NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cutting red tape at the start of employment

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says changes are coming to support freedom of choice and reduce the burden on employers when new employees start in a role.  
    The Government has agreed to repeal the changes made by the previous government by removing the 30-day rule and reducing related employer obligations. 
    “Currently, if a collective agreement is in place the employee’s individual agreement must reflect the terms of the collective agreement and that applies for 30 days regardless of whether an employee chooses to join a union or not.  
    “Not only is the status quo convoluted and confusing, the process adds another administrative cost on top of many others, and those costs are dragging down workplace productivity.  
    “If a new employee chooses to negotiate the terms and conditions that suit their personal preferences or situation, they should have that choice realised from day one of employment,” says Ms van Velden. 
    Removing the 30-day rule means employees and employers are free to agree on a wider range of employment terms including those that differ from the collective employment agreement for the first 30 days.  
    A further benefit of these changes is that 90-day trials can be made available from the start of employment if the employee chooses an individual employment agreement.  
    “Expanding the availability of 90-day trials was an ACT-National coalition commitment and supports workers that may struggle to gain employment and also give employers greater confidence around hiring,” says Ms van Velden. 
    Changes are also being made to the way employers communicate and report back on union membership for new employees. 
    The current processes are the most extensive since the Employment Relations Act was enacted, and these changes will ensure employees still receive the information they need to make a decision about their employment agreement and union membership options. 
    Employers will no longer have to use the ‘active choice form’, created by the previous government, and unions will no longer have the ability to provide information about the role and functions of the unions, that the employer must pass on to the employee.  
    Employers will still need to communicate that the employee may join a union that is a party to the collective employment agreement, how to contact the union and that if the employee joins the union, the collective employment agreement will bind the employee. 
    These changes will be included in the Employment Relations Amendment Bill that will be introduced this year and is expected to be passed by the end of 2025. 
    “I am striking the right balance between ensuring information about unions is available to new employees, protecting the personal choice of workers and reducing the compliance burden for employers,” says Ms van Velden.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gomez Leads House Resolution Honoring World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    Resolution comes ahead of the team’s visit to Capitol Hill to celebrate their championship win

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) is leading a House resolution to honor the Los Angeles Dodgers for winning the 2024 Major League Baseball World Series—their eighth championship in franchise history and first since 2020.

    “As the Representative for the heart of Los Angeles and Dodger Stadium, it’s incredible to see the Dodgers bring the World Series trophy home to LA, where it belongs,” said Rep. Gomez. This win continues to be a reason to celebrate the resilience, talent, and unity of our community in LA. This victory means everything to our city and every Dodgers fan, especially after the heartbreak of missing a parade to celebrate our 2020 victory and the loss of the legendary Fernando Valenzuela.”

    The Dodgers clinched the championship in Game 5 of the World Series, capping off a season that included 98 regular season wins, the best record in baseball, and their 11th National League West title in 12 seasons. The resolution also honors the late Fernando Valenzuela, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Angelenos and deepened the Dodgers’ bond with LA’s Latino community. Valenzuela passed just days before the World Series began.

    Original cosponsors of the House resolution include Reps. Pete Aguilar (CA-33), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Judy Chu (CA-28), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), and Norma Torres (CA-35). The Senate companion resolution, led by Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and former Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA), passed unanimously.

    Click here to read the full text of the resolution.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Nullarbor

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police and emergency services are responding to a serious crash on the Nullarbor.

    About 6am on Tuesday 8 April, police received a report of a serious crash involving a truck and car on the Eyre Highway. The crash is about 75km’s from the Western Australian border.

    Motorists travelling across the border on the Eyre Highway should expect lengthy delays.

    Further information will be provided when known.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Temporary U.S. program ends, cancer care waiting times improve

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    As more cancer treatments are now being delivered faster in the province, BC Cancer will be ending its temporary program that was sending some patients to the U.S. for radiation therapy.

    “Our priority has always been to ensure that cancer patients have timely access to life-saving treatment while we build and strengthen B.C.’s public health-care system for the long term,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By hiring more specialists, upgrading our hospitals, and expanding innovative treatments, B.C.’s 10-Year Cancer Action Plan is working to improve wait times for radiation therapy and meet national benchmarks. Thanks to the progress we’ve made over the past two years, we can now safely wind down this temporary program and focus on getting patients the care they need in B.C.”

    Since May 2023, BC Cancer has offered eligible patients the option to travel for radiation therapy treatment at two clinics in Bellingham, Wash., ensuring patients received timely access to life-saving treatment in the short term while investments were made to build B.C.’s capacity for radiation therapy in the province.

    As of the end of February 2025, approximately 93% of patients in B.C. were waiting less than four weeks to start their radiation treatment – exceeding the national benchmark of 90%. This is also a 24% improvement since spring 2023, when only 69% of patients were starting treatment within four weeks.

    As in-province wait times for cancer treatment have improved over the past two years, BC Cancer has seen a steady decline in the number of patients choosing to go to the U.S. for their treatment. A total of 1,107 patients have completed radiation therapy in the U.S. through the program to date. At the peak of the program, in fall 2023, there were an average of 50 patients being treated in the U.S. each week.

    Based on current participation rates, it is estimated that approximately 104 patients would access the program over the coming year if it were to continue. This represents 0.6% of the 16,900 patients projected to need radiation treatment in 2025-26. However, these patients can be accommodated in B.C. without the need to travel out of country.

    The Province appreciates the partnership it has had with the two U.S. clinics contracted to provide care to B.C. patients. BC Cancer’s contracts are set to expire on May 11 and May 31, 2025, and will not be renewed. Nine patients are scheduled to complete their treatment in the U.S. under the program before the end of the contracts.

    The Province is expanding cancer care through B.C.’s 10-Year Cancer Action Plan to better prevent, detect and treat cancers today, and to meet growing future need for cancer care. This includes adding regional cancer centres in Nanaimo, Kamloops, Surrey and Burnaby, bringing the total number of cancer centres to 10. Existing centres are in Abbotsford, Kelowna, Prince George, Surrey, Vancouver and Victoria.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about B.C.’s cancer plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HLTH0012-000229

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Selling your old laptop or phone? You might be handing over your data too

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ritesh Chugh, Associate Professor, Information and Communications Technology, CQUniversity Australia

    berdiyandriy/Shutterstock

    You’re about to recycle your laptop or your phone, so you delete all your photos and personal files. Maybe you even reset the device to factory settings.

    You probably think your sensitive data is now safe. But there is more to be done: hackers may still be able to retrieve passwords, documents or bank details, even after a reset.

    In fact, 90% of second-hand laptops, hard drives and memory cards still contain recoverable data. This indicates that many consumers fail to wipe their devices properly before resale or disposal.

    But there are some simple steps you can take to keep your personal information safe while recycling responsibly.

    The data security risks

    Discarded or resold electronics often retain sensitive personal and corporate information. Simply deleting files or performing a factory reset may not be sufficient. Data can often be easily recovered using specialised tools. This oversight has led to alarming incidents of data leaks and breaches.

    For example, 42% of used storage devices sold on eBay still contained sensitive data, despite sellers following methods to erase data. This included passport images, school records, and corporate documents.

    Another 2022 study found that improperly erased internet-connected devices stored private data, making them vulnerable to exploitation. European e-waste exported to Ghana also contained classified corporate and government files, exposing security risks beyond personal identity theft.

    A major wireless provider in the United States failed to securely decommission storage devices. This lead to a data breach affecting 14 million customers.

    Similarly, in 2021 improperly discarded medical hard drives exposed over 100,000 confidential patient records.

    Why standard factory resets are not enough

    Many people believe performing a factory reset fully erases their data. But this is not always the case.

    An analysis of secondhand mobile devices found that 35% still contained recoverable data after being reset and resold. This highlights the risks of relying solely on factory resets.

    On older devices or those without encryption, residual data can still be recovered using forensic tools.

    iPhones use hardware encryption, making resets more effective, while Android devices vary by manufacturer.

    Performing a factory reset on a phone doesn’t always fully erase personal data.
    010110010101101/Shutterstock

    Best practices for secure disposal

    To protect your personal and organisational information, consider these measures before disposing of old devices:

    Data wiping

    Personal users should use data-wiping software to securely erase their hard drive before selling or recycling a device.

    However, for solid-state drives, traditional wiping methods may not be effective. This is because solid-state drives store data using flash memory and algorithms, which prolong a device’s lifespan by distributing data across memory cells and can prevent direct overwriting.

    Instead, enabling full-disk encryption with software such as BitLocker on Windows or FileVault on Mac before resetting the device can help to ensure data is unreadable.

    On Android phones, apps such as Shreddit provide secure data-wiping options. iPhones already encrypt data by default, making a full reset the most effective way to erase information.

    Businesses that handle customer data, financial records or intellectual property must comply with data protection regulations. They could use certified data-wiping tools that meet the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology’s guidelines for media sanitisation or the US Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ standard for sanitising storage. These guidelines are globally recognised.

    Many companies also choose third-party data destruction services to verify compliance and enhance security.

    Darik’s Boot and Nuke, also known as DBAN, is a computer program designed to permanently erase data.
    Darik Horn/Wikimedia

    Physical destruction

    If the data is highly sensitive, physically destroying the storage medium (such as a hard drive) is the most secure option. Common methods include degaussing (using a strong magnetic field), shredding, disintegration, melting, and drilling.

    However, some of these techniques can be hazardous if not handled by professionals. They also make a hard drive or device unsuitable for resale and instead require it to be taken to a waste recovery centre so the rare earth metal components can be recovered.

    Certified recycling services

    Use reputable e-waste recyclers who adhere to strict data destruction protocols to ensure your information does not fall into the wrong hands. Look for certifications such as R2, e-Stewards, or AS/NZS 5377, which ensure compliance with industry security standards. An online database run by sustainable electronics organisation SERI of R2-certified facilities around the world can help with this.

    Safe selling and donating practices

    Before selling or donating devices, conduct a thorough data wipe. Be cautious of devices linked to cloud accounts, and remove all personal information to prevent unauthorised access. Resetting alone may not be enough.

    Legal and regulatory considerations for businesses

    Different regions have strict data-protection laws that impose legal and financial penalties for improper disposal of sensitive data.

    It’s important for businesses to consider the legal standards for handling and disposing personal information in whatever region they’re operating in, whether that be Europe, the United States, Australia or elsewhere.

    Before recycling or selling an old device, take the necessary steps to ensure your data is completely erased. Identity theft, financial fraud and data breaches are real risks. But they can be prevented with the right precautions.

    A few extra steps now can protect your information and ensure responsible recycling.

    Ritesh Chugh 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. Selling your old laptop or phone? You might be handing over your data too – https://theconversation.com/selling-your-old-laptop-or-phone-you-might-be-handing-over-your-data-too-251613

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CLARKE, THOMPSON, KENNEDY REINTRODUCE BILL TO PREPARE DHS FOR CLIMATE CRISIS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    April 7, 2025

    MEDIA CONTACT: 

    e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

    c: 202.913.0126

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Congressman Bennie Thompson (MS-02), and Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) reintroduced the Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act, legislation to prepare the Department of Homeland Security to confront and mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis.

    “As we fall deeper into the ongoing climate crisis, ensuring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is equipped to address its escalating impacts must be a priority. The well-being and safety of America’s vulnerable, frontline communities will depend on how DHS prepares for and responds to these impacts, particularly in the face of the Trump Administration’s work to dismantle DHS and hinder FEMA’s effectiveness at every turn. I’m proud to introduce legislation that meaningfully moves America forward in our fight against the climate crisis by rooting the DHS’ climate efforts in strong research and an actionable defense plan,” said Congresswoman Clarke.

    “We all know that climate change is making storms more frequent and more intense – doing untold damage to our communities. To meet this threat, we need to make sure that the Department is taking climate change into account when it is planning for disasters and other homeland security missions. Wishing it away – and pretending it doesn’t exist – for political reasons, as the Trump Administration is doing, is not an option. I thank Ms. Clarke for her leadership on this issue and for introducing this legislation,” said Congressman Thompson.

    “From blizzards to hurricanes, in every corner of the country, including my district, we have seen the impact of extreme weather due to climate change,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology. “This bill, led by Congresswoman Clarke, will empower the Department of Homeland Security to better understand the changing needs of our communities, helping to build resilience against the impacts of climate change. As the Trump Administration continues to degrade our capacity to respond to extreme weather events, I am committed to strengthening it to better support communities, protect our national security, and save lives.”

