NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Vital XPT rail fleet refurbishment program ramps up

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Vital XPT rail fleet refurbishment program ramps up

    Published: 19 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to build better regional communities by undertaking vital upgrades to the XPT rail fleet which services Grafton and other regional centres across the state.

    The XPT fleet has reached an impressive 40-plus years in service and work is underway to ensure the fleet continues to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable service until the next generation Regional Rail Fleet is ready to be introduced into passenger service.

    The NSW Government has committed $40.3 million over five years for the XPT Life Extension Project.

    The upgrades of the XPT fleet, to be carried out locally in NSW by Sydney Trains, include:

    • extensive mechanical work to improve service reliability
    • new carpeting and refurbished seats
    • maintenance to improve operation of the air-conditioning and toilets
    • repaint and refurbishment of the power cars.

    These upgrades follow the former Liberal Nationals Government’s failure to deliver a single new regional train after their announcement of the new fleet more than a decade ago. Like the New Intercity Fleet, which the Minns Government is now successfully rolling out on the Central Coast line, the former Liberal National Government oversaw the new Regional Rail Fleet ballooning in cost and missing deadline after deadline. As a direct consequence of this mismanagement, regional passengers have been forced to travel on the old XPTs for years longer than necessary.

    To allow for these essential upgrades of the XPT fleet, NSW TrainLink will operate two out of the six daily rail services between Grafton and Sydney with premium coaches for approximately 12 months from mid-March 2025. The remaining four daily rail services will continue to operate with XPT trains.

    NSW TrainLink is going through a public tender process to secure a coach provider to provide premium wheelchair accessible vehicles for this service.

    This will provide travelers from Grafton the opportunity to choose between premium quality coach services or rail options, depending on their time of travel.

    The community will be updated before the two new coach services start with details about the timetable.

    Ticket prices will be the same as the rail service and bookings will continue as usual through the NSW TrainLink booking website or by calling 13 22 32.

    This investment in upgrading the rail fleet is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild and renew our regional transport and roads, ensuring communities across our regions have access to safe and connected infrastructure and services. This ongoing work includes:

    • Delivering more than $300 million to regional councils across the state to accelerate the repair of roads and transport infrastructure damaged by natural disasters
    • Investing a record close to $250 million in upgrades to make our regional roads safer
    • Releasing Draft Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans for the Hunter and South East and Tablelands, and commencing development on plans for other regions of NSW, to provide a vision for regional initiatives in the short to long term.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison:

    “The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better transport system for regional NSW including the network of NSW TrainLink trains and coaches.

    “To ensure passengers can continue to travel safely, comfortably and reliably in the longer term, over $40 million in essential upgrades are getting underway on the ageing XPT fleet now.

    “The Liberals and Nationals sat back for 12 years and ran the XPT fleet into the ground while leaving communities at risk of losing services.  We’re fixing the mess and investing to improve services.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for Clarence Emily Suvaal:

    “Passengers who use two of the six daily NSW TrainLink Grafton services – which will be replaced by coaches while work on the XPTs is carried out – can look forward to a timetabled service on a premium, airconditioned, wheelchair-accessible vehicle during the upgrade. The trains will return to service at the completion of the upgrade process.

    “The other four daily North Coast train services which service Grafton will continue as rail services, so travelers can choose the time of day and mode of transport that best suits their needs.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Vibes are something we feel but can’t quite explain. Now researchers want to study them

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ash Watson, Scientia Fellow and Senior Lecturer, UNSW Sydney

    Shutterstock

    When we’re uncomfortable we say the “vibe is off”. When we’re having a good time we’re “vibing”. To assess the mood we do a “vibe check”. And when the atmosphere in the room changes we call it a “vibe shift”.

    In a broad sense, a “vibe” is something akin to a mood, atmosphere or energy.

    But this is an imperfect definition. Often, we’ll use this term to describe something we feel powerfully, but find hard to articulate.

    As journalist and cultural critic Kyle Chayka described in 2021, a vibe is “a placeholder for an unplaceable feeling or impression, an atmosphere that you couldn’t or didn’t want to put into words”.

    Being able to understand the subtleties of social interactions – that is, to “feel the vibes” – is extremely valuable, not just for our social interactions, but also for researchers who study people.

    What’s behind the rise of vibes? And how can sociologists like myself unpack “vibe culture” to make sense of the world?

    A history of vibes

    The nuance and complexity of vibes makes them an interesting cultural trend. Vibes can be very specific, but can also totally resist specificity.

    Australians (and fans of Australiana) will remember the iconic line from the beloved 1997 film The Castle: “It’s just the vibe of the thing… I rest my case.”

    While it may seem like a recent cultural development, vibe isn’t the first example of cryptic language being used to express an ambiguous thing or situation. There are similar concepts with long histories, such as “quintessence” in Ancient Greek philosophy and “auras” in mysticism.

    More recently, vibes rose in popularity through music including 1960s rock, epitomised by the Beach Boys (“pickin’ up good vibrations”) and Black American rap vernacular from the 1990s, such as in the song Vibes and Stuff by A Tribe Called Quest (“we got, we got, we got the vibes”).

    ‘Vibes’ rose in popularity through music including 1960s rock and 1990s Black American rap.
    Shutterstock

    While we don’t know when the term was first used as it is today, it seems to have taken hold in the 1970s.

    I trawled the online archive of The New Yorker and found an early mention of vibes in a 1971 report about communes in New York City.

    One interviewee spoke about the “vibration of togetherness” that drew them to the commune. Ending the day on the subway, the author Hendrik Hertzberg (now a senior editor at the magazine) “just sat there and soaked up the good vibes”.

    New uses and meanings have emerged in the years since.

    Vibes today

    As vibe is used in more ways, its meaning becomes expanded and diffused. A person or situation can have good vibes, bad vibes, weird vibes, laid-back vibes, or any other adjective you can imagine.

    Language is a central part of qualitative research. While new phrases and slang can be casual and superficial, they can also represent broader, more complex concepts. Vibe is a great example of this: a simple term that refers to something potent yet ephemeral, affecting yet ambiguous.

    By paying attention to the words people use to describe their experiences, sociologists can identify patterns of social interactions and shifts in social attitudes.

    Perhaps vibes work like a heuristic – a mental shortcut – but for feeling rather than thinking.

    People use heuristics to make everyday decisions or draw conclusions based on their experiences. Heuristics are, in essence, our common sense. And “vibes” might be best described as our common feeling, as they speak to a subtle aspect of how we collectively relate and interact.

    Sociologists have long studied complex common feelings. Ambivalence, for instance, has been a focus in research on digital privacy. Studying when and why people feel ambivalent about digital technology can help us understand their seemingly contradictory behaviour, such as when they say they are concerned about privacy, but do very little to protect their information.

    Ambivalence reveals how people make decisions via small, everyday compromises – moments and feelings that may be overlooked in quantitative research. A qualitative approach can help us to align policies with people’s real-world behaviours.

    Researchers react

    Then again, it’s difficult to study something people find hard to articulate in the first place. Asking participants to rank the “vibes” of something in a survey doesn’t quite work.

    So researchers are finding new ways to feel the vibe: to see what participants see, to feel what they feel and get a deeper understanding of their lived experiences.

    For instance, such study could provide insight into how senior clinicians make important decisions amid uncertainty. We already know making decisions in complex situations involves more than logic and rationality.

    In one Australian study published last year, researchers assessed how vibes have become part of online advertising algorithms. The researchers analysed the social media feeds of more than 200 young people, using the concept of vibes to show how advertising models attune to individuals and social groups.

