost of seeing a clinical psychologist can be prohibitive for many.

    Nigel added, “We wanted to create an app that doesn’t just deliver generic advice but offers something tailored to the unique temperament and developmental stage of each child. Whether you’re trying to help a toddler sleep through the night or work through a picky eater, Parentland gives you clear, actionable steps that actually work.”

    Addressing Common Parenting Struggles – Picky Eating

    Latta has observed that while New Zealand parents are generally doing well, many struggle with foundational issues such as sleep, behaviour, and eating: “Parents need evidence-based advice from experienced professionals.”

    One of the app’s standout features is its Food Range Diary, which helps parents address the growing issue of picky eating—a challenge that has escalated to millions of parents both in New Zealand and globally. Curated by Dr Natalie Flynn, who is a clinical psychologist  specialising in eating disorders, parents can track their child’s eating habits, identify areas of concern, and receive personalised guidance on when to seek help.

    “We’re seeing more and more picky eaters today, and it’s important that we address this early on,” says Dr Flynn.  “If left unchecked, picky eating can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies, and it’s often rooted in behavioural patterns that can be changed with the right tools. Parentland will guide parents through those tricky moments, offering advice that’s based on solid clinical evidence,” she says.

    In addition, the app’s innovative tools such as the Farty Monkey, the Star Chart, and the Ladder help families break out of unhelpful patterns of behaviour. By focusing on positive reinforcement and research-backed strategies, Parentland empowers parents to create healthier routines and stronger relationships with their children.

    The Future of Parenting: Evidence-Based, Personalised, and Convenient

    The app’s features include:

    • A tool to determine your child’s temperament (TQ)
    • Customised advice for behaviour, sleep, and eating, specific to each child’s age and TQ
    • A range of fun, interactive reward tools like the Farty Monkey and Star Chart
    • The ability to share features and information with another caregiver
    • A Good-parent-o-meter to highlight your positive parenting skills
    • Daily parenting tips that fit your specific needs
    • The Ladder, a tool to encourage desirable behaviours
    • A Food Range Diary to track and expand your child’s food preferences

    Nigel Latta’s Health Journey: A Personal Commitment to Helping Parents

    Nigel underwent a major health battle last year when diagnosed with cancer, but recent medical breakthroughs and treatment have made his condition no longer terminal.

     “Going through my own health battle this past year made me even more committed to helping families. I know how important it is to get reliable, science-based support when things feel out of control—that’s why I’m so passionate about Parentland.”

    About Parentland

    Parentland is the parenting app that provides trustworthy, science-backed advice designed for the unique needs of your family. Developed by clinical psychologists with over fifty years of combined experience, Parentland offers parents real, actionable tools to navigate the everyday challenges of raising children. With Parentland, every parent can feel empowered to make informed decisions and take the right steps to create positive changes in their home.

    The Parentland app was created by Cactuslab, an independent web, app design and development studio based in Auckland. Successful apps they’ve created include Letterboxed (the social network for film lovers) and Cloudcheck (an electronic identification verification (EV) tool).

    For more, see: www.parentland.app

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: World Vision – Sport and music stars join forces to raise funds to combat hunger in the Pacific caused by climate change

    Source: World Vision

        

    A group of star-studded inspirational Kiwis, including rugby players, pop icons, and a climate activist are putting their names behind this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge.  
      

    The stellar line up of ambassadors fronting the campaign this year includes singer Stan Walker; rugby legends Caleb Clarke and Wallace Sititi; Warriors rugby league star Dallin Watene-Zelezniak; singer/songwriter Paige Tapara; and climate advocate Brianna Fruean.    

      

    A rite of passage for young New Zealanders, the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge (13-15 June 2025), gives rangatahi a platform to champion important causes, raise funds for those in need, and demonstrate the power their voice and actions can have around the world.    

      

    This year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge is calling on youth to give up technology and go “offline for 40 Hours” to unplug, disconnect, and get together with their friends and whānau to raise funds to support children who are struggling to get enough food each day due to the impact of climate change in the Pacific.   

      

    Making a real difference for children in Solomon Islands    

      

    1 in 6 children in the Pacific region is living in severe child food poverty, leaving them at risk of hunger and malnutrition. As subsistence farmers, communities across the Pacific rely on fishing and farming for their food. However, in places like Solomon Islands, climate change means rising sea levels are flooding community gardens, killing crops and fishing is becoming harder. 

     

    The rising seas have forced nine-year-old Polyne’s family to move inland. The land they once called home is eroding and the soil is full of salt so their crops can’t grow. Every day is a struggle for her family to find enough food. 

     

    Our garden is important because this is where we get our food,” explains Polyne. “When the sea level rises, it destroys our food gardens. I’m so worried.” 

     

    The funds raised in this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge will give communities like Polyne’s the tools and seeds to farm climate-smart crops; plant mangroves to protect land from rising seas and restore fish populations; and provide sustainable food sources for future generations so that children can grow up healthy and strong in a changing climate.  

     

     

    Singer Stan Walker says he’s proud to be part of this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge.    

      

    “As someone of Māori, of Tūhoe, Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Porou descent, this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge focus on the Pacific is close to my heart. I lived in the Cook Islands and served as their climate ambassador during my time there, and I have seen firsthand the effects of climate change. There is so much struggle happening in our own backyard. Our small Islands are at the frontline of this battle – fighting to protect their homes, their culture, and their traditional practices.”  

     

    Walker is calling on rangatahi to take part in this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge. 

     

    “Everybody has an opportunity to make their mark on this world. And what better way to make your mark than helping somebody else who is less fortunate than you. The more we come together, the better we can be. Join me and be a part of this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge.” 

      

    Walker says, as a father of three, his own children have also spurred him to participate in the campaign.   

      

    “I couldn’t imagine my own children wanting or needing anything, which is why I want to use my voice and my platform for good to help to bring about tangible change so that all children in the Pacific and beyond can flourish in the world to live their full purpose.  The decisions that we make don’t just affect us, they affect the children and their future.”  

     

    New to the campaign this year, World Vision 40 Hour Challenge ambassador, rising rugby star Wallace Sititi, is thrilled to be getting behind the campaign. 

      

    “It is such a privilege to be part of the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, which gets young New Zealanders on board to help other people around the world in need. Taking part in the challenge activities is a lot of fun – especially when you get your friends involved, too!  I hope that everyone will be inspired to take part.” 

      

    Also new to the campaign this year, Warriors rugby league star Dallin Watene-Zelezniak says:  
     

    ‘I’m so honoured to be supporting the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, which will make a real, tangible difference to children in the Pacific who are struggling to get enough food to eat due to climate change.  Giving up 40 hours of your time to go offline is small sacrifice that will have a powerful impact on the lives of children and the communities that they live in.  I’d love to see as many rangatahi and their families as possible take part in this fun Challenge for a great cause.” 

     

    Grant Bayldon, National Director of World Vision New Zealand, says World Vision is honoured to have a team of inspirational and passionate ambassadors on board.   

      

    “We’re thrilled to have such an incredible line-up of ambassadors working with us to support children and families in Solomon Islands who are living in food poverty because rising seas are killing their crops. By working together, we can make an amazing and lifechanging impact on children and the communities they live in.”  