    The Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act recognizes the importance of mitigating climate change challenges by directing DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate to:

    • Assess the current Federal research regarding approaches to mitigate identified or potential negative effects of climate change on homeland security including but not limited to preparedness and emergency planning policies, including with respect to preparedness, response to, and recovery from natural disasters; and
    • Consult with heads of other Federal agencies and departments, State, local, Tribal, territorial governments, and stakeholders when identifying and suggesting policy changes to mitigate the impact of climate change on homeland security; and
    • Mandate an annual report to Congress for three years on any research and development activities concerning climate change.

    Read the full bill text here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget: What’s in it for Belconnen

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.

    2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Belconnen

    • New health centre for West Belconnen
    • FOGO pilot expanded
    • More housing for Belconnen
    • New and upgraded community facilities
    • Belconnen Transitway feasibility study

    With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.

    Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.

    Some of the projects funded in Belconnen include:

    A new health centre for West Belconnen

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.

    This includes funding to design and plan a new health centre in West Belconnen. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.

    The Government is also investing in a new North Canberra Hospital, including upgrades to existing buildings to maintain services during construction and design work to relocate some existing services.

    More housing for Belconnen

    The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.

    As part of the program, 2,012 new homes are planned for Belconnen.

    FOGO pilot expanded

    Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.

    This will generate useful information on how households in different types of multi-unit developments use the service.

    The pilot currently services 5,300 households in Belconnen, Bruce, Cook and Macquarie.

    An additional 1,150 units will be added, increasing the pilot by more than 20 per cent.

    New and upgraded community facilities

    The Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.

    This includes:

    • the expansion of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium
    • the replacement of the existing pavilion at Jamison Oval
    • upgrades to the Emu Bank foreshore
    • improving local shops at Charnwood Group Centre, Evatt, Kippax Group Centre, and Macquarie
    • delivering a new green waste processing facility and landscape depot in West Belconnen.

    The Government will also respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.

    More funding for mowing and horticulture

    The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.

    The Budget includes funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in the ACT’s mowing teams.

    In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.

    Belconnen to City Transitway feasibility study

    The Government will undertake a bus transitway feasibility study to investigate potential upgrades to the transport corridor between Belconnen and the City.

    The study will focus on improving bus services to minimise congestion and delays between two of Canberra’s major population hubs.

    This initiative will be partially funded through a matching contribution from the Commonwealth Government.

    The Budget will also provide funding to finalise the duplication of William Hovell Drive and Gundaroo Drive between Ginninderra Drive and the Barton Highway.

    Support for education

    The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.

    There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.

    This includes roof replacement work at Charnwood Dunlop Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School.

    The Budget also includes funding to deliver:

    • Strathnairn Primary School in the Ginninderry area, which will cater for over 600 preschool to year 6 students
    • a 130-place Early Childhood Education and Care service.

    Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget by clicking here.

    The ACT’s horticulture and mowing teams will receive a funding boost.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget: What’s in it for the Inner North, Inner South and City

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Budget will fund path improvements across the Inner North, Inner South and City.

    2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Inner North, Inner South and City

    • A new Inner South Health Centre
    • More housing for the region
    • Path improvements across the region
    • The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
    • More funding for mowing and horticulture

    With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.

    Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.

    Some of the projects funded in the Inner North, Inner South and City include:

    A new Inner South Health Centre

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.

    This includes funding to build the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.

    More housing for the region

    The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.

    As part of the program, 4,587 new homes are planned for the Inner North, Inner South and City region.

    Road and path improvements across the region

    Funding received through the 2024–25 ACT Budget will see improvements made to paths across the Inner North, Inner South and City.

    Walkers, cyclists and those riding scooters can expect to see better line marking, completed missing links and more lighting as they exercise or head to and from work.

    Other investments across the region include:

    • progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, which includes design and construction of an extension from the existing Light Rail Stage 1 terminus at Alinga Street to a new stop at Commonwealth Park
    • road improvements along Beltana Road in Pialligo
    • construction of the Garden City Cycle Route.

    The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School

    The Electrification of Gas Assets Program is a 17-year commitment by the ACT Government to replace all gas-powered assets used within Government owned and operated buildings.

    The program will abolish and electrify over 1,000 gas assets and will contribute to the goal of net zero emissions from Government operations by 2040.

    Funding in the 2024–25 ACT Budget will allow for cooling upgrades at Alfred Deakin High School as part of the program.

    New and upgraded community facilities

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.

    This includes responding to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.

    This Budget will also provide support for:

    • finalising construction of the new Acton Emergency Services Station to house ACT Ambulance Service and ACT Fire & Rescue staff
    • undertaking capital upgrades at the City Police Station and planning for future accommodation requirements
    • improving local shops at Narrabundah.

    More funding for mowing and horticulture

    The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.

    The Budget will include funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in our mowing teams.

    In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.

    Support for education

    The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.

    There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.

    This includes:

    • the refurbishment of the existing Lyneham High School gymnasium
    • roof replacement work at Dickson College
    • continuing the modernisation and expansion of Majura Primary School, Telopea Park High School and Narrabundah College
    • progressing the UNSW Canberra City Campus project.

    Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget here.

    Canberra’s mowing teams and resources have been expanded.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cost-of-living relief for Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    There is a comprehensive cost-of-living package included in this year’s Budget.

    The ACT Government is offering continued support to Canberrans most impacted by cost of living pressures.

    Cost of living pressures are being felt across the country and this year’s ACT Budget does more for low-income households.

    Supporting apprentices and trainees

    One initiative is a new, one-off $250 payment to support local apprentices and trainees.

    Apprentices and trainees have a restricted earning capacity while they are obtaining their qualification.

    This payment recognises the financial pressures these Canberrans are facing.

    The ACT Government will contact eligible apprentices and trainees by the end of September. It is not necessary to apply for the payment.

    Assisting families with schooling costs

    The ACT Government is also expanding the Future of Education Equity Fund.

    The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education.

    Already in 2024, the Future of Education Equity Fund has supported more than 5000 students in Canberra.

    More families will be able to get financial assistance with things like textbooks, music lessons and sporting equipment.

    Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate

    Over 40,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate.

    The payment will be increased to $800 per year, helping these households with their home energy costs.

    When combined with the $300 Federal Government energy payment, one in five Canberra households will receive $1,100 in assistance towards their energy bills.

    Targeted cost of living support

    These initiatives are part of a comprehensive cost of living package included in this year’s Budget. The package also includes:

    • expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300, to support more households to change their energy use
    • extending the Rent Relief Fund to support more Canberrans on low incomes who are experiencing rental stress or severe financial hardship
    • expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card, to support more people accessing buses and light rail
    • additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters to support these community organisations to continue delivering essential services to vulnerable Canberrans
    • additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services, to support vulnerable Canberrans in need of food and other necessities
    • increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users, further reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable Canberrans
    • increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.

    Find more on cost-of-living support at act.gov.au/money-and-tax/cost-of-living-support

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping First Nations children thrive

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.

    Proud First Nations women Chloe Spratt and Amanda Flemming are driven to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive.

    They wear many hats as the Early Years Engagement Officers at the ACT Government’s Child and Family Centres.

    Central to their role is engaging with parents about their children’s education – and this begins with Koori Preschool.

    Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.

    Each week, Chloe and Amanda visit Canberra’s five Koori Preschools to meet with families and staff.

    Parents and carers get to know them during drop-off and pick-up times and can approach them to discuss support they might need.

    School staff can also discuss any concerns with Chloe or Amanda – with consent from the family. Chloe and Amanda can then link the family to relevant services for support which could include referral into the Child and Family Centres or Child Development Service to assist addressing the individual needs of families.

    Both officers are determined to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have a positive experience of school.

    “I’ve been in the Early Years Engagement Officer for four years and I am very passionate about supporting our children in community and working so closely with the Koori Preschool program,” Chloe said.

    They work tirelessly to empower families to play an active role in their child’s learning journey.

    Such efforts have played a role in the success of Koori Preschool.

    Enrolments have increased over the past five years and school readiness among First Nations preschoolers has also improved.

    An additional 100 places at Koori Preschool were funded in last year’s budget.

    Both women regard their work as not just a job, but a calling. This dedication illustrates the power of advocacy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood development.

    “Being that person who family feel culturally connected to and feel safe to yarn with you is a great sense of belonging in the community,” Amanda said.

    “I love that as An Early Years Engagement Officer I can help give the best start to the little Borri and help the families get the support they may need for their family.

    “I enjoy being able to see the Borris go from strength to strength from the early intervention they may be linked into with the child development.

    “I think the best part is when you visit each school the Borri running up to you and saying ‘Aunty Manda, can you came and play with me’ or ‘can you be my partner on the bus’ when I join them on learning on country,” she said.

    Koori Preschools operate at five school sites around Canberra, with curriculum aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework.

    • Ngunnawal Primary School
    • Kingsford Smith School
    • Narrabundah Early Childhood School
    • Wanniassa School
    • Richardson Primary School.

    Parents and carers can enrol Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Koori Preschool at any time between the ages of three and five.

    Koori Preschool enrolments are now open for the 2025 school year.

    Find out more or enrol now.

    For more information about the services and supports available at Child and Family Centres.

    Amanda, left, and Chloe love being able to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids have the best start to their education.

    Narrabundah Early Childhood School is one of Canberra’s five Koori Preschools.

    Chloe loves connecting with the children.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Expanding health services for children and young people

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberra families will have better access to paediatric health services where and when they need it.

    Canberra families will have access to more paediatric health services in both the hospital and the community, as part of the 2024–25 ACT Budget funding.

    The investment will expand paediatric inpatient care as well as community-based paediatric services.

    Eight inpatient paediatric beds at Canberra Hospital will be funded.

    This will ensure Canberra Health Services can continue to support unwell children and young people when they need specialist paediatric care.

    A new paediatric critical care team will also be established at Canberra Hospital.

    The team will provide leadership and specialty skills in paediatric critical care to treat and care for children and young people.

    They will also provide better coordination, support and upskilling of existing staff in this area.

    There will be additional resourcing to expand multidisciplinary rehabilitation services for children with complex and chronic conditions – where care is shared between local and interstate hospitals.

    This funding will develop a model of care to support children in a more sustainable and integrated way.

    Budget funding will also support critically unwell newborns, with additional cots added the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Nursery at Canberra Hospital.

    The ACT Government will establish a new location for community-based paediatric services.

    This will give families with children with – or at risk of – developmental delays or certain health conditions easier access to services they need, outside of a hospital setting.

    These investments will support implementation of actions in the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan 2023–2030 and the opening of dedicated paediatric critical care spaces in Canberra Hospital’s new Critical Services Building.

    This Budget builds on the range of Government investments in paediatric services, as well as the expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: HBT Financial, Inc. to Announce First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on April 21, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BLOOMINGTON, Ill., April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  HBT Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: HBT) (the “Company” or “HBT Financial”), the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, today announced that it will issue its first quarter 2025 financial results before the market opens on Monday, April 21, 2025. A copy of the press release announcing the first quarter 2025 financial results and an investor presentation will be made available on the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.hbtfinancial.com.

    About HBT Financial, Inc.

    HBT Financial, Inc., headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, is the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, and has banking roots that can be traced back to 1920. HBT Financial provides a comprehensive suite of financial products and services to consumers, businesses, and municipal entities throughout Illinois and eastern Iowa through 66 full-service branches. As of December 31, 2024, HBT Financial had total assets of $5.0 billion, total loans of $3.5 billion, and total deposits of $4.3 billion.

    CONTACT:
    Peter Chapman
    HBTIR@hbtbank.com
    (309) 664-4556

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What do medieval puzzles and the New York Times Connections have in common?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Knowles, Lecturer, Western Civilisation Program, Australian Catholic University

    Getty

    The New York Times Connections game asks players to categorise 16 words into four groups of four. For example, in one collection of 16, a category included “blow”, “cat”, “gold” and “sword”: these are all words that might come before “fish”.

    As described by puzzle editor Wyna Liu, completing the puzzle should feel “challenging and satisfying”. Players are encouraged to “think flexibly”. Liu says her job as puzzle designer is “to trick you”.

    Challenging word-based games are not a modern invention.

    In fact, in early medieval England, around the year 1000, there was also a strong appetite for word puzzles designed to entertain (and trick) avid players.

    Gaming in the Middle Ages

    Riddles were very popular in early medieval England.