    Such approaches can complement, or even update, tried-and-tested research methods, expanding on what we know about human relationships and experiences.

    Ash Watson receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Vibes are something we feel but can’t quite explain. Now researchers want to study them – https://theconversation.com/vibes-are-something-we-feel-but-cant-quite-explain-now-researchers-want-to-study-them-247907

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Yes, Australia needs new homes – but they must be built to withstand disasters in a warmer world

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Francesca Perugia, Senior Lecturer, School of Design and the Built Environment, Curtin University

    Australia’s housing crisis has created a push for fast-tracked construction. Federal, state and territory governments have set a target of 1.2 million new homes over five years.

    Increasing housing supply is essential. However, the homes must be thoughtfully located and designed, to avoid or withstand natural disasters such as bushfires, floods and cyclones.

    Recent severe weather, including floods in Queensland and severe storms in north-east Victoria, underscore the growing vulnerability of Australian homes. As climate change worsens, the risk becomes ever-greater.

    Our new research examined how disaster risk informs housing location and design in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. We spoke to planners, developers, insurers and housing providers, and found crucial problems that leave communities exposed.

    Getting to grips with disaster data

    Australia’s towns and cities are increasingly affected by natural disasters. The consequences extend beyond physical destruction to social, psychological and health effects. Disasters also harm the economy.

    Despite this, government housing policies and strategies often fail to adequately focus on natural disasters.

    Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial when seeking to protect new homes from natural disasters. Informed decisions typically require three types of data:

    • foundational: relating to vegetation, landscape features, weather, climate change and building characteristics such as height and materials

    • hazards: the risks of different disaster types such as historical flood data, maps of bushfire-prone areas and the recurrence of cyclones

    • vulnerability: the potential and actual impacts of natural disasters such as building damage, fatalities and injuries, displacement, psychological and health impacts and insurance losses.

    Our research, for the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, examined how data could be better used and shared to plan and deliver new housing and protect Australians from disasters.

    What we did

    We started by identifying what data was available in Australia for bushfire, flood and cyclone risk.
    Then we examined who owned and managed the data and how it was, or wasn’t, shared.

    The next step was to explore how decision-makers use the data to assess disaster risks for new housing. This involves interviews, workshops and questionnaires with:

    • government planning agencies (both state and local government)

    • housing providers (public and not-for-profit/community housing)

    • housing and land developers (private and public)

    • banks and insurers.

    What we found

    Overall, we found data on disaster risk was fragmented and inconsistent across multiple agencies, and not regularly updated.

    Decision-makers in state and local planning agencies often cannot access accurate information about disaster risk. This means they lack the power to restrict housing in areas prone to bushfires, floods or other extreme events.

    Flood hazard data is particularly problematic. One planner from Queensland described it as “patchy, of variable quality and currency and not always open source” – the latter meaning it was hard to access.

    Many households only learn about their disaster risk when discovering their homes are uninsurable or premiums are prohibitively high. Others become aware of the problem when premiums rise with an existing insurer.

    A community housing provider told us:

    I think the way people are finding out about risk now is by their insurance policies going up. That’s the market reality. When they get an increase in their insurance policy next year, that will wake them up that they are actually in a high-risk area.

    Data held by emergency service agencies and insurers is mostly inaccessible to planners, developers and households due to privacy and commercial sensitivities.

    However, this information is crucial. Government agencies should establish protocols to enable data-sharing while protecting privacy and commercial interests.

    Lack of transparency for homebuyers

    A recent report suggested only 29% of Australian home buyers know the disaster risks associated with the homes they live in.

    Disclosure statements are required by the vendor (seller) when marketing their house or land for sale. These vary between states and territories and, in most cases, do not compel the owner to reveal all known risks.

    For example, in Victoria, a vendor is required to disclose whether the land is in a designated bushfire-prone area, but not whether it is exposed to flooding.

    What’s more, a vendor motivated to sell a house is probably not the best source to provide accurate, impartial information about its exposure to disaster. This is better left to an independent entity such as a local council.

    Thorough investigations into a home’s disaster risk is usually at the discretion of the buyer.

    Making this information readily available to prospective homebuyers prior to purchase would allow more informed consumer decisions. It would also pressure governments and housing suppliers to address disaster risks.

    Where to next?

    Australia urgently needs a national framework to ensure data on housing and disaster risk is comprehensive, current and embedded in housing development decisions.

    The federal government’s Digital Transformation Agency could establish and implement this system, with input from state and local governments.

    Technology known as “spatial digital twins” could also vastly improve how disaster risk is assessed and communicated. These tools enable users to pull together and arrange large amounts of data, to visualise it in the form of models.

    For example, a spatial digital twin could combine real time flood sensor data with historical flooding patterns to predict and visualise flood risks before they occur. Federal and state governments are already investing in such technology.

    Australia’s push to increase housing supply must be matched with a commitment from governments to ensure the homes are safe, resilient and sustainable in the face of our changing climate.

    Addressing the housing crisis isn’t just about numbers – it’s about making sure homes are built in the right places, with the right protections, for the long-term safety of communities.

    Francesca Perugia
    receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI)

    Courtney Babb receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) and is a member of the Greens (WA).

    Steven Rowley receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute and the Australian Research Council. He is a member of the Housing Industry Forecasting Group in Western Australia

    – ref. Yes, Australia needs new homes – but they must be built to withstand disasters in a warmer world – https://theconversation.com/yes-australia-needs-new-homes-but-they-must-be-built-to-withstand-disasters-in-a-warmer-world-249702

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Real change boosts farmer confidence, but Paris commitments still cause concern

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Agriculture spokesperson Mark Cameron is welcoming Federated Farmers’ latest Farm Confidence Survey, which shows farmer confidence has jumped to a 10-year high, but says there is more work to be done – including resolving challenges posed by our climate commitments.

    “Finally, we’ve got a Government committed to letting farmers farm, and it’s clear the real change ACT is resonating with rural New Zealand.

    “We’ve reined in waste and refocused the Reserve Bank on tackling inflation to bring interest rates down. We’ve kept agriculture out of the Emissions Trading Scheme and axed Labour’s anti-farmer policies including the ute tax and new resource management regime,” says Mr Cameron.

    “The progress is good, but farmers still deserve better. More work is underway to cut rural red tape, such as the repeal and replacement of the RMA that puts property rights first, so farmers can farm without having to worry about vacuous concepts like the mana and mauri of the water. The work I’m leading on the rural banking inquiry will ascertain exactly why farmers are getting a raw deal and how much woke banking practices have to do with it.

    “The Farm Confidence Survey shows climate policy has farmers increasingly on edge. This reflects what farmers are telling me. The Paris Agreement requires us to sign up to increasing costly targets, prime rural land gets covered in pine trees, farmers get lumped with new bills and red tape.

    “People need to eat, they need their baby formula, and if we shut down efficient Kiwi farms, that production will just be shifted offshore to countries that are less efficient. How’s that good for the environment? It’s a nonsense.

    “Rural New Zealand deserves an honest conversation about what these targets mean, how much they’ll cost, and the implications if we were to consider withdrawing. Resolving these questions would do a great deal to lift confidence higher.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Structure fire – Bloomfield Street Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) responded to a significant fire on Bloomfield Street in Alice Springs this morning.

    At 2:24am, NTFRS received reports of multiple grassfires impacting three backyard sheds along Bloomfield Street. Several career and volunteer firefighting units swiftly responded and immediately worked to bring the fire under control.

    An evacuation of impacted properties was initiated while firefighters worked to extinguish the fires.

    NT Police and St John Ambulance attended the scene and assessed several people for smoke inhalation. No one was taken to hospital.

