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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)
WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) has re-introduced H.R. 2411, the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act, with Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and Senator Peter Welch (VT). This bill will end the congressionally and administratively mandated pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
The United States has historically been one of the largest financial supporters of UNRWA, which serves nearly 6 million Palestinian refugees across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. In March of last year, the U.S. paused UNRWA funding after the Israeli government alleged that 12 agency employees had direct involvement in Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack.
Following the United Nations’ investigation and proactive commitments made by UNRWA toward complete accountability and reform, all countries except the U.S. have resumed their UNRWA funding, including the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, and Sweden.
Humanitarian aid and supplies have not entered the Gaza Strip since March 2, when the Israeli authorities imposed a siege. Reports show that supplies are depleting at alarming rates, which could cause deaths from malnutrition and starvation. Several bakeries have already shut down after running out of cooking gas, and the U.N. World Food Programme reports that its flour supplies can only support bread production for five more day. UNRWA has served as the primary humanitarian aid organization operating in Gaza, and without funding, hundreds of thousands of Gaza civilians are left vulnerable.
“For decades, UNRWA has played a unique and integral role in supporting the welfare of Palestinian refugees,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “The organization’s on-the-ground understanding is invaluable to ensuring that humanitarian aid makes it to the people who need it most — in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and critically in this moment, in Gaza. Permanently revoking funding for UNRWA will unquestionably lead to more devastation and loss of life in Gaza and throughout the Middle East. We must restore U.S. funding to UNRWA to ensure that those acting in good faith to save civilian lives have the necessary resources to continue their irreplaceable work.”
“The scale of this devastating, man-made crisis in Gaza cannot be overstated,” said Congressman Carson. “Providing humanitarian aid to a starving nation – with funding Congress has appropriated year after year – should not be controversial. We need to end this blockade and restore full humanitarian funding to UNRWA. I urge my colleagues who care about basic human rights, the rights of pregnant women, and the wellbeing of innocent children to join our bill. It’s past time we restore funding and save lives.”
“For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has been a lifeline for Palestinians throughout the Middle East, providing food, clean water, health care, shelter, education, and livelihoods. UNRWA has provided essential support to those in Gaza throughout the Israel-Hamas war and dire humanitarian crisis. UNRWA and the United Nations have taken swift and decisive actions to address the concerns raised by the U.S. government when it paused funding last year and our allies have long ago resumed funding for UNRWA. The U.S. must follow suit and finally resume funding for this critical humanitarian agency,” said Congresswoman Schakowsky. “I am proud to co-lead the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act to restore funding to UNRWA and help Gazans get the humanitarian assistance they need at a time of unprecedented crisis.”
“Since day one of this conflict, UNRWA has proven to be the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. It is unacceptable that the funding pause has gone on this long—the civilian populations of Gaza and the West Bank are paying the price. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, support for humanitarian aid is more important than ever,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must pass this legislation to ensure UNRWA can safely deliver humanitarian assistance to starving women, children, and families desperate for food, medicine, and shelter.”
Below is a list of all endorsing organizations:
National Organizations: 99 Coalition, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International USA, Amnesty International USA, Carolina Peace Center , Historians for Peace and Democracy, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for International Policy Advocacy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Charity & Security Network, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), CODEPINK, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces, Demand Progress, Doctors Against Genocide, DSA, End Wars Working Group of Progressive Democrats of America , Episcopal Peace Fellowship Palestine Israel Network, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends Committee on National Legislation , Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), George Devendorf, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Health Advocacy International, Hindus for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, IfNotNow Movement, International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, Jahalin Solidarity, Jahalin Solidarity, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Justice4palestinians, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Medglobal , Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC), Migrant Roots Media, MoveOn, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Advocates, Muslims United PAC, National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, National Council of Churches, New Jewish Narrative, No Dem Left Behind , Nonviolent Peaceforce, NRC USA, Partners for Progressive Israel, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Poligon Education Fund, Presbyterian Church, (USA), Office of Public Witness, Quincy Institute, ReThinking Foreign Policy, ReThinking Foreign Policy, RootsAction.org, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Terre des hommes Lausanne, The Borgen Project, The Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP), United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), UNRWA USA National Committee, USCPR Action, Win Without War, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, US Section (WILPF US), Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation
State and Local Organizations: Al Otro Lado, Atlanta Multifaith Coalition for Palestine (AMCP), Barry University, Brooklyn For Peace, Carolyn Eisenberg, Ceasefire Now NJ, Christian Jewish Allies for a just peace for Israel Palestine, Church Women United in New York State, Delawareans for Palestinian Human Rights, Florida Peace & Justice Alliance, FOSNA Pittsburgh , Greater Dayton Peace Coalition, Houston for Palestine Coalition, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, MARUF CT (Muslim Advocacy for Rights, Unity, and Fairness), Massachusetts Peace Action, Minnesota Peace Project, Muslim Justice League, Nebraskans for Peace Palestinian Rights Task Force, NorCal Sabeel, Oasis Legal Services, Peace Action Maine, Peace Action WI, Peace Action WI, Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Peace, Justice, Sustainability, NOW!, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Progressive Democrats of America- Central New Mexico, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom DC-Metro Action Group, The Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church USA, Bay Area, UPTE Members for Palestine, Valley View Presbyterian Church, Voices for Justice in Palestine, YUSRA
Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Maslow, Associate Professor, International Relations, University of Tokyo
Two months into US President Donald Trump’s second term, the liberal international order is on life support.
Alliances and multilateral institutions are now seen by the United States as burdens. Europe and NATO are framed as bad business, “ripping off” the US. On his so-called “Liberation Day”, Trump also imposed 20% tariffs on all European Union imports.
The Trump administration has been far less critical of the US’ alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. On a visit to Tokyo this week, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described Japan as America’s “indispensable partner” in deterring Chinese aggression.
Yet, Japan and South Korea fared even worse than the EU with Trump’s new tariffs. Trump slapped Japan with 24% tariffs and South Korea 25%. (Both countries enjoy a trade surplus with the US.)
So, how are the US’ two main allies in the Indo-Pacific dealing with the mercurial US leader? Will they follow Europe’s lead in reassessing their own security relationships with the US?
America’s post-war security strategy in Asia differs from Europe. While NATO was built on the premise of collective defence among its members, the US adopted a “hub-and-spokes” model in Asia, relying on bilateral alliances to contain the spread of communism.
Japan and South Korea have long sheltered under the US nuclear umbrella and hosted major US military bases. Both are also highly sensitive to changes in the US’ Indo-Pacific policies.
Japan, in particular, has a long history of careful alliance management with the US, epitomised by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s courting of Trump.
During Trump’s first term in office, Abe’s policy goals aligned closely with the US: transforming Japan’s security posture to make it a serious military and diplomatic power. Japan increased military spending, lifted arms export restrictions and deepened ties with India and Australia.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida continued to raise Japan’s security profile from 2021-24, again increasing military spending and taking a tough line on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He emphasised “Europe today could be Asia tomorrow”.
His successor, Shigeru Ishiba, had a successful summit with Trump in February, immediately after his inauguration. The joint statement reaffirmed US security guarantees to Japan, including over the Senkaku Islands, which are claimed by China.
Japan also agreed to import American liquefied natural gas, and later committed to working with South Korea to develop a US$44 billion (A$70 billion) plan to export LNG from Alaska.
However, these positive developments do not mean the relationship is on firm ground.
In early March, Trump complained the US-Japan security agreement signed in 1960 was “one-sided” and a top administration official again called for Japan to increase its defence spending to 3% of gross domestic product (GDP) – a huge increase for a country facing serious demographic and fiscal pressures.
Reports also emerged the US was considering cancelling a new joint headquarters in Japan aimed at deeper integration between US and Japanese forces.
South Korea faces similar pressures. Ties between the two countries were strained during Trump’s first term over his demand South Korea increase the amount it pays to host US forces by
nearly 400%. A 2021 agreement restored some stability, but left Seoul deeply worried about the future of the alliance.
South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sang-mok, has expressed a desire to strengthen ties with the US, though Trump has reportedly been cool to his advances.
With a US$66 billion (A$105 billion) trade surplus with the US, South Korea is considered the country most vulnerable to trade risk with the Trump administration, according to a Swiss research group.
Trump’s past suggestions that both South Korea and Japan develop nuclear weapons or pay for US nuclear protection has also rattled some nerves. As confidence in the US alliance erodes, both countries are engaging in an urgent public debate about the possibility of acquiring nuclear weapons.
Potential for conflict is on the horizon. For example, Tokyo and Washington are set to renegotiate the deal that dictates how much Japan pays to host US troops next year.
Both allies pay huge sums to host US bases. South Korea will pay US$1.14 billion (A$1.8 billion) in 2026, and Japan pays US$1.72 billion (A$2.7 billion) annually.
A trade war could also prompt a reassessment of the costs of US efforts to decouple from China, potentially leading to closer economic ties between Japan, South Korea and China. The three countries have agreed to accelerate talks on a trilateral free trade agreement, which had been on hold since 2019.
Another challenge is semiconductors. Japan’s new semiconductor revitalisation strategy is prioritising domestic investment, raising questions about whether Trump will tolerate “friendshoring” if Japan diverts investments from the US.
In 2024, Japan outspent the US in semiconductor subsidies (as a share of GDP), while Taiwan’s TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, expanded its production capacity in Japan.
Seoul remains an important partner to Washington on semiconductors. Samsung and SK Hynix are both boosting their investments on new semiconductor plants in the US. However, there is now uncertainty over the subsidies promised to both companies to invest in America under the CHIPS Act.
Ultimately, the strength of these alliances depends on whether the Trump administration views them as long-term bulwarks against China’s rise in the region, or merely vassals that can be extorted for financial gain.
If the US is serious about countering China, its regional alliances are key. This would give Japan and South Korea some degree of leverage – or, in Trump terms, they’ll hold valuable cards. Whether they get to play them, however, depends on what Trump’s China policy turns out to be.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Slammed by tariffs and defence demands, Japan and South Korea toe a cautious line with Trump – https://theconversation.com/slammed-by-tariffs-and-defence-demands-japan-and-south-korea-toe-a-cautious-line-with-trump-244172
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Tarzia, Professor and Co-Lead of the Sexual and Family Violence Program at the Department of General Practice & Primary Care, The University of Melbourne
Every year, more than 700,000 international students leave their homes to study in Australia.
Around half are women.
For most of these students, the experience is positive. Many choose to remain in Australia for employment or migration.
However, for others, what should be a dream opportunity is shattered by experiences of violence.
Australia has long been regarded as a safe society. However, international students’ safety was questioned in 2009 after a series of attacks on Indian students, and again in 2020 when a survey of 6000 students revealed a quarter had experienced racist abuse during the COVID pandemic.
Addressing these issues is important.
For women international students, violence can also be gender-based, including intimate partner violence and sexual violence.
These issues facing women international students have mainly been overlooked by institutions, government policies and services, despite causing enormous harm to health and wellbeing.
In our recent project, we examined the sexual and intimate partner violence experiences of women international students in Australia.
For the past few years we have been running a national survey of students focused on “health, relationships, consent and wellbeing”.
The survey was offered in five languages other than English (Mandarin, Hindi, Portuguese, Vietnamese and Nepali). It referred to “unwanted sexual experiences” rather than talking about “sexual assault”, to try to reduce participant discomfort.
A total of 1491 students responded nation-wide. Nearly one-third were born in China, 10% in the Philippines and 10% in India, reflecting the major international student groups currently studying in Australia.
Most (82%) had a first language other than English.
Our findings suggest both sexual violence and intimate partner violence are common among women international students. More than 40% had experienced at least one incident of sexual violence since arriving in Australia.
One in five had experienced forced or coerced sex. More than 45% who had ever been in a relationship had experienced intimate partner violence in the 12 months prior to the survey.
Almost all of this violence was perpetrated by men.
It’s important to note this was not a representative sample in the statistical sense, because students volunteered to take part. However, our findings are still concerning.
International students are by no means the only group affected by sexual and intimate partner violence. Both are widespread in Australia, including among domestic students.
The 2021 National Student Safety Survey found one in six students had experienced sexual harassment since starting university, and one in 20 had been sexually assaulted.
Less is known about intimate partner violence, but research suggests it is also common.
In the wider Australian community, sexual violence affects around one in five women over the age of 15. One in four report intimate partner violence.
We also looked at what factors might be linked to this violence against women international students.
We found students who experienced financial stress, housing insecurity, and low social support were more likely to report both sexual violence and intimate partner violence.
In an earlier study for this project, we interviewed 30 international students about their experiences seeking help after sexual or intimate partner violence.
Many felt socially isolated and had no-one to turn to. Support from tertiary education providers was mixed and students worried about their visa being cancelled.
Often, they did not tell their families back home what had happened for fear of causing shame or distress.
Multiple barriers such as cost, ineligibility for services, and confusion about the complex health and legal systems in Australia prevented them from accessing support privately.
Some felt: “Australia doesn’t care about me”.
Last month, the federal government launched the National Student Ombudsman as part of its national action plan addressing gender-based violence in higher education.
The government has also recently unveiled the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence, outlining expectations and standards for addressing the issue.
These are positive changes.
However, international student voices have not been heard in the development of these, or other policies and guidelines focused on gender-based violence in higher education.