    Many examples of riddles from this period are in Latin, but a collection of approximately 95 poems, written in Old English and found in a manuscript known as the Exeter Book are the earliest surviving vernacular collection of riddles in Western Europe.

    Compiled around the year 1000, The Exeter Book also includes a variety of poetic works with both religious and secular themes. This, and its location since 1072 in Exeter Cathedral Library, suggests it had a religious audience of monks.

    Take the shortest riddle in the Exeter collection, Riddle 69, included here in both its original Old English form and in translation, thanks to riddles scholar Megan Cavell, one of the creators of the website The Riddle Ages:

    Wundor wearð on wege; wæter wearð to bane.

    There was a wonder on the wave; water turned to bone.

    Early English riddles ask their audience to guess what the different clues point to, usually an object or animal. In Riddle 69, the audience is asked to identify what might be referred to through the metaphor of water turning to bone.

    The solution to this riddle is debated, but most suggestions have to do with ice: ice, icicle, iceberg and frozen pond.

    The Exeter Book is a 10th Century poetry anthology written in Old English.
    Per Se/Flickr, CC BY-SA

    The answer hangs on the various qualities that attach to the word bone: it is hard, difficult to break and can also be long, like an icicle.

    It’s possible to imagine bone and ice linked in a Connections category “things that are tough”.

    Most Old English riddles are a little more complex but still rely on the trickery that comes from word play, metaphor and ambiguity.

    One of the more surprising riddles in the Exeter collection (particularly when we consider the likely monastic audience) is Riddle 45:

    I heard that something was growing in the corner,
    swelling and sticking up, raising its roof.
    A proud bride grasped that boneless thing,
    with her hands. A lord’s daughter
    covered with a garment that bulging thing.

    A series of clues point to possible solutions. The answer will be something that rises, that needs physical touch to grow, and which is covered by cloth.

    The innocently playful solution to this riddle is dough – though it certainly puts another, more vulgar, solution in mind. This innuendo likely added to the entertainment and challenge of the original riddle, teasing its audience with a taboo answer.

    The Exeter Book Riddles does not come with answers. This is both a frustration and a reason for their longevity: modern audiences continue to grapple with possible solutions 1,000 years later.

    It is also possible that part of the entertainment for both medieval and modern audiences is their ambiguity. There are multiple plausible solutions.

    Culture is a game changer

    Part of what makes interpreting the Old English riddles so difficult for modern players is that word puzzles are shaped by the culture in which they were created.

    This cultural coding is obvious in Connections puzzles too. For example on January 3 2025 a category linked American slang words for a dollar, less familiar in other countries: buck, clam, single and smacker.

    Similarly, Old English riddles assume knowledge of aspects of life in early medieval England. For example, Riddle 26 requires an understanding of the processes by which an animal hide became a book.

    Some even rely on knowledge of runic characters to understand their solution; this was an alphabet that was used in England prior to the adoption of the Latin alphabet from the 7th century.

    To truly understand many riddles, you need to know the context in which they were written.
    Getty

    Old English riddles offer an excellent insight into not just the sorts of games and puzzles that entertained early medieval audiences, and continue to entertain us today, but also into domestic life in the period.

    In 1,000 years, Connections puzzles will be harder to guess because players will be unfamiliar with our current way of life. They will also be a type of relic into how minds and culture operated in the early 21st century.

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

    – ref. What do medieval puzzles and the New York Times Connections have in common? – https://theconversation.com/what-do-medieval-puzzles-and-the-new-york-times-connections-have-in-common-250155

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year. This could be avoided through 6 simple steps

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gary Mortimer, Professor of Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, Queensland University of Technology

    Zigres/Shutterstock

    About 14% of Australians experienced personal fraud last year. Of these, 2.1 million experienced credit card fraud, 675,300 were caught in a scam, 255,000 had their identities stolen and 433,000 were impersonated online.

    According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics latest Personal Fraud Survey, between July 2023 and June 2024, Australians lost A$2.1 billion through credit card fraud.

    This was up almost 9% from the previous year. Even after reimbursements, the loss was still $477 million.

    These figures do not include financial loss through identity theft, or phishing, romance, computer support and dodgy financial advice scams.

    Why the increase?

    Research shows the more frequently we use technology, the more likely we are to be scammed. Monica Whitty from the Cyber Security Centre, University of Warwick, found victims of cyber-frauds were more likely to score high on impulsivity measures like ‘urgency’ and engage in more frequent online routine activities that place them at great risk of becoming scammed.

    We communicate via email, we shop online, use dating apps and allow technicians to remotely access our computers. Meanwhile, amazing “get rich quick” opportunities are apparently being liked by our friends on our socials almost every day.

    But too many of us do not stop and think, “is this legitimate?” It is no wonder we see personal fraud and scams increase every year.

    While the Australian Bureau of Statistics figures suggest older Australians (aged 45 and over) are more exposed to card fraud, research has found demographics are not a significant predictor of fraud victimisation.

    Taking risks

    Being too trusting, drives complacency, which produces gullibility. Think about an online dating sites. The site uses a multi-factor authenticator, it requires you to authenticate your photo, password protect your profile and read the scam warnings.

    A site’s apparent legitimacy increases your trust. Research has found if you perceive a platform to be legitimate you could be exposed to romance fraud. Fraudsters may be operating within a site, even if it is legitimate.

    Another strong predictor of exposure to online fraud is self-control. Self-control theory predicts individuals with low self-control tend to pursue their own self-interest without considering the negative consequences.

    Simply, if the investment scheme looks “too good”, they will mostly likely click on the link and get scammed.

    Giving away too much

    Some individuals are prone to self-disclosing personal information online – and scammers love personal information. Self-disclosure is defined as the amount of information a person decides to make common knowledge.

    Sometimes, we disclose, even when we don’t intend to. A common phishing technique on social media is status updates that read, “Your porn star name is your first pet’s name and the first street you lived on.”

    They’re interesting, funny and bring on a healthy dose of nostalgia, but the answers to those questions that you tap in for all to see are also most likely to be your security questions on your bank accounts.

    The most common scams in 2023-2024:

    • Buying or selling scams (1.4% or 308,200)
    • Information request or phishing scams (0.7% or 148,800)

    What is the government doing to protect me?

    The Australian government recently passed legislation which targets scams. It places increased responsibilities on banking and finance, telecommunications and digital platforms organisations to protect customers.

    Suspicious numbers can now be accompanied a warning of “potential fraud” on your smartphone screen. Banks are also informing customers about the latest scams. Some banking transactions can verify the identity of the payment recipient, to ensure the details you have match the actual account holder.

    While these will not stop all scams, they are a step towards reducing the number of victims and the amount of money lost to fraudulent approaches.

    Six steps to protect yourself

    There are some small but powerful steps we can all take to reduce the likelihood of financial harm.

    1. Passwords: it is important to have strong, unique passwords across your accounts. Using a password manager can help with this.

    2. Multi-factor authentication: many platforms will allow you to add extra layers of security to your account by using one-time passwords, authenticator apps, or tokens.

    3. Review privacy settings: be aware of the different settings on your accounts and ensure you are in control of what information you provide and what can be accessed by others.

    4. Be vigilant: know what you see and hear may not be real. The person or company you are communicating with may not be authentic. It is okay to be sceptical and take time to do your own checks.

    5. Money transfers: never send money you are not willing to lose. Too often, people will send money before realising it is a scam. Never feel rushed or forced into any financial decision. It is OK to say no.

    6. Credit monitoring: if you know or suspect you have been scammed, you can enact a credit ban, meaning no one can access your details or take further action in your name. This can be a good short-term solution.

    And if you are scammed …

    Anyone can report money lost in a scam to ReportCyber, the Australian online police reporting portal for cyber incidents. If you have received scam texts or emails, you can report these to Scamwatch, to assist with education and awareness activities.

    Gary Mortimer receives and has received funding from the Building Employer Confidence and Inclusion in Disability Grant, AusIndustry Entrepreneurs’ Program, National Clothing Textiles Stewardship Scheme, National Retail Association and Australian Retailers Association.

    – ref. 3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year. This could be avoided through 6 simple steps – https://theconversation.com/3-5-million-australians-experienced-fraud-last-year-this-could-be-avoided-through-6-simple-steps-253623

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. So what can parents do?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacquelyn Harverson, PhD Candidate, School of Psychology, Deakin University

    Alex Segre/ Shutterstock

    Once upon a time, children fought for control of the remote to the sole family television. Now the choice of screen-based content available to kids seems endless. There are computers, tablets, phones and gaming consoles offering streaming services, online content and apps.

    Children also use devices at school, with digital literacy part of the Australian curriculum from the start of school.

    The speed and scale of this change has left parents, researchers and policymakers scrambling to catch up. And it has inevitably led to concerns about screen use, as well as guidelines about limiting their use.

    Our new study looks at the links between digital technology use and young children’s wellbeing, specifically for those aged four to six.

    Our comprehensive analysis shows children who spend longer periods using digital technologies are more likely to have social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. However, we can’t say at what age or level of screen use these negative effects are likely to become evident.

    But for parents trying to navigate a world where technology is all around us, our study also shows there are things they can do to help their kids use screens in healthier ways.



    Read more:
    Why parents need to be like Big Ted and ‘talk aloud’ while they use screens with their kids

    Our study

    We carried out a systematic review of the research literature on children’s use of digital devices since 2011 (after the Apple iPad was launched). This means we examined all the available peer-reviewed research on digital devices and their impact on wellbeing for children.

    We also focused on ages four to six age as it is a time when children are developing rapidly and beginning school. Other studies have focused on particular types of device. But we included all kinds of digital devices in our search – from televisions to phones, tablets and gaming consoles – to make sure we could provide comprehensive analysis of what kids are using.

    The studies came from 20 countries, including Australia, China, the United States, Turkey, Germany and Canada. They were almost exclusively based on parents’ reports of their children and include more than 83,000 parents.

    Our research also showed the the type of content children consume is important – not just the time it takes.
    Morrowind/Shutterstock

    4 areas of child wellbeing

    From this, we analysed the relationship between children’s technology use and the following four areas:

    1. psychosocial wellbeing: an overall measure that captures children’s happiness, as well as social and emotional adjustment.

    2. social functioning: children’s social skills, including how well they get along with their peers.

    3. the parent-child relationship: the level of closeness or conflict between parents and their children.

    4. behavioural functioning: the absence of behavioural difficulties such as tech-related tantrums, hyperactivity, depression or anxiety.

    We did this with a meta-analysis – a statistical method that uses data from multiple studies to draw conclusions.



    Read more:
    3 ways to help your child transition off screens and avoid the dreaded ‘tech tantrums’

    What we found

    Our analysis found more digital technology use in young children was associated with poorer wellbeing outcomes across the four areas.

    It is important to note correlation doesn’t equal causation. The scope of the research means at this point, it is not possible to identify the exact reasons behind the negative relationships.

    But we do know the more time children spent watching TV, playing on iPads or apps, the more likely they were to have problems with behaviour, social skills, their relationship with their parents, and their emotional wellbeing.

    But tech use is more than just time

    Our research also brought together emerging evidence which shows the relationship between digital tech use and child wellbeing is complex.

    This means the type of content children consume, and the context in which they consume it, can also have a bearing on their wellbeing. The research shows there are several ways parents can guide their children to potentially mitigate the negative links with social, emotional and behavioural wellbeing.

    With this in mind, how can you encourage healthier screen use?

    Our research showed if parents watch with their kids, it can open up opportunities for conversation and interaction.
    Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels, CC BY

    3 tips for kids and screens

    1. Keep an eye on the clock

    The research cannot provide a specific “time limit” for screen use. But you can still be mindful of how much time your child spends on devices both at home and at school – moderation is key.

    Try and mix screen time with other activities, such as time outside or time with friends and family, books or imaginary play.

    2. Seek out quality

    Research shows encouraging high-quality educational content during screen use may curb negative links between tech use and wellbeing.

    Consider swapping fast-paced cartoons and time spent on lots of short clips with educational viewing, for example ABC kids programs that promote learning.

    Introduce your child to age-appropriate educational and interactive games that challenge them and encourage them to be creative.

    3. Use tech together

    Tech time isn’t just for kids – parents can also join in.

    Solo tech use may reduce opportunities for positive social interactions. But watching or playing with friends or family opens up opportunities for conversation, working together and learning.

    This could include watching a movie together and talking about the characters, working on an online puzzle together or learning new coding skills together.