    A NTFRS fire investigator and NT Police are working together to determine the cause of the fire.

    Anyone with information is urged to make contact with police on 131 444.

    Media contact:

    Rickie Abraham

    8923 9803
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ne Zha 2: the ancient philosophies behind China’s record-breaking new animated film

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Yanyan Hong, PhD Candidate in Communication and Media Studies, University of Adelaide

    IMDB

    On the surface, Ne Zha 2: The Sea’s Fury (2025), the sequel to the 2019 Chinese blockbuster Nezha: Birth of the Demon Child, is a high-octane, action-packed and visually stunning animated spectacle, full of hilarious moments and thrilling fight scenes.

    But beneath all that, it’s something much deeper: a bold re-imagining of Chinese traditional mythology, cultural history and philosophies.

    Unlike Hollywood’s classic hero’s journey, Ne Zha 2 is rooted in Chinese thought, weaving together ideas from Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism, Legalism and more.

    Through the story of a baby-faced warrior god who battles demons, it channels centuries of Chinese tradition into something refreshing, relevant and undeniably global.

    The film’s success speaks for itself. Directed by Yang Yu (aka Jiao Zi), Ne Zha 2 has shattered multiple global box office records, pulling in more than US$1 billion in China in just one week.

    It has entered the top 10 highest-grossing films of all time, and has become the highest-grossing animated film – outperforming Inside Out 2 (2024).

    But what makes Ne Zha 2 so compelling beyond its visual spectacle? At its heart, it’s an inspiring story about identity, free will, self-determination and rebellion – ideas that resonate far beyond China.

    A child hero forged in myth and philosophy

    Ne Zha is a rebellious deity in traditional Chinese folklore – a boy born with immense superpower, who defies both divine and social expectations.

    Most people who know of Ne Zha will trace his legend back to Fengshen Yanyi, or Investiture of the Gods, a Ming Dynasty novel that blends mythology with historical elements.

    Ne Zha’s true origins, however, trace back to India.

    “Ne Zha” is a shortened transliteration of the Sanskrit Nalakuvara (or Nalakūbara), an Indian mythological figure who appears in Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

    As Buddhism spread to China during the Tang Dynasty, Ne Zha evolved from an intimidating guardian deity into the rebellious, fire-wheeled warrior we know today.

    In Ne Zha 2, this “fighting spirit” against authority and hierarchy is taken even further, turning the story into a deeper philosophical exploration of morality, fate, self-worth and power.

    Good and evil – a Daoist perspective

    One of the most thought-provoking aspects of Ne Zha 2 is how it challenges the idea of good and evil.

    In Daoist philosophy, evil and good, often known as Yin and Yang, are not absolute, but are rather shifting, interconnected forces.

    Through its two protagonists: the “Demon Pill” (Ne Zha) and his noble dragon prince buddy, “Spirit Pearl” (Ao Bing), the film beautifully reflects this Daoist idea of balance and self-discovery.

    Their merging further blurs the line between hero and villain and brings to life a core concept from the 2,400-year-old text Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), written around 400 BC by Chinese philosopher Laozi (also called Lao Tzu).

    Laozi emphasises that righteousness and villainy aren’t always what they seem. “When the world knows beauty as beauty, there arises ugliness,” he says.

    Those we assume to be noble may turn out to be dark inside, while those deemed evil might be fighting for what is right.

    Ne Zha’s character in the film embodies this Daoist philosophy. Echoing the Xisheng Jing, The Scripture of Western Ascension, he declares, “My fate is up to me, not the Heaven.”

    He is the demon child who is willing to die fighting for his own destiny, proving that even the smallest, most underestimated individual can change the world.

    Beyond family bonds: rebirth of Confucianism

    In one scene, Ne Zha is struck by the “heart-piercing curse”, a brutal spell that covers his body in ten thousand thorns, causing unbearable pain and keeping him under control by targeting his heart. Ne Zha’s human mother, Lady Yin, clings to him as his thorns pierce her skin – yet she refuses to let go.

    It’s a moment of heartbreak, parental love and inner awakening. As his mother takes her final breath, in Ne Zha’s grief, his body shatters into a million pieces. And then, he is reborn.

    This is the film’s emotional climax, in which the so-called demon child awakens to “Rén” (benevolence), a core Confucian virtue.

    Confucianism teaches that true morality isn’t imposed by rules but arises naturally from within. Ne Zha doesn’t just seek revenge, he awakes to fight for those who have been oppressed, embracing his identity with unwavering resolve.

    But perhaps the most profound transformation comes from the dragon prince Ao Bing. As the last hope of his people, burdened by centuries of expectation, he finally makes a choice, not for legacy, not for his ancestors, but for himself.

    In this moment, his once-imposing father Dragon King releases his grip: “Your path is yours to forge.”

    The weight of tradition gives way to something new, reflecting a changing China where younger generations are defining their own paths.

    Wisdom of Legalism and Mohism

    Beyond Daoist and Confucian ideals, Ne Zha 2 also weaves in Legalist reform and Mohist resistance. These philosophies challenge rigid hierarchies (or in Ne Zha’s case, “divine order”) and advocate for collective justice.

    Across Ne Zha’s three major trials and the climactic celestial-demon war, a brutal truth emerges: those deemed unworthy – whether groundhogs, mystical beings, or ordinary humans – are sacrificed to uphold the elite’s rule.

    Take the small groundhogs. Dressed in patched clothes, surviving on pumpkin porridge. They’ve never harmed anyone. Yet, they are mercilessly crushed in the name of celestial balance.

    Then there’s Shiji Niangniang, or Lady Rock, a recluse who harms no one. She indulges only in her own beauty and speaks to her enchanted mirror. Yet the heavens brand her a demon, sealing her fate.

    A similar cruelty befalls the Dragon Clan and the people of Chentangguan, all caught in a war where they are mere pawns on a celestial chessboard.

    Even the last battle is not just Ne Zha’s fight, but a battlefield showing the Chinese spirit of collectivism. Dragons, shrimp soldiers, crab generals, octopus warriors, humans and millions of goblins stand side by side to rewrite destiny.

    The celestial-demon war itself plays out like a lesson in Sun Tzu’s Art of War, which states that “All warfare is based on deception.” War is about strategy, resilience and the unstoppable will to rise.

    Ne Zha carries the weight of Eastern cultural essence: Daoist balance, Confucian ethics, Mohist resistance, Legalist reform and the strategic wisdom of The Art of War. It is a truly Chinese story, igniting next year’s Oscar buzz and sparking a global awakening to Eastern culture.

    Just as Ne Zha is reborn in flames, so too does Chinese animation rise, not by breaking from its past, but by forging a bold future.

    Yanyan Hong 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. Ne Zha 2: the ancient philosophies behind China’s record-breaking new animated film – https://theconversation.com/ne-zha-2-the-ancient-philosophies-behind-chinas-record-breaking-new-animated-film-249850

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Improving university pathways for Queensland’s Western Downs

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    Federal Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm will officially open a new Regional University Study Hub in Chinchilla today, which will be known as the Country Universities Centre (CUC) Western Downs.

    The new university hub provides dedicated support for students across the region to access and complete a tertiary education.

    CUC Western Downs was one of the 10 new Regional University Study Hubs announced in March 2024, and is one of 12 regional hubs across Queensland to be funded through the Australian Government’s Regional University Study Hubs Program.

    This hub, right in the centre of Chinchilla, will bring tertiary education closer to home for students who would otherwise have to travel over 150kms each way to attend university, or move away from their hometown.

    With only 10.8 per cent of people in the Western Downs region have a bachelor’s degree or higher, the new hub will help more students pursue a tertiary education while remaining near the support network.