Recommendations addressing the specific needs of international students are lacking.
There is an urgent need to tackle the structural challenges faced by international students when seeking help.
Our findings suggest tertiary education providers could be doing more to keep women international students safer. Culturally appropriate, trauma-sensitive education around consent and relationships, delivered in-language, is important.
But this on its own is not enough.
International students experiencing financial stress or housing insecurity need to be supported to avoid increasing their risk of gendered violence. Strategies could be put into place to build social connection, so students are less isolated when they arrive in Australia.
At government levels, subsidised social support, health and welfare services need to be made available and without restrictions to all international students.
We need to take our duty of care towards international students’ health, wellbeing and safety more seriously.
International education is Australia’s largest services export, contributing about A$51 billion in 2023-24.
It’s in our interest to better support international students to study safely in Australia.
The authors would like to acknowledge the input of Dr Adele Murdolo from the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health for this article.
Laura Tarzia receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council and The Australian Research Council for her research addressing sexual and reproductive violence.
Helen Forbes-Mewett receives funding from the Australian Research Council, DHSS and DFAT for her work on international students and migrant communities.
Ly Tran receives funding from the Australian Research Council, DFAT and Department of Education for her work on international students, geopolitics and student mobilities, the New Colombo Plan, staff professional development in international education and graduate employability in Vietnam.
Mandy McKenzie receives funding from the Australian Research Council
– ref. ‘Australia doesn’t care about me’: women international students suffering alarming rates of sexual violence – https://theconversation.com/australia-doesnt-care-about-me-women-international-students-suffering-alarming-rates-of-sexual-violence-252610
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) today announced 22 additions and changes to his staff over the last year, as well as 14 of his staff appointed to serve in the Trump Administration.
“I’m pleased to welcome several additions to my staff and announce well-deserved promotions for others,” said Senator Hagerty. “I’m confident that my exceptional team will soar to even greater heights with new expertise and experience. At the same time, I’m deeply proud of my close advisors and alumni who have been appointed to serve in the Trump Administration. I look forward to all we will accomplish in the coming years together.”
Lucas Da Pieve is now serving as Legislative Director. Da Pieve has served as the Deputy Legislative Director and Projects Manager, handling all budgetary and appropriations matters for Senator Hagerty, since 2021. Previously, he was the Director of Digital Response in the Office of Presidential Correspondence during the first Trump Administration and as Deputy Legislative Director and Projects Manager for Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN). He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Da Pieve is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and his family has lived in Blount County since 2008.
Nate Kinard will serve as General Counsel to Senator Hagerty, and advise the Senator regarding judicial nominations, constitutional matters, and artificial intelligence. Previously, Kinard was a shareholder at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, specializing in business litigation and appeals. Kinard received his law degree summa cum laude from William & Mary Law School. A native of Chattanooga, Kinard majored in Political Science and Piano Performance at Vanderbilt University.
Sloan McDonagh is now serving as Policy Advisor and Senior Counsel in Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. McDonagh previously served as Senior Counsel to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He is a graduate of Hillsdale College and Emory University School of Law.
Christy Charbonnet is now serving as Scheduler for Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the College of Charleston in Systems Engineering and has been with the Senator since the fall of 2023.
Emma Morris will serve as Deputy Director of Operations and Scheduling for Hagerty. Morris previously served as the Senator’s Deputy Scheduler. She graduated from Auburn University with a B.A. in Political Science. She is originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee.
John DiGravio is now serving as Legislative Assistant to Senator Hagerty, advising him on the Banking Committee portfolio. He previously served as Legislative Aide to the Senator and as an aide to the Senate Banking Committee. DiGravio holds a B.A. from Williams College and was raised in Austin, Texas.
Luke Harris has been named Legislative Assistant to Hagerty assisting in the Agriculture, Energy, and Transportation portfolio. Harris is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University where he received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
JT Isaacs has been named Legislative Assistant to manage all general budget and appropriations matters for Hagerty. He also manages the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Pensions, and Veterans’ Affairs portfolio. He previously served as Legislative Aide for Hagerty. Isaacs received a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree from the University of Kentucky.
Matthew Venoit will serve as Policy Advisor to Senator Hagerty. Prior to the Senate, Venoit worked at Goldman Sachs in both New York and Hong Kong. He holds a B.S. from Penn State University and graduate degrees from KU Leuven and Georgetown University.
Jillian Cantrell is now serving as Legislative Aide to Hagerty assisting in the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Pensions, and Veterans’ Affairs portfolio. Cantrell previously served as Legislative Correspondent and Staff Assistant. She is a graduate of Washington and Lee University, where she received Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Biology and Politics. She is a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Cole Bornefeld is now serving as a Legislative Aide to Hagerty, assisting in the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Rules portfolio. Bornefeld previously served as a Legislative Correspondent in Hagerty’s Office. He graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and public relations. He is a native of Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Melissa Stooksbury has been serving as Deputy State Director since February 2024 based in the Nashville, Tennessee office. Prior to this role, she served in the office of Congressman Tom Cole, most recently as Communications Director. Stooksbury was born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee and graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
Ethan Finley now serves as a Legislative Correspondent to Senator Hagerty within the Banking Committee Portfolio. Finley previously worked as a field organizer for Tim Sheehy’s 2024 Senate Campaign. Before that, he worked as an Investment Banking Analyst at Evercore. Finley also has experience as an analyst in private equity and wealth management. He graduated from Columbia University with a bachelor’s degree in Financial Economics.
Zach Brooks currently serves as the Southeast Tennessee Field Representative for Senator Hagerty, a role he has held since April 2024. Before his tenure with Senator Hagerty’s office, Brooks was the Investor Development Director at the Cleveland/Bradley County Chamber of Commerce, focusing on membership growth and community engagement. Born and raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, Brooks graduated from Cleveland High School in 2010. He pursued higher education at Lee University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 2014 and a Master of Business Administration in 2019.
Gabby Gardner serves as the Nashville Field Representative for Senator Hagerty, where she works closely with community leaders, elected officials, and industry stakeholders across Middle Tennessee. Prior to this role, she served as a Clerk in the Tennessee House of Representatives. Gardner is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
Ford Hawkins is now serving as the Jackson, Tennessee Field Representative. He previously served with the Young Republicans before joining Olin/Winchester Ammunition, where he worked as a ballistician before joining Hagerty’s office. Hawkins is a West Tennessee native, and he attended the University of Mississippi, holding a bachelor’s degree in History.
Jonathan White is now serving as the West Tennessee Field Representative. After graduating high school, White served four years active in the U.S. Navy before graduating with his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Mississippi. He has also worked for the American Legion and interned for the Northern District of Mississippi U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Jake Netterville is now serving as Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty in the Washington, DC office. Netterville recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Louisiana State University and is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Prior to joining Senator Hagerty’s office, Netterville worked as a federal analyst at The Picard Group.
Cecilia Ann Hutton is now serving as a Staff Assistant in Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. She recently graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History.
Steven Behringer is now serving as a DoD fellow for Senator Hagerty. Behringer is an active-duty Marine who is fluent in both Mandarin and Korean, and has extensive experience evaluating military and cyber threats in the INDOPACOM region. He is a native of Baltimore, Maryland.
Blake McMahon is now serving as a National Security Fellow for Senator Hagerty. McMahon has held a variety of Executive Branch roles related to aerospace, defense, and intelligence issues. He received a PhD from the University of California, San Diego and a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State.
James Santos is serving as a National Security Fellow. Santos comes from the Office of Director of National Intelligence, where he worked on a range of national security issues, covering policy development and program management matters. He graduated from Michigan State University, and holds a Master’s degree in Accounting. He was born in Manila, Philippines and hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Serving in the Trump Administration
Adam Telle is nominated to lead the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. Telle has served as Hagerty’s Chief of Staff over the last four years and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. Telle served during the first Trump Administration as the White House’s Senate lead in its Office of Legislative Affairs. Prior to that role, Telle served as the top staff member on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Homeland Security and as the top policy advisor to the late Senator Thad Cochran. Telle holds degrees in computer science and journalism from Mississippi State University.
Luke Pettit is nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions. Pettit has served as Senator Hagerty’s Senior Policy Advisor and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. Previously, he worked at the Senate Banking Committee, Bridgewater Associates, and the Federal Reserve. Luke holds a B.A from the University of Pennsylvania, and graduate degrees from the London School of Economics and Johns Hopkins University.
Daniel Zimmerman has been nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs. Zimmerman currently serves in a Congressional Executive Fellowship in the office of Senator Hagerty and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. He previously has held many roles in the agency realm, and holds both a bachelor’s degree from Asbury University and a master’s degree from the University of Kentucky.
Julia Hahn is serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury Department for the Office of Public Affairs. Hahn joins the Department after serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications for Senator Hagerty. Prior to the Senate, Hahn served in the first Trump White House over all four years, most recently as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy White House Communications Director. Before that, she served as Special Assistant to the President and Director of Rapid Response and Surrogate Operations. Hahn has also worked in media as the Executive Producer of The Laura Ingraham Show and a reporter at Breitbart News. She also worked on Capitol Hill as Press Secretary to former Congressman Dave Brat. Hahn graduated from the University of Chicago with a BA in Philosophy.
Clark Milner is serving as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor for Policy, focusing primarily on domestic policy. Milner formerly served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Chief Counsel to Senator Bill Hagerty. Milner previously served as Deputy Counsel to Governor Bill Lee.
Natalie McIntyre currently serves a Special Assistant to the President for the Office of Legislative Affairs where she handles the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Banking, and Agriculture portfolio. Previously, she was Senator Hagerty’s Legislative Director overseeing the legislative team and managing the Health, Education, Labor, Pension, and Veterans portfolio. Prior to her role in Hagerty’s office, she was part of the legislative office at OMB where she managed the Senate offices. She also served as a Senior Policy Advisor and White House liaison at ONDCP.
Nels Nordquist is serving as Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Policy and DD of NEC.Nordquist was Senior Fellow for Economic Policy in the office of Senator Hagerty. From October 2022 through January 2025, he served as Staff Director for the National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions Subcommittee of the House Financial Services Committee. From 2018-2021, Nordquist worked in the National Security Council and National Economic Council, first as Director for Trade & Investment and later as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for International Economic Policy. Nordquist graduated from Stanford and earned an MBA from the University of Virginia.
Joel Rayburn is the Trump Administration’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. He is a historian, former diplomat, and retired military officer who previously served as special advisor for Middle East affairs in the office of Senator Hagerty. Rayburn is currently a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. In the first Trump Administration, he served as a senior director on the National Security Council staff and, from July 2018 to January 2021, as the U.S. special envoy for Syria. Before joining the State Department, Rayburn served 26 years as a US Army officer and co-authored the Army’s official history of the Iraq War. He holds an MA in history from Texas A&M University and an MS in strategic studies from the National War College.
Kevin Kim is the State Department’s China Coordinator and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, and Taiwan. Prior to the State Department, Kim worked as a national security fellow for Senator Hagerty. Kim was also the Senior Advisor to the Special Presidential Envoy for Arms Control Marshall Billingslea as part of the U.S. delegation to the 2020 U.S.-Russia arms control negotiations. From 2018 to 2020, he served as the Chief of Staff to the Special Representative for North Korea and the Deputy Secretary of state Stephen Biegun and participated in various rounds of U.S.-DPRK nuclear negotiations. Kim received a BA from the Johns Hopkins University, MA from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in International Relations from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.
Walton Stivender Mears has taken on a new role as scheduler for Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner. Mears joined HUD last month after serving as Director of Scheduling for Senator Hagerty. She previously handled scheduling and assisted the chief of staff for Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) and as a Staff Assistant for Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL). Mears is an Auburn University graduate from Birmingham, Alabama.
J. Cal Mitchell is serving as the Special Assistant at the U.S. Department of Treasury. He joins the Treasury Department after serving as Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty. Mitchell is a native of Atlanta, Georgia and is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College.
Nick Checker, a national security fellow for Senator Hagerty in 2023, currently serves as Deputy Executive Secretary on the National Security Council. In that role, Checker provides senior-level review of NSC products for substance, policy relevance, and appropriateness for the President and senior White House officials. Checker has spent the last decade at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) as a military analyst covering conflicts in the greater Middle East. Most recently, Checker worked in CIA’s office of Congressional Affairs, where he supported the confirmation process for Director John Ratcliffe. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in Security Studies from Georgetown University.
Nicholas Elliot is the Acting Director of the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Elliot serves as the chief advisor to the CFTC Chairman on matters before the U.S. Congress and as the Commission’s official liaison with Congressional members, federal agencies, and the Administration. Previously, Elliot spent nearly four years working for Senator Hagerty on the Senator’s financial services and banking portfolio, where he advanced the Senator’s work on the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Elliot is a graduate of Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business where he received a BS in Business Administration with a major in Finance and a minor in Mandarin.
Taylor Asher serves as Chief Policy Advisor of the SEC’s Crypto Task Force and is a Senior Policy Advisor to SEC Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda. From April 2023 to January 2025, Asher served as Policy Advisor and Confidential Assistant to Commissioner Uyeda. Prior to his time at the SEC, Asher was Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty. His tenure in public service began with Congresswoman Julia Letlow’s Office, where he served as Staff Assistant and Intern Manager. Asher is currently pursuing a Master of Economics at George Mason University. He holds a Master of Finance with an Energy Specialization as well as a Bachelor of Science in Management from Tulane University. He is originally from Nashville, Tennessee.