    Jacquelyn Harverson is affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    Louise Paatsch receives funding from Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child

    Sharon Horwood is affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    – ref. New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. So what can parents do? – https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-digital-technology-is-linked-to-reduced-wellbeing-in-young-kids-so-what-can-parents-do-253637

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump has Australia’s generic medicines in his sights. And no-one’s talking about it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Deborah Gleeson, Associate Professor in Public Health, La Trobe University

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    While Australia was busy defending the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme against threats from the United States in recent weeks, another issue related to the supply and trade of medicines was flying under the radar.

    Buried on page 19 of the Trump’s administration’s allegations of barriers to trade was a single paragraph related to Australia’s access to generic medicines. These are cheaper alternatives to branded medicines that are no longer under patent.

    The US is concerned about how much notice their drug companies have that Australia will introduce a generic version of their product. Once a single generic version of a medicine is listed on the PBS, the price drops. The US argues that lack of advance notice is a barrier to trade.

    There is pressure for Australia to emulate aspects of the US system, where drug companies can delay generic copies of their medicines by 30 months.

    If the US plays hardball on this issue, perhaps in return for other concessions, this could delay Australia’s access to cheaper generic drugs.

    It would also mean significant pressure on Australia’s drug budget, as the government could be forced to pay for the more expensive branded versions to ensure supply.

    What’s the current process?

    Drug companies use patents to protect their intellectual property and prohibit other manufacturers from copying the drug. The standard patent term in Australia is 20 years, but the time a product is protected by patents can be extended in a number of ways. When patents expire, other companies are able to bring generic versions to market.

    A generic manufacturer wanting to market its drug in Australia must apply to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for regulatory approval. Before approval is granted, the generic company must provide a certificate to the TGA that states either:

    a) that the product will not infringe a valid patent, or

    b) that it has notified the patent-holder of its intention to market the product.

    The certificate can be provided after the TGA has evaluated the generic – before it grants approval.

    If the generic company chooses option “a”, the manufacturer of the patented product may not find out the competing product is going to be launched until after the TGA has approved it.

    The patent-holder can then apply for a court order to temporarily stop the generic from coming to market, while legal battles are fought over patent-related issues.

    However, if the first generic has already launched and been added to the PBS, it triggers an automatic 25% price drop. This affects all versions of the drug, including the patented product.

    In Australia, patented drug companies that try to delay generics by taking legal action without good reason can face penalties and be required to pay compensation.

    Patented drug companies don’t like this system. They want to know as early as possible that a generic is planning to launch so they can initiate legal action and prevent or delay generic entry and the associated price reductions.

    Is Australia’s system consistent with our trade obligations?

    Australia introduced its patent notification system at the request of the US, to comply with the Australia-US Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA). The World Trade Organization doesn’t require patent notification.

    Australia’s system is different to that of the United States. But it’s consistent with the rules negotiated between the two countries.

    US drug companies have long argued Australia’s system is a barrier to trade. They want Australia to change it to be more like the US system.

    Why is the US arguing this is a barrier to trade?

    The Trump Administration’s 2025 report on foreign trade barriers states “US and Australian pharmaceutical companies have expressed concerns about delays” in the patent notification process.

    The report also mentions US concerns about the potential for penalties and compensation when a patent owner takes legal action against a generic company.

    This report reflects long-standing concerns of the US pharmaceutical industry. In March, its drug makers trade association wrote to the US trade representative complaining that “lack of adequate notification” is an unfair trade practice. It argued this creates uncertainty for patent-holders, prevents resolution of patent challenges before generics enter the market, and penalises patented-drug companies for trying to protect their rights.

    Medicines Australia, which represents the Australian subsidiaries of many big patented drug makers, echoes these concerns.

    What does the US want instead?

    The US patent notification system is much more favourable to the patented drug companies than Australia’s.

    In the US, the generic company must notify the patented drug company within 20 days of filing an application for approval.

    Then, within 45 days of receiving the notification, the patent-holder can ask the regulator to impose a 30-month delay on approval for the generic.

    This means there is an automatic 30-month delay on the launch of the generic, unless patents expire in the meantime or the court decides earlier that valid patents aren’t being infringed.

    What could happen if Australia bowed to pressure from the US?

    Changing Australia’s system to be more like the US would delay generics entering the market in Australia and keep the price of drugs higher for longer.

    The quicker generics can be added to the PBS, the less the government pays. When the first generic is listed on the PBS, a 25% price cut is applied to all versions of the product, including the patented version.

    Over time, as more generics get added, prices continue to fall. Having plenty of generic competition can eventually result in prices lower than the PBS co-payment, resulting in savings for consumers.

    In the longer term, lost savings from timely listing of generics on the PBS would reduce value for money and add cost pressure.

    In time, it could also delay savings for consumers from drugs priced below the PBS co-payment.

    Both major parties are saying they won’t use the PBS as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the US over tariffs. They also need to resist pressure to slow down access to generic drugs.

    Deborah Gleeson has received funding in the past from the Australian Research Council. She has received funding from various national and international non-government organisations to attend speaking engagements related to trade agreements and health, including access to medicines. She has represented the Public Health Association of Australia on matters related to trade agreements and public health.

    – ref. Trump has Australia’s generic medicines in his sights. And no-one’s talking about it – https://theconversation.com/trump-has-australias-generic-medicines-in-his-sights-and-no-ones-talking-about-it-253836

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia’s innovative new policies are designed to cut smoking rates – here are 6 ideas NZ could borrow

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Janet Hoek, Professor in Public Health, University of Otago

    Shutterstock/chayanuphol

    At the start of this month, when denicotinisation would have been due to come into effect in Aotearoa New Zealand (had the government not repealed smokefree laws), Australia introduced innovative smokefree policies to change the look, ingredients and packaging of tobacco products.

    New Zealand’s current goal is to reduce smoking prevalence to no more than 5% (and as close to zero as possible) among all population groups. However, realising this goal now seems very unlikely.

    Latest figures show 6.9% of the general population smoke daily, but smoking places a much heavier burden on Māori and Pacific peoples, where 14.7% and 12.3% smoke, respectively.

    New Zealand could borrow measures from Australia’s new regulations, or even go beyond, to begin salvaging its reputation as a country that develops progressive, evidence-based smokefree policy. Here are six ideas New Zealand should consider implementing.

    1. Refresh and diversify on-pack warnings

    New Zealand introduced plain packaging in 2018. This policy replaced vibrant on-pack branding with dissuasive colours and much larger health warnings. However, despite annual warning rotation, recent work suggests on-pack warnings have “worn out”.

    Our work with people who smoke suggests we need two responses: refresh existing health warnings and create more diverse warnings that illustrate other risks, such as the financial burden smoking imposes and its inter-generational harms.

    2. Offer hope that quitting is possible

    On-pack warnings aim to ensure people who smoke understand the many health risks smoking causes.

    However, few countries (with the exception of Canada) also provide advice to increase people’s confidence they can quit or promote the benefits of becoming smokefree. Australia has now followed Canada’s lead and will introduce “health promotion inserts that encourage and empower people to quit smoking”.

    The ASPIRE Aotearoa Centre’s recent work shows that by promoting positive outcomes and offering practical advice, health promotion inserts foster hope and help motivate people who smoke to think about quitting.

    New Zealand should complement external pack warnings with inserts that increase people’s agency and support smoking cessation.

    Cigarette filters mislead people into believing they are reducing the risks smoking presents.
    Shutterstock/Gudman

    3. Change the experience of smoking

    Tobacco companies use cigarette stick design to shape how people experience smoking. It is no coincidence that cigarette sticks are white. The colour has connotations of cleanliness and deflects attention from the harms smoking causes.

    Until Canada introduced on-stick warnings in 2023, no country had changed the design of cigarette sticks.

    Australia has now followed suit and will require health warnings on cigarette filters. New Zealand could both adopt and go beyond this measure.

    Our earlier work examined the effects of dissuasive colours and designs on cigarette sticks. People who smoke found colours such as murky green and mustard yellow aversive. They also reacted strongly against graphics, such as a chart showing the minutes of life lost with each cigarette, which could be printed on sticks.

    4. Eliminate additives

    Tobacco companies use several ingredients to make smoking more palatable and enhance nicotine delivery. For example, many cigarettes contain menthol, even those without a characterising menthol flavour. These ingredients ease harshness and make the initial, sometimes disagreeable, experience of smoking much smoother.

    Other additives enhance nicotine delivery. For example, tobacco companies may add sugars to tobacco that, once combusted, create acetaldehyde, which may increase the addictiveness of nicotine.

    Disallowing these additives could further reduce smoking uptake. By making smoking a harsher experience, this measure could also encourage people who smoke to quit.

    5. Get rid of gimmicks that appeal to young people

    Tobacco companies have developed product features that enable people who smoke to experience different flavours. Brands such as Dunhill Switch contain a flavour capsule within the filter. When squeezed, the capsule releases a flavouring agent, thus creating a more varied and novel smoking experience.

    Our study of young people’s responses to capsule cigarettes found these appealed more to those who did not smoke than to those who did. New Zealand should follow Australia by closing loopholes and disallowing products likely to increase interest in smoking among young people who do not smoke.

    6. Disallow filters

    There is one measure New Zealand could implement to go beyond Australia’s new policies.

    The draft Smokefree Aotearoa 2025 action plan proposed disallowing filters in cigarettes, but this measure was not part of the final action plan. Described by renowned Stanford University historian Robert Proctor as “the deadliest fraud in the history of human civilization”, filters may mislead people who smoke into believing they have reduced the risks smoking presents.

    In addition, filters do not biodegrade and studies report they cause considerable harm to the environment and impose substantial clean-up costs on local authorities.

    Australia has made important changes that will increase knowledge of smoking’s risks, reduce tobacco companies’ ability to develop cigarette features likely to appeal to young people, and support smoking cessation.

    Meanwhile New Zealand, once a leader in tobacco control policy, is very unlikely to reach the government’s smokefree 2025 goal. Adopting Australia’s policies could support smoking cessation. But there are opportunities to go beyond Australia’s approach; disallowing filters could bring comprehensive health as well as environmental benefits.

    Janet Hoek receives (or has received) funding from the Health Research Council of New Zealand, Royal Society Marsden Fund, NZ Cancer Society and NZ Heart Foundation. She is a member of the Health Coalition Aotearoa’s smokefree expert advisory group and of the Ministry of Health’s smokefree advisory group, a senior editor at Tobacco Control (honorarium paid), and she serves on several other government, NGO and community advisory groups.

    – ref. Australia’s innovative new policies are designed to cut smoking rates – here are 6 ideas NZ could borrow – https://theconversation.com/australias-innovative-new-policies-are-designed-to-cut-smoking-rates-here-are-6-ideas-nz-could-borrow-253717

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Budget delivers significant stamp duty cuts

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A range of new and expanded measures will further support Canberrans to find a home that suits their needs.

    The ACT Government is supporting more Canberrans to buy a home by extending a range of stamp duty concessions and exemptions.

    Funding in the 2024–2025 ACT Budget will save many more first home buyers tens of thousands of dollars when they buy their first home.

    It also includes specific assistance for downsizers, people with a disability and those fleeing domestic violence.

    Home Buyer Concession Scheme

    The ACT Government is making major changes to the Home Buyer Concession Scheme.

    Buyers are eligible for the full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.

    This will save eligible Canberrans up to $34,000 in tax when they purchase their home.

    The Budget expands the scheme from 1 July 2024 to:

    1. increase the income eligibility threshold to $250,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous five years (this is an increase from $170,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous two years)
    2. enable homebuyers with children to earn an additional $4,600 per child and stay eligible (up from an additional $3,330 per child).

    People fleeing family violence can have owned a property in the previous five years.

    Helping more Canberrans buy a new apartment or townhouse

    The Government has also temporarily expanded the stamp duty concession for off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.

    This will begin from 1 July 2024 and will support more Canberrans to buy an apartment or townhouse.

    Currently, homebuyers do not have to pay stamp duty on off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses valued up to $800,000.

    Supporting more housing options in existing suburbs

    The Budget will temporarily extend the RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.

    This will align with the Off-The-Plan Unit Duty Exemption.

    Announced in October 2023, this Scheme applies to the first transfer of unit-titled dwellings on suburban residential (RZ1) blocks.

    It is for purchases valued up to $800,000, between 27 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.

    The announcement coincided with the commencement of the new Territory Plan, which allows dual occupancy developments on large suburban residential blocks (over 800 square metres).

    This extension further supports the development of more dual-occupancy homes in existing suburbs.