    The hub is also expected to provide support for local First Nations students, with 7.6 per cent of the Chinchilla population identifying as First Nations.

    Increasing the number of study hubs in regional and outer-suburban communities was a priority action of the Australian Universities Accord Interim Report, and contributes to the government’s target of helping 80 per cent of the country’s workforce attain a university degree, or TAFE qualification, by 2050.

    Further information on the program, including a list of funded hubs, can be accessed here.  

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Jason Clare:

    “Today, almost one in two young people in their 20s and their 30s have a university degree. But not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs and not in regional Australia.

    “The Universities Accord makes it clear that we need more people from the regions and outer suburbs to get a university qualification.

    “The evidence is that where University Study Hubs are established, university participation goes up, and that’s why we’re doubling them right across the country.

    “Bringing university closer to where you live will encourage more people, who otherwise might decide not to go to university at all, to give it a crack.”

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm:

    “CUC Western Downs is a great example of how these study hubs help regional, rural and remote students achieve academic success.

    “Almost half of students who have studied at one of these hubs are the first in their family to attend university and as someone who was the first in their family to attend university, this is fantastic to see.

    “Only 20.5 per cent of young people across regional Queensland have university a degree. Creating new hubs across our state makes attaining a degree easier – no matter where students live.

    “Regional University Study Hubs open up new opportunities for students from these areas, and by tailoring university offerings to the needs of regional communities, we’re engaging more students and levelling the playing field regardless of where students live.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Three charged over King Island aggravated burglary, assault

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Three charged over King Island aggravated burglary, assault

    Wednesday, 19 February 2025 – 10:38 am.

    Three men have been charged in relation to a targeted aggravated burglary and assault at Naracoopa, King Island on 16 February. 
    Police will allege the three men attended an address on Naracoopa Esplanade and assaulted a person known to them inside the residence. 
    The victim was not seriously injured.
    A 21-year-old man, 24-year-old man, and 25-year-old man, all from King Island, have been charged and are due to appear in court in May. 
    Police would like to speak to anyone with information about the incident.
    Information can be provided by contacting police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Taskforce Reprisal continues to target offenders

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Taskforce Reprisal continues to target offenders

    Wednesday, 19 February 2025 – 10:39 am.

    Tasmania Police’s Taskforce Reprisal continues to target those offenders causing the most harm to the community.
    Acting Sergeant Katie Swift, says “the Taskforce has one clear objective, to deal with as many repeat offenders as possible.”
    “There is a small cohort of people within our community who continue to do the wrong thing.”
    “Yesterday, the Taskforce apprehended ten repeat offenders for offences including stealing, common assault, breach of bail, destroy property, fail to comply with the direction of a police officer, unlawfully setting fire to property, unlawful possession of property, drug offences and failing to appear in court.”
    “Over $1,000 in stolen property was recovered during one arrest.”
    “Our goal is to target these repeat offenders, and when necessary, reasonable and authorised by law, put them before the court.”
    “Since the Taskforce commenced a week ago, 23 people have been apprehended, with over 48 charges being laid.”
    “The taskforce is continuing” she said.
    Anyone who witnesses illegal or anti-social behaviour should report it to police on 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
    Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at crimestopperstas.com.au, and you can stay anonymous.
    Yesterday’s apprehensions:

    43-year-old Lenah Valley man for stealing.
    53-year-old Moonah woman for failing to appear
    40-year-old New Norfolk man for stealing, unlawful possession of property and possess thing used to administer a controlled drug
    58-year-old Margate man for failing to appear
    14-year-old girl for common assault, breach of bail and destroy property
    14-year-old girl for fail to comply with the direction of a police officer, unlawfully setting fire to property and unlawful possession of property
    13-year-old girl for fail to comply with the direction of a police officer, unlawfully setting fire to property and unlawful possession of property
    40-year-old New Norfolk man for stealing and unlawful possession of property
    16-year-old girl for stealing
    14-year-old girl for unlawful possession of property.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: City welcomes new Youth Council members

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    The City of Greater Bendigo Youth Council has commenced a two-year term with ten new, and eight returning Youth Councillors for 2025-2026.

    New Youth Councillors Annie Dalton, Ella Filsell, Freiya O’Connor, Heather Bell, Lea Bursac, Leila Bennett, Lucas Thredgold, Mollie Hartje, Rafferty Brasier, and Rose Norton – have joined returning Youth Councillors Aidan Sanders, Alyssa Beaton, Amelia Westbrook, Bailey Dolan, Hamish Knight, Levity Camilleri, Moon Vincent, and Rohan Tyler.

    City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the Youth Council met this week with Levity Camilleri elected Youth Mayor and Alyssa Beaton and Bailey Dolan installed as Deputy Mayors.

    “I would like to welcome both new and returning Youth Councillors and congratulate our new Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri and our Deputy Youth Mayors Alyssa Beaton and Bailey Dolan,” Cr Metcalf said.

    “The Youth Council is an initiative to engage with local young people in the City’s decision-making process for the future and Council is again looking forward to working with the Youth Council in 2025.

    “The Youth Council represents the views of young people on City plans, policies and programs that impact them and represent young people at civic events and activities such as the National Volunteer Week Morning Tea and the IDAHOBIT Flag raising ceremony.

    “It also contributes to a key goal of the City’s Council Plan 2021-2025 to ensure young people are supported to explore, engage and be empowered to shape the world they live in.”

    2025 Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri said they are incredibly grateful for the trust placed in them as Youth Mayor.

    “I am honoured to be working with such a driven and passionate group of young people.  I have gained so much more from Youth Council than I’ve contributed, and I look forward to the opportunity to give back to this community, Levity Camilleri said.

    “I want to thank all the past and current Youth Councillors for their support through my leadership journey.

    “In 2025 the Youth Council is excited to provide input into the City’s youth programs and continue to provide a youth perspective on City plans and strategies, including the Council Plan 2025/2029 and the new Health and Wellbeing Plan.”

    The Youth Council is starting its seventh year. The first six years of the Youth Council have been very successful with Youth Councillors providing input into over 50 City plans, strategies, policies, and projects, including the Council Plan 2021-2025, the Zero Emissions Roadmap, the Biodiversity Strategy, the LGBTIQA+ Action Plan, the Fair Access Action Plan, the E-scooter trial, and the Managed Growth Strategy. Youth Councillors also co-designed and oversaw the development of the City’s Youth Action Plan.

    They have also represented young people on several advisory committees including the Greater Bendigo Climate Collaboration, the Arts and Creative Industries Advisory Committee, and the Heritage Advisory Committee.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minns Labor Government to establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 19 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Work Health and Safety

    The NSW Minns Labor Government will continue its mission to ensure workers have strong laws and a tough regulator on the beat by introducing a bill into the NSW Parliament to establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator. 

    The establishment of SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to preventing workplace deaths, injuries and illnesses.  

    The new structure will ensure SafeWork NSW will become a strong, robust and fit-for-purpose regulator capable of effectively securing safer and healthier workplaces in NSW. 

    Since coming to government, the Minns Labor Government has already undertaken significant reform to prepare SafeWork NSW to become a standalone regulator.

    Under the former government, SafeWork NSW was hidden within the Department of Customer of Service and was not able to fully fulfil the functions expected of the state’s work health and safety regulator.  

    The bill will also establish a new Advisory Council to provide advice to the Minister for Work Health and Safety and SafeWork NSW on how it can support both workers and businesses in creating the safest possible workplaces.

    The Council will be made up of representatives from employer organisations, unions, a WHS expert and a member representing the interests of injured workers and their families.  