Source: ACT Party
ACT’s Defence Spokesperson Mark Cameron is welcoming the first reading passage of the ANZAC Day Amendment Bill, which expands recognition to New Zealanders who served in conflicts and peacekeeping operations after the Vietnam War, saying it reflects how many Kiwis already commemorate the day.
“Every year at dawn services across the country, people stand in silence not just for Gallipoli, but for those who served in East Timor, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan – and many other places where New Zealanders have done their duty without fanfare,” says Cameron.
“These brave men and women served overseas, many in dangerous and difficult circumstances. Some came home changed. Some did not come home at all.
“They stood for the same values as those as those who went before them, and they deserve to be recognised just the same.
“It is a good move, and one that will mean a lot to the people who have quietly carried the weight of service without full recognition.”
Source: New Zealand Government
Legislation to formally recognise the service of more New Zealanders as part of official Anzac Day commemorations has passed its first reading in Parliament today, Veterans Minister Chris Penk and Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith say.
“Anzac Day is a significant anniversary for New Zealanders, where we reflect on the costs of service and sacrifice. It is our opportunity to honour those who have served, some of whom gave their lives for our country,” Mr Penk says.
“The Anzac Day Act enshrines in law that we will remember them. Yet, because it does not acknowledge conflicts after 1966, many New Zealanders who have served with great courage in the following decades remain unrecognised under current legislation.
“While April 25 marks the day our soldiers set foot on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915, Anzac Day has long become an anniversary of remembrance for those who served beyond the First and Second World Wars. It’s past time that this is reflected in the law.
“Once the Bill passes, Anzac Day will officially commemorate all those who have served New Zealand in wars and war-like situations. This will include those who have given non-military service, such as the Home Guard and members of the Merchant Navy.
“In addition, the Bill will be amended to encompass other troops who took part in the landing at Gallipoli, including those from India and France. At present the Anzac Day Act only recognises troops from the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.”
“New Zealanders deeply appreciate the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of servicemen and women – past and present. Anzac Day stands as a powerful tribute to their service,” Mr Goldsmith says.
“Today’s service personnel carry forward a long and proud tradition. It’s time for overdue change – every New Zealander who has served in war and war-like conflicts deserves official recognition and honour. Anzac Day is the right moment to acknowledge them.”
The Anzac Day Amendment Bill is expected to be passed in time for Anzac Day 2026.
Source: NSW Government puts trust in NAB to transform banking and payments
03 04 2025 – Media release
Top (L-R): Global Producers Exchange recipients Ramu Productions (Devina McPherson, Jodie Bell) and Unless Pictures (Meg O’Connell).Bottom (L-R): Talent Gateway recipients Jean Tong, Timothy Lee and Kacie Anning.
Australians in Film (AiF) and Screen Australia are pleased to announce the 2025 participants in the internationally recognized Talent Gateway (TG) and Global Producers Exchange (GPE).
These highly coveted programs are designed to elevate Australian screen creatives, enhancing their professional skills and expanding their global reach.
Running online since 2021, Talent Gateway supports Australian writer/directors who have demonstrated recent success, providing them with the tools, industry access, and relationships necessary to succeed on the global stage.
Global Producers Exchange aims to strengthen Australian producers’ international capabilities by facilitating global collaborations and offering key insights to develop Australian stories with a global outlook.
Peter Ritchie, Executive Director of Australians in Film, said, “Screen Australia’s strategic investment in expanding the international reach of Australian talent and businesses is essential for the continued success of Australian screen stories. These stories not only captivate international audiences but also generate significant economic growth, cementing Australia’s reputation internationally as a breeding ground for exciting new talent. We look forward to working with the outstanding 2025 participants.”
Screen Australia COO Grainne Brunsdon said, “We’re thrilled to support the 2025 Talent Gateway and Global Producers Exchange participants, whose talents highlight the strength of Australia’s screen industry. These programs offer invaluable opportunities to expand their international reach and create new pathways for collaboration. As global demand for Australian stories continues to grow, initiatives like these ensure our talent remains at the forefront of the international screen community, driving both creative innovation and economic growth.”
Supporting Partners for these programs include Screen NSW, Screen Queensland, Screenwest and VicScreen. Industry Partners are Australian Directors’ Guild, Australian Writers’ Guild, Screen Producers Australia, Screen Canberra, Screen Tasmania, Screen Territory, Screenworks and South Australian Film Corporation.
Talent Gateway 2025 Participants:
Clare Sladden (QLD): Clare is a Meanjin/Brisbane-based writer passionate about female-driven narratives. Her recent television credits include Good Cop/Bad Cop (Jungle Entertainment and Future Shack for Stan, Roku and The CW), NCIS: Sydney (Endemol Shine AU for Paramount+), and Sunny Nights (Jungle Entertainment & Echo Lake Entertainment for Stan, premiering in 2025). In the audio space, Clare wrote on the Wentworth spin-off podcast (Fremantle Media for Audible) and wrote and directed the narrative podcast Winding Road, starring Dacre Montgomery and Yael Stone. Clare has also received Screen Australia development funding for her debut feature, Sophie Next Door.
Hannah Barlow and Kane Senes (NSW): This writing/directing duo from Sydney is known for their breakout work on Sissy, which was selected for SXSW and Sydney Film Festival, winning multiple audience awards globally. Their debut feature, For Now, garnered international festival nominations for Best Film. Recently, they received Premium Development Funding from Screen Australia for their next project, Cooch, and were named Inside Film’s Rising Stars. Their work continues to captivate global audiences with fresh and innovative storytelling.
Jean Tong (VIC): Jean is a multi-talented writer and director for stage and screen. Their television credits include episodes of Heartbreak High (Netflix), Safe Home (SBS), and Erotic Stories (SBS). Jean’s stage work includes critically acclaimed plays like Hungry Ghosts (Melbourne Theatre Company) and Romeo is Not the Only Fruit (Malthouse Theatre). They were also the inaugural Melbourne Theatre Company Playwriting Fellow in 2023. Jean is currently directing the world premiere of Benjamin Law’s adaptation of Dying: A Memoir for Melbourne Theatre Company.
Kacie Anning (NSW): Kacie is the creator, writer, director, and executive producer of Class of ’07 (Amazon Prime). She has directed and written for several high-profile series, including The Other Guy (Stan), Diary of a Future President (Disney+), Upload (Prime Video), and Hardball (ABC Me). She has won two Australian Directors’ Guild Awards. Her work as set-up director and EP on Madam (Channel 9), starring Rachel Griffiths, won Best Comedy Series at the Berlin Series Festival and Monte Carlo Television Festival.
Thomas Wilson White (NSW): Thomas is an award-winning writer and director, best known for his work on the International Emmy Award-winning Heartbreak High (Netflix). His debut feature The Greenhouse (2021) won the Australian Directors Guild Award for Best Direction in a Feature Film under $1M. Thomas is currently developing a slate of original TV shows and a second feature film while adapting a best-selling novel for Warner Brothers.
Timothy Lee (NSW): Timothy is the co-creator and writer of the Australian neo-Western Territory (Netflix), which topped the charts in 11 countries and reached #2 globally on Netflix. He also wrote on Mystery Road (ABC) and Mystery Road: Origin, earning AACTA nominations for Best Screenplay in Television. His writing credits include Bump (Stan/Netflix), Doctor Doctor (Nine), and The Unlisted (Netflix).
Global Producers Exchange 2025 Participants:
Carver Films – Sarah Shaw and Anna McLeish (VIC): Carver Films is led by award-winning producers Sarah Shaw and Anna McLeish. Their 2023 feature Run Rabbit Run, starring Sarah Snook and directed by Daina Reid, premiered at Sundance and became the top-streamed English-language film on Netflix in Australia and the USA. Their previous credits include Relic (2020), Sunshine (2018), and Snowtown (2011), which debuted at Cannes Critics Week. Carver is currently in postproduction on Saccharine with director Natalie Erika James.
Future Pictures – Matt Govoni and Adam White (VIC): Founded by Matt Govoni and Adam White, Future Pictures is known for producing world-class content. Their recent projects include Late Night with the Devil (2023), which premiered at SXSW and won Best Screenplay at Sitges, and Lone Wolf (2021), which premiered at the Rotterdam International Film Festival. Future Pictures continues to break box office records and achieve critical success in the global marketplace.
Martin Brown Films – Martin Brown and John Collee (NSW): Martin Brown Films is a Sydney-based screen production company founded by Martin Brown and John Collee. Martin Produced Moulin Rouge and Co-produced Romeo+Juliet. John recently adapted the TV series Boy Swallows Universe, which was Netflix’s most successful Australian-made show to date. Martin and John are recognized individually for their expertise in content development and international co-productions. Their company has a number of exciting projects in development.
Ramu Productions – Jodie Bell and Devina McPherson (WA): Based in Broome, Western Australia, Ramu Productions specializes in First Nations storytelling. CEO Jodie Bell, a Butchella and Jagera woman, has produced numerous award-winning short films and documentaries, including Putuparri and the Rainmakers. Devina McPherson, a Widi Yamatji and Noongar woman, is an experienced development and associate producer. Together, they focus on creating authentic First Nations content with a strong cultural lens.
Thirdborn – Nicole O’Donohue (NSW): Thirdborn, founded by filmmakers Shaun Grant, Justin Kurzel and Nicole O’Donohue, is committed to developing bold films and premium television series. Their debut series, Exposure (2024), was nominated for seven AACTA Awards. With a focus on distinctive storytelling, Thirdborn partners with extraordinary cast, crew, and producers with a shared creative ambition and passion for original storytelling to deliver impactful narratives for global audiences.
Unless Pictures – Meg O’Connell (NSW): International Emmy-winning producer Meg O’Connell founded Unless Pictures, a creative production company known for innovative storytelling. Meg’s credits include the AACTA-winning Robbie Hood (SBS/NITV), the Rose d’Or-winning Content (ABC), and the international hit Bluey (ABC/BBC/Disney+). Her most recent project is the feature film Windcatcher (Stan/ACTF).
AiF Media Enquiries:
Jane Lunn
[email protected] | +61 402 248 811
Media enquiries
Maddie Walsh | Publicist
+ 61 2 8113 5915 | [email protected]
Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
+ 61 428 767 836 | [email protected]
All other general/non-media enquiries
Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800 | Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]
Source: Asia Development Bank
Build Back Better: Central Sulawesi’s Journey of Recovery (Part I)
In September 2018, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Central Sulawesi, triggering tsunami, landslides, and liquefaction.
Thousands of lives were lost, and critical transport infrastructure were damaged.
In June 2019, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved the $297.75 million Emergency Assistance for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Project.
Supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Internasional Trade, the project aims to rebuild key public works and transport infrastructure.
Sumarno, Head Department of Transportation Central Sulawesi Province
After the earthquake, tsunami, and liquefaction, the economic impact has been severe.
Ports, airports, and other infrastructure are in a state of disrepair, causing significant disruptions to economic activity.Following the recovery efforts, economic factors have picked up, encouraging people to engage in various activities around the port and Palu City.
The project rehabilitated and reconstructed three ports and an airport to disaster-resilient standards with gender responsive and inclusive features.
Donggala Port, which serves both passengers and cargo, projected to become a key logistics and passenger hub in Indonesia’s eastern region.
Wani Port is a multipurpose port that supports agriculture, livestock transport, and government ships.
Meanwhile, Pantoloan Port is an important gateway for the economy in Donggala and Central Sulawesi, handling various types of cargo and passenger ships.
Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport, the largest in Central Sulawesi, is the main gateway to Palu and its surrounding areas.
Yandi Hermawan, Branch Manager PT Dharma Lautan Utama Palu Branch
Compared to the old terminal, our passengers are very enthusiastic about the new Donggala Port terminal. The facilities are quite comprehensive, including air-conditioned rooms and seating area. Our passengers have also shown greater comfort at the Donggala passenger terminal.
Alexander Allokendek, Head Palu Bay Port Authority
When it was built, we set a standard that accessibility for disabilities is crucial. In Donggala Port, we have tracking systems and accessible toilets, as well as proper signage. We also assist passengers all the way to the ship and back.
Rudi Richardo, Airport Head Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport
Regarding gender aspects, such as nursery areas and others, these remain a focus in the rehabilitation and reconstruction project. For the disability aspect, this has already been implemented at the airport, enabling persons with disabilities to carry out their activities independently.
Elias Katapi, Traveler with Disability
As a person with visual impairments, there are now tactile blocks that allow us to navigate independently.
Irmansyah, Traveler with Disability
Before the renovation, there was no access at all for wheelchair users inside the toilet; the door was too narrow, so it was impossible to use a wheelchair. Now, it is more accessible, allowing wheelchair users to move freely from the entrance to the inside.
With strong collaboration between the Ministry of Transportation and the local government, the project became fully operational in 2024.
Former President Joko Widodo inaugurated several of them that same year.
The project’s implementation follows ADB safeguards to ensure compliance with social and environmental impact standards.