    It will create more opportunities for Canberrans to find a home, including people looking to downsize in the suburbs they’ve long called home.

    More support for people with a disability

    The existing Disability Duty Concession Scheme is available to eligible homebuyers with a disability.

    The scheme will be extended from 1 July 2024 to provide a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value, to further support people with a long-term or permanent disability.

    As a result, a partial concession is now available for properties over $1 million. Previously, the scheme was limited to properties valued up to $1 million.

    There will also be a new Severe Disability Duty Exemption from 1 July 2025 to support people with a severe disability, and their carers, to find a home.

    This new exemption will mean people with severe disability and their carers will not have to pay stamp duty if the home they are buying is their principal place of residence.

    The home does not have to be bought by a Special Disability Trust.

    Supporting more pensioners to downsize

    The Government has also extended the Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme from 1 July2024.

    Pensioners will receive a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.

    A partial concession will be available for properties over $1 million.

    This extension will support more pensioners to downsize.

    The existing scheme provides a full stamp duty concession for homes valued up to $550,000, with a decreasing concession to zero for homes valued between $550,000 and $765,000. 

    These 2024-25 ACT Budget initiatives relate to the ACT Wellbeing Framework’s housing and home wellbeing domain.

    For more information, visit the ACT Revenue Office website​​​​​​​.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Committee advances discussions on trade-related climate measures and technology transfer

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Committee advances discussions on trade-related climate measures and technology transfer

    Trade-related climate measures
    Members discussed two new proposals, namely the Republic of Korea’s communication titled “Key Considerations for Trade-related Climate Measures (TrCMs): Suggested approaches toward a sustainable future” and the submission of Djibouti, presented by Burkina Faso, on behalf of least developed countries (LDCs) on “Perspectives on LDC environment-friendly trade and trade-related climate challenges”.
    Members welcomed the two submissions, noting the need to collectively address regulatory fragmentation and trade disruptions arising from the increasing use of TrCMs. Many supported the Republic of Korea’s call to ensure that TrCMs are consistent, interoperable, flexible and transparent, while striking a balance between climate objectives and WTO trade rules.
    Recognizing the challenges that LDCs face in adapting to trade-related climate policies, members emphasized the importance of addressing their specific needs and ensuring fair, equitable trade. They called for stronger support in technology transfer, capacity building and other measures to enhance LDCs’ economic situation, trade and climate resilience.
    As a follow-up to thematic sessions on TrCMs and guiding questions from the Committee Chair (Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland), members also engaged in a substantive discussion on the way forward in addressing TrCMs in the Committee.
    Technology transfer
    On 1 April, the Committee held its 5th thematic session on technology transfer. The co-coordinators, Ms. Chanikarn Dispadung of Thailand and Mr. Richard Tarasofsky of Canada, briefed members on the key takeaways from the session.
    They said the session addressed a wide spectrum of challenges and opportunities in environmental technology transfer, fostering experience-sharing among international organizations, member governments and the private sector. Speakers identified key barriers to technology transfer, including high costs and technical requirements; supply, demand and knowledge/IP gaps; and the need for adequate funding and innovative financing mechanisms.
    Other identified barriers included stakeholder engagement and trust; infrastructure; and market size for technology absorption.  Best practices and successful approaches were also highlighted. These included needs-based and locally tailored solutions; public-private partnerships; South-South collaboration; innovative financing mechanisms; and possibilities for integrating climate technology and governance frameworks.
    Delegates emphasized the importance of tailored solutions that adapt to local contexts, with enabling conditions like skilled labour, investment and regulatory frameworks. Concrete recommendations were made for WTO action, including coordination and knowledge-sharing with relevant international organizations, as well as more targeted technical assistance through existing frameworks such as Aid for Trade.
    The thematic session series, launched in November 2023 at the request of members, serves as a platform to deepen understanding of specific issues of interest through concrete case studies and practical experience sharing. Previous sessions have addressed topics such as the clean energy transition and trade-related climate measures.
    All presentations and the co-moderators’ report from the 5th thematic session are available here.
    Transparency and information sharing
    As part of WTO “reform by doing”, the Committee followed up on a proposal from Barbados, Colombia, India, Grenada, Paraguay, Singapore, St. Kitts and Nevis, the United Kingdom and Uruguay to further improve “Administrative processes to enhance clarity and accessibility of information”.  
    Moreover, at the request of a group of members — Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Japan, India, Paraguay and the United States — the WTO Secretariat provided a briefing on its current and planned workstreams related to trade and environment, covering activities across various WTO divisions and with outside organizations. Members appreciated the detailed briefing provided. They reaffirmed the value of regular updates and suggested exploring ways to enhance two-way communication. Additionally, members continued discussions on improving other processes to ensure greater clarity and accessibility of information within the Committee and across committees.
    Additionally, the WTO Secretariat presented the 2023 update to the WTO Environmental Database.
    The Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) presented outcomes from the 2024 Climate Change Conference (COP29) and outlined preliminary plans for COP30, scheduled for November 2025 in Brazil. The WTO Secretariat also provided an update on its initial preparations for COP30, noting that planning is still in the early stages. The Secretariat will continue to keep members informed of any developments.
    More information about the WTO Secretariat at COP29 is available here.
    Other
    Members were further briefed on developments regarding the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade (DPP) and the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD).
    The European Union provided an update on its Green Deal, highlighting recent regulatory changes aimed at simplifying processes and reducing compliance burdens for businesses. Members welcomed the update and reiterated concerns about the trade impact of key measures, particularly the EU Deforestation Regulation and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
    Parties to the Agreement on Climate Change, Trade, and Sustainability (ACCTS) — Costa Rica, Iceland, New Zealand and Switzerland — briefed the Committee on the key features (JOB/TE/93) of ACCTS as an innovative agreement on trade, climate change and environmental sustainability. Trade liberalization in environmental goods and services under the Agreement will be extended to all WTO members on a non-discriminatory basis.
    The UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development presented their latest work related to trade and the environment.
    Next meeting
    The next Committee meeting will take place during “WTO Trade and Environment Week,” scheduled for 30 June to 4 July 2025.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Donald Trump has gatecrashed the federal election. It’s creating huge challenges for Australia’s next government

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Strating, Director, La Trobe Asia, and Professor of International Relations, La Trobe University

    Much of the world is finding out it’s a very difficult time to be a friend and ally of the United States.

    That includes the major parties vying for power at the May 3 federal election. While voters may be preoccupied with the cost of living, it’s impossible to ignore the global tumult caused by the second Trump administration.

    Who would have thought six months ago that the US would vote alongside Russia and North Korea on UN resolutions on Ukraine, while China abstained? Or that it would propose transforming Gaza into a Mediterranean resort?

    Given the uncertainty reverberating across the globe, do we need to rethink our major foreign relations? Will the ANZUS alliance survive the second Trump presidency unscathed?

    Whoever forms Australia’s next government must diversify its approach to foreign policy to include more engagement with partners in Asia and the Pacific. It does not mean abandoning the US alliance, but it does mean avoiding over-reliance.

    Friends like these

    US President Donald Trump’s widespread imposition of tariffs is unravelling the global economic order.

    Australia was not specifically singled out for punishment. Nevertheless, the 10% slug on Australian imports prompted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to condemn the tariffs as illogical:

    they go against the basis of our two nations’ partnership. This is not the act of a friend.

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was equally frank when he complained about Australia’s poor treatment:

    We have a special relationship with the United States and it hasn’t been treated with respect by the administration or the president.

    We have been let off relatively lightly compared with many other economies. But there may be an unforeseen strategic impact on Australia. For example, will other countries in our region decide that China is a more trustworthy partner than the US? What would that do for regional stability?

    Dutton has questioned whether Albanese has the right character as leader to deal effectively with Trump.

    It is unlikely any Australian prime minister could have done much to avoid the tariffs. We should consider the possibility that Trump doesn’t think much about Australia, which will shape the bilateral relationship for the foreseeable future.

    US vs China

    Trump himself remains the wild card. His administration has prioritised ending the war in Ukraine, alienating European allies along the way.

    The question for partners in Asia, including Australia, is whether the US is clearing the decks in Europe so it can focus on its main competitor: China. There are plenty of Beijing hawks in the administration, and China has been slapped with the steepest tariffs, which total 54%.

    In Australia, we often worry about being dragged into a great power conflict in the region. And we do appear to be entering a world of even more rapid militarisation, with all the security risks that would entail.

    The signing of the AUKUS submarine agreement in 2021 was one of the clearest signals to date that Australia was siding unequivocally with Washington. In the same year, Dutton declared it “inconceivable” Australia would not join the US in defending Taiwan if it was attacked by China.

    But now, there is an entirely different issue Australia needs to consider. The US rapprochement with Russia might be interpreted as a portent of future deal-making with other authoritarian leaders, including Xi Jinping.

    We can’t rule out Trump and Xi cutting a highly transactional deal on Chinese annexation of Taiwan. While this is unlikely, the security calculus now needs to incorporate a diverse range of plausible futures that previously seemed off the table.

    A Taiwan bargain would make regional partners, including Australia, extremely nervous. If the US is willing to abandon Taiwan, it might be willing to abandon other allies as well.

    Higher defence spending

    The recent transit through Australian waters by Chinese naval vessels focused attention on whether Australian defence capabilities are sufficient to protect our coastline – and whether the Albanese government’s response was too tepid.

    Yet, it is the opposition that has tempered its rhetoric on China, notwithstanding its policy commitment to end the 99-year lease of the Port of Darwin to Chinese firm Landbridge.

    Peter Dutton has declared himself to be “pro-China”:

    the relationship with China will be much stronger than it is under the Albanese government

    This reflects lessons learned from the last election when a stronger tone on China hurt the Coalition among Mandarin-speaking voters.

    Rather than talking up the China threat, the narrative is instead around the need to increase defence spending.

    The Trump administration wants Australia to share more of the burden by lifting defence spending above 3% of GDP. Such a ramp-up may not be feasible in financial terms.

    While Australia does need to boost military capabilities, increased spending should be determined by independent, evidence-based assessments of Australia’s defence needs.

    Alliance will endure

    Neither major party is questioning the alliance, which will survive the second coming of Trump. Nor will there be any debate over the AUKUS submarines, for which there is bipartisan support.

    Any difference between Labor and the Coalition is likely to be on the periphery. However, one important difference will be how the respective parties think about our region. As Dutton recently demonstrated, the Coalition is less focused than Labor on relations with Asia.

    While Trump is sucking up much of the oxygen in Australia’s foreign relations, we simply cannot afford to forget about our partners throughout the Asia-Pacific.

    This is the second article in our special series, Australia’s Policy Challenges. You can read the first piece in the series here.

    Rebecca Strating receives funding from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    – ref. Donald Trump has gatecrashed the federal election. It’s creating huge challenges for Australia’s next government – https://theconversation.com/donald-trump-has-gatecrashed-the-federal-election-its-creating-huge-challenges-for-australias-next-government-251912

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More affordable and public housing for Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The ACT Government is increasing housing supply, access and choice to meet the needs of our growing city.

    This year’s Budget makes significant investments to deliver more housing in Canberra – particularly for those who need it most.

    The Budget includes:

    • expanding the Affordable Housing Project Fund to $80 million to grow the number of affordable rental properties
    • $108 million in extra funding for new public housing, and to improve existing public housing – this takes the Housing ACT Capital Works Program to over $530 million over four years
    • a taskforce to improve repairs and maintenance of public housing and oversee a pilot for insourcing maintenance of two large multi‑unit properties.

    These initiatives will help ensure the right mix of housing options to suit a range of household incomes. It will also meet the housing needs of a growing Canberra, which is on track to reach 500,000 people by 2027.

    Affordable Housing Project Fund

    This Budget provides a significant boost to the Affordable Housing Project Fund, established last year.

    The Fund has so far supported six projects, which will deliver 280 affordable rentals.

    ACT Housing Strategy 5-Year Snapshot

    The Government has today released the ACT Housing Strategy 5-Year Snapshot.

    This outlines what has been achieved so far under the ACT Housing Strategy 2018–2028.

    The funding in this year’s Budget will support the Government’s commitment to provide another 600 affordable rentals and 400 public housing dwellings.

    Find more information on increasing housing choice, access and affordability in the ACT.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 60 new places to eat

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    In brief:

    • This story includes more than 60 new places to eat across Canberra.
    • Since this story was published, more eateries have opened. Find 35 (more) new places to eat.

    Canberra’s food scene gets better each year. 2024 is no exception, with a huge array of eateries opening in the last 12 months.