    The new executive agency will be led by a SafeWork Commissioner appointed in due course.

    The SafeWork Commissioner will lead the agency with clear authority to enforce compliance, promote best practices and engage meaningfully with workers, unions and businesses across all industries in NSW.  

    Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said: 

    “Every worker has the right to go home safely at the end of the day. By creating SafeWork NSW as a standalone agency, the NSW Government is strengthening our ability to enforce WHS laws, support businesses to meet their obligations and drive cultural change to prevent workplace harm.  

    “The NSW Government is committed to establishing SafeWork NSW as a strong, robust and responsive WHS regulator. Through the establishment of the SafeWork Advisory Council and the SafeWork Commissioner, we will ensure SafeWork NSW can secure safer and healthier workplaces for all workers in NSW.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Men’s behaviour change program expanded

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 19 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Women

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to create a safer New South Wales by taking a whole of community approach to addressing domestic and family violence, with Men’s Behaviour Change Programs (MBCPs) rolled out across an additional seven locations.

    $10 million is being invested to increase the availability of these programs across the state as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $245.6 million package to address domestic and family violence in New South Wales, which has included:

    • Implementing the state’s first ever Primary Prevention Strategy
    • Working to expand the Staying Home Leaving Violence program state wide
    • Introducing new offences for repeated and serious breaches of Apprehended Domesticc Violence Orders
    • Making it harder than ever for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail
    • Introducing Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Orders
    • Modernising the definition of ‘stalking’ to include technology based harassment.

    MBCPs are evidence-based group programs and services that focus on working with perpetrators of domestic and family violence to reduce or prevent the recurrence of abusive behaviour by a perpetrator towards a partner or family member. Between 2022 and 2024, 1,800 men participated in MBCPs in NSW.

    The Minns Labor Government’s priority remains the safety of victim-survivors of domestic and family violence and ensuring they have access to support when they need it.

    Following this expansion, the programs will now be available across 35 locations through 15 providers. The new locations are:

    • Nowra, Shoalhaven LGA – Anglicare
    • Ulladulla, Shoalhaven LGA – Anglicare
    • Forster, Mid-Coast LGA – Manning Support Services
    • Gloucester, Mid-Coast LGA – Manning Support Services
    • Lithgow, Lithgow LGA – Plus Community
    • Blacktown, Blacktown LGA – Relationships Australia
    • Maitland, Maitland LGA – Relationships Australia

    Providers must be registered as compliant with the Practice Standards for Men’s Domestic Violence Behaviour Change Programs and deliver evidence-based interventions, as well as additional one-on-one supports.

    Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

    “The NSW Government is working hard to build a safer New South Wales.

    “These programs are about taking accountability, about breaking the cycle of violence by working with perpetrators to understand their behaviour is never acceptable.

    “The fact is to build a safer New South Wales, free from domestic and family violence, we need men who use violence to take responsibility for their actions and change their behaviour.”

    NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said:

    “Addressing domestic and family violence is a priority in our state and nation.

    “The expansion of the Men’s Behaviour Change Program will promote the safety of women and children by holding men accountable for their violent and abusive behaviour and supporting them to change.

    “Programs like this can encourage participants to take responsibility for their behaviour and provide them with the skills and tools necessary to stop using violence and maintain respectful relationships.”

    MBCP provider Relationships Australia NSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said:

    “Promoting the safety of women and children is essential to preventing domestic and family violence in our communities.

    “Our Men’s Behaviour Change Program works with men who use violence to take responsibility, guiding them to be accountable for their actions and stop abusive behaviours in their family relationships.

    “These men have recognised the need to change and have sought support to become safer partners and fathers. Through the program, they reflect on their behaviour, understand the underlying drivers of violence, and learn practical tools and strategies to manage themselves and de-escalate potentially aggressive situations.

    “We also work with the men’s current or former partners and their children to ensure their safety and support recovery. Many have shared with us that they are now living in safe and respectful homes, free from violence.”

    Support services:

    For information on Men’s Behaviour Change Programs operating in your local area, contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.

    If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

    If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Reins in Independent Agencies to Restore a Government that Answers to the American People

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    RESTORING DEMOCRACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN GOVERNMENT: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order ensuring that all federal agencies are accountable to the American people, as required by the Constitution. Under this Executive Order:
    The Order notes that Article II of the U.S. Constitution vests all executive power in the President, meaning that all executive branch officials and employees are subject to his supervision.
    Therefore, because all executive power is vested in the President, all agencies must: (1) submit draft regulations for White House review—with no carve-out for so-called independent agencies, except for the monetary policy functions of the Federal Reserve; and (2) consult with the White House on their priorities and strategic plans, and the White House will set their performance standards.
    The Office of Management and Budget will adjust so-called independent agencies’ apportionments to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely.
    The President and the Attorney General (subject to the President’s supervision and control) will interpret the law for the executive branch, instead of having separate agencies adopt conflicting interpretations.
    REINING IN INDEPENDENT AGENCIES: So-called independent agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have exercised enormous power over the American people without Presidential oversight.
    These agencies issue rules and regulations that cost billions of dollars and implicate some of the most controversial policy matters, and they do so without the review of the democratically elected President.
    They also spend American tax dollars and set priorities without consulting the President, while setting their own performance standards.
    Now they will no longer impose rules on the American people without oversight or accountability.
    ENSURING A GOVERNMENT THAT ANSWERS TO THE PEOPLE: This order fulfills President Trump’s promise to restore constitutional governance and accountability to the entire executive branch.
    Executive power without responsibility has no place in our Republic. The United States was founded on the principle that the government should be accountable to the people. That is why the Founders created a single President who is alone vested with “the executive Power” and responsibility to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.”
    Voters and the President can now hold all Federal agencies—not just Cabinet departments—responsible for their decisions, as the Constitution demands.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australian LGBTIQ+ politicians were hit with vile online abuse at the last federal election. The coming campaign could be even worse

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

    Newly published research has found clear evidence that openly lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, and queer+ (LGBTIQ+) Australian politicians were disproportionately targeted with personal abuse on social media at the last federal election. Given global trends, it’s unlikely to be any different this year.

    Simply logging off is not an option for candidates, who need to communicate with voters. As a result, some politicians will continue to face risky online visibility.

    Since Elon Musk acquired Twitter/X, hate speech has surged, particularly for public figures such as parliamentarians.

    So what do these trends mean for queer candidates ahead of this year’s election? And why does it matter for the next generation of politically engaged young people?

    Queer politicians targeted

    We analysed more than 100,000 tweets across the Twitter profiles of eight openly queer politicians and candidates (Penny Wong, Julian Hill, Nita Green, Tim Wilson, Janet Rice, Rachael Jacobs, Claire Garton, Stephen Bates) during the 2022 federal election campaign. We compared them with eight other politicians (Zoe Daniel, Graham Perrett, Lidia Thorpe, Anthony Chisholm, Barbara Pocock, Simon Birmingham, Deborah O’Neill, David Shoebridge) in the same period.

    We suspected that political hopefuls who publicly identified as LGBTIQ+ may have experienced greater levels of abuse and harassment. But what we found surprised us.

    The level of online intimidation was roughly the same for queer and non-queer politicians. However, the type of abuse differed significantly.

    Queer politicians endured highly personal harassment that specifically targeted their gender or physical appearance. They suffered nasty queer-specific slurs, transphobic messages and ableist language. Essentially, nothing that was related to their policies or politics.

    Meanwhile, straight, cisgender politicians received harassment that was typically political in nature. More of it focused on their party or platform. It wasn’t as personal (with the exception of Thorpe, who received high levels of racist abuse). While overtly hostile, for straight politicians in general much of the harassment received might be considered an unavoidable part of the democratic political process in the social media age.