      

    Climate Ambassador Brianna Fruean says she’s passionate about any campaign that seeks to help children in the Pacific live better lives in the face of the climate crisis.   

      

    “One in six children in the region is living in severe food poverty due to the impact of climate change, leaving them at risk of hunger and malnutrition. Together, we can change that. Whether participating in the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge or giving a donation to those who are participating, every contribution counts.”  

      

    For more information visit:  

    https://www.worldvision.org.nz/connect/40-hour-challenge  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Connecticut Delegation Demand McMahon Reverse Abrupt Policy Change Halting Funding For Schools Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) joined 71 members of Congress in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon demanding a reversal of a recently announced policy that abruptly changed department practice and imposed new red tape on states. The policy would block states from accessing pandemic relief funds they rely on to support students’ learning.
    “We write to request the immediate reversal of the Department of Education’s recent March 28, 2025, action to revise the liquidation extension policy for COVID-19 relief funds,” the members wrote. “Just over a month ago, the Department announced a policy change to the longstanding extension policy that imposed an additional step for processing of extension reimbursements. … However, on March 28, 2025, with many state extension requests having been approved more than six months ago,  the Department suddenly announced on March 28 that ‘the Department is modifying the liquidation period to end on March 28, 2025,’ the very same day as the announcement.”
    “In short,” they continued, “the Department changed the spending rules it affirmed just one month ago, without providing any notice, and imposing more federal red tape.”
    The members noted that the abrupt change—coupled with the mass firings at ED—seriously threaten the ability of schools to support students’ learning: “When combined with the massive reduction in force announced earlier this month, the Department jeopardizes an estimated $4 billion from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 and American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 in nearly all of our states and outlying areas and roughly 1,000 school districts nationwide. This action is particularly harmful to rural school districts that faced the greatest disruptions during the authorized program period. This will also have a disproportionate impact on $800 million reserved for identification and support for students experiencing homelessness, which was implemented slowly in many states. The March 28th decision of the Department improperly imposes its will on state and local budget decisions in a manner not contemplated by Congress.”
    The members criticized McMahon for undermining Congress’s intent to give states the flexibility they need to meet local needs: “Congress intended the Secretary to support states and districts in their use of the flexibility under the law to ensure the unique needs of their communities were met and to implement evidence-based learning loss interventions. The Department is now trying to change the spending rules and impose an administrative hurdle by stating ‘the Department will consider an extension to your liquidation period on an individual project-specific basis.’…We are astonished by the amount of hypocrisy here from an administration that has repeatedly said it wants to return education to the states, including your recent statement that ‘Education is fundamentally a state responsibility. Instead of filtering resources through layers of federal red tape, we will empower states…’ Now, it appears the Department is turning its back on states by arbitrarily imposing more federal red tape.”
    They concluded: “Let’s be very clear: The abrupt change in the liquidation extension policy is yet another way this administration is seeking to strip educational opportunities for students in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations. President Trump and Congressional Republicans are intent in claiming any savings they can in the federal budget that they intend to use to pay for their tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations. It is appalling to us that those billionaire and corporate giveaways are valued over the students in rural school districts that faced supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic that led to the districts’ need for these liquidation extensions, valued over students experiencing homelessness who have seen the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds dedicated to them spent down slowly, and valued over so many other students that will be attending schools that are already facing difficult budget choices for the next school year without the additional burden of this changed policy. That is, unless states undertake the newest burden put in place by your Department and are able to navigate the Department’s bureaucratic maze and receive funds for projects that may have been committed to years ago. We believe there is a better way.”
    U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also signed the letter.
    U.S. Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.-03), Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12), Donald Beyer (D-Va.-08), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.-01), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Shontel Brown (D-Ohio-11), André Carson (D-Ind.-07), Greg Casar (D-Texas-35), Sean Casten (D-Ill.-06), Joaquin Castro (D-Texas-20), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.-09), Danny Davis (D-Ill.-07), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.-01), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.-17), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.-03), Veronica Escobar (D-Texas-16), Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.-13), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.-03), Shomari Figures (D-Ala.-02), Jesús García (D-Ill.-04), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas-29), Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas-34), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.-06), Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.-01), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.-04), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.-02), Timothy Kennedy (D-N.Y.-26), Summer Lee (D-Pa.-12), Lucy McBath (D-Ga.-06), Sarah McBride (D-Del.-01), Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.-04), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.-08), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.-02), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.-10), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.-01), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.-02), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine-01), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.-02), Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.-06), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.-38), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.-07), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Darren Soto (D-Fla.-09), Haley Stevens (D-Mich.-11), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12), Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.-24), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-01) signed the letter as well.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:
    Dear Secretary McMahon:
    We write to request the immediate reversal of the Department of Education’s (“the Department”) recent March 28, 2025, action to revise the liquidation extension policy for COVID-19 relief funds. Just over a month ago, the Department announced a policy change to the longstanding extension policy that imposed an additional step for processing of extension reimbursements. That policy stated “Beginning today, all future payments under the CARES Act, CRRSA Act, and ARP Act spent on allowable expenditures must be paid by the states in advance and then submitted to the U.S. Department of Education for reimbursement.” While the Department’s action added an unnecessary burden on states, it continued the longstanding extension policy established years ago in stating “All [COVID-19 Pandemic relief funding] expenditures must fall under the approved expenditures as outlined in guidance for ESSER, ARPA, and HEERF.”
    However, on March 28, 2025, with many state extension requests having been approved more than six months ago, the Department suddenly announced that “the Department is modifying the liquidation period to end on March 28, 2025”, the very same day as the announcement. Specifically, the Department stated that “The extension approval was issued recently, so any reliance interests developed are minimal…So you could not rely on the Department adhering to its original decision.” In short, the Department changed the spending rules it affirmed just one month ago, without providing any notice, and imposing more federal red tape.
    This abrupt and chaotic revision of policy is not helpful to students whose states, school districts, or institutions of higher education are uncertain about the Department’s commitments to implementing federal funding designed to support students. The March 28th decision is an imposition of an unauthorized layer of bureaucratic red tape on the expenditure of resources passed by Congress to support learning recovery for our nation’s students. When combined with the massive reduction in force announced earlier this month, the Department jeopardizes an estimated $4 billion from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 and American Rescue Plan Act of 2021(“ARP Act”) in nearly all of our states and outlying areas and roughly 1,000 school districts nationwide. This action is particularly harmful to rural school districts that faced the greatest disruptions during the authorized program period. This will also have a disproportionate impact on $800 million reserved for identification and support for students experiencing homelessness, which was implemented slowly in many states. The March 28th decision of the Department improperly imposes its will on state and local budget decisions in a manner not contemplated by Congress.
    Second, we are alarmed by your lack of a recognition of the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our nation’s students. The Department’s March 28 policy change asserts “Extending deadlines for COVID-related grants, which are in fact taxpayer funds, years after the COVID pandemic ended is not consistent with the Department’s priorities and thus not a worthwhile exercise of its discretion.” We are surprised to learn the Department is unaware of recent results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (“NAEP”) which show “National scores are below pre-pandemic levels (2019) in ALL tested grades and subjects.” NAEP results also reveal “Gaps are growing between higher-performing and lower-performing students.” Further, chronic absenteeism still is too high with the latest data indicating “a majority of students still attended schools with 20% or higher levels of chronic absence. This serious absenteeism is in stark contrast to 2019, when slightly over a quarter of schools experienced such high levels of chronic absence.” Years after the COVID-19 pandemic, our schools and communities still have much work to do to help students recover and the Department’s termination of the remaining resources Congress passed for that purpose will only serve to delay and undermine our students’ recovery.
    Third, Congress intended the Secretary to support states and districts in their use of the flexibility under the law to ensure the unique needs of their communities were met and to implement evidence-based learning loss interventions. The Department is now trying to change the spending rules and impose an administrative hurdle by stating “the Department will consider an extension to your liquidation period on an individual project-specific basis.” This is despite the fact that such extensions to liquidation periods were noticed more than one year ago, with some granted more than six months ago, and that states assured to the Department that “The SEA will ensure that LEAs [school districts] use ARP ESSER funds for activities allowable under section 2001(e) of the ARP.” We are astonished by the amount of hypocrisy here from an administration that has repeatedly said it wants to return education to the states, including your recent statement that “Education is fundamentally a state responsibility. Instead of filtering resources through layers of federal red tape, we will empower states…”. Now, it appears the Department is turning its back on states by arbitrarily imposing more federal red tape.
    We would be heartened if the Department’s new policy was really intended to better support students. However, actions of the past two months tell a starkly different story. The Department has cancelled hundreds of millions in teacher training grants that were at work in addressing educator shortages and improving the quality of instruction in our schools. The Department has cancelled hundreds of millions of research and evaluation contracts on critical issues like an evaluation of transition supports for students with disabilities, which was intended to provide states and school districts with high quality evidence on approaches to support students with disabilities with their transition to post-school outcomes. The Department also cancelled an evaluation of the programs that receive the largest amount of funding appropriated for the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, depriving Congress and the Department of critical information about the implementation of those programs. The Department cancelled contracts for the Comprehensive Centers program, which—in addition to being statutorily required—were poised to provide effective capacity building support and technical assistance to states, school systems, and schools in addressing chronic absenteeism, and math and literacy learning, among other locally and regionally identified challenges. The Department also canceled the Long Term Trend NAEP for 17 year olds, which has been providing data on student achievement for decades. The Department has implemented a massive dismantling and reduction in staff, which has reduced the number of staff available at the Office for Civil Rights to protect the rights of all students. Finally, the massive reduction also appears to have delayed the processing of COVID-19 relief reimbursement requests prior to the announcement of the changed policy that is the subject of this letter.
    Let’s be very clear: The abrupt change in the liquidation extension policy is yet another way this administration is seeking to strip educational opportunities for students in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations. President Trump and Congressional Republicans are intent in claiming any savings they can in the federal budget that they intend to use to pay for their tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations. It is appalling to us that those billionaire and corporate giveaways are valued over the students in rural school districts that faced supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic that led to the districts’ need for these liquidation extensions, valued over students experiencing homelessness who have seen the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds dedicated to them spent down slowly, and valued over so many other students that will be attending schools that are already facing difficult budget choices for the next school year without the additional burden of this changed policy. That is, unless states undertake the newest burden put in place by your Department and are able to navigate the Department’s bureaucratic maze and receive funds for projects that may have been committed to years ago.
    We believe there is a better way. We urge you to immediately rescind your March 28 revision to the longstanding liquidation extension policy. Further, we believe you should work with us to start properly executing our federal education laws as Congress intended.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: University Research – Global infant mortality will rise – in contrast to United Nations projections – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    A new report presented in New York on 8 April reveals that current United Nations projections on infant mortality rates are inaccurate.