    Whether you’re on the lookout for a fresh new favourite in your neighbourhood, or prepared to venture across town, there are plenty of options to choose from.

    Central Canberra

    Mínima, Yarralumla

    The latest venture from the team behind Morks showcases Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine. Grab takeaway noodles for lunch or dine-in from lunch. There’s a tasting menu or a la carte menu to choose from.

    Cafe Sosta, Yarralumla

    This Italian cafe is about as close to the water as you can get. Enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin while you indulge in dishes like breakfast risotto, pistachio cream filled croissants or  fresh paninis.

    Lil Mama’s, Kingston

    Lil Mama’s is more than just a cafe, it’s a gathering spot for local creatives. That being said, you will find delicious sandwiches, bagels, coffee, matacha lattes, sweet treats and more to enjoy at this waterside spot.

    Petite Saigon, Canberra City

    Verity Lane Market has a new vendor offering fresh, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find classics like Vietname bread rolls, rice noodle soup, rice/vermicelli diesh and rice paper rolls.

    Taco Boi, Braddon

    The latest addition to Canberra’s thriving Mexican food scene is serving up tacos, burgers and wings.  Vegans will love their plant-based chicken burger or cauliflower tacos. There are also options for pescetarians and carnivores, plus sides like waffle or shoestring fries, jalapeno poppers and mozarella fingers.

    Recess Coffee, Griffith

    From the great minds behind Ter and Barrio comes this suburban all-day dining destination. Recess roast their own beans, so you know the coffee is excellent. With sandwiches, pancakes, pasta dishes and sweet treats on the menu, there’s almost certainly something to cure your cravings.

    The Peacemaker Saloon, Braddon

    Mort Street’s latest addition is a western saloon-style bar. Visit for American Southwestern food, craft cocktails, whiskey and more.

    Good neighbours are invaluable. But a Good Neighbour serving up coffee, breakfast and lunch seven days a week? Worth its weight in gold. Try the strawberry matcha, shakshouka or chilli crab folded eggs.

    After a hiatus that lasted a few years, Crack Bakery is making a comeback. The team behind Pâtissez and Cartel are serving up their beloved pies as well as cookies. Orders can be made exclusively online with pickup at their kitchen at Canberra Airport.

    This freshly opened boutique wine bar on Lonsdale Street also serves food and cocktails. Think cheese platters, charcuterie boards, hearty mains and desserts. The menu also includes non-alcoholic options.

    Catbird’s menu is inspired by the fresh cuisine of sunny Southern California. There are breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, sweet things and coffee. There’s also a kid’s menu.

    Sweet tooths will love the range of flavours at this New York-inspired donut shop. There are filled options like Biscoff or lemon meringue, or traditional glazed donuts.

    Rakkas is a modern Turkish restaurant on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. The menu includes flavourful authentic Turkish dishes like dips and Turkish bread, fried halloumi with honeycomb, chargrilled spatchcock and more.

    This Lebanese restaurant is perfect for casual family dining or group celebrations. The mains are perfect for sharing: choose from a grill platter, shawarma meta, a vegetarian mixed plate and more.

    If you’re a meat eater with a big appetite, you’ll love this Korean barbeque spot. Choose your proteins and sides and then barbeque right at the table. There are also rice and noodle dishes, soups and stews.

    Italian and Sons is a longstanding Canberra favourite. Their new focaccia bar is open from 11:30am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Friday and includes pillowy, fresh focaccia (with a gluten-free option, too!).

    Compa is Matt Moran’s foray into the Canberra dining scene. Steaks are the focus of the menu, accompanied by a fine selection of entrees, sides and desserts.

    &Sando is also a Matt Moran creation. It’s a sandwich bar that uses bread (and stocks pastry) from local bakery Under. Their sandwiches range includes elevated classics filled with fresh ingredients.

    This new café is run by Illy Coffee and the team behind Pizza Artigiana. Their pastry case is filled with sfogliatelle (an Italian pastry with a ricotta citrus filling), cannoli and croissants.

    Alia is the spot for family-style Greek dining. Bring a big appetite and choose from slow-cooked lamb gyros, lobster linguine, chicken souvlaki, and baklava cheesecake.

    Donuts, cookies and pastries abound at this Dickson dessert spot. Flavours range from the traditional (hot cinnamon and jam) to the unique (bubblegum, iced vovo and earl grey rose).

    No need to journey to Wamboin to visit Contentious Character Winery. Their new location in Fyshwick’s Dairy Road precinct offers wine tastings, coffee and dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner (including tapas).

    Gourmet sandwiches are the main offering of this New York-style deli. There are also breakfast options including pancakes and a sausage or bacon and egg roll. Sandwiches come fresh or hot, with options like a schnitty roll, beef and pickle and tuna melt.

    Bada Bing has a retro charm that’s perfect for date nights or private dining. Dishes are designed to share and include antipasti, pizza, pasta and more.

    Kingston Foreshore’s newest spot is open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway. The menu includes a mushroom croissant, Turkish eggs, chicken porridge and a crab omelette.

    Pick up a coffee from Howie Espresso and don’t leave without one of their delicious grab-and-go options. Breakfast options include muesli and yoghurt, bircher muesli, chia breakfast bowls and muffins. Sandwiches, bagels, and wraps are on offer for lunch.

    The beloved Mexican food truck now has a permanent shop on Lonsdale Street. The menu boasts authentic Mexican flavours with items like tacos, empanadas and gorditas.

    Tangy, refreshing frozen yoghurt has arrived on Lonsdale Street. Moo Moo has a big range of frozen yoghurt flavours that can be customised with toppings and sauces.

    A third generation Thai eatery serving lunch on weekdays. Dishes are simple but flavourful and include chicken green curry, spicy pumpkin curry and pad thai.

    The Farrer location is a long-time favourite, and Fox and Bow has now arrived in the Inner South. Breakfast, brunch, lunch or just a coffee, everything on the menu is a winner.

    A post shared by Rosa’s at The Lawns (@rosascbr)

    Whether you’re after a pastry and a coffee or a pizza and a wine, this outdoor garden bar is sure to please. The food is delicious and the scenery is delightful.

    Not strictly new, but recently reopened. Milky Lane is back with its loaded burgers, crispy fried chicken and decadent desserts.

    Mediterranean food seems to be having a moment in Canberra, and Kivoto’s is another must-eat destination to add to your list. Pair flavourful Greek cuisine with a drop from their impressive wine list.

    Sample the flavours of Europe without leaving Canberra. This bistro in the Realm hotel precinct has a stunning interior with an outdoor terrace to match. Visit for lunch or dinner or try their high tea offering.

    Another new addition to the Realm precinct is Med, where Lebanese, Turkish and Greek cuisine collide. It’s a hit with carnivores and also offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

    Wonderburger brings the vintage American diner experience to Canberra. There are 10 different burgers to choose from, plus hot dogs, fried chicken, chips, sides and soft serve.

    Fine dining aficionados will love this industrial-style restaurant. It has an ever-changing menu that showcases seasonal local produce.

    Visit Pialligo’s newest dining destination for farmhouse-style share plates. Enjoy produce from the farm as well as regional growers.

    Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo

    Three Mills has locations spread across Canberra, and now Woden Valley residents and workers can get their fix. Enjoy coffee, pastries, freshly baked bread and more.

    Torrens shops is quickly becoming a foodie haven. Saint Elmo is a deli and coffee shop that sells freshly baked goods, a curated selection of meats and cheeses, fresh pasta and sauces.

    Two Before Ten is another Canberra favourite, and it has now landed in the Molonglo Valley. Visit for coffee, breakfast, brunch or lunch.

    Stop by the Spit Shack food truck at Weston Classic Car Wash for smokey barbeque fare. The menu includes rolls, buns, fries, hot dogs and more.

    Gungahlin

    Goodberry’s, Franklin

    Gungahlin residents can now get their fix of frozen custard concretes. Choose from one of the delicious flavours or mix it up with different sauces,  fudges, nuts, fruits, and toppings.

    The Bakehouse, Mitchell

    The Bakehouse has reopened under new management and their fresh menu is bursting with delicious options. Pick up a coffee or raspberry matcha latte and treat yourself to some comfort food.

    GoTato, Gungahlin

    Love potato? Whether you’re after a quick snack or a filling meal, GoTato offers crinkle cut chips, sweet potato fries, potato scallops, waffle fries, potato tots and hot dogs.

    The newest CocoNine restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday. Get all your Thai favourites including salads, curries, noodles, stir fries and more. There is also a vegan section of the menu.

    If you can barely summon the energy to venture out for coffee in the morning, you’re in luck. Kickstart Espresso has opened a drive-thru coffee shop in Belconnen. In addition to your caffeine fix, you can also pick up smoothies, toasties, muffins and more.

    This suburban gem offers pick-up and delivery. Choose from traditional options and modern Aussie favourites (chooks and bacon pizza, anyone?).

    A new family-friendly pub from the team behind The Knox Made in Watson. They showcase local produce through their menu which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.

    A modern takeaway shop with a menu that’s regularly updated. Past items have included crispy pork ribs, laksa, authentic mapo tofu, and Chinese sausage fried rice.

    This ramen bar has a plant-based menu that features tofu, Japanese sweet potato and seasonal vegetables. They also have an extensive menu of non-alcoholic drinks.

    This all-you-can-eat Korean buffet includes self-service bars for hotpot, cupbap, and fried rice, as well as other choices like ramen and noodles, and unlimited drinks.

    Open seven days a week, Aby Coffee Couse have coffee, muffins, pastries and sandwiches.

    Tuggeranong

    L’épi opened its Kambah store towards the end of last year, and it’s become a firm favourite of residents. They make fresh bread, pretzels, pastries, cakes and more.

    Brodburger is iconically Canberran, and it’s now easily available to southside residents. From traditional burgers to salmon, lamb, and veg, there’s something for everyone.

    Dine in or takeaway from Fricken Chicken in Tuggeranong. In addition to their famous fried chicken, they also have a children’s playground and coeliac safe fried chicken.

    Ureshii opened last year and has been satisfying Tuggeranong’s Japanese cravings. Tasty lunch bowls, sushi, udon noodle soup, gyoza and katsu chicken all feature on the menu.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: More than a department store: The long, complicated legacy behind Hudson’s Bay Company

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Heather Whiteside, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waterloo

    The bankruptcy of the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) is often framed as the fall of “Canada’s oldest company.” Media narratives typically treat HBC as if it were a straightforward retail firm, albeit one with an exceptionally long history.

    But HBC was always more than a hinterland mercantile fur trader in earlier centuries, just as it was more than a department store anchoring downtown shopping in the 20th century.

    Like the beaver it nearly wiped out, HBC made Canada into its home by fundamentally transforming its environment, and no bankruptcy court will liquidate that legacy. Still, that legacy is more complex than many might assume.



    Read more:
    Hudson’s Bay liquidation: What happens when a company goes bankrupt?

    HBC and the making of Canada

    HBC’s initials have sometimes been jokingly elaborated as “here before Christ.” But if we were to take a more secular tone, we might instead say it was “here before Canada,” initiating some of the country’s basic economic and political institutions.

    In 1670, England’s King Charles II granted 18 investors the power to make laws, monopolize trade, enforce penalties and establish colonies in Rupert’s Land. Some four million square kilometres, this land grant centred on Hudson Bay but ranged from Labrador in the northeast to the Prairies in the southwest.

    Along with establishing fur-trading posts populated by transient servants, the company created its own colonies. In 1811, HBC shareholder Thomas Douglas (Lord Selkirk) organized the first settlers in the Prairies at Red River, now Winnipeg. Forty years later, in 1851, HBC’s former chief factor James Douglas took charge of developing Victoria on Vancouver Island.

    Of course, Indigenous Peoples were in these areas before long before Canada and long before HBC was. To secure its investments and protect its settlers, HBC representatives negotiated the first treaties with Indigenous Peoples west of the Great Lakes.

    The 1817 Selkirk Treaty at Red River and the 14 Douglas Treaties on Vancouver Island in the 1850s are examples of HBC’s expansive role in settler colonialism. Overlooked for some time, the Douglas Treaties are now shaping jurisprudence.

    Whereas the infamous HBC striped point blankets may be living room décor for some, for others they represented currency exchanged for long-ignored Indigenous land rights.

    Likewise, transferring the six-storey, 94-year-old HBC department store in downtown Winnipeg to 34 First Nations in 2022 might be seen as a form of reconciliation. However, the company itself indicated “shifting consumer behaviour” was the reason for the handover.