    Our research provides a useful retrospective of some of the vitriol that proliferated during the last election.

    One such event began with YouTube commentator Jordan Shanks breaking a salacious story of repeated sexual misconduct by staffers in Canberra, purportedly in MPs offices and in the parliamentary multi-faith prayer room.

    Our data tracked the way queer male politicians were wrongly affiliated and tagged in the scandal. They were unfairly accused and ridiculed. The unfounded attacks were non-partisan, involving politicians from across the major parties. This indicated a single point of commonality – their sexuality.

    Liberal MP Tim Wilson, who had no involvement in the scandal, received over 2000 tweets explicitly mentioning the incident. Many were overtly homophobic, using terms such as “toy boy”, “rentboy”, “parasite” and “prayer room pervert”.

    How it puts off politically engaged young people

    The data indicates that queer politicians face a double bind. The personal hate they experience negatively impacts them as individuals and also distracts from genuine political debate. Trolling, hate speech, and a prohibitive online environment stymies open and constructive political dialogue.

    Furthermore, identity based harassment discourages queer people from pursuing political careers in the first place. Or staying in politics once they’ve experienced the hate. It erodes their sense of safety when engaging in public discourse and undermines the foundations upon which democracy is built.

    In a follow-up study of 98 politically engaged, young gender and sexuality diverse people, we found that online violence and a lack of workplace safety were some of the biggest barriers for them in considering a career in politics.

    The upcoming election

    We expect the personal harassment of queer politicians will continue to escalate across multiple platforms, including X, Facebook and Instagram.

    For instance, we have seen a sharp rise in anti-LGBTIQ+ hate and extremism across the United States. Online spaces are likely to become even less safe for queer politicians in 2025, than they were in 2022.

    Big tech is making it easier for abuse and harassment to flourish in the online world.

    Musk has fired 80% of engineers responsible for content regulation on X. He has also liked transphobic tweets and deemed the words “cis and “cisgender ” to be slurs, that were subsequently banned on X.

    Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg has also removed protections that prevented hate speech on Facebook.

    More users are deserting X due to the malicious content and lack of safeguards. But with a closely integrated social media environment, online violence can follow politicians across platforms, both social and legacy. There is no escaping the bile.

    Demanding better of online platforms

    Social media regulation is difficult. Tech giants have already threatened to withdraw their services from Australia over laws that would force them to pay for news content.

    Online platforms may claim to only be the “messenger”, but the reality is that design features like anonymity and business decisions like removing content moderation will cause even more harm.

    Until a critical mass of countries demand better protections, some individuals, including queer politicians, will always be at a disadvantage in this asymmetric online war.

    Elise Stephenson receives funding from the Australian Research Council. Elise is part of research projects funded by the eSafety Commissioner on combating online violence. The research quoted in this article received funding from the Gender Institute at the ANU.

    Gosia Mikolajczak collaborates with Women for Election on a project funded by the Australian Government Office for Women, aiming to increase the number and diversity of women running for public office. She has previously worked on an Australian Research Council Linkage project that examined gender inequalities in local government in Victoria.

    Blair Williams and Jack Hayes 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. Australian LGBTIQ+ politicians were hit with vile online abuse at the last federal election. The coming campaign could be even worse – https://theconversation.com/australian-lgbtiq-politicians-were-hit-with-vile-online-abuse-at-the-last-federal-election-the-coming-campaign-could-be-even-worse-250039

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding to support indigenous students to catch up, keep up and finish school

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Labor Government will invest a further $35 million in two programs to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

    The Clontarf Foundation will receive $33.6 million to support up to 12,500 First Nations boys and young men to continue their schooling education in 2026.

    The Clontarf Foundation encourages boys and young men to improve their confidence, school engagement, year 12 attainment and post‑school pathways.

    It provides in-school support, as well as before and after school activities.

    The program has an established record in improving student engagement, through increased attendance, retention and overall academic performance. 

    In 2023, the Clontarf Foundation reported that 836 young men completed Year 12, and 86 per cent of young men who completed Year 12 in 2022 remained in jobs or further education 12 months after leaving school.

    As part of the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to Closing the Gap, a further $1.5 million will be provided to the MultiLit program under the Scaling Up Proven Primary Reading Programs. 

    MultiLit delivers phonics-based programs that support primary school students to catch up in reading and early literacy. 

    This funding extension will allow MultiLit to continue to deliver its programs across Australia in 42 regional and remote primary schools with a majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students until the end of the 2026.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Jason Clare:

    “I want more kids to catch up, keep up and finish school.

    “The work the Clontarf Foundation is doing for young Indigenous boys is great. They are increasing attendance rates and helping more Indigenous students finish school and go on to TAFE or university.

    “MultiLit is evidence-based and helping more Indigenous students in rural and remote Australia read and write.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:

    “It’s essential that our First Nations students get the support they need to complete year 12 and move into meaningful jobs or study after school.

    “With a strong focus on school attendance, relationship building, academic outcomes and participation in society, Clontarf Foundation is helping young men develop the skills they need for life.

    “For over two decades, MultiLit have been delivering data-driven programs to help First Nations students improve their reading and writing skills.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Charges – Gross indecency – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested and charged a 17-year-old male in relation to several incidences of gross indecency that occurred in Katherine recently.

    On the morning of Friday 14 February 2025, it is now alleged that five women and a female child were indecently assaulted along a walking path in Katherine. 

    Yesterday, officers from Strike Force Cerberus and Katherine General Duties located and arrested a 17-year-old male in relation to the incident, who has since been charged with:

    • 1 x Gross Indecency – Child Under 16 Years
    • 5 x Gross Indecency – Without Consent

    The male was remanded to appear in Katherine Local Court today.  

    Senior Sergeant Warren Scott said, “This was a traumatising incident for those involved and detectives would like to thank the victims for coming forward and providing information that was vital in securing this arrest.”

    Police are urging anyone with further information to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference number P25043675. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: FedCare expands mental health supports to benefit local community

    Source: Federation University

    After a successful 2024, Federation University Australia’s training clinic, FedCare Psychology, is excited to announce new and extended partnerships to expand capacity and enhance essential psychological support to the greater Ballarat region.

    New schools including Daylesford Primary School, Delacombe Primary School, Our Lady Help of Christians and Ballarat Christian College will join the 12 primary and secondary schools already undertaking FedCare’s school outreach program while FedCare’s partnership with St Patrick’s College will be extended to increase assessment services.

    A partnership with the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Corporation (BADAC) will include a new clinical registrar position, and a new funded clinical placement, a huge win for the local Indigenous community while FedCare’s pilot partnership with the Grampians Health Assessment clinic has been extended for a further 12 months.

    In 2024 over 70 provisionally registered psychologists studying Federation’s Master of Psychology (Clinical) completed placement at the state-of-the-art psychology clinic at the university’s Mount Helen Campus to provide low-cost mental health support services.to the community with 6654 sessions to 940 clients.

    Federation University’s Master of Psychology (Clinical) course is now one of the largest clinical training programs in Australia, reflecting the university’s dedication to bolstering the mental health sector through education and practical training.
    For more information on Federation’s Master of Psychology (Clinical) course, please visit https://study.federation.edu.au/course/DYL9.

    Quotes attributable to Federation University Associate Professor, Head of Clinical Services and Programs, Psychology | Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Megan Jenkins 

    “FedCare Psychology remains committed to training postgraduate students to grow a sustainable mental health workforce in rural and regional Victoria. Our Master of Psychology students do an outstanding job representing the University and provide much-needed mental health services.” 