Idrus, Shop Owner Donggala Port
When there was a plan for port construction, we were invited by the local government for relocation, and we also had several meetings with AECOM, so the relocation process went smoothly.
Twenty-nine affected shop owners in the port area were relocated to the nearby temporary sites to continue their businesses.
The affected shop owners will move to the permanent relocation site in front of the constructed Donggala Port in early 2025.
For airport rehabilitation, tenants relocated to temporary sites have been returned to the terminal to continue their business.
Cici, Shop Manager Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport
Currently, everyone who was relocated has returned to their respective cafeterias upstairs. Because the air is cool inside, the place gets a lot of customers. During the relocation process,the cafeteria sellers were also given consultations by the airport authorities to ensure everything went smoothly.
Both temporary sites in Donggala Port and Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport were completed with associated facilities: electricity, water, and disposal.
The rehabilitation and reconstruction of these key transportation infrastructure symbolize recovery.
It highlights the power of collaboration and commitment.
Together, we are not just recovering; we are building stronger, more inclusive features.
We are building back better.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne
The proportion of motorbikes on Australia’s roads has remained steady over the last decade, about 4.5% of all registered vehicles. But motorcyclists are over-represented in road deaths.
In 2015, they made up 17% of total road fatalities. In 2024, this has crept up to 21%.
Meanwhile, other road users have either maintained a steady proportion of road fatalities or – in the case of car passengers – declined since 2015.
So, less than one in 20 vehicles is a motorbike. But one in five people killed in a road crash rides one. What’s going on – and can they be made safer?
On a motorbike, people lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. This makes them more vulnerable to injuries, including to the head, chest and – most commonly – legs and feet.
Road conditions can also make a significant difference to motorcyclists. With only two points of contact with the road, motorbikes have less stability than four-wheeled vehicles.
Even minor defects – such as potholes, uneven road surfaces or gravel – can reduce traction, cause skidding or lead to a loss of control, particularly when cornering.
For example, a 2022 study of 188 motorcycle crash sites in Victoria showed sharper curves were linked to a higher risk of crashing. A study of over 1,400 motorcycle crashes in Tasmania from 2013-16 found road surface defects were a contributing factor to 15% of all crashes, and 24% of single-vehicle crashes.
In a car, a driver’s greater experience level is linked to greater safety. Evidence shows this may be particularly important for motorcycle riders as they manoeuvre and balance their vehicle and respond to road conditions.
The Tasmanian study also showed young riders aged between 16 and 25 were disproportionately at risk. They accounted for just 11% of registered motorcycles but 42% of motorcycle crashes.
Their crash rate was more than three times that of riders aged 26–39 – and six times higher than riders over 40. They made up more than half of all incidents on curves.
Alarmingly, nearly a third of riders who died on South Australian roads between 2016 and 2020 were unlicensed.
Modern cars have passive safety features, such as airbags and crumple zones, to reduce injuries. Technology – including collision avoidance systems and advanced braking – has also reduced fatality rates for drivers and passengers.
In contrast, motorbikes rely almost entirely on a rider’s skill, protective gear and the road conditions.
In recent years, motorcycle manufacturers have been introducing “advanced rider assistance systems”. These adapt similar features used in cars, such as adaptive cruise control (which adjusts speed and distance from vehicles ahead) and forward collision warnings.
However, these systems are still relatively new, and whether they can reduce crashes and fatalities is yet to be robustly studied.
Many motorcyclists are also hesitant to adopt these kinds of technologies due to concerns they may lose control or become over-reliant on them. Cost is also a factor, as rider assistance systems are still mostly limited to premium motorcycles.
Currently, motorbike riders continue to rely on infrastructure quality, rider training and skills, risk awareness, and protective gear as their primary safety measures.
Stronger regulation and enforcement of licensing, in conjunction with post-licence training, have been shown to help reduce motorcycle fatalities.
This includes implementing a graduated licensing system, which imposes restrictions on novice riders and gradually lifts them as they gain experience and maturity.
Post-licence rider training courses on defensive riding strategies (such as lane positioning, scanning and buffering) could be complements to basic licensing processes.
And let’s not forget: safety is not solely in the hands of motorbike riders.
An analysis of more than 5,000 two-vehicle motorcycle crashes in the United States found the motorcyclist was at fault in less than one in three cases.
Educating drivers of other vehicles matters just as much as motorcyclists themselves. Creating safer roads depends on mutual awareness and responsibility.
Sharing the road responsibly means drivers should:
regularly check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, especially before changing lanes or turning
maintain a safe following distance, understanding that riders may need to swerve to avoid hazards like oil, gravel or potholes
allow the same space when overtaking a motorcycle as they would a car
stay alert for lane filtering — where riders legally travel between lanes of slow or stationary traffic at low speeds.
Recognising motorcyclists as vulnerable road users, alongside pedestrians and cyclists, is key to making roads safer for everyone.
Milad Haghani 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. In Australia, 1 in 5 road deaths is a motorcyclist. We can make them safer – https://theconversation.com/in-australia-1-in-5-road-deaths-is-a-motorcyclist-we-can-make-them-safer-250652
Source: The White House
The move drew immediate praise:
Coalition for a Prosperous America Chairman Zach Mottl: “A permanent, universal baseline tariff resets the global trade environment and finally addresses the destructive legacy of decades of misguided free-trade policies. President Trump’s decision to implement a baseline tariff is a game-changing shift that prioritizes American manufacturing, protects working-class jobs, and safeguards our economic security from adversaries like China. This is exactly the type of bold action America needs to restore its industrial leadership. Today’s action will deliver lasting benefits to the U.S. economy and working-class Americans, cementing President Trump’s legacy as one that ushered in a new Golden Age of American industrialization and prosperity.”
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association SVP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane: “For too long, America’s family farmers and ranchers have been mistreated by certain trading partners around the world. President Trump is taking action to address numerous trade barriers that prevent consumers overseas from enjoying high-quality, wholesome American beef. NCBA will continue engaging with the White House to ensure fair treatment for America’s cattle producers around the world and optimize opportunities for exports abroad.”
Steel Manufacturers Association President Philip K. Bell: “President Trump is a champion of the domestic steel industry, and his America First Trade Policy is designed to fight the unfair trade that has harmed American workers and weakened manufacturing in the United States. The recently reinvigorated 232 steel tariffs have already started creating American jobs and bolstering the domestic steel industry. President Trump is working to turn America into a manufacturing powerhouse and the steel tariffs are driving that movement. President Trump’s initial 232 steel tariffs and the historic tax cuts led to investments of nearly $20 billion by steel manufacturers in the United States. Since the revised tariffs took effect, Hyundai Steel announced a $5.8 billion steel mill in Louisiana, demonstrating that the tariffs are working to bring more steel investments and production to the United States. The domestic steel market is stronger when other nations are forced to compete on a level playing field. On a level playing field, American workers can outcompete anyone. We look forward to continuing working with President Trump and his administration to ensure a level playing field for Americans and a robust domestic steel industry that strengthens our national, economic and energy security.”
Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul: “Today’s trade action prioritizes domestic manufacturers and America’s workers. These hardworking men and women have seen unfair trade cut the ground from beneath their feet for decades. They deserve a fighting chance. Our workers can out-compete anyone in the world, but they need a level playing field to do it. This trade reset is a necessary step in the right direction.”
National Electrical Contractors Association CEO David Long: “President Trump has consistently prioritized policies that put the electrical industry as a priority, and we recognize his commitment to strengthening our nation’s economy. As these new tariffs take effect, we look forward to working with the Administration to ensure that electrical contractors and the entire electrical industry can continue powering America efficiently while navigating potential cost and supply chain challenges.”
Bienvenido Empresarios: “As an organization committed to empowering Hispanic Americans and strengthening our nation’s future, Bienvenido supports policies that build a more resilient American economy, safeguard our communities, and reassert U.S. leadership on the global stage. President Trump’s emphasis on using economic leverage — including tariffs — reflects a broader strategy to counter China, confront the deadly fentanyl crisis, and bring critical industries back home. Now is a time for tough, decisive action when national security and American livelihoods are at stake. Our hope is that these measures lead to stronger enforcement, fairer trade, and long-term prosperity for all Americans.”
America First Policy Institute: “Tariffs worked then—and they’ll work again. Under President Trump, tariffs brought back jobs, lowered inflation, and strengthened national security. It’s not just economic policy—it’s America First in action.”
Speaker Mike Johnson: “President Trump is sending a clear message with Liberation Day: America will not be exploited by unfair trade practices anymore. These tariffs restore fair and reciprocal trade and level the playing field for American workers and innovators. The President understands that FREE trade ONLY works when it’s FAIR!”
Gov. Jeff Landry: “Pro Jobs. Pro Business. Pro America.”
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso: “President Trump is acting boldly to put America first. America needs fair and free trade. We can’t allow other countries to keep abusing our workers and job creators. It’s time we had a level playing field. I applaud President Trump’s 100% commitment to Made in America.”
Sen. Jim Banks: “The decision by President Trump today to impose reciprocal tariffs will be so good for Indiana. … Those are the manufacturing jobs that President Trump is bringing back from overseas.”
Sen. Bill Cassidy: “The president’s trade agenda can pave the way for stronger trade deals, fairer rules, and real results. I am excited to work with President Trump to make it happen. Louisiana’s workers and families deserve nothing less.”
Sen. Roger Marshall: “President Donald Trump is fighting for long-term solutions to put America’s farmers and ranchers first.”
Sen. Ashley Moody: “It’s liberation day in America! Today, @POTUS sent a message to the world that the era of America being taken advantage of is over.”
Sen. Markwayne Mullin: “President Trump is going to charge foreign countries roughly half of what they *already* charge us to do business. Literally who can argue with this?”
Sen. Pete Ricketts: “President Trump is delivering on his campaign promises to level the playing field and stand up for the American people. Reciprocal tariffs will ensure equal treatment for American businesses. @POTUS is working to reshore jobs lost overseas and secure our supply chains. He is working to open new markets for our nation’s agriculture products. He is demonstrating to foreign adversaries like China that we will no longer be taken advantage of.”
Sen. Rick Scott: “The days of the U.S. being taken advantage of by other countries are OVER! Pres. Trump is making it clear that he will ALWAYS put American jobs, manufacturing and our economy first. As Americans, let’s stand with him and support one another by buying products MADE IN AMERICA.”
Sen. Eric Schmitt: “President Trump is bringing America back. We won’t be ripped off by other countries anymore. We’re bringing back manufacturing, unleashing energy production, and paving the way for prosperity.”
Sen. Tommy Tuberville: “For too long, other countries have ripped us off with bad trade deals – resulting in American jobs and manufacturing moving overseas. But change is coming. The Golden Age of America’s economy is here. Happy Liberation Day.”
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise: “The United States and American workers will no longer be ripped off by other countries with unfair trade practices. Thank you President Trump for putting America’s workers and innovators first with reciprocal tariffs that level the playing field and make trade FAIR.”
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “For too long, foreign countries have taken advantage of us at the expense of American workers. President @realDonaldTrump says NO MORE.”
House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain: “Tariffs work! @POTUS has proven tariffs are an effective tool in achieving economic and strategic objectives. The President’s long-term strategy will pay off.”
Rep. Elise Stefanik: “I strongly support President Trump’s America First economic policies to strengthen American manufacturing and create millions of American jobs. For too long, Americans have suffered under unfair trade practices putting America Last. We will not allow other countries to take advantage of us and we must put America and the American worker first.”
Rep. Jason Smith: “America shouldn’t reward countries that discriminate against American workers and manufacturers. On Liberation Day, President Trump is correcting this and demanding fair treatment for American producers.”
Rep. Mark Alford: “The days of the United States being taken advantage of are OVER. Republicans are putting American workers FIRST.”
Rep. Jodey Arrington: “For too long, our leaders have allowed other nations to rip us off through numerous unfair trade practices resulting in suppressed wages, lost opportunities, and unrealized economic growth. Just as he did in his first term, President Trump is fighting to ensure an even playing field for our manufacturers, farmers, and workers so we can unleash American prosperity and Make America Great Again.”
Rep. Brian Babin: “Trump’s tariffs aren’t starting a trade war—they’re ending one. For decades, other countries ripped off American workers with unfair tariffs and barriers. Now, we’re finally fighting back.”
Rep. Andy Biggs: “Past administrations have allowed the United States to be ripped off by allies and adversaries alike. President Trump said “NO MORE!” The Art of the Deal.”
Rep. Vern Buchanan: “For too long, unfair trade practices devastated America’s manufacturing base and stole millions of blue-collar jobs. It’s time to level the playing field and bring those jobs back. @POTUS is fighting for American workers.”
Rep. Michael Cloud: “America-First means putting the American people first. We will no longer be taken advantage of as a nation and people.”
Rep. Andrew Clyde: “For far too long, the U.S. has been ripped off by countries across the globe with unfair trade practices. Now, we’re finally leveling the playing field. THANK YOU, President Trump, for putting American workers and manufacturing FIRST.”
Rep. Mike Collins: “This is fair. Whether it’s our military or economy, other countries have taken advantage of the U.S. for far too long. That time is over.”
Rep. Chuck Edwards: “Many countries are taking advantage of the United States by imposing tariffs against us while we don’t have reciprocal tariffs against them. @POTUS has used tariffs to produce successful trade deals for us in his first term, and I support his plan to use them again to create a more level playing field and secure fairer trade deals for America. The quicker other countries agree to fairer trade deals, the quicker the tariffs can end.”