    The Fragile Futures report says crucial factors missing from current United Nations projections – the impacts of climate change and population on infant mortality – will cause infant mortality to rise and children’s overall health to decline this decade.

    While current United Nations projections predict a continuing decline in infant mortality, new evidence in the Fragile Futures report shows that climate change and population dynamics in the most climate-vulnerable regions will increase infant mortality rates.

    UK-based NGO Population Matters funded the independent Fragile Futures evidence review, conducted by the Future Child Health research team at The Kids Research Institute Australia, with help from The University of Western Australia and Matthew Flinders Professor of Global Ecology Corey Bradshaw from Flinders University in South Australia.

    Representatives from Population Matters and the Future Child Health research team attended the United Nations Commission on Population Development in New York, and presented the Fragile Futures research at a side event (“A Discussion on Child Health and Climate”) on 8 April.

    Report co-author Professor Corey Bradshaw from Flinders University says that evidence revealed in the Fragile Futures report shows that infant mortality is rising.

    “Although United Nations’ projections on infant mortality show a continuing decline to 2100, recent evidence suggests that infant mortality is increasing in several countries, including the United States, France, India, Madagascar, Cambodia, Nepal, and the Philippines.”

    The report also presents evidence that climate change will increase pre-term births. “Rising temperatures are linked to a 60% increase in preterm births, a major contributor to higher rates of infant mortality and health complications later in life even in those children who survive,” says co-author Dr Melinda Judge from The Kids Research Institute Australia and The University of Western Australia.

    “The risk of pre-term birth is already higher in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia accounted for 65% of all preterm births globally in 2020, and this will increase due to more frequent and persisting heatwaves.”

    Children’s respiratory health is identified as being at increased risk. “Climate change and higher population density also causes more exposure to air pollution, increasing cases of asthma, eczema, and allergies in young children,” says co-author Professor Peter Le Souëf from The University of Western Australia and The Kids Research Institute Australia. “In Africa, air pollution was linked to 449,000 additional infant deaths in 2015.”

    The report shows that preventable deaths of women and newborns are increasing. In 2020, 287,000 women died from preventable pregnancy-related complications, and 80% of newborn deaths were due to preventable and treatable conditions. Investment in sexual and reproductive healthcare saves lives.

    Cuts to international aid budgets are also having an effect on these figures. “The withdrawal of USAID support between 2025 and 2028 is projected to result in 1,200 additional preventable maternal deaths in Afghanistan alone,” says Professor Bradshaw.

    “The total impacts of lost aid on women and children’s health remains unknown – but will be catastrophic without intervention.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Underquoting taskforce launches legal action

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    Real estate agents are being reminded of their responsibilities under Victoria’s underquoting laws – and the potential consequences of not meeting them – as our taskforce launched legal action this week against a Yarraville estate agency and its director.

    The action comes as the taskforce continues to monitor sales campaigns and auctions around Melbourne, on Saturday visiting suburbs in the city’s north-east.

    Nicholas Skapoulas and his agency, Nicholas Scott Real Estate, will face a VCAT hearing after our Underquoting taskforce initiated its first disciplinary proceeding.

    Disciplinary proceedings can lead to the suspension or permanent cancellation of an estate agent’s licence.

    The taskforce reviewed multiple sales campaigns managed by Nicholas Scott. We allege that Skapoulas and his agency committed several breaches of underquoting laws for 11 separate properties they were engaged to sell, including:

    • repeatedly supplying Statements of Information that did not comply with the law. Examples included advertising an indicative selling price lower than the estimated selling price they’d given the seller, or not listing the median selling price or comparable properties in the area
    • failing to provide information as required under a statutory notice issued by our taskforce officers.