    “Traditionally, FedCare has had strong demand for psychological services for children and adolescents, including assessment services to support the development of learning plans for school-aged children, but recently we have seen increased demand for FedCare’s low-cost, high-quality services in adults. Federation is proud to support the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Hansen Launches AI-Powered Virtual Agent to Enhance Customer Experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELBOURNE, Australia, Feb. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hansen Technologies (ASX:HSN), a leading global provider of software and services to the energy, utilities, communications, and media industries, is unveiling an advanced AI solution to enhance the customer support experience. Hansen’s AI Virtual Agent is a Conversational (ConvAI) and Generative AI (GenAI) solution that is designed to integrate with Customer Information Systems (CIS) and is optimised for Hansen CIS, supporting diverse customer care needs. These can include setting up new accounts, updating personal information, processing bill payments, arranging payment plans, and transferring services.

    As utility and communications companies around the globe work to enhance customer satisfaction while alleviating pressure on overburdened call centre staff, those leading the charge are achieving success by delivering intelligent, seamless customer experiences—without compromising on cost efficiency. However, early AI-based customer support solutions fell short, struggling with limited natural language processing capabilities and a lack of industry-specific expertise. As a result, they were unable to handle the complexity and high volume of customer interactions spanning multiple communication channels.

    Hansen’s AI Virtual Agent is built to streamline key processes in call centres, making interactions more efficient and customer focused. By managing complex queries across voice, email, SMS and messaging platforms simultaneously, it shortens response times, improves customer satisfaction, and drives operational excellence. This Hansen solution is built on large language models and has been specifically fine-tuned to address sector-specific needs and is offered in a SaaS deployment model on AWS cloud infrastructure. It already supports queries in multiple languages and the company plans to further build on these.

    David Castree, President of Energy & Utilities at Hansen, explains: “With engineering innovation, and a clear focus initially on the utility sector we are proud to bring Hansen’s AI Virtual Agent to market and deliver a seamlessly integrated Conversational and Generative AI solution working alongside existing call centre agents to elevate the customer service experience. Importantly for companies, the cost per engagement has the potential to decrease by up to two-thirds, while the capacity to handle call volume is no longer constrained by the number of service centre lines or available agents.”

    Hansen has made a significant strategic investment for a minority interest in Dial AI, an innovative software engineering company, to bring this industry-leading AI solution to market.

    For further information about Hansen’s AI Virtual Agent or Hansen CIS, part of the Hansen Suite for Energy & Utilities, please visit www.hansencx.com.

    About Hansen
    Hansen Technologies (ASX: HSN) is a leading global provider of software and services to the energy & utilities and communications & media industries. With its award-winning software portfolio, Hansen serves customers in over 80 countries, helping them to create, sell, and deliver new products and services, manage and analyse customer data, and control critical revenue management and customer support processes.
    For more information, visit www.hansencx.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dairy Sector – Fonterra provides update on Consumer divestment process

    Source: Fonterra

    Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today provided an update on the process to divest its global Consumer business and integrated businesses Fonterra Oceania and Sri Lanka.  

    Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell says the Co-op’s decision to pursue a divestment is grounded in an understanding of where it creates the most value for farmers today and where there’s further room for growth.

    “We are clear on our strategy and have a pathway to grow further value for farmer shareholders and the New Zealand economy through our innovative Foodservice and Ingredients businesses. At the same time, we recognise the responsibility we have to find the right steward for iconic brands such as Anchor , Mainland and Western Star and an ownership structure that allows these businesses to continue to grow.

    “We announced in November 2024 that we are pursuing both a trade sale and Initial Public Offering (IPO) as potential divestment options. Our intention is to thoroughly test the terms and value of both a trade sale and IPO before selecting an option to put to farmer shareholders for a vote. Ahead of that, we are today indicating the next steps that are required in both processes,” says Mr Hurrell.  

    As part of the trade sale process, over the coming weeks Fonterra will be engaging with potential buyers of the Consumer and associated business.  

    Alongside this, as part of preparing for a potential IPO, Fonterra has named key management team members and chosen a corporate brand for the entity if it is to be publicly listed.    

    “Fonterra has chosen Mainland Group as the corporate brand for the group if we are to proceed with an IPO. The Mainland brand has strong New Zealand dairy heritage and is also well known by consumers in New Zealand, Australia and across many of our global markets,” says Mr Hurrell.

    “I’m pleased to share that René Dedoncker has been named as CEO-elect for Mainland Group. René is currently Fonterra’s Managing Director Global Markets Consumer and Foodservice, leading the businesses in scope for divestment. He joined Fonterra in 2005 and has held several global leadership positions during that time. He has led our Australian business since 2017, including through its recent merger with Fonterra Brands New Zealand to form Fonterra Oceania. 

    “We have also appointed Paul Victor as CFO-elect for Mainland Group. Paul has joined Fonterra from ASX-listed Incitec Pivot Limited, where he was Chief Financial Officer. Paul brings more than 30 years of experience, working across functions including finance, treasury, tax, financial planning and analysis, control, M&A, investor relations and IT.

    “René and Paul are very capable leaders with the experience to take these businesses forward into their next phase. Both will lead roadshow meetings with potential investor groups, commencing in March.

    “We recognise the ongoing interest in the divestment process and will provide further updates as we make progress,” says Mr Hurrell.  

    Fonterra’s chosen option will balance:

    • Maximising long term value for farmer shareholders, including the best return on capital invested; 
    • Cementing Fonterra’s competitive advantage in Ingredients and Foodservice; and 
    • Expanding international channels to market for high-quality New Zealand dairy. 

    Fonterra continues to target a significant capital return to be made to farmer shareholders and unit holders following the divestment.

    About Fonterra 

    Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer,foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Patients, clinicians to pay price for Te Whatu Ora digital services cuts – RACS

    Source: Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    Te Whare Piki Ora o Māhutonga – the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) – says proposed cuts to Te Whatu Ora’s digital services were made with reference to financial considerations, not clinical ones.

    It argues any projected cost savings don’t factor in the potential impact on clinical staff, clinical standards and patient safety and wellbeing.

    “These proposed changes may seem like a simple money saver, but we haven’t seen any analysis that weighs the expected cost savings against the risks to patient outcomes,” says Dr Ros Pochin, Chair of the RACS Aotearoa New Zealand National Committee.  

    She says the current state of the IT systems hospital clinicians rely on are “not what you would hope for from a modern healthcare system”.

    “We need systems that talk to each other across hospitals and regions; reliable technology and uninterrupted remote access, especially for the smaller rural and regional centres; and a support team with the capacity to help when there are issues or outages. I can’t see how the proposals allow for these much-needed upgrades. In fact, they’ll likely make matters worse. The loser is always the patient and the clinicians trying to do their best for them.”

    The Digital Services Consultation Document proposes significant changes to Te Whatu Ora’s digital infrastructure, including the termination or deferral of 136 digital projects and a near 50% reductions in digital services staff. The changes aim to address financial deficits but raise concerns regarding their potential impact on clinical standards, patient safety, and the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system.

    “These drastic changes, focused almost exclusively on cost-saving measures, have been made without consulting those who are most affected – the frontline medical professionals who deliver care,” says Dr Pochin.

    “This is a strategic shift being pushed through without the necessary evidence or clinical scrutiny. While it may offer short-term savings, the long-term performance and human cost could be profound.”