Rep. Scott Franklin:“For years the US handcuffed itself and played nice while other countries imposed massive tariffs and took advantage of us. We’re done putting America last. @POTUS is leveling the playing field, ending trade imbalances and prioritizing American workers and manufacturing again!”
Rep. Russell Fry: “HAPPY LIBERATION DAY. Thanks to @POTUS, America is DONE being taken advantage of. A new era has begun.”
Rep. Lance Gooden: “For decades, Washington allowed Texans to be ripped off by foreign countries. Those days are now over. @POTUS is committed to making America wealthy again!”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene: “If you want to do business in America, you need to play by our rules. For too long, American businesses, big and small, have been ripped off by bad trade deals and unfair competition. President Trump is putting a stop to it. He’s standing up for our workers, our companies, and our consumers.”
Rep. Abe Hamadeh: “The America First Republican party is the party of the working class, the forgotten men and women. On this Liberation Day, we further our commitment to them, that we will reshore our manufacturing, restore fair trade, and rebuild the greatest economy in the world.”
Rep. Pat Harrigan:“If you want access to the most powerful economy in the world, treat us fairly. If not, don’t expect a free ride. That’s real leadership and @POTUS is delivering it!”
Rep. Andy Harris: “President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs will put the American worker first and bring fairness back to international trade. America is being respected again.”
Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “President Trump is bringing back the American Dream. Our taxpayers have been ripped off by foreign countries for far too long, but those days are over. President Trump is right to impose these reciprocal tariffs.”
Rep. Clay Higgins: “@POTUS’ trade agenda puts American industry and America first. I support the President’s action to protect our domestic producers.”
Rep. Wesley Hunt: “Today, President Trump empowered the American middle class. His policies on tariffs will bring automotive manufacturing back to America.”
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis: “Since President Trump has been elected, we’ve attracted $5 trillion in private investment, foreign & domestic companies have announced Made in USA manufacturing, countries have reduced tariffs or changed foreign policies. President Trump is sticking up for American workers & farmers, repatriating our supply chain and protecting our national security.”
Rep. Addison McDowell: “My district was hit hard over the years by unfair trade deals. Finally, we have a President who wants to put the American worker FIRST.”
Rep. Mary Miller: “America will no longer be taken advantage of! This is how you put America First.”
Rep. Riley Moore: “For decades, foreign countries have enjoyed free access to the greatest consumer marketplace on the face of the planet, all while still charging our domestic producers hefty duties or imposing significant barriers to access their markets. Today that ends. President Trump is the only president in my lifetime to acknowledge how unfair trade has gutted the heartland and shipped countless jobs overseas. By finally reciprocating in-kind, we’ll force foreign competitors to the negotiating table, lower trade barriers, and ultimately create real free and fair trade across the board. I’m confident this move will boost our domestic manufacturing industry and fuel demand for American products across the globe.”
Rep. Tim Moore: “President Trump is leveling the playing field for American workers and bringing back MADE IN AMERICA!”
Rep. Troy Nehls: “President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs make it clear that our country will not be ripped off anymore. We are bringing back American manufacturing and putting America First.”
Rep. Ralph Norman: “Happy LIBERATION Day … ✅Protect the American worker ✅Strengthen manufacturing ✅Reduce unfair trade practices … Our economy will be competitive again!!”
Rep. Andy Ogles: “He’s resetting the negotiating table. He’s resetting the deck here to say, ‘You know what? For too long, you’ve taken advantage of our free market and you’ve literally leached jobs away from the American people … Let’s have a serious conversation and let’s do something that’s fair and mutually beneficial for both sides.’”
Rep. Guy Reschenthaler: “I fully support President Trump’s critical efforts to right this generational wrong, bring manufacturing jobs home, and rejuvenate American working families. Made in America is back.”
Rep. John Rutherford: “Tariffs help bring American jobs back home, incentivize buying American, AND put pressure on Canada and Mexico to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigrants from their countries into ours. Even the Biden Admin kept or increased tariffs that President Trump imposed during his first presidency. Under Trump, inflation stayed around 2% and our GDP grew to 3%. Smart tariffs are a long-term investment in the American economy that are worth the short-term cost.”
Rep. Greg Steube: “What many fail to realize: Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are a long-overdue response to years of unfair trade policies against America. For decades, America has been ripped off by other countries who have repeatedly slapped tariffs on our goods, blocked our products, and flooded our markets with theirs. The numbers don’t lie–the rest of the world has profited at the expense of American workers and businesses. President Trump is finally putting America First by taking bold, necessary actions that past leaders wouldn’t take.”
Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “If Australia doesn’t want our beef – WE DON’T WANT THEIRS! Thank you @POTUS for opening the door of fair treatment for America’s Cattlemen”
Rep. Tom Tiffany: “Gone are the days of America being taken advantage of by foreign countries. The American worker comes FIRST.”
Rep. William Timmons: “President Trump’s tariffs are a necessary move to protect American workers and rebuild our economy. We are finally breaking free from decades of unfair trade deals that gutted our industries. These tariffs will bring jobs back to our districts, strengthen manufacturing, and ensure our children inherit a country that is not just a consumer, but a producer. Thank you, @POTUS.”
Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “For far too long, the United States has been taken advantage of by our foreign trade partners. The American people re-elected President Trump to bring back truly fair trade with other countries. Reciprocal tariffs are a first step to have a level playing field for American products and to start bringing back manufacturing to our country!”
Rep. Daniel Webster: “President @realDonaldTrump is delivering on his mandate to restore America’s economic strength. For too long, unfair trade deals have hollowed out our factories and shipped American jobs overseas. By standing up to bad actors like China and Venezuela and enforcing fair trade, President Trump is defending American industries and putting American workers first.”
Rep. Tony Wied: “President Trump has made it clear with these reciprocal tariffs that we will no longer allow other countries to take advantage of us. His goal is simple: to bring jobs and manufacturing back to our country and open up foreign markets to American products. If companies want to avoid these tariffs, they will do business in the United States. I applaud the President for taking a stand against years of unfair trade practices and making sure we put American workers and consumers first. It’s time our foreign trading partners finally live up to their end of the bargain.”
Rep. Roger Williams: “For too long, America Last policies have put the U.S. auto industry at a disadvantage. As a car dealer and small business owner, I support @POTUS’ Executive Order to increase competition, boost revenue, and bring back American jobs.”
U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer: “Today, President Trump is taking urgent action to protect the national security and economy of the United States. The current lack of trade reciprocity, demonstrated by our chronic trade deficit, has weakened our economic and national security. After only 72 days in office, President Trump has prioritized swift action to bring reciprocity to our trade relations and reduce the trade deficit by leveling the playing field for American workers and manufacturers, reshoring American jobs, expanding our domestic manufacturing base, and ensuring our defense-industrial base is not dependent on foreign adversaries—all leading to stronger economic and national security.”
Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick: “Today, the world starts taking us seriously. Our workforce will finally be treated fairly.”
Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent: “President Trump signed the Declaration of Economic Independence for the American people. For decades, the trade status quo has allowed countries to leverage tariffs and unfair trade practices to get ahead at the expense of hardworking Americans. The President’s historic actions will level the playing field for American workers and usher in a new age of economic strength.”
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins: “FARMERS COME FIRST — @POTUS is leveling the playing field, ensuring American farmers and ranchers can compete globally again!”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “Thank you, @POTUS! ‘Made in America’ is not just a tagline — it’s an economic and national security priority.”
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “For too long, America has been targeted by unfair trade practices that made our supply chain dependent on foreign adversaries, eroded our industrial base, and hurt American workers. This has gravely impacted our national security. President Trump’s strong action will help make America safe again. @DHS, primarily through @CBP, is ready to collect these new tariffs and put an end to unfair trade practices. Thank you President @realDonaldTrump for putting America FIRST.”
Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer: “Promises made, promises kept”
Secretary of Energy Chris Wright: “President Trump is a businessman; he’s a negotiator. The result of that has been and will continue to be improvements for the American people. We are in the midst of a negotiation, and he is fighting every day to make the cost-of-living conditions better for Americans.”
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon: “At the White House this afternoon, we celebrated Liberation Day — setting our economy on the path of future prosperity for our children. Business owners, workers, and taxpayers have been waiting for strong economic leadership. @POTUS’ actions today prove we are done being taken advantage of in international trade.”
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “President Trump’s Liberation Day reciprocity plan is commonsense. If you tariff us, we’ll tariff you. This will strengthen our economy and make America wealthy again!”
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy: “Today is the day we will liberate ourselves from unfair trade practices and outdated ways of thinking. Tariffs are an important tool in the President’s toolbox to stop foreign countries from ripping us off, protect America’s workers, and restore U.S. manufacturing. I stand with @POTUS as he finally levels the playing field. Happy Liberation Day!”
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “For four years, Americans couldn’t afford groceries, let alone a house. This Liberation Day, @POTUS is bringing manufacturing and jobs back. President Trump is making the American Dream achievable again!”
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin: “Massive announcement by @POTUS today restoring U.S. dominance, cementing his America First vision, and Powering the Great American Comeback.”
Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler: “Small businesses will no longer be crushed by foreign governments and unfair trade deals. Instead, we will put American industry, workers, and strength FIRST. Thank you @POTUS for bringing back Made in America!”
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz: “Economic security is national security. Thank you President Trump for putting America first.”
Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)
An applicant for a mining lease, other than the state applicant, must provide proof of readily available funds in its operating bank account of no less than 50% of the total projected capital costs upon lodgement of the application, as a precondition to the grant of a mining lease (section 62(a)(v)). We assume that the reference to ‘operating bank account’ means the bank account of a licence holder in a bank in PNG.
Furthermore, the Bill provides that the holder of a mining lease whose RMCP has been approved must submit financial assurance that supports the performance of the RMCP obligations, to ensure that the state may not be liable for meeting the costs of the performance of closure obligations.
Under the Bill, the holder of a mining lease whose RMCP is approved, will not be able to commence any mining or related operations until this financial assurance has been submitted.
The financial assurance must be 20% of the total RMCP cost of implementation, and should include a letter of credit; insurance company bond; security interests in unencumbered assets; or other forms of financial assurance. The remaining 80% of the full cost is expected to be paid by the mining lease holder in annual instalments into a trust fund, established for the purpose, two years before the planned closure. This amount must be reviewed and updated every time the RMCP is updated.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nick Haslam, Professor of Psychology, The University of Melbourne
The original tall poppies bloomed in the garden of Tarquin the Proud, last king of Rome. To communicate that his enemies should be defeated by killing their leaders, he is said to have decapitated the tallest flowers with a stick.
Two and a half thousand years later, “tall poppies” are those among us who rise above the horde through the excellence of their achievements or the boldness of their ambition.
Sometimes tall poppies are celebrated, as an array of tall poppy awards attests. Other times they are scorned for their arrogance and envied for their success. Too big for their boots or britches, they must be cut down to size.
Aversion to tall poppies is said to be particularly strong in Australia and New Zealand, where the idea of a “tall poppy syndrome” was invented in the 1980s. A tendency to drag down those who set themselves above others, the syndrome supposedly reflects values of equality, humility and the storied “fair go”.
But what are the effects of the tall poppy syndrome? What does it tell us about Antipodean cultures? And are we uniquely averse to those who stand out from the crowd?
Effects of the tall poppy syndrome on work performance and leadership have been studied extensively.
In a New Zealand study of prominent entrepreneurs, nearly all reported encountering the syndrome. “If you do achieve something and stick your head up a bit further,” one said, “people will try to chop you down to size.”
Dealing with negative responses to success drove some entrepreneurs to adopt specific coping strategies, like staying under the radar and taking pains not to flaunt their success.
Tall poppy syndrome doesn’t merely bruise enterprising egos, it can also adversely affect business decisions. The NZ study found public attacks can discourage entrepreneurs from starting or growing a business and from persevering after setbacks.
Athletes also report being targets. Some attacks simply reflect anonymous online spite, but tall poppy attitudes also drive aggressive behaviour. One Australian study found that high performing student athletes were often victims of bullying.
Harvesting tall poppies may be common in Australia and New Zealand, but there is little evidence that it is unique to us.
In Japan, the saying “the nail that sticks out gets hammered down” captures the idea that people should not be conspicuously different.
The Law of Jante expresses a similar sentiment in Scandinavian countries. Despite being fictitious, invented by Danish-Norwegian novelist Aksel Sandemose, its ten rules dictate that “you’re not to think you are anything special” and “you’re not to imagine yourself better than we are”, among other humbling commandments.
These examples are subtly different from each other: the Japanese version presents being different as undesirable; the Nordic version identifies being better or special as undesirable traits.
In the more collectivist Japanese context, avoiding displays of individuality helps to preserve social harmony and avoid conflict. In the more individualist Scandinavian context, the key concern is maintaining social equality. The Law of Jante levels out a society where individuality is highly valued but expressions of personal superiority are not.
These variations show that aversion to tall poppies can express two distinct values in different cultural settings: conformity via collectivism, and equality via egalitarianism.
Values researchers think of egalitarianism in terms of a cultural dimension called “power distance”. Cultures high on this dimension value social hierarchy and accept inequalities. Low cultures prefer more equal social arrangements.