    Skapoulos has almost 30 years’ experience as an agent. Nicholas Scott employs 3 other licensed estate agents, along with agents’ representatives.

    Under Victoria’s underquoting laws, Statements of Information are important documents that must be provided for all properties for sale. They contain guidance for buyers who are assessing whether a property is likely to be one they can afford, including:

    • the indicative selling price
    • the median selling price for properties in the same suburb, and
    • the details of 3 comparable properties recently sold, when available.

    The matter has been filed at VCAT and will be heard at a date to be determined.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woolworths’ proposed acquisition of Beak & Johnston not opposed

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC will not oppose Woolworths Group Limited’s (ASX:WOW) proposed acquisition of Beak & Johnston Holdings Pty Ltd (B&J).

    Woolworths currently holds a minority 23 per cent interest in B&J City Kitchen Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of B&J which manufactures ready meals and pastries for wholesale and retail sale. The proposed acquisition will result in Woolworths ultimately owning 100 per cent of B&J’s subsidiaries, including Beak & Johnston NZ Pty Ltd. The New Zealand Commerce Commission (NZCC) is also considering a clearance application from Woolworths for its proposed acquisition of B&J. 

    The ACCC considered whether rival ready meal producers to B&J could continue to maintain competitively effective operations even if Woolworths only stocked or otherwise advantaged B&J’s products.

    “Our investigation found that while Woolworths has significant bargaining power in its dealings with ready meal suppliers, in this case it was unlikely the acquisition would have a substantial anti-competitive effect,” ACCC Commissioner Dr Philip Williams said.

    “Rival suppliers of ready meals will continue to have access to other supermarkets and convenience stores. Ready meal suppliers can also distribute through other channels, such as food service wholesaling and direct-to-consumer models.”

    The ACCC also investigated whether Woolworths would have the incentive to prevent the supply of B&J products to rival retailers and any associated impact on competition.

    The review found that there are a number of large competing suppliers of ready meals with similar scale and capabilities to B&J, including some that do not currently supply to Woolworths. There are also several smaller suppliers offering high quality products for niche product segments.

    “Rival retailers will continue to have options for sourcing quality ready meals to suit a variety of consumer preferences,” Dr Williams said.

    “Ultimately, we did not find that the proposed acquisition is likely to substantially lessen competition in any market.”

    More information can be found on the ACCC’s website at Woolworths-Beak & Johnston.

    Background

    Woolworths is Australia’s largest grocery retailer that primarily operates supermarkets, within which it sells chilled and frozen ready meals among other products.

    B&J is a manufacturer of chilled ready meals and pastries and a small amount of frozen ready meals. B&J supplies these products through supermarkets, petrol and convenience stores, as well as food service wholesaling, such as airlines.

    A separate B&J subsidiary, Beak & Johnston Pty Ltd, which primarily manufactures sauces, soups and slow-cooked meats at its Greenacre, NSW facility, will be excluded from the transaction perimeter and will operate as an independent business post-acquisition.

    The NZCC is also considering a clearance application related to Woolworths’ proposed acquisition of B&J.

    The B&J brands that will be included in the proposed acquisition include:

    • Strength Meals Co: Chilled and frozen ready meals
    • Simmone Logue: Gourmet pies, pastries, and cakes
    • Pitango: Soups and other meals
    • Artisano: Soups, sauces, and other meals
    • Pasta Master: Chilled lasagne and past-based ready meals.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Newbury Line, Bunnythorpe

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash in Bunnythorpe, near Palmerston North.

    The crash involves a truck and van and happened at the intersection of Newbury Line and Te Ngaio Road, about 10.10am.

    One person has serious injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit will be conducting a scene examination and diversions are in place.

    The road is expected to remain closed for some time.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy Week 2025

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy Week 2025 is a series of free webinars promoting privacy awareness. Our 2025 theme is Privacy on Purpose, which invites speakers to present on the need for businesses, organisations, and individuals to be purposeful with their privacy. Doing privacy well is a business advantage, not just a tick-box exercise.

    Register now and be reminded
    You can register for any webinars you’re interested in using the link in the webinar description. There are limited spaces so we recommend registering early to ensure your place.

    All webinars will be hosted through Zoom. After the webinar, all attendees will receive an email, which can be used as proof of attendance for CPD.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Govt Re-Configures MSOs – Diesel users to pay for new standards at the pump – ERA

    Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

    Energy Resources Aotearoa warns that consumers will ultimately face higher costs at the pump because of new Minimum Stockholding Obligations (MSO) announced today.
    Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie says with diesel consumption expected to decline in the coming years, investment in diesel assets is challenged and may become obsolete.
    “The Government’s decision to add 7 days of diesel stockholding obligation on importers, rather than fund and manage themselves, will require industry to either lease additional tanks or convert/build tanks to support current demand. Both options require significant long-term investment which will be passed through to the consumer at the pump.”
    “Add the low likelihood of experiencing a sustained and severe fuel disruption to that picture, and we will have a high-cost solution imposed on New Zealanders for a rare and unprecedented event.”
    Carnegie says that while the government’s reasoning for increasing fuel stocks is New Zealand’s vulnerability to international fuel supply disruptions, the costs to consumers far outweigh the benefits beyond the current 21 days of mandated cover.
    “New Zealand operates in a nimble, complex and highly integrated supply chain system that supplies liquid fuels in Asia Pacific, which has only improved since the closure of the Marsden Point refinery.
    Now, more than ever, more ships are on the water delivering fuel across New Zealand. Since the refinery closure, fuel companies have been providing fuel to New Zealand through more frequent shipments from a wider range of sources.”
    Carnegie says if the government wants to enhance resilience, it should fund an extra seven days of coverage instead of imposing this requirement on fuel importers.
    “The beneficiaries are all New Zealanders rather than diesel users who will have to carry these costs. Government funding is the fairest approach to sharing the costs because resilience is a form of public insurance for the highly unlikely event of a sustained and severe fuel disruption.
    Costs associated with MSO include monitoring systems and IT, labour, storage for fuel and data, legal and contractual fees, engineering, and design. All of these costs will ultimately be passed on to the consumer.
    We are not convinced that increasing onshore stocks will improve diesel resilience or is the right approach to future-proofing New Zealand’s emergency management system.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: ZENMEV Launches New MEV-Based Staking Model amid Global Market Shakeup

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to heightened market volatility and investor uncertainty, ZENMEV has introduced a new staking model leveraging Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) to offer structurally resilient returns.

    A New Frontier in Long-Term Investment Strategies Based on MEV

    Global stock markets have recently experienced significant downturns due to tariff issues and fluctuating interest rates, causing widespread investor anxiety over plummeting asset values. Financial experts suggest avoiding panic-driven, short-term selling and instead recommend stable long-term investment strategies resilient to market volatility. One alternative gaining institutional attention is staking based on Maximal Extractable Value (MEV), with the ZENMEV platform emerging as a leading player. Unlike traditional major exchanges or regular staking services, ZENMEV returns the structural profits generated from blockchain mechanisms directly to ordinary users, quickly becoming a prominent choice.