    RACS, which is committed to equitable, quality healthcare, is voicing its strong objections to these changes, which threaten to destabilise an already fragile health workforce and undermine the safety and efficacy of patient care. It is calling for an immediate suspension of the current decision-making process and urges Te Whatu Ora to engage in a thorough, evidence-based consultation with clinical professionals

    As Aotearoa New Zealand navigates its future healthcare needs, RACS remains committed to advocating for the changes that will best serve the health and wellbeing of all communities, and is ready to work alongside Te Whatu Ora and other stakeholders to shape a better, safer, and more equitable system for the country.

     

    About the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

    RACS is the leading advocate for surgical standards, professionalism and surgical education in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The College is a not-for-profit organisation that represents more than 7000 surgeons and 1300 surgical trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates. RACS also supports healthcare and surgical education in the Asia-Pacific region and is a substantial funder of surgical research. There are nine surgical specialties in Australasia being: Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Paediatric Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Urology and Vascular Surgery. www.surgeons.org

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Jamison Park netball courts renewed and ready to bounce into action

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Government continues to partner with Penrith City Council to build high-priority local community infrastructure – with the upgrades to the netball courts now officially complete at Jamison Park in South Penrith.

    The $876,000 project resurfaced 23 courts and delivered drainage improvements to the complex – supported by $650,000 from the Albanese Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI) and over $225,000 from Penrith City Council.

    Finished just in time for the upcoming netball season, these upgrades will improve the playing conditions for competitors and create a greater experience for their supporters to spectate.

    The resurfaced courts surfaces and the construction of a new asphalt swale will help to ensure rainwater is directed away from the courts.

    This will assist games to resume sooner after wet weather, reducing disruptions to the netball season.

    In addition to these works, Penrith City Council is also in the final stages of installing new netball hoops, with the remaining ones set to be in place before the start of the netball season.

    For more information, visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/facilities-recreation/sports/sports-facilities-upgrades.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

    “It’s fantastic to see work complete at the Jamison Park Netball Courts, because I know how important having modern, fit-for-purpose facilities is to ensuring the success of local sporting clubs.

    “Thanks to this project, Jamison Park will remain as the centre of Penrith’s vibrant netball community, supporting all levels of competition.

    “This is just one of many projects in which we’re partnering with the Penrith City Council, as part of more than $2.4 million in LRCI phase 4 funding from the Albanese Government.”

    Quotes attributable to Labor Senator for NSW Tony Sheldon:

    “Netball is more than just a sport—it’s at the heart of the Penrith community, bringing together players, families, and supporters every season.”

    “The Albanese Government is proud to back Penrith’s netball community by delivering real, on-the-ground improvements like these upgraded courts at Jamison Park.”

    “This is exactly what Labor’s investment in local infrastructure is all about, supporting grassroots sport, strengthening community connections, and ensuring top-notch facilities for local players of all levels.”

    “Thanks to the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, these courts will remain a hub for competition and community sport for years to come.”

    Quotes attributable to Penrith Mayor Todd Carney:

    “Jamison Park Netball Courts are a vital part of our city.

    “These upgrades will support the thousands of people that use these courts every week during netball season.

    “From local games to state-level competitions, these improvements will help ensure that Jamison Park remains a premier venue for netball in Penrith.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: CDPQ to sell 2,500,000 common shares of Intact Financial

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTRÉAL, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CDPQ today announced its intention to sell 2,500,000 common shares of Intact Financial Corporation (TSX: IFC), representing approximately 1.4% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Intact as of February 18, 2025.

    The common shares are being sold at a gross price of $278.60 per share, which has been underwritten by CIBC Capital Markets and National Bank Financial. CDPQ expects to receive gross cash proceeds of approximately $696,500,000 from the offering.

    This transaction is part of CDPQ’s regular portfolio rebalancing. Once the transaction is complete, CDPQ will own approximately 6.6% of Intact’s issued and outstanding common shares, remaining its largest shareholder and Intact continuing as one of CDPQ’s largest holdings in the public markets.

    “CDPQ has been a major shareholder of Intact for over fifteen years, during which time our investment in the company has generated significant returns for our depositors,” said Vincent Delisle, Executive Vice-President and Head of Liquid Markets at CDPQ. “This transaction allows us to monetize a portion of these returns while retaining significant ownership in the company, based on our confidence in Intact’s growth prospects, including through several strategic operations based and managed in Québec.”

    “CDPQ continues to be a valued partner in Intact’s evolution as a leading global P&C insurer. This transaction enables a significant gain on a portion of one of their largest investments while remaining able to support our growth ambitions,” said Ken Anderson, Executive Vice President and CFO, Intact Financial Corporation. “We have delivered an annualized total shareholder return of 15% over the last 10 years, and we remain well positioned to sustain our track record of outperformance, given the strength of our platforms, our talented team and our clear strategic roadmap.”

    ABOUT CDPQ
    At CDPQ, we invest constructively to generate sustainable returns over the long term. As a global investment group managing funds for public pension and insurance plans, we work alongside our partners to build enterprises that drive performance and progress. We are active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private debt. As at June 30, 2024, CDPQ’s net assets totalled CAD 452 billion. For more information, visit cdpq.com, consult our LinkedIn or Instagram pages, or follow us on X.

    CDPQ is a registered trademark owned by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec and licensed for use by its subsidiaries. 

    ABOUT INTACT FINANCIAL CORPORATION
    Intact Financial Corporation (TSX: IFC) is the largest provider of Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance in Canada, a leading Specialty lines insurer with international expertise and a leader in Commercial lines in the UK and Ireland. The business has grown organically and through acquisitions to almost $24 billion of total annual operating direct premiums written (DPW).

    In Canada, Intact distributes insurance under the Intact Insurance brand through agencies and a wide network of brokers, including its wholly owned subsidiary BrokerLink. Intact also distributes directly to consumers through the belairdirect brand and affinity partnerships. Additionally, Intact provides exclusive and tailored offerings to high-net-worth customers through Intact Prestige. In the US, Intact Insurance Specialty Solutions provides a range of Specialty insurance products and services through independent agencies, regional and national brokers, wholesalers and managing general agencies. Across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, Intact provides Personal, Commercial and/or Specialty insurance solutions through the RSA, 123.ie, NIG and FarmWeb brands.

    For more information
    CDPQ Media Relations Team
    + 1 514 847-5493
    medias@cdpq.com

    Caroline Audet
    Manager, Media Relations and Public Affairs, Intact Financial
    416 227-7905 / 514 985-7165
    media@intact.net

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Amid Evolving Threat Landscape, UN Peacekeepers Must Have Adequate Resources to Protect Vulnerable Populations in Conflict Zones, Speakers Tell Special Committee

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    In an ever-shifting security landscape, ensuring sufficient funding, technology and training, and promoting gender equality in peacekeeping operations while also recognizing the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations in conflict zones is more critical than ever, speakers told the opening of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, which also marked 60 years since its establishment.

    Vice-President of the General Assembly Cherdchai Chaivaivid (Thailand), speaking on behalf of Assembly President Philémon Yang (Cameroon), said that, for nearly 80 years, UN peacekeepers have protected civilians from violence and supported vital political dialogue between parties to conflict.

    “The safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers remains of utmost importance,” he stressed, adding that since 1948 over 3,500 blue helmets have lost their lives serving in UN peacekeeping operations.  “Going forward, we will need mandates suited for an evolving threat landscape,” he said, also emphasizing the need for improved capacity to assess conflict situations, as well as effective planning and management throughout the peacekeeping cycle.

    “It is also vital to improve cooperation of poor countries with other critical partners, increase trust among stakeholders and manage local and international expectations in the Pact for the Future,” he went on to say.  Further, Member States must enhance collaboration between the UN and regional and subregional organizations, particularly the African Union.

    Adoption of Pact