Australia tends to score relatively low on power distance, with Scandinavian countries and New Zealand lower still, as well as scoring high on individualism. In this “horizontal” form of individualism, people are meant to strive to be distinct without desiring special status. It is therefore no surprise to find the tall poppy syndrome in these countries.
Values in the United States also tend to be highly individualistic, but higher in power distance than in Oceania, a combination known as “vertical individualism”. Vertical individualists also value being distinct from others, but are more comfortable with inequality and with raising themselves above others.
As this contrast suggests, Americans favour rewarding tall poppies more strongly than Australians. This aligns with the ethos of the “American Dream”, a cultural narrative that champions ambition and status-seeking, and the full-throated celebration of personal success.
In our age of self-promotion, with social media sites devoted to not-so-humble bragging, have we become immune to the tall poppy syndrome? Are we becoming more comfortable about standing out, or does egalitarianism remain a powerful obstacle?
Research finds no increase in levels of narcissism in Australia, in contrast to some evidence of rising levels in the US. By implication, Australians are not becoming more willing to elevate themselves above others. Whether their attitudes to people who do so has changed remains to be seen.
More importantly, we should ask if, in times of high and rising inequality, less egalitarianism is something to hope for. No one wants successful athletes to be lashed by public envy – but if the tall poppy syndrome reflects a commitment to social equality, perhaps a complete cure would be worse than the disease.
A culture that attacks its tall poppies risks discouraging ambition and innovation, but one that overlooks inequality may lose sight of the collective good. Ultimately, the challenge lies in finding a balance between celebrating individual excellence and maintaining the egalitarian spirit that fosters fairness.
Nick Haslam receives funding from the Australian Research Council.
Milad Haghani 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. Australia and New Zealand are plagued by ‘tall poppy syndrome’. But would a cure be worse than the disease? – https://theconversation.com/australia-and-new-zealand-are-plagued-by-tall-poppy-syndrome-but-would-a-cure-be-worse-than-the-disease-245355
Source: Asia Development Bank
Build Back Better: Central Sulawesi’s Journey of Recovery (Part I)
In September 2018, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Central Sulawesi, triggering tsunami, landslides, and liquefaction.
Thousands of lives were lost, and critical transport infrastructure were damaged.
In June 2019, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved the $297.75 million Emergency Assistance for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Project.
Supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Internasional Trade, the project aims to rebuild key public works and transport infrastructure.
Sumarno, Head Department of Transportation Central Sulawesi Province
After the earthquake, tsunami, and liquefaction, the economic impact has been severe.
Ports, airports, and other infrastructure are in a state of disrepair, causing significant disruptions to economic activity.Following the recovery efforts, economic factors have picked up, encouraging people to engage in various activities around the port and Palu City.
The project rehabilitated and reconstructed three ports and an airport to disaster-resilient standards with gender responsive and inclusive features.
Donggala Port, which serves both passengers and cargo, projected to become a key logistics and passenger hub in Indonesia’s eastern region.
Wani Port is a multipurpose port that supports agriculture, livestock transport, and government ships.
Meanwhile, Pantoloan Port is an important gateway for the economy in Donggala and Central Sulawesi, handling various types of cargo and passenger ships.
Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport, the largest in Central Sulawesi, is the main gateway to Palu and its surrounding areas.
Yandi Hermawan, Branch Manager PT Dharma Lautan Utama Palu Branch
Compared to the old terminal, our passengers are very enthusiastic about the new Donggala Port terminal. The facilities are quite comprehensive, including air-conditioned rooms and seating area. Our passengers have also shown greater comfort at the Donggala passenger terminal.
Alexander Allokendek, Head Palu Bay Port Authority
When it was built, we set a standard that accessibility for disabilities is crucial. In Donggala Port, we have tracking systems and accessible toilets, as well as proper signage. We also assist passengers all the way to the ship and back.
Rudi Richardo, Airport Head Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport
Regarding gender aspects, such as nursery areas and others, these remain a focus in the rehabilitation and reconstruction project. For the disability aspect, this has already been implemented at the airport, enabling persons with disabilities to carry out their activities independently.
Elias Katapi, Traveler with Disability
As a person with visual impairments, there are now tactile blocks that allow us to navigate independently.
Irmansyah, Traveler with Disability
Before the renovation, there was no access at all for wheelchair users inside the toilet; the door was too narrow, so it was impossible to use a wheelchair. Now, it is more accessible, allowing wheelchair users to move freely from the entrance to the inside.
With strong collaboration between the Ministry of Transportation and the local government, the project became fully operational in 2024.
Former President Joko Widodo inaugurated several of them that same year.
The project’s implementation follows ADB safeguards to ensure compliance with social and environmental impact standards.
Idrus, Shop Owner Donggala Port
When there was a plan for port construction, we were invited by the local government for relocation, and we also had several meetings with AECOM, so the relocation process went smoothly.
Twenty-nine affected shop owners in the port area were relocated to the nearby temporary sites to continue their businesses.
The affected shop owners will move to the permanent relocation site in front of the constructed Donggala Port in early 2025.
For airport rehabilitation, tenants relocated to temporary sites have been returned to the terminal to continue their business.
Cici, Shop Manager Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport
Currently, everyone who was relocated has returned to their respective cafeterias upstairs. Because the air is cool inside, the place gets a lot of customers. During the relocation process,the cafeteria sellers were also given consultations by the airport authorities to ensure everything went smoothly.
Both temporary sites in Donggala Port and Mutiara Sis Al Jufri Airport were completed with associated facilities: electricity, water, and disposal.
The rehabilitation and reconstruction of these key transportation infrastructure symbolize recovery.
It highlights the power of collaboration and commitment.
Together, we are not just recovering; we are building stronger, more inclusive features.
We are building back better.
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Niven Winchester, Professor of Economics, Auckland University of Technology
We now have a clearer picture of Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs and how they will affect other trading nations, including the United States itself.
The US administration claims these tariffs on imports will reduce the US trade deficit and address what it views as unfair and non-reciprocal trade practices. Trump said this would
forever be remembered as the day American industry was reborn, the day America’s destiny was reclaimed.
The “reciprocal” tariffs are designed to impose charges on other countries equivalent to half the costs they supposedly inflict on US exporters through tariffs, currency manipulation and non-tariff barriers levied on US goods.
Each nation received a tariff number that will apply to most goods. Notable sectors exempt include steel, aluminium and motor vehicles, which are already subject to new tariffs.
The minimum baseline tariff for each country is 10%. But many countries received higher numbers, including Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), China (34%), Indonesia (32%), Taiwan (32%) and Switzerland (31%).
The tariff number for China is in addition to an existing 20% tariff, so the total tariff applied to Chinese imports is 54%. Countries assigned 10% tariffs include Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Canada and Mexico are exempt from the reciprocal tariffs, for now, but goods from those nations are subject to a 25% tariff under a separate executive order.
Although some countries do charge higher tariffs on US goods than the US imposes on their exports, and the “Liberation Day” tariffs are allegedly only half the full reciprocal rate, the calculations behind them are open to challenge.
For example, non-tariff measures are notoriously difficult to estimate and “subject to much uncertainty”, according to one recent study.
Other countries are now likely to respond with retaliatory tariffs on US imports. Canada (the largest destination for US exports), the EU and China have all said they will respond in kind.
To estimate the impacts of this tit-for-tat trade standoff, I use a global model of the production, trade and consumption of goods and services. Similar simulation tools – known as “computable general equilibrium models” – are widely used by governments, academics and consultancies to evaluate policy changes.
The first model simulates a scenario in which the US imposes reciprocal and other new tariffs, and other countries respond with equivalent tariffs on US goods. Estimated changes in GDP due to US reciprocal tariffs and retaliatory tariffs by other nations are shown in the table below.
The tariffs decrease US GDP by US$438.4 billion (1.45%). Divided among the nation’s 126 million households, GDP per household decreases by $3,487 per year. That is larger than the corresponding decreases in any other country. (All figures are in US dollars.)
Proportional GDP decreases are largest in Mexico (2.24%) and Canada (1.65%) as these nations ship more than 75% of their exports to the US. Mexican households are worse off by $1,192 per year and Canadian households by $2,467.
Other nations that experience relatively large decreases in GDP include Vietnam (0.99%) and Switzerland (0.32%).
Some nations gain from the trade war. Typically, these face relatively low US tariffs (and consequently also impose relatively low tariffs on US goods). New Zealand (0.29%) and Brazil (0.28%) experience the largest increases in GDP. New Zealand households are better off by $397 per year.
Aggregate GDP for the rest of the world (all nations except the US) decreases by $62 billion.
At the global level, GDP decreases by $500 billion (0.43%). This result confirms the well-known rule that trade wars shrink the global economy.
In the second scenario, the modelling depicts what happens if other nations do not react to the US tariffs. The changes in the GDP of selected countries are presented in the table below.
Countries that face relatively high US tariffs and ship a large proportion of their exports to the US experience the largest proportional decreases in GDP. These include Canada, Mexico, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Switzerland, South Korea and China.
Countries that face relatively low new tariffs gain, with the UK experiencing the largest GDP increase.
The tariffs decrease US GDP by $149 billion (0.49%) because the tariffs increase production costs and consumer prices in the US.
Aggregate GDP for the rest of the world decreases by $155 billion, more than twice the corresponding decrease when there was retaliation. This indicates that the rest of the world can reduce losses by retaliating. At the same time, retaliation leads to a worse outcome for the US.
Previous tariff announcements by the Trump administration dropped sand into the cogs of international trade. The reciprocal tariffs throw a spanner into the works. Ultimately, the US may face the largest damages.
Niven Winchester has previously received funding from the Productivity Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to estimate the impacts of potential trade policies. He is affiliated with Motu Economic & Public Policy Research.
– ref. New modelling reveals full impact of Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – with the US hit hardest – https://theconversation.com/new-modelling-reveals-full-impact-of-trumps-liberation-day-tariffs-with-the-us-hit-hardest-253320
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Fourth youth charged following Launceston burglaries
Thursday, 3 April 2025 – 12:23 pm.
A fourth youth has been charged as part of an investigation into a number of burglaries at residential and commercial properties in the Launceston area.
The 17-year-old boy was charged overnight with 11 burglaries and 7 stealings – alleged to have occurred between February and April.
He was detained to appear in the Youth Justice Division of the Launceston Magistrates Court today.
Three youths – a 14-year-old-boy and two 17-year-old boys – were previously charged with numerous offences as part of the investigation by Northern Criminal Investigation Branch.
Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Niven Winchester, Professor of Economics, Auckland University of Technology
We now have a clearer picture of Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs and how they will affect other trading nations, including the United States itself.
The US administration claims these tariffs on imports will reduce the US trade deficit and address what it views as unfair and non-reciprocal trade practices. Trump said this would
forever be remembered as the day American industry was reborn, the day America’s destiny was reclaimed.
The “reciprocal” tariffs are designed to impose charges on other countries equivalent to half the costs they supposedly inflict on US exporters through tariffs, currency manipulation and non-tariff barriers levied on US goods.
Each nation received a tariff number that will apply to most goods. Notable sectors exempt include steel, aluminium and motor vehicles, which are already subject to new tariffs.
The minimum baseline tariff for each country is 10%. But many countries received higher numbers, including Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), China (34%), Indonesia (32%), Taiwan (32%) and Switzerland (31%).
The tariff number for China is in addition to an existing 20% tariff, so the total tariff applied to Chinese imports is 54%. Countries assigned 10% tariffs include Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Canada and Mexico are exempt from the reciprocal tariffs, for now, but goods from those nations are subject to a 25% tariff under a separate executive order.
Although some countries do charge higher tariffs on US goods than the US imposes on their exports, and the “Liberation Day” tariffs are allegedly only half the full reciprocal rate, the calculations behind them are open to challenge.
For example, non-tariff measures are notoriously difficult to estimate and “subject to much uncertainty”, according to one recent study.
Other countries are now likely to respond with retaliatory tariffs on US imports. Canada (the largest destination for US exports), the EU and China have all said they will respond in kind.
To estimate the impacts of this tit-for-tat trade standoff, I use a global model of the production, trade and consumption of goods and services. Similar simulation tools – known as “computable general equilibrium models” – are widely used by governments, academics and consultancies to evaluate policy changes.
The first model simulates a scenario in which the US imposes reciprocal and other new tariffs, and other countries respond with equivalent tariffs on US goods. Estimated changes in GDP due to US reciprocal tariffs and retaliatory tariffs by other nations are shown in the table below.
The tariffs decrease US GDP by US$438.4 billion (1.45%). Divided among the nation’s 126 million households, GDP per household decreases by $3,487 per year. That is larger than the corresponding decreases in any other country. (All figures are in US dollars.)
Proportional GDP decreases are largest in Mexico (2.24%) and Canada (1.65%) as these nations ship more than 75% of their exports to the US. Mexican households are worse off by $1,192 per year and Canadian households by $2,467.
Other nations that experience relatively large decreases in GDP include Vietnam (0.99%) and Switzerland (0.32%).
Some nations gain from the trade war. Typically, these face relatively low US tariffs (and consequently also impose relatively low tariffs on US goods). New Zealand (0.29%) and Brazil (0.28%) experience the largest increases in GDP. New Zealand households are better off by $397 per year.