    Market Volatility and Emergence of Staking Alternatives

    According to recent economic reports, growing recession fears and geopolitical risks have weakened trust in traditional stock markets. Historically, investors have gravitated toward safer assets like gold or bonds in such environments, but cryptocurrencies have recently emerged as alternative investments. However, their significant volatility remains a psychological hurdle during bear markets.

    In these circumstances, staking has been increasingly popular as a more stable income strategy. Users lock assets for a certain period to help validate network transactions and earn rewards in the form of block rewards or transaction fees. Notable examples include Ethereum (since transitioning to Proof of Stake), Cosmos (ATOM), and Tezos (XTZ), all providing annual fixed interest rates. Staking helps minimize impulsive short-term trading decisions, allowing investors to accumulate assets steadily.

    However, typical staking models rely solely on block rewards, limiting their profitability. Achieving satisfying returns can be challenging without significant market growth. To address this limitation, staking strategies utilizing MEV have emerged prominently, with ZENMEV leading the way.

    Understanding ZENMEV Redefining the MEV Ecosystem
     MEV refers to profits generated by blockchain validators who rearrange or insert transactions within a block to extract additional value. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) activities such as large swaps, arbitrage, or collateral liquidations create MEV opportunities. Historically, these opportunities were accessible only to specialized bots, large validators, or miners, attracting criticism as an exclusive insider game.

    ZENMEV disrupts this exclusivity by transparently distributing MEV gains to everyday users. Users deposit assets like Ethereum (ETH) or Solana (SOL), and ZENMEV’s MEV trading bots, known as Zenbots, analyze on-chain data in real time to identify and execute MEV opportunities within milliseconds. For example, if a large buy order appears on a decentralized exchange, ZENMEV strategically purchases the asset at a lower price immediately before executing the large order, realizing risk-free profits from the subsequent price increase.

    These profits are instantly and transparently distributed to stakeholders through ZENMEV’s smart contracts. Users simply deposit assets and automatically share in the structural profits derived from blockchain mechanisms. This added value distinguishes ZENMEV from conventional staking, which relies only on block rewards.

    Stable Returns in Bear Markets through Market-Neutral Strategies

    Bear markets usually lead to reduced asset prices and declining trading volumes in cryptocurrency markets. However, ZENMEV remains attractive as MEV profits derive from volatility and trading activities rather than asset price direction. For instance, front-running strategies capture profits by quickly executing transactions before large orders that push prices upward, independent of overall market trends.

    Provided meaningful trading volumes or volatility persist, MEV opportunities remain present even during downturns. Research suggests MEV opportunities continue to emerge unless markets become completely stagnant. Thus, MEV’s market-neutral strategy offers relative stability during bear markets, occasionally surpassing typical validator rewards. This structural advantage underscores ZENMEV’s growing appeal in challenging market conditions.

    Core Strength: Advanced Zenbot Algorithms and Mempool Scanning

    ZENMEV’s robust performance relies heavily on sophisticated algorithms and mempool scanning technologies. The platform efficiently processes thousands of transactions per second using deep learning models, enabling Zenbots to accurately identify and swiftly execute profitable opportunities such as liquidity pools, significant swaps, and rapid token price fluctuations. These AI-driven bots prioritize transactions strategically to maximize profit, ensuring competitive execution within blockchain networks.

    Rapid Multichain Expansion and Strategic Global VC Investment

    Though MEV discussions commonly focus on Ethereum and BNB chains, ZENMEV also seeks opportunities across networks like Solana and Cosmos. By customizing strategies to each blockchain’s unique characteristics, ZENMEV allows users seamless access to diversified MEV opportunities from multiple chains through a single platform.

    ZENMEV recently attracted strategic investments totaling approximately $140 million from prominent Web3 venture capitalists. These funds will accelerate global market expansion, enhance AI-driven MEV detection models, and further strengthen ZENMEV’s competitive position. The company is actively expanding into North America, Europe, and Asia, solidifying its global footprint.

    Combining Node Rewards with MEV Profits

    ZENMEV’s staking model uniquely combines basic validator rewards with additional MEV-generated income. Users who participate as validators typically receive standard block rewards but also benefit from additional profits derived from MEV strategies, significantly enhancing overall annual returns.

    The platform simplifies this process by automatically identifying and capitalizing on MEV opportunities, requiring no specialized technical knowledge from users. Participants simply stake assets as usual and benefit from structurally enhanced returns, making sophisticated MEV strategies broadly accessible.

    Mental Stability and Long-term Investment Approach in Bear Markets

    During bear markets, investor psychology often drives premature selling due to fear of further losses. ZENMEV’s staking model mitigates these emotional decisions by offering consistent returns from MEV strategies, encouraging investors to maintain a long-term perspective despite short-term volatility.

    ZENMEV’s continuous, AI-driven monitoring of blockchain activities eliminates the need for users to track news and market movements manually. By capturing fleeting profitable transactions automatically, ZENMEV safeguards asset values and bolsters investor confidence even during downturns.

    Conclusion and Outlook

    ZENMEV staking emerges as a uniquely robust investment alternative amid current market uncertainties, effectively harnessing blockchain inefficiencies to generate consistent returns. By democratizing previously inaccessible MEV strategies and automating the process with advanced AI technology, ZENMEV significantly enhances traditional staking models.

    With multi-chain capabilities, cutting-edge AI integration, and recent strategic funding, ZENMEV’s growth potential appears substantial. As market-neutral and volatility-responsive strategies gain prominence, platforms like ZENMEV could significantly shape the future landscape of decentralized finance.

    For detailed information, visit ZENMEV’s official website or explore technical documentation.

    Social Links

    CoinMarketCap: https://coinmarketcap.com/community/profile/zenmev/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenmev/

    X: https://x.com/zenmev

    Telegram: https://t.me/ZENMEV_Channel

    Medium: https://medium.com/@zenmev

    Media contact

    Brand: ZENMEV

    Contact: Media team

    Email: support@zenmev.com

    Website: https://zenmev.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CFA Staff honoured for service during Black Summer fires

    Source:

    The National Emergency Medal recognises service in a nationally significant emergency.

    CFA staff have been honoured with National Emergency Medals for their contribution to the 2019–2020 Australian bushfire crisis.

    The National Emergency Medal is part of Australia’s Honours and Awards system and recognises significant or sustained service in a nationally significant emergency. 

    At a ceremony on Sunday 6 April, 58 medals were presented to a mix of former and current CFA personnel. They join more than 5,500 CFA recipients who have received the honour for their service during the 2019–2020 fire season. 

    CFA Board Chairperson Jo Plummer presented the medals alongside CFA Chief Executive Officer Greg Leach AFSM and Chief Officer Jason Heffernan. 

    Jason paid tribute to the recipients and reflected on the magnitude of their contribution. 

    “The 2019–2020 bushfires had a profound impact on communities across Victoria and beyond,” Jason said. 

    “In the face of extreme conditions, CFA members and staff stood tall, supporting each other and protecting communities with unwavering commitment.” 

    Among the recipients was CFA Manager of Incident Management Systems Luke Heagerty, who described receiving the medal as a humbling experience. 

    “It’s a great honour to be recognised for the work that people at the State Control Centre (SCC) and other headquarters-based staff did during such a long and testing summer,” Luke said. 