    Land and sovereignty

    Beyond its treaties with Indigenous Peoples and support for settler farmers, HBC is further implicated in the formation of Canadian sovereign territory writ large.

    If asked to name famous real estate transactions formative for state-making in North America, one might readily think of Louisiana or Alaska, but Canada, too, was created through purchase. HBC sold Rupert’s Land to the government of Canada for $1.5 million in 1869, forming a significant portion of what we now know as modern-day Canada.

    Hudson’s Bay kept roughly seven million acres after the sale, ensuring it would remain a significant force well into the 20th century. Writing of its lands in the Success Belt in the Prairies, HBC argued:

    “This land, with a cash payment, was retained as recompense for over 200 years of exploration, pioneering, and trading which the Company had done and without which Canada, as she is today, would not exist.”

    Incremental HBC land sales over the coming decades were accompanied by catchy slogans like Victoria as “The Garden of Canada” or Edmonton as Canada’s “Farthest West.”

    HBC pamphlets advertised wharves, orchards, gardens, houses, estates, seashore lots, residential subdivisions, hotels and businesses in coastal and interior British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northern Ontario.

    It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the company parted with its remaining residential acreages in Winnipeg in 1954 and Victoria in 1961.

    A legacy that outlasts a ledger

    The timing of the HBC’s bankruptcy dovetails with renewed anxieties about American annexation as U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly threatens to turn Canada into the 51st state.

    Such annexation anxieties are nothing new for Canada.



    Read more:
    Canada as a 51st state? Republicans would never win another general election

    In the 1850s, United Kingdom parliamentary support for the HBC monopoly was driven in part by a desire to counter American influence. One English MP warned in 1857 that if the HBC’s trade between the Red River colony and London were to end, “the whole of it would be transferred to the United States.”

    Later, the Canadian federal government would use HBC to shore up its sovereignty claims in the High Arctic. In 1953 and 1955, more than 90 Inuit from northern Québec were forcefully relocated to the High Arctic. A government apology in February acknowledged the harm caused by the relocations, but the HBC’s decades-long role in instigating and organizing Inuit relocations was conspicuously omitted.

    As Canadians look to protect the country from foreign threats, it helps to know how the country came to be in the first place. The long-running and multi-faceted role of the HBC is an integral part of Canada’s story; it has always been more than just a company.

    Now saddled with $1 billion of debt, HBC’s demise seems inevitable. But its endurance beyond the original 1670 stockholders’ £4,720 investment speaks to its lasting impact. The HBC legacy will surely shape whatever’s next in store for Canada.

    Heather Whiteside receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. More than a department store: The long, complicated legacy behind Hudson’s Bay Company – https://theconversation.com/more-than-a-department-store-the-long-complicated-legacy-behind-hudsons-bay-company-253818

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: International Jazz Day 2025 All-Star Global Concert (Abu Dhabi, UAE) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The global celebration of International Jazz Day 2025 culminates in Abu Dhabi, a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

    Led by iconic pianist Herbie Hancock and hosted by Academy Award-winning actor Jeremy Irons, this concert will bring together an extraordinary lineup of renowned jazz, blues, classical, and hip-hop artists from around the world.

    Among those set to perform: Arqam Al Abri (UAE), John Beasley (USA), Dee Dee Bridgewater (USA), A Bu (China), Terri Lyne Carrington (USA), Kurt Elling (USA), José James (USA), Rhani Krija (Morocco), John McLaughlin (UK), Hélène Mercier (France/Canada), Marcus Miller (USA), Linda May Han Oh (Australia), John Pizzarelli (USA), Dianne Reeves (USA), Arturo Sandoval (USA), Naseer Shamma (Iraq), Danilo Pérez (Panama), and Varijashree Venugopal (India). Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

    About the International Jazz Day:

    Established by the General Conference of UNESCO in 2011 and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day brings together countries and communities worldwide every April 30. The annual International Jazz Day celebration highlights the power of jazz and its role in promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity and respect for human dignity.

    International Jazz Day has become a global movement reaching more than 2 billion people annually on all continents through education programs, performances, community outreach, radio, television and streaming, along with electronic, print and social media. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is the lead nonprofit organization charged with planning, promoting and producing International Jazz Day each year.

    “We are thrilled to celebrate this International day on a high note in the UNESCO Creative City of Music Abu Dhabi. This edition will highlight the city’s rich tapestry of creativity and cultural heritage while showcasing jazz’s ability to connect communities and promote dialogue and peace across continents.” Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General.

    More information: https://jazzday.com/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2m0Zq5wEQM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN SHARE TIMELESS TIES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Source: Government of India

    INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN SHARE TIMELESS TIES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA AND UZBEKISTAN NEED TO DEEPEN COLLABORATION IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, RENEWABLE ENERGY, AND PEACEFUL NUCLEAR ENERGY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA UPHOLDS UNIVERSAL ETHOS OF ‘VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM’ AND ‘SARVJAN HITAY’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT OF UZBEKISTAN

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER MEETS PRESIDING OFFICERS OF PARTICIPATING PARLIAMENTS IN TASHKENT ON THE SIDELINES OF THE 150TH ASSEMBLY OF IPU

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER AND MEMBERS OF INDIAN DELEGATION PAY FLORAL TRIBUTES AT THE BUST OF FORMER PRIME MINISTER SHRI LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI IN TASHKENT

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 11:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today said that India and Uzbekistan share timeless ties of history and heritage.  He emphasized that this age-old cooperation between the two countries need to be expanded in emerging fields like digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and nuclear energy, alongside traditional sectors. Shri Birla made these remarks during his meeting with the President of Uzbekistan, H.E. Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in Tashkent on the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union, today.

    Underlining India’s ancient democratic traditions, Shri Birla mentioned that guided by the Constitution, India has continually expanded its democratic values and prioritized social inclusion. He added that India has strengthened democracy at the grassroots level by ensuring 33 percent reservation for women in its local level governance. Shri Birla informed that by introducing the “Nari Shakti Vandan Act” as the first law in the new Parliament building, India not only reiterated its commitment to its democratic ethos but also ensured greater representation of women in state and central legislatures. 

    Shri Birla observed that India the values of “VasudhaivaKutumbakam” (The World is One Family) and “SarvajanHitaya” (For the Welfare of All) are inseparable part of Indian tradition and the Constitution of India is also inspired by these values. Mentioning that last year, India marked the completion of 75 of Constitution, Shri Birla noted that the numerous enabling laws passed by the Indian Parliament have been pivotal in realizing wide ranging socio-economic changes in India.

    Stressing on the elevation of Indo-Uzbek relationship to a Strategic Partnership and the addition of new dimensions in recent years, Shri Birla underlined that both nations have strengthened cooperation in various areas like, economy, defense, education, and trade. He noted India is now one of Uzbekistan’s 10 largest trade partners. Shri Birla also highlighted the importance of increasing Parliamentary cooperation between the two Parliaments to exchange ideas on mutual interests and strengthen people-to-people contacts. He proposed promoting parliamentary exchanges in order to help both countries’ officials better understand each other’s systems and best practices.

    In addition, Shri Birla appreciated the growing interest in Indian culture in Uzbekistan, particularly in music, dance, and yoga, as well as the increasing number of Indian students in Uzbek educational institutions. He expressed confidence that this meeting would enhance the diplomatic and parliamentary relations between India and Uzbekistan, marking a new chapter in their collaborative efforts.

    Shri Birla and members of Indian delegation also paid floral tributes at the bust of the former Prime Minister of India Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent. 

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CONGRATULATES UZBEKISTAN FOR SUCCESSFULLY HOSTING 150TH IPU ASSEMBLY

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla also met Chairperson of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan, H.E. Ms. Tanzila Norbaeva in Tashkent on Sunday on the sidelines of the 150th IPU. He congratulated the Chairperson for successfully hosting the Assembly and for the warm welcome accorded to the Indian Parliamentary Delegation. Mentioning Uzbekistan’s progress in various sectors, Shri Birla highlighted the growing and strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Uzbekistan.

    Shri Birla noted that both countries share deep historical connections and have fostered collaboration in various multilateral forums such as the SCO, the UN, and BRICS. Shri Birla also emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in emerging fields like digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and nuclear energy, alongside traditional sectors.

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR EXPANDING COOPERATION BETWEEN THE PARLIAMENTS OF INDIA AND ISRAEL

    A day before at Tashkent, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with Speaker of the Israeli Knesset (Parliament) H.E. Mr. Amir Ohana. On this occasion, Shri Birla fondly recalled the pleasant memories of their previous meeting in New Delhi in April 2023 and acknowledged Mr. Ohana’s extraordinary contributions to Israel’s development.

    He highlighted the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Israel, based on shared democratic values and mutual aspirations. He added that both countries have strengthened their ties through high level leadership meetings and collaborative efforts in various sectors, such as technology, agriculture, and defense. He commended the establishment of a parliamentary friendship group between India and Israel, recognizing it as a significant step toward enhancing parliamentary cooperation.

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR REGULAR DIALOGUES AND SHARING BEST PRACTICES BETWEEN PARLIAMENTS OF INDIA AND KAZAKHSTAN

    On Sunday, on the sidelines of the 150th IPU Assembly, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla held a bilateral meeting with the Chairperson of the Mazhilis of Kazakhstan H.E. Mr. YerlanKoshanov. Shri Birla at the congratulated Kazakhstan on the 30th anniversary of its Constitution and highlighted that India also celebrated 75 years of the adoption of its Constitution the previous year, marking a significant milestone in both countries’ democratic journeys.

    He also emphasized that India’s progress in the past 75 years has been guided by constitutional values aimed at building a welfare state. Shri Birla proposed that the parliaments of India and Kazakhstan establish regular dialogues to exchange best practices and enhance cooperation. He acknowledged the growing political and economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in defense, security, digital technology, energy, and space.

    ***

    AM

     

    (Release ID: 2119920) Visitor Counter : 55

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon, Huffman, and Van Hollen Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Fully Fund Special Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Today, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jared Huffman (CA-02) and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) reintroduced the bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act to ensure all children with disabilities can access a free, high-quality public education.In 1975, Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) to provide these essential educational opportunities, and this legislation ensures that Congress fulfills its commitment.

    Under IDEA, the federal government committed to pay 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for special education. However, that pledge has never been met, and current funding is below 13 percent. The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEA spending to finally meet our obligation to America’s children and schools. It is cosponsored by more than 30 Senators and over 60 House members. Text of the IDEA Full Funding Act can be viewed here.

    “This bipartisan legislation is fulfilling a long overdue promise made by the federal government to support students with disabilities by funding 40% of the cost of special education,” said Rep. Don Bacon. “For far too long that commitment has gone unfulfilled, and now we are taking action to deliver on that promise. I’m honored to co-lead the reintroduction of the IDEA Full Funding Act.”

    “While we’ve made substantial progress to fund special education services in recent years, we still have important work left to do to live up to the original commitment Congress made,” said Rep. Jared Huffman. “All children – no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor – should be able to access a full, exceptional education, and this legislation will help school districts provide thenecessary resources to make this vision a reality. The current chronic underfunding leaves an unfair burden on students, teachers, schools, and families.Our bill holds up the federal government’s end of the bargain to fully fund special education services on apermanent basis and set all students up for long-term success.”

    “Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with disabilities and their families – but we have fallen short of that promise every year since. While Donald Trump and Elon Musk are illegally gutting public education in America, we are fighting to strengthen it. Our bill will ensure that Congress finally meets its commitment to fully fund IDEA, putting us closer to delivering equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    Rep. Huffman requested $16.3 million for IDEA Part B Grants to States in FY2024, taking a key step toward securing full federal funding. He will continue to advocate for more federal funding in the upcoming FY2025 appropriations cycle, ensuring that every child can access the resources they need to succeed.

    This bill is co-led in the House by Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), and Mike Bost (IL-12). 

    “As the Trump Administration slashes support for students with disabilities by dismantling the Department of Education, I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing legislation that mandates increased IDEA funding. Together with parents, teachers, and education advocates, we will hold the President accountable for his reckless attacks on accessible education and make sure every kid has the chance to learn, grow, and–ultimately–succeed,” said House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse.