Aggregate GDP for the rest of the world (all nations except the US) decreases by $62 billion.
At the global level, GDP decreases by $500 billion (0.43%). This result confirms the well-known rule that trade wars shrink the global economy.
In the second scenario, the modelling depicts what happens if other nations do not react to the US tariffs. The changes in the GDP of selected countries are presented in the table below.
Countries that face relatively high US tariffs and ship a large proportion of their exports to the US experience the largest proportional decreases in GDP. These include Canada, Mexico, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Switzerland, South Korea and China.
Countries that face relatively low new tariffs gain, with the UK experiencing the largest GDP increase.
The tariffs decrease US GDP by $149 billion (0.49%) because the tariffs increase production costs and consumer prices in the US.
Aggregate GDP for the rest of the world decreases by $155 billion, more than twice the corresponding decrease when there was retaliation. This indicates that the rest of the world can reduce losses by retaliating. At the same time, retaliation leads to a worse outcome for the US.
Previous tariff announcements by the Trump administration dropped sand into the cogs of international trade. The reciprocal tariffs throw a spanner into the works. Ultimately, the US may face the largest damages.
Niven Winchester has previously received funding from the Productivity Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to estimate the impacts of potential trade policies. He is affiliated with Motu Economic & Public Policy Research.
– ref. New modelling reveals full impact of Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – with the US hit hardest – https://theconversation.com/new-modelling-reveals-full-impact-of-trumps-liberation-day-tariffs-with-the-us-hit-hardest-253320
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 03/04/2025
A new state-of-the-art system is speeding up the delivery of samples from the Emergency Department to ACT Pathology, allowing clinicians to receive results faster and start patient treatment earlier.
The first of its kind in Australia, the Tempus600 is an automated sample tube delivery system connecting the Emergency Department to ACT Pathology on the Canberra Hospital campus.
Team members in the Emergency Department place a patient sample contained in a test tube in a ‘hole in the wall’, and the sample is delivered directly to laboratory analysers, with no human intervention.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the new sample delivery system eliminates manual processes to prepare, pack and unpack samples, reduces the possibility of error, and frees up time to focus on other important tasks.
“Most clinical sample delivery systems require multiple steps to prepare and send a sample, which can create a bottleneck at certain points in the process of sending a sample to the laboratory,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“The new Tempus system is one touch technology – put the clinical sample in the Tempus machine, and the system does the rest. Samples take approximately 40 seconds to travel from the Emergency Department to the lab in Pathology, which is a big time-saver when processing around 100,000 clinical samples each year.”
“This new technology means samples can be analysed sooner, which leads to faster patient diagnosis, earlier treatment, and a shorter stay in hospital. The system is also directly linked into the Digital Health Record, maintaining accuracy and assurance of the right test results for the right patients.
“In addition to speeding up the delivery of clinical samples, the Tempus system also provides greater consistency in how long it takes for results to be available. When treating a seriously ill patient in Emergency, these factors can make all the difference to their health outcomes.”
Quotes attributable to Greg Brylski, Executive Director of Pathology and Allied Health, Canberra Health Services:
“The implementation of the Tempus Pathology system at Canberra Health Services offers a significant advancement in delivering patient centred care. The Tempus streamlines pathology workflows allowing faster access to patient results, without compromising patient care.
“This Australian first innovation brings pathology services closer to the patient, facilitating quicker diagnoses while efficiently reducing administrative burdens on the healthcare system, when our healthcare professionals are required to focus on patient care.”
– Statement ends –
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hayley Geyle, Ecologist, Charles Darwin University
The greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) is one of Australia’s most iconic yet at-risk animals — and the last surviving bilby species. Once found across 70% of Australia, its range has contracted by more than 80% since European colonisation.
Today, these nocturnal marsupials, still culturally significant to many Indigenous peoples, are restricted to remote deserts. They face an ongoing threat of extinction.
Local elders, Indigenous rangers and scientists hold valuable knowledge about bilby populations, the threats they face, and strategies needed to sustain them into the future.
Our new study, published today in Conservation Science and Practice, reveals how collaboration between scientists and Indigenous land managers can help yield new and vital information.
In the field, we used two methods – one based on Warlpiri knowledge and one based on standard scientific protocols – to locate bilbies and collect scat (poo) samples in the North Tanami Indigenous Protected Area in the Northern Territory.
By drawing on Warlpiri tracking expertise and Western scientific methods, we uncovered crucial information on bilby populations that could help conserve these rare creatures.
Bilbies turn over tonnes of soil each year, helping to improve soil health, help seeds germinate and enhance water infiltration. Their deep, complex burrows also provide shelter for other species.
They’re crucial to the health of desert ecosystems; protecting bilbies means protecting the web of life they support.
To do this, we need to know more about:
Yet, bilbies are notoriously difficult to monitor directly via live capture. They’re nocturnal, shy and solitary. And they inhabit vast landscapes, making it very hard to estimate population numbers.
Luckily, the tracks, diggings and scats bilbies leave behind provide ample clues. DNA from scat (if it can be found) can be used to estimate how many bilbies are present in a particular area.
Systematic ecological surveys, often used to monitor wildlife, can be rigid and expensive, especially in remote regions.
We need flexible methods that align with local knowledge and the practical realities of monitoring bilbies on Country.
We tested two methods of locating bilby scat for DNA analysis.
The first was systematic sampling. This is a standard scientific approach where fixed lengths of land were walked multiple times to collect scat.
This ensures sampling effort is even over the search area and comparable across sites. However, like most species, bilby distribution is patchy, and this approach can lead to researchers missing important signs.
The second method was targeted sampling, guided by Warlpiri knowledge, to search in areas most likely to yield results.
This allowed the search team to focus on areas where bilbies were active or predicted to be active based on knowledge of their habits and food sources.
Altogether, we collected more than 1,000 scat samples. In the lab, we extracted DNA from these samples to identify individual bilbies. These data, combined with the location of samples, allowed us to estimate the size of the bilby population.
We then compared estimates that would have been derived if we had only done systematic or targeted sampling, or both, to assess their strengths and limitations for monitoring bilby populations.
We identified 20 bilbies from the scats collected during systematic surveys and 26 – six more – from targeted surveys. At least 16 individual bilbies were detected by both methods. In total, we confirmed 32 unique bilbies in the study area.
When it came to population estimates – which consider how many repeat captures occur and where – combining data from both types of surveys produced the most accurate estimates with the least effort.
Targeted sampling tended to overestimate population size because it focused on areas of high activity. Systematic sampling was more precise but required greater effort.
Combining both approaches provided the most reliable estimates while saving time.
Our research highlights how collaboration that includes different ways of knowing can improve conservation.
By adapting standard on-ground survey techniques to include Warlpiri methods for tracking bilbies, we produced better data and supported local capacity for bilby monitoring.
Elders also had opportunities to share tracking skills with younger people, helping keep cultural knowledge alive.
Conservation programs often rely on standardised ecological monitoring protocols – in other words, doing things much the same way no matter where you’re working.
While these protocols provide consistency, they are rigid and don’t always yield the best results. They also fail to incorporate local knowledge crucial for managing species like the bilby.
Our approach shows how integrating diverse ways of working can deliver more inclusive and effective outcomes, without compromising data reliability.
Bilbies face ongoing threats including:
Their future depends on collaborative efforts that draw on scientific and Indigenous and local knowledges.
This study provides an example of how such partnerships can work – not just for bilbies, but for other species and ecosystems.
As Australia confronts biodiversity loss, this research underscores the importance of listening to those who know Country best.
By valuing and respecting local expertise, we can build a stronger future for bilbies and the landscapes that are their home.
Hayley Geyle is employed by Territory NRM, who receives funding for threatened species projects from the Australian government through the Natural Heritage Trust. She also works on the Digital Women Ranger project. She is affiliated with Territory NRM and the Northern Institute (Charles Darwin University).
Cathy Robinson is employed at CSIRO and is Group Leader in the Agriculture and Food Sustainability Program and Research lead for the Digital Women Ranger Program which is supported by the Telstra Foundation. Cathy is also an Adjunct Professor at Charles Darwin University, Chair of IUCN Australian Expert Advisory Panel for the Green List, and Executive Advisor for the Liveris Academy for Innovation and Leadership at the University of Queensland.
Christine Schlesinger 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.
Helen Wilson 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. Scientists worked with Warlpiri to track down bilby poo – and uncover clues to help conserve these iconic animals – https://theconversation.com/scientists-worked-with-warlpiri-to-track-down-bilby-poo-and-uncover-clues-to-help-conserve-these-iconic-animals-245153
Source:
The National Emergency Medal is part of Australia’s Honours and Awards system and recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.
At a ceremony on Saturday 29 March, firefighters from across the Wairewa region became the latest of more than 5,500 CFA members to receive the honour for the 2019-20 fires.
Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Aaron Worcester presented the medals and said they were an important recognition of the valiant efforts of CFA members.
“The National Emergency Medal is a formal recognition that Australia appreciates the efforts and contributions of CFA members during the 2019-20 bushfire crisis,” Aaron said.
“It is a great honour to receive this medal, and I hope it goes a small way to thanking our members for their service.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan spoke of his pride for the CFA members’ efforts.
“The 2019-20 fires devastated East Gippsland and the North East of Victoria,” Jason said.
“But from that crisis arose the most remarkable human spirit of generosity and ‘lending a hand’.
“Our medal recipients have exemplified that spirit, and I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them.
“Whether they joined a firefighting strike team, worked in an Incident Control Centre or provided other assistance to affected communities – every contribution was valuable made a real difference.”
Wairewa Fire Brigade Captain and medal recipient Julian Davies said it was an honour to be formally recognised.
“Volunteer fireys don’t do the job for praise or awards – we do it to help out fellow Australians in need,” Julian said.
“That said, it is nice for the hard work of our volunteers to be formally recognised in this way.”
| Submitted by | CFA media |
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Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The ACCC has commenced legal proceedings in the Federal Court against Fewstone Pty Ltd, trading as City Beach, for allegedly selling products containing button batteries which did not comply with mandatory product safety and information standards, in breach of the Australian Consumer Law.
It is alleged that between 22 June 2022 and 24 October 2024, surf, skatewear and accessories retailer City Beach offered for sale 70 product lines containing button batteries which did not comply with Australia’s mandatory button battery standards.
It also allegedly supplied 57,358 individual non-compliant button battery products.
The product lines sold by City Beach include novelty products such as toys, digital notepads, keyrings, lights and light-up Jibbitz accessories for Crocs shoes.
“We are taking this action because, we allege, City Beach exposed consumers to the risks associated with button batteries and failed to inform them of these risks,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.
“Button batteries are incredibly dangerous for young children, and tragically in some cases have led to serious injuries or death when swallowed, inserted or ingested.”
“Australia’s button battery standards exist to reduce the risk of death or serious injury posed by button batteries,” Ms Lowe said.
“We are concerned that these items are likely to be in homes with young children. Many of these items were brightly coloured or had light-up features or both, meaning young children may be drawn to playing with them. We urge consumers to check the Product Safety Australia website for details of recalled products and return them to the supplier or to dispose of them safely.”
“The ACCC is responsible for enforcing the button battery standards and works in partnership with state-based consumer agencies. This action is a result of that partnership, with concerns about City Beach’s supply of button battery products first identified through surveillance and then progressed to the ACCC for investigation,” Ms Lowe said.
“In 2022 and 2023, City Beach received warnings from NSW Fair Trading and Queensland Office of Fair Trading in relation to the supply of potentially non-compliant button battery products.”
“The standards have been in existence since 2020, in effect since 2022 and have been the subject of escalating compliance and enforcement work by ACL regulators, including the ACCC. There is simply no excuse for non-compliance and we will not hesitate to take strong enforcement action against businesses that do not comply with these important and potentially life-saving standards,” Ms Lowe said.
The safety standard requires products to have secure battery compartments that are designed to be resistant to being opened by children.
This is to prevent children from gaining access to the batteries.
To comply with the safety standard, a representative sample of products containing button batteries must be tested.
The information standard requires safety warnings to be provided with products, including advice to seek medical attention.
The ACCC is seeking penalties, declarations, injunctive relief and costs.
The ACCC has issued a series of infringement notices and accepted a court enforceable undertaking and compliance commitments for alleged breaches of the button battery standards since they became mandatory in mid-2022.
This is the first case to be bought by the ACCC before the Federal Court for an alleged breach of the button battery standards.
City Beach is conducting a voluntary recall. Consumers can return recalled products to City Beach for a full refund.
To check if a product has been recalled, visit the ACCC Product Safety website or contact City Beach.
Button batteries are dangerous to children if swallowed or inserted. They can become stuck in your child’s throat and result in serious lifelong injuries or death. Insertion of button batteries into body parts such as the ears or nose can lead to serious injuries.
Children up to 5 years of age are at greatest risk because of their narrower oesophagus and tendency to place small objects into their mouths, ears and noses. Preventing access to button batteries is critical.
If you suspect a child has swallowed or inserted a button battery:
Further information on button battery safety is available on the ACCC Product Safety website.
City Beach is a national retailer primarily offering surf and skate consumer goods including clothing, accessories and novelty items.