    Throughout the 2019–2020 fire season, Luke served as a key spokesperson for the SCC, appearing on both national and international TV and radio. 

    “I remember crossing live to BBC Breakfast on the morning Mallacoota was impacted. Standing there, waiting to speak to the UK about what was unfolding in Australia, that was surreal.” 

    Luke estimates he took part in more than 300 interviews during the height of the fires between December and January. 

    “I was a regular voice on ABC Gippsland, particularly in the aftermath of the fire reaching Mallacoota. It was a time of real concern for that community, and I think being a familiar voice on air helped provide some reassurance,” Luke said. 

    Reflecting on the ceremony, Luke said it was especially meaningful to share the moment with loved ones. 

    “It meant a lot that they were both invited and acknowledged as part of the ceremony.” 

    Former CFA staff member Kate Conway, who worked in a support role during the 2019-2020 fire season, was also among those recognised.  

    At the time, Kate was a junior member of the CFA workforce, providing real-time social media intelligence to support field operations both at the Wodonga Incident Control Centre and in the SCC.  

    “Being able to go up to Wodonga and be one of the people deployed was humbling, I was quite proud to do it,” Kate said. 

    “Driving up past the impacts and spot fires into Wodonga, that’s when it hit. You were right in it.” 

    Kate said the recognition came as a surprise, but one she’s deeply grateful for. 

    “To put it plainly, I was quite chuffed when I got the email. I didn’t think I did anything remarkable, but I’m proud they considered what I did helpful enough to be nominated.” 

    “You don’t do it for the awards, but being recognised all these years later gave me time to reflect and realise, ‘that was pretty big.’” 

    Kate has since gone on to become a paramedic, but she is still connected to CFA.  

    “I loved being part of CFA so much that when I left to become a paramedic, I joined my local brigade as a volunteer.” 

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shenandoah Highway (SH65) closed following serious crash

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    Drivers travelling between Murchison and Springs Junction on State Highway 65 can expect delays and detours following a serious crash near Maruia earlier this morning.

    The incident was reported shortly before  eight o’clock this morning. Police confirm one person has been seriously hurt and indicate the highway will be closed for some time while emergency services attend the crash scene.

    There are no available local road detours available at the crash site, and State Highway 65 is now closed between the SH6/65 O’Sullivan’s Bridge junction near Murchison and the SH65/SH7 intersection at Springs Junction.

    Drivers should avoid the area, delay their travel or use an alternative route.

    Southbound drivers can detour via SH6 Upper Buller Gorge to Inangahua,  SH69 Inangahua to Reefton, and SH7 Reefton to Springs Junction. The reverse applies for northbound traffic.

    This route adds around 45 minutes to travel times.

    Drivers are urged to check the highway’s status before they travel. Updates can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Market – NZ residential construction cost growth slows to near-record low – CoreLogic

    Source: CoreLogic

    New Zealand’s residential construction costs are rising at one of the slowest annual rates on record with CoreLogic NZ’s latest Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) recording a growth rate of 0.9% over the past year. (ref. https://www.corelogic.co.nz/news-research/reports/cordell-construction-cost-index )

    The Q1 2025 national CCCI, which tracks the cost to build a typical new dwelling, rose 0.3% in the March 2025 quarter, down from 0.6% in Q4 and well below the long-term quarterly average of 1.0%.

    CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said it’s the second-lowest annual increase since the index began in 2012 and a significant shift after the double-digit growth seen during the COVID-era construction boom.
    The CCCI’s peak annual growth rate was 10.4% in Q4 2022, and the long-term average is 4.2%.
    “After several years of intense upward pressure, construction costs have now settled into a much slower rate of growth,” Mr Davidson said.
    “But this is a moderation, not a retreat. Labour doesn’t tend to get cheaper, and while materials pricing has flattened out, we’re not seeing any decline in the overall cost to build.”
    The March quarter saw a familiar mix of price shifts across key materials. Roof flashings and sheet metal rose by 3–4%, structural steel ticked up by around 1%, while kitchen cabinetry fell 2% and plumbing PVC pipework and fittings dropped by 3%.
    Mr Davidson said these changes reflect a sector returning to more normal patterns after several years of disruption.
    “We’re well past the extremes of 2021 and 2022, where costs surged across the board. These days, we’re seeing more nuanced movements, driven by specific supply and demand factors rather than industry-wide pressure,” he said.
    The sharp drop-off in new dwelling consents and eventual building work over the past 2-3 years has helped take the heat out of costs. Stats NZ figures show approvals  are down across most regions in the past 12 months, except for Otago, which recorded a 25% lift.
    Overall, national consent volumes are around one-third below their peak.
    “Some builders now have spare capacity, which is helping cap further price rises,” Mr Davidson said.

    “Construction activity appears to have stabilised, however any signs of a recovery remain tentative.”

    Looking ahead, Mr Davidson said easing interest rates and favourable lending conditions for new builds may support a modest lift in construction demand, but any return to the double-digit growth rates for costs experienced in 2022 is unlikely.
    “If new-build activity picks up again, and there are signs it might, we could see construction costs start to rise a little more quickly over the next year or two,” he said.
    “The key trend this year is construction costs are no longer spiralling but they’re also not falling. For now, we’re in a holding pattern, which will come as a welcome relief for builders, developers and households alike.”
    CoreLogic NZ is a leading, independent provider of property data and analytics. We help people build better lives by providing rich, up-to-the-minute property insights that inform the very best property decisions. Formed in 2014 following the merger of two companies that had strong foundations in New Zealand’s property industry – Terralink Ltd and PropertyIQ NZ Ltd – we have the most comprehensive property database with coverage of 99% of the NZ property market and more than 500 million decision points in our database.
    We provide services across a wide range of industries, including Banking & Finance, Real Estate, Government, Insurance and Construction. Our diverse, innovative solutions help our clients identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. We also operate consumer-facing portal propertyvalue.co.nz – providing important insights for people looking to buy or sell their home or investment property. We are a wholly owned subsidiary of CoreLogic, Inc – one of the largest data and analytics companies in the world with offices in New Zealand, Australia, the United States and United Kingdom. For more information visit corelogic.co.nz.
    About Cordell Building Indices
    The Cordell Building Indices (CBI) are a series of construction industry index figures that are used to monitor the movement in costs associated with building work within particular segments of the industry. The CBI indicate the rate of change in prices within particular segments of the New Zealand construction industry.
    The changes in prices are measured daily through the use of detailed cost surveys, and are reported on a quarterly basis. This ensures the most current and comprehensive industry information available. Each index is based on a combination of labour, material, plant hire and subcontract services required to construct buildings within the particular segment being measured. The CBI measure the change in the cost of constructing buildings, and as such do not provide the actual costs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments – Kevin Jenkins appointed to BRANZ Board

    Source: BRANZ

    BRANZ Chair Nigel Smith announced today the appointment of Kevin Jenkins to the BRANZ Group Board of Directors.

    “As a founding member of business advisory firm MartinJenkins, Kevin has more than 30 years’ experience of helping organisations across a wide range of industries to drive performance and tackle complex challenges.