    “For too long, the federal government has fallen short on its commitment to share the cost of education with states for individuals with special needs, placing an unfair burden on schools, teachers, and families,” said Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson. “The IDEA Full Funding Act reaffirms our promise and makes IDEAwhole over the next 10 years. This is a positive step toward ensuring every student with disabilities receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

    “As the mother of a child who benefited from special education, I know firsthand just how lifechanging these programs can be for Minnesota students and their families,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “I’m proud to be co-leading this bipartisan legislation to fully fund special education programs and ensure our special educators and paraprofessionals have the resources they need to keep up this critical work.”

    “Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to a high-quality education and a fair opportunity to succeed,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), leaving schools and families to shoulder the burden. We’re working to change that through the bipartisan, bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act—legislation that will ensure students in Bucks and Montgomery counties, and across the nation, have access to the full range of resources, support, and high-quality education they need to reach their fullest potential.”

    “Parents of kids with special needs are fresh off of fighting for their kids during COVID, and we won’t stop. We know that every kid has needs – and gifts. No one is disposable and we’re tired of having to fight for the crumbs. Fully fund IDEA. Now,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum.

    “For many parents, raising a child with a disability is a full-time job. Every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, deserves the opportunity to develop skills that will help them lead fulfilling lives. That’s why I’m a proud co-lead of the IDEA Full Funding Act,” said Rep. Eric Swalwell. “Parents have to fight too damn hard to get their child the resources they need, and Congress has fallen short of our promise to support all students as they learn essential skills for adulthood. This bill would require regular mandatory increases in spending to match the needs of America’s classrooms. Fully funding IDEA is a big step in bringing down barriers and stepping up our students for success.”

    “For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its funding commitment to students with special needs, forcing schools to subsidize rising special education costs with general education funds,” said Rep. Pete Stauber. “This leaves every student at a disadvantage. As the parent of a child with special needs, I am proud to continue the fight to ensure Congress fulfills its promise to our special needs students and their parents, so our educators can strengthen special education services while meeting the needs of every American student.”

    This legislation is supported by a broad and diverse group of over 70 national and localorganizations, including by the School Superintendents Association (AASA), theAssociation of School Business Officials International (ASBO), and the Council for Exceptional Children.

    “I see firsthand the critical role special education plays in shaping the future of our students. With the growing needs of students with disabilities, it is more important than ever that we fully fund IDEA. Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to the education and support they need to thrive. I urge Congress to please find it in their hearts to vote this critical legislation through and support all our beautiful children across this great nation,” said Jaime Green, Superintendent of Trinity Alps Unified School District (TAUSD).

    “AASA is proud to support the IDEA Full Funding Act being introduced today. We strongly support this legislation as a key priority in strengthening our nation’s schools and supporting them in their work to ensure all students—regardless of ability—have an opportunity to access a high-quality education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) represents a critical commitment to help level the playing field for historically disadvantaged populations, students with disabilities. We are proud to endorse the IDEA Full Funding Act, being introduced in both the House and Senate this week, for its work to hold Congress accountable and create a clear path and plan of action. We thank Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Thompson and Huffman for their leadership on this important issue,” said AASA Executive Director Dr. David R. Schuler.

    “School districts everywhere are facing significant financial strain as they strive to educate and serve all students, including those with disabilities. Fully funding IDEA would help schools keep up with rising costs to effectively assess and respond to increasing needs, attract and retain specialized instructional support personnel, and provide assistive equipment and technology to help students learn and succeed,” said Elleka Yost, ASBO Director of Advocacy & Research.

    “As the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) turns 50 years old this year, now is the perfect time for Congress to make good on its pledge to fully fund IDEA,” said Chad Rummel, executive director of the Council for Exceptional Children. “We thank Sen. Van Hollen, Reps. Huffman and Thompson, and all the bill cosponsors for introducing this bill to provide the resources needed to support the infants, toddlers, children and youth served under IDEA,” said Kuna Tavalin, Senior Advisor at the Council for Exceptional Children.

    Additional cosponsors in the House include Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Mike Bost (IL-12), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Jim Costa (CA-21), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jason Crow (CO-06), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jim Himes (CT-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John Mannion (NY-22),Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DL-AL), Lisa McClain (MI-09), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01),Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08),Josh Riley (NY-19),AndreaSalinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), PeteStauber (MN-08), Marilyn Strickland(WA-10), Eric Swalwell, (CA-14),Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

    The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The bill is also supported by: The School Superintendents Association (AASA), AFT, AFL-CI”, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Occupational Therapy Association, American PsychologicalAssociation, Assistive Technology Industry Association, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, CAST, Center for Learner Equity, Coalition for Adequate Funding for Special Education, Coalition for Community Schools, Consortium of State School Boards Associations (COSSBA), Council for Exceptional Children, Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, EDGE Consulting Partners, EdTrust, Education Reform Now, First Focus Campaign for Children, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, Institute for Educational Leadership, Learning Disabilities Association of America, NAESPA (NationalAssociation of ESEA State Program Administrators), National Association for Music Education, National Association for Pupil Transportation, NationalAssociation of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, NationalAssociation of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS), National Association of Private Special Education Centers, NationalAssociation of School Psychologists, NationalAssociation of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Education Association, National PTA, National Rural Education Association (NREA), NBJC, Teach For America, TheAdvocacy Institute, TheArc of the United States, TNTP.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 134

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 134
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    235 PM EDT Mon Apr 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Eastern North Carolina
    Eastern South Carolina
    Southeast Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 235 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of strong/severe storms including bowing segments
    should continue to evolve this afternoon, posing mainly a wind
    damage risk.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
    statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles west southwest
    of Myrtle Beach SC to 30 miles north of Elizabeth City NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 133…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    23035.

    …Guyer

    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 134
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    235 PM EDT Mon Apr 7 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Eastern North Carolina
    Eastern South Carolina
    Southeast Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 235 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of strong/severe storms including bowing segments
    should continue to evolve this afternoon, posing mainly a wind
    damage risk.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
    statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles west southwest
    of Myrtle Beach SC to 30 miles north of Elizabeth City NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 133…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    23035.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 134 SEVERE TSTM NC SC VA CW 071835Z – 080200Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    40WSW CRE/MYRTLE BEACH SC/ – 30N ECG/ELIZABETH CITY NC/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /41NE CHS – 11S ORF/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23035.

    LAT…LON 33458061 36707726 36707510 33457853

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 134 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Refocusing acute care funding in Alberta

    [. This grant has grown by $3.4 billion since 2018-19, and although Alberta performed about 20,000 more surgeries this past year than at that time, this is not good enough. Albertans deserve surgical wait times that don’t just marginally improve but meet the medically recommended wait times for every single patient.

    With Acute Care Alberta now fully operational, Alberta’s government is implementing reforms to acute care funding through a patient-focused funding (PFF) model, also known as activity-based funding, which pays hospitals based on the services they provide.

    “The current global budgeting model has no incentives to increase volume, no accountability and no cost predictability for taxpayers. By switching to an activity-based funding model, our health care system will have built-in incentives to increase volume with high quality, cost predictability for taxpayers and accountability for all providers. This approach will increase transparency, lower wait times and attract more surgeons – helping deliver better health care for all Albertans, when and where they need it.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    Activity-based funding is based on the number and type of patients treated and the complexity of their care, incentivizing efficiency and ensuring that funding is tied to the actual care provided to patients. This funding model improves transparency, ensuring care is delivered at the right time and place as multiple organizations begin providing health services across the province.

    “Exploring innovative ways to allocate funding within our health care system will ensure that Albertans receive the care they need, when they need it most. I am excited to see how this new approach will enhance the delivery of health care in Alberta.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Patient-focused, or activity-based, funding has been successfully implemented in Australia and many European nations, including Sweden and Norway, to address wait times and access to health care services, and is currently used in both British Columbia and Ontario in various ways.

    “It is clear that we need a new approach to manage the costs of delivering health care while ensuring Albertans receive the care they expect and deserve. Patient-focused funding will bring greater accountability to how health care dollars are being spent while also providing an incentive for quality care.”

    Dr. Chris Eagle, interim president and CEO, Acute Care Alberta

    This transition is part of Acute Care Alberta’s mandate to oversee and arrange for the delivery of acute care services such as surgeries, a role that was historically performed by AHS. With Alberta’s government funding more surgeries than ever, setting a record with 304,595 surgeries completed in 2023-24 and with 310,000 surgeries expected to have been completed in 2024-25, it is crucial that funding models evolve to keep pace with the growing demand and complexity of services.

    “With AHS transitioning to a hospital-based services provider, it’s time we are bold and begin to explore how to make our health care system more efficient and manage the cost of care on a per patient basis. The transition to a PFF model will align funding with patient care needs, based on actual service demand and patient needs, reflecting the communities they serve.”

    Andre Tremblay, interim president and CEO, AHS

    “Covenant Health welcomes a patient-focused approach to acute care funding that drives efficiency, accountability and performance while delivering the highest quality of care and services for all Albertans. As a trusted acute care provider, this model better aligns funding with outcomes and supports our unwavering commitment to patients.”

    Patrick Dumelie, CEO, Covenant Health

    “Patient-focused hospital financing ties funding to activity. Hospitals are paid for the services they deliver. Efficiency may improve and surgical wait times may decrease. Further, hospital managers may be more accountable towards hospital spending patterns. These features ensure that patients receive quality care of the highest value.”

    Dr. Glen Sumner, clinical associate professor, University of Calgary

    Leadership at Alberta Health and Acute Care Alberta will review relevant research and the experience of other jurisdictions, engage stakeholders and define and customize patient-focused funding in the Alberta context. This working group will also identify and run a pilot to determine where and how this approach can best be applied and implemented this fiscal year.

    Final recommendations will be provided to the minister of health later this year, with implementation of patient-focused funding for select procedures across the system in 2026.

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Patient-Focused Funding

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Additional staff and theatre capacity to deliver more surgeries

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The ACT Government will fund a four-year elective surgery plan as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget.

    The ACT Government is resourcing a four-year elective surgery plan to deliver 60,000 elective surgeries and to expand operating theatre capacity in public health services.

    Despite the challenges impacting elective surgeries in recent years, Canberra Health Services is on track to perform a record number of elective surgeries this financial year.

    Additional funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget will further support the territory-wide surgery teams to continue this work across the ACT’s hospitals.

    More endoscopies will be delivered thanks to the recent expansion and upgrade of the endoscopy suites at North Canberra Hospital.

    Additional theatre capacity at Canberra Hospital in the new Critical Services Building will be essential to improve timely access to emergency surgeries and increase the total capacity for elective surgeries performed at Canberra Hospital.

    Increased operating theatre sessions during evenings and weekends, and more surgical inpatient beds to support growing emergency surgery demand are a critical part of this investment.

    The Government has also committed to deliver an additional 300 cataract surgeries through partnerships with private facilities.

    The ACT Budget will support services and initiatives across the public hospital network, including acute care for older people across our public hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation at the University of Canberra Hospital, services for critically ill newborns and expanded maternity services.

    Total investment in health next year is a record $2.6 billion. This will deliver more health services, infrastructure, support for the health workforce, and $52.7 million will be allocated to support the elective surgery plan.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding boost for new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The 2024-25 ACT Budget includes funding for the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    The ACT Government will provide funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to continue the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    The centre will form part of an events and entertainment precinct proposed for the south-east section of the CBD that includes the current convention centre site and the Canberra Olympic Pool site.

    Master-planning for the new precinct will see concept designs developed for an integrated convention and entertainment centre for live music, events and performances.

    The ACT Government will invest in site investigations and concept design options for the replacement of the ageing Canberra Olympic Pool to provide aquatic facilities for the city’s growing population in Commonwealth Park.

    The ACT Government will continue to work with the Australian Government under the National Capital Investment Framework and through the Urban Precincts and Partnerships Program to progress infrastructure projects such as the Convention and Entertainment Centre.

    As Canberra’s population nears half a million people, this project is important for the local tourism and business sector, ensuring Canberra is a more attractive tour option for live music and entertainment.

    Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct update

    Further funding will be provided in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to progress development of the Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct.

    The ACT Government intends to partner with the Commonwealth Government to develop a mixed-use urban renewal precinct, which will include housing, commercial, hospitality and retail opportunities to support sport, health and education infrastructure projects.

    Through the 2024-25 Budget, the Government will also progress planning for the new Northside Hospital, a renewed CIT campus and a new stadium.

    This work will complement the Commonwealth Government’s AIS precinct renewal announced in the recent Federal Budget.

    The Government will consider options for the development, including the optimal delivery model and the declaration of an urban renewal site.

    This declaration will help coordinate ACT Government Directorates and agencies to work together on the precinct planning.

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    MIL OSI News –