In 2022-23, the ACCC partnered with State and Territory consumer protection agencies to conduct national button battery surveillance.
The Consumer Goods (Products Containing Button Batteries) Information Standard 2020 and the Consumer Goods (Products Containing Button Batteries) Safety Standard 2020 came into effect on 22 June 2022 after an 18-month transition period.
This document contains the ACCC’s initiating court document in relation to this matter. We will not be uploading further documents in the event this initial document is subsequently amended.
ACCC v Fewstone Pty Ltd (City Beach) – Concise Statement ( PDF 162.23 KB )
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Felicity Deane, Professor of Trade Law, Taxation and Climate Change, Queensland University of Technology
US President Donald Trump has imposed a range of tariffs on all products entering the US market, with Australian exports set to face a 10% tariff, effective April 5.
These import taxes will be charged by US customs on each imported item. The punitive tariffs on 60 countries range as high as 34% on imports from China and 46% on Vietnam, and exceed the rates agreed between the United States and other global trade partners.
“For decades, our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far, both friend and foe alike,” Trump said.
The impact on Australian industries will be both direct and indirect. The largest Australian export to the US is meat products, totalling A$4 billion in 2024, and our farmers may divert some product to other nations.
The larger economic risk is to our regional trading partners.
While Australia faces only 10% tariffs, our major trading partners China, Japan and South Korea all face much higher US tariffs under the new regime. So the risk of a manufacturing slowdown in those countries could dampen demand for Australia’s much larger exports – iron ore, coal and gas.
Australian investors reacted swiftly, wiping 2.1% off the main stock market index, the S&P/ASX 200, in the first hour of trade.
Another problem will be the disruption to global supply chains. It is not just finished products impacted. For instance, the 25% automobile tariff will be extended to auto parts on May 3. This means even if a car is entirely built in the US, it will still be more expensive because many components are imported.
Read more:
What are tariffs?
On April 1, the US released an annual trade report that identifies what it describes as “foreign trade barriers”. There was a long list of grievances with both tariff and non-tariff barriers identified.
The report identified Australia’s biosecurity restrictions on meat, apples and pears. The Australian biosecurity rules do not directly ban any products, although in practice raw beef products are excluded.
Trump singled out Australian beef in his speech. “They won’t take any of our beef,” he claimed.
In a speech riddled with inaccuracies and falsehoods, this was one of them. Australia take shelf-stable US products, but not raw products for which consumer safety can not be assured.
The US cited two other main Australian trade barriers. US drug companies have criticised the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme approvals processes. The Albanese government’s plan to strengthen the News Media Bargaining Code that requires tech companies to pay for news published on their platforms was also targeted.
Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton are in agreement over what we should do in response. They say Australian law and policy is not up for sale. We don’t negotiate on biosecurity, we don’t negotiate on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme process, and our local news media deserves protection from Big Tech.
The preferred option is for a negotiation with the US to secure an exemption.
A dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) sends a strong message to our trading partners and will also mean there’s an expert adjudication on this unprecedented move.
However, the US has sidelined the WTO in recent years and Albanese has ruled out this route.
The second potential action is to initiate consultations under the Australia–US Free Trade Agreement. There is a formal process identified in the agreement to which Albanese referred, with a threat of “dispute resolution mechanisms”.
Albanese has ruled out imposing “reciprocal tariffs” on US imports, noting this would only push up prices for Australian consumers.
Third, we can find other markets. Australian agricultural products are some of the most desirable in the world. Australian producers will have other options. Indeed, the latest data for beef exports showed exports to China jumped 43% from January, to Japan up 27%, and to South Korea up 60% from the previous month.
Albanese announced a response package, including $50 million to help pursue new markets. He said the tariff announcement was “not the act of a friend” and had “no basis in logic”:
It is the American people who will pay the biggest price for these unjustified tariffs. This is why our government will not be seeking to impose reciprocal tariffs.
Albanese’s response contains only one direct trade measure. That is the plan to strengthen anti-dumping provisions on steel, aluminium and other manufacturing. This means countries looking to sell their products too cheaply in Australia will face countervailing duties. It is a measure that aligns with trade rules.
The decision by the US to impose tariffs in this way shows complete disregard for the world trade order established after World War II.
The rules that have existed since this time aimed to limit trade barriers (such as tariffs). They also recognised the importance of supporting developing countries to be part of the world economy.
Some of the biggest US tariffs are to hit some of the lowest-income countries. This will impact their economies badly and disadvantage people already living in poverty.
Read more:
Why developing countries must unite to protect the WTO’s dispute settlement system
Felicity Deane 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. US tariffs will upend global trade. This is how Australia can respond – https://theconversation.com/us-tariffs-will-upend-global-trade-this-is-how-australia-can-respond-253621
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing about the passing of Wes Watkins:
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of my dear friend and distinguished public servant, Wes Watkins of Stillwater, Oklahoma.
“Wes was a remarkable man and had a brilliant career in Congress, serving on two of the House’s most powerful committees, the Appropriations Committee and the Ways and Means Committee. Amazingly, he did so first as a Democrat (1977-1991) and then as a Republican (1997-2003). Wes also served as a State Senator in the 1970s and twice ran for Governor of Oklahoma (1990 and 1994), first as a Democrat and then as an Independent.
“Even though they ran against one another in a three-way race, former Governor Frank Keating nominated Wes for a cabinet level position in his first Administration. However, the Democratic dominated State Senate of that era refused to confirm his nomination – but Wes had the last laugh the next year when he reclaimed his old congressional seat as a Republican.
“Wes was the only person in Oklahoma history to carry a congressional seat as a Democrat, as an Independent in his 1994 Governor’s race, and finally as a Republican. No politician was ever as popular in the historic Third District, also known as Little Dixie. Wes Watkins’ remarkable electoral journey both symbolized and propelled Oklahoma’s own political transformation.
“I was privileged to serve as Wes’ lead political consultant in his final three congressional campaigns. I never worked for a more popular figure in a congressional district or a harder working man or a more energetic and effective campaigner than Wes. He was an institution in southeast Oklahoma, serving his constituents ably, honorably, and tirelessly throughout his political career.
“Wes Watkins may have changed political parties, but he never changed his political principles. He also never lost his passion for public service or let down the people he worked so hard to represent.
“Wes Watkins loved three things above all else – his family, the people of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma State University. He served all of them with love, dedication, and genuine distinction.
“The soulmate and cherished partner of Wes Watkins’ life was his beloved wife, Lou. You literally cannot think of one without thinking of the other. Their marriage was truly a match made in heaven.
“I will miss my friend Wes. The people of Oklahoma will miss him more. As one of his television ads once claimed, there simply was ‘no better man.’
“I extend my deepest sympathies to Lou, Wes’ children and grandchildren, and to all of Wes Watkins’ countless friends, former staffers, and admirers. Oklahoma has lost one of its favorite sons, most distinguished public servants, and ardent champions,” said Congressman Cole.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the full-year Continuing Resolution to keep the government open and working for the American people:
“House Republicans don’t just act—we deliver for the American people. I’m proud the clean funding extension we led is now headed to President Trump’s desk. This win for the country was secured by those who made an informed choice to support their constituents. I am extremely grateful for each vote that strongly supported critical operations and programs, our communities, and the military.
“Ensuring our government remains open and working for the nation is not a partisan issue, but many Democrats made it one. Their strategy of trying to empower and enable a reckless shutdown did not win with votes, or the public’s opinion. They counted on leveraging chaos and fearmongering—but were only met with a unified voice and product absent of poison pills. This point reiterates that there are people to acknowledge and important lessons to learn. Thank you to those who voted for the legislation in each chamber, our members and staff—and most of all—the President and Vice President, who pushed the bill across the line.
“As we look ahead to the next fiscal year, we must remember: Republicans win when they stick together, Democrats are more effective when they negotiate rather than provoke partisan confrontations, and the country is better off when Republicans and Democrats actually work together. I look forward to continuing to chart a responsible fiscal path forward and working to deliver on America’s golden age. Each policy victory advances a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for all,” said Congressman Cole.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced that he has secured a total of $10 billion for economic assistance for farmers through his legislation, the American Relief Act. An estimated total of over $230 million of that dollar amount will go to farmers and producers in Oklahoma specifically. After securing the funding, Congressman Cole released the following statement:
“As a lifelong Oklahoman, I know firsthand just how important our farmers, ranchers, and producers are. While the agriculture industry does drive our state’s economy, farmers are essential to not only Oklahoma, but to the entire country. Therefore, today, I am proud to announce that I have secured over $230 million in economic assistance for farmers in the state of Oklahoma, which will bridge the gap until a new Farm Bill is passed through Congress,” said Congressman Cole. “As the representative for over 13,000 farms and ranches in Oklahoma’s Fourth District alone, I will always ensure that these farmers and ranchers are properly represented in Congress. I would also like to thank both House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson of Pennsylvania and former Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Frank Lucas of Oklahoma for helping target the money in ways that would most benefit the hardworking producers that are the backbone of the rural economy.”
How to apply for assistance:
Producers must submit Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) applications to their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) county office by August 15, 2025. Only one application is required for all ECAP eligible commodities nationwide. ECAP applications can be submitted to FSA in-person, electronically using Box and One-Span, by fax, or by applying online at fsa.usda.gov/ecap utilizing a secure login.gov account.
If not already on file for the 2024 crop year, producers must have the following forms on file with FSA:
For any questions regarding the application and forms above, please contact your local FSA county office.
If a producer does not receive a pre-filled ECAP application, and they planted or were prevented from planting ECAP eligible commodities in 2024, they should contact their local FSA office.
Please stay tuned for future announcements as additional disaster assistance is released and available to Oklahomans.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after his legislation, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, to keep the government operational and continue support for Americans passed the House of Representatives:
“The choice before us was simple: you either support keeping the government open and working for the American people – or you want a reckless government shutdown. House Republicans acted to meet the nation’s fiscal deadline. My vote reflects a steadfast commitment to continuing operations for our military, veterans, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, child nutrition, public safety, and other critical services relied on by our constituents. I’m also proud to have supported the largest pay raise for our brave junior enlisted heroes since President Reagan. With no poison pills or unrelated riders, the bill is a straightforward extension of funding and certainty for the nation. We asked for Democrats to join us at the table. Instead, they sat at the joint address, sat on the sidelines, and sat in their general contempt for President Trump. It is ironic that by rejecting all the priorities this stopgap put forward, they are showing exactly where they do stand. I ask the Senate to act on this bill quickly and ensure responsible governance,” said Congressman Cole.
###
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing about the passing of Rep. Raul Grijalva:
“I was sad to learn of the passing of my colleague and friend, Raul Grijalva of Arizona. Raul and I disagreed on almost everything – he was a proud progressive Democrat, and I am a stout conservative Republican. However, there was one topic where Raul and I did agree and worked together seamlessly. We were both fierce defenders of Indian Country. Each of us believed strongly in tribal sovereignty and the U.S. government’s trust responsibility with respect to tribal nations,” said Congressman Cole.
“Raul and I collaborated on tribal issues for many years, especially when he chaired the National Resource Committee, which has the most jurisdiction over Native American issues than any other committee in the House,” said Congressman Cole.
“Raul took his legislative responsibilities seriously. He was a knowledgeable, principled, and pragmatic lawmaker. I will miss him as a partner on Indian issues, as a serious legislator, and as a friend. I extend my sympathy to Raul’s family and his many friends and supporters,” said Congressman Cole.
Source: New Zealand Government
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says opening a second multi-million dollar funding round for regional tourism will drive economic growth.
“We know a successful tourism and hospitality sector is crucial for growing our economy,” Louise Upston says.
“Tourism is a crucial part of this Government’s focus on economic growth, with domestic and international tourism expenditure at almost $38 billion and supporting nearly 200,000 jobs
“We also know we need to see visitors in regions outside our main cities, and outside peak periods. Hosting exciting local events is one of the best ways we can do this.
“Today I’m pleased to be announcing that regional tourism organisations will have a pool of $2.45 million to pitch to from the Regional Events Promotion Fund.
“Regions with big ideas can reach out straight away. As Minister, I’m always looking forward to working closely with the sector to help maximise the benefits of tourism and hospitality and support the workforce to grow.
“All ideas are up for discussion, as we reinforce the message that New Zealand is open for business and ready to welcome visitors from home and overseas.
“In this second round, I’m particularly keen to encourage regions which might not traditionally have seen a high volume of domestic tourists to host events which will drive spending and activity in their communities.
“This is the latest in our push to support the tourism sector, including:
“2025 is our chance to reinforce the value of tourism and show what our humming, vibrant country has on show. New Zealand tourism is open for business,” Louise Upston said during comments to the University of Otago Tourism Policy School in Queenstown.
The first round of funding for the Regional Events Promotion Fund saw 132 events approved, with $2.375 million allocated.
Applications for the second round of funding are open now with decisions expected to be made in May 2025.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Fatal crash, Devonport
Thursday, 3 April 2025 – 10:52 am.
Sadly, a woman in her 80s has died after a single-vehicle crash at Devonport.
Police and emergency services were called to the Bass Highway about 6.30am Thursday after reports a vehicle had rolled.
A woman – who was a passenger in the vehicle – sadly died at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle was taken to the North West Regional Hospital for treatment.
Investigations into the crash are ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