    “He joins BRANZ at a critical time. Earlier this year, we launched a new long-term strategy focusing on four main priorities: affordability, quality, resilience, and sustainability. Addressing skyrocketing building costs; combating inappropriate building practices; meeting carbon reduction targets and adapting to climate change are among the most pressing issues we face.

    “Kevin, with his strategic and analytical background across various industries is well-equipped to help us address these complex and longstanding issues.  

    “He brings a real strength with his ability to understand the convergence of business, regulation and innovation and how to work across the system to solve problems and capitalise on opportunities,” says Nigel.

    Commenting on his appointment, Kevin said, “I’m delighted to join BRANZ at such a pivotal moment. The challenges we face in the building sector are significant, but with a clear vision for the future and a commitment to innovation and collaboration, I believe we can make substantial progress towards our goals. I look forward to working with the team at BRANZ to drive meaningful change and create a positive impact for the future of New Zealand’s built environment.”

    As a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, Kevin has held numerous governance roles over his career and brings insights from across the wider economy.

    His current directorships include positions at: Accessible Properties – New Zealand’s largest community housing provider of affordable homes and property management services for those with disabilities, older people, and those on low incomes; urban development firm Harrison Grierson; Real Estate Institute New Zealand – as Independent Chair; chair of the NZ Qualifications Authority; and WorkSafe New Zealand. He also chairs two risk and assurance committees.

    Outside of his governance roles, Kevin is a prominent public commentator, producing content for: New Zealand Policy Quarterly (Victoria University of Wellington); Institute of Directors’ Boardroom magazine; the NZ Herald; and a range of other news and information publications.

    “Kevin’s governance and executive management experience is extensive. We’re excited to have him on board at BRANZ as we work towards our aspiration of creating affordable, resilient, sustainable, and quality buildings for Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Nigel.

    Kevin’s Board position replaces Dr Lisbeth Jacobs who will be stepping down from her BRANZ directorship in May 2025, to focus on other governance roles.

    “We’re grateful to Lisbeth for the expertise and insights she’s delivered during her time on the BRANZ Board. Her contributions have been instrumental during a period of strategic change, and her experience in the scientific and building sectors has helped to shape our direction. Lisbeth’s contributions will continue to influence our work for years to come,” says Nigel.

    About the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ):

    BRANZ is a trusted, independent expert in building construction. We provide practical research, testing, quality assurance and expertise to support better buildings.

    Our aspiration: Affordable, resilient, sustainable and quality buildings for Aotearoa New Zealand. Find out more: branz.co.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Great Initiatives – Adventurers to take on 4,000km journey across Aotearoa to support Pacific nation climate resilient classrooms – Save the Children

    Source: Save the Children

    Australian adventurer, environmental advocate and longstanding Save the Children Ambassador Huw Kingston has teamed up with former Kiwi representative cyclist Laurence Mote to ski, cycle, hike and sail 4,000km across Aotearoa New Zealand, to raise crucial funds for Vanuatu’s first climate resilient classrooms.
    Dubbed ‘Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa’, the 90-day journey will see Kingston and his long-time friend and fellow adventurer, Mote, take on the 4000km journey from the tip of the North Island, beginning 25 June, to the bottom of the South, skiing at all 24 ski fields in the country – many of which are increasingly impacted by a changing climate.
    For Mote, who is legally blind and still impacted by ongoing symptoms caused by a near-death brain injury from 2013 when he was stung by a bee, went into anaphylactic shock and suffered a stroke, the journey is set to be extremely challenging.
    But despite the gruelling test, the pair are determined to succeed, while fundraising for an exciting new project to ensure children in Vanuatu don’t miss out on education in the face of climate emergencies, Save the Children’s first climate resilient shipping container classroom in Vanuatu.
    “Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa is a celebration of wild places and the communities who love them, but it’s also a call to action,” says Kingston.
    “The Pacific Islands are our neighbours, and they’re already living through the worst impacts of climate change. This journey is about doing something – step by step – to help. In these strange times globally, it is important to not forget to help those most vulnerable.”
    The forward-thinking classroom design takes into consideration multiple facets of sustainability, such as locally sourced and sustainable building materials, improved natural light and ventilation, and renewable energy for lights and fans.
    The pair’s goal is to raise over NZ$75,000, which will go directly to supporting this pilot project, providing innovative solutions that protect children and families on the frontline of the climate crisis
    Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa is the next in a long history of epic fundraising adventures for Kingston, 61. In a similar vein in 2022 he skied and trekked across the Australian Alps in a 700km fundraising journey. That expedition, Alpine Odyssey Australia raised more than NZ$75,000 for an Indigenous literacy project, Our Yarning.
    Says Kingston: “Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa is bigger, tougher, and even more adventurous than my first Alpine Odyssey and along the way, I’ll be learning a lot about Aotearoa New Zealand. Laurence, who is Kāi Tahu, intends to teach me waiata, karakia and more about Māori culture along the way.”
    Mote, 50, says: “I’m not entirely sure what I’ve got myself in for. But any winter where you ski for over 20 days is a good season. I’ll be closely following Huw’s lead as an experienced adventurer – and no doubt his back wheel at times. Three months should just be long enough for me to teach him to pronounce place names in Te Reo Māori.
    “I’ve been Huw’s plus-one on many adventures over the years, but nothing this long, or this hard. Combining two of my favourite things, skiing and biking had me convinced from the start. Traversing the length of this beautiful land, in deepest darkest winter, seems both crazy and exciting. I wasn’t going to say life-changing, but we’ll see.”
    Supporters can learn more about the journey and donate towards the cause by visiting their website or fundraising page. For those wanting a quirky way to contribute, there’s even the chance to buy any one of the resorts they will ski at.
    Save the Children New Zealand CEO Heather Campbell says:
    “We’re incredibly proud to partner with Huw and Laurence on this inspiring journey. As the climate crisis escalates, our Pacific neighbours are disproportionately affected – and children are always the most vulnerable. Every dollar raised through Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa will help build climate-resilient communities that protect children’s futures.”
    How to Support:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shenandoah Highway Tasman District – closed due to crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Shenandoah Highway between Creighton Road and SH65 is currently closed following a vehicle crash this morning.

    Police are in attendance where one person is being treated with serious injuries.

    Detours are in place and the road is expected to be closed for sometime.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Vehicle collision in Waipa Waikato – one injured

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Ohaupo Road, Waipa in the Waikato is closed due to a vehicle crash this morning.

    A pedestrian is being treated for serious injuries.

    Diversion are in place and the road is expected to be closed while emergency services are at the scene.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Team.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made in Northland homicide investigation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard:

    Police investigating the death of a man in Northland, Wellington, have charged a 23-year-old man with murder.

    The victim, 65-year-old Simon Bird, was found deceased at his Albemarle Road property on Tuesday, 1 April. Mr Bird had not been heard from for several days, prompting a concerned friend to carry out a welfare check – leading to the discovery of his body.

    Police charged the suspect this morning and he is due to appear in the Wellington District Court today. At this time, we are unable to elaborate on the accused’s relationship with Mr Bird.

    This is a positive development for his family and friends, but there are still many unanswered questions that we are working hard to answer.

    A scene examination is ongoing at Mr Bird’s Albemarle Road home, and we are still want to hear from anyone who might be able to help.

    Mr Bird was last seen alive on Thursday 27 March, and we need to hear from anyone who saw suspicious activity in the vicinity of Albemarle Road that day.

    We also want to speak to anybody who knew Mr Bird, as well as those who saw him, or his vehicle in the last week. This includes any CCTV or dashcam footage you may have of him or his silver Honda Odyssey.

    If you have any information that could assist Police, please update us online or call 105. Please use the reference number 250401/4530 or referencing Operation North.

    You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra is speaking your language

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Concierge Tejas estimates he speaks with customers in Hindi or Gujarati at least 25–30 times a week.

    Many frontline service staff at Access Canberra speak multiple languages.

    This not only reflects the diversity of the Canberra community but allows them to assist customers who may not be comfortable communicating in English.

    Across Access Canberra’s five service centres, staff speak 12 languages, in addition to English.

    These are:

    • Hindi
    • Punjabi
    • French
    • Japanese
    • Vietnamese
    • French
    • Thai
    • Greek
    • Gujarati
    • Croatian
    • Tibetan
    • Indian.

    Staff wear badges, allowing customers to identify them easily to see which languages they speak.

    Woden Service Centre Concierge Tejas is often the first friendly face customers see when they enter the Centre and speaks Gujarati, Hindi and English.

    “Being a Concierge I think I speak in Hindi and Gujarati at least 25–30 times a week to help members of community,” he said.

    He finds the badge helps Canberrans with little English feel more at ease.

    “Wearing the badge gives members of the community an idea that I speak different languages. It invites members of the community who may be anxious of walking into a service centre because they can’t correctly interpret or understand English. I have also seen people who can understand English very well, but speaking it is the problem. Thus, whenever I can, I assist the Customer Service Officer and customer complete a transaction by translating for both,” Tejas said.

    “As soon as a customer finds out that I can speak their language, they are delighted and relaxed that they can communicate in a much clearer and better way. Customers are more at ease because I can translate government policies and legislation for them, making comprehending them easier.”

    Tejas has worked at Access Canberra since 2021.

    “My vision every day is to help members of community who visit the service centre in every possible way,” he said.

    “I am proud of wearing this badge because I know I can make a difference and put a smile on someone’s face.”

    Many Access Canberra transactions can be carried out online. Visit accesscanberra.act.gov.au to find a translation option on the homepage.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: DA for Gungahlin Tennis Facility approved

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Gungahlin Tennis Facility will be built off Horse Park Drive in Amaroo.

    The Development Application has been approved for the new Gungahlin Tennis Facility.

    This brings the sporting venue another step closer for tennis-lovers.

    Gungahlin Tennis Facility will be built off Horse Park Drive in Amaroo.

    It will include:

    • 10 full-size tennis courts
    • two hot shot courts
    • a hitting wall
    • a pavilion
    • LED lighting
    • carparking
    • landscaping.

    Gungahlin is one of the country’s fastest growing regions. Tennis is also a growing sport, and the new venue will help attract even more players.

    The Gungahlin Tennis Facility is being built by the ACT Government in partnership with Tennis Australia and Tennis ACT.

    “Tennis ACT is looking forward to the construction phase of the Amaroo Tennis Centre and a wonderful tennis facility for the community of Gungahlin and the greater ACT and region,” CEO of Tennis ACT Mark La Brooy said.

    “After a number of years of planning, community consultation, Estate Development Planning and now the approval of the development application, this sees the realisation of a vital piece of infrastructure that will bring tennis to one of the important growth corridors in the ACT.”

    The Gungahlin Tennis Facility will offer a range of programs for all ages.

    These will include:

    • Hot Shots Tennis and school programs
    • Book A Court
    • Cardio Tennis
    • Adult Social Tennis
    • Junior and Senior Canberra Tennis League
    • all-abilities programs.

    Tennis Australia’s established tennis pathways will also help develop young players.

    As well as keeping more young people in the sport, it will support many to realise their sporting dreams.

    The new facility will also have capacity to host major tennis events, bringing more people to Canberra.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Increased diesel reserves to improve resilience

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The minimum stockholding obligation for diesel importers will increase from 21 to 28 days’ cover, bolstering New Zealand’s diesel reserves and resilience to supply disruptions, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones says.
    The Coalition Government consulted on the proposal late last year and has agreed that from 1 July 2028, fuel importers that have more than a 10 per cent market share must hold an additional seven days’ supply onshore.
    “We use around 11 million litres of diesel every day in New Zealand, and it is vital for the economy – from food production and distribution to emergency electricity generation and the movement of essential goods and services,” Mr Jones says.
    “While the chances of a severe and sustained fuel disruption are low, the consequences for Kiwis and our economy would be catastrophic.
    “Our diesel reserves are lower than reserves for other fuel types, meaning we are particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. The Fuel Security Study I released in February found our diesel cover of 21 days in reserve could be tight to manage, even for a minor disruption.
    “Building our resilience must carefully balance the risks with the cost of mitigation to the sector and ultimately consumers. A reserve of 28 days is a good compromise and means we will be able to better ride out smaller disruptions and, in the event of a major supply event, it will give us time to get solutions in place.”
    Fuel security continues to be a priority for the Government as work progresses on a Fuel Security Plan for New Zealand, a commitment in the New Zealand First-National Coalition Agreement. The plan is expected to be delivered later this year.
    “Establishing the requirement to hold more diesel reserves from July 2028 allows operators enough time to determine how to incorporate additional diesel into their networks and if necessary, to build or refurbish existing tanks,” Mr Jones says.
    The minimum stockholding obligation for diesel importers with a market share of less than 10 per cent will be reviewed next year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Restauranteur placed on 6 months home detention, fined $20,000 for selling recalled food

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    A Christchurch restauranteur has been placed on 6 months home detention and fined $20,000 for selling food that had been recalled.

    In November last year, the owner of Samurai Bowl in Colombo Street, Xinchen Liu, pleaded guilty to one charge under the Food Act for trading in food that was subject to a recall because of unsafe levels of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria being found in some frozen meals.

    Ms Liu was sentenced in the Christchurch District Court (8 April 2025) following a successful prosecution by New Zealand Food Safety.

    “The bacteria found in the food can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea. The consequences can be serious for people with compromised immune systems.

    “Food recalls are conducted to protect consumers from potential harm. People rightly expect food businesses sell food that is safe and suitable.” says New Zealand Food Safety acting deputy director-general, Jenny Bishop.

    A verifier observed routine testing results undertaken by the business, which found unsafe levels of the bacteria S. aureus in samples of frozen ramen meals. MPI’s New Zealand Food Safety was notified, as required under the Food Act. The bacteria find led to a recall on 1 June 2019 of all frozen Samurai Bowl ramen meals made since Ms Liu had taken over the business. Ms Liu confirmed the recall had gone ahead, providing evidential pictures to food safety officers and the recall was closed off in August that year by New Zealand Food Safety.

    “Most people do the right thing, but Ms Liu didn’t do as she claimed and stored the meals in freezers. Some of them were defrosted and made available to staff. Miso soup and meat from recalled meals was also served to customers at her restaurant. This was deliberate and reckless behaviour and Ms Liu’s actions had potential to cause sickness and health risk for a number of customers,” says Jenny Bishop.

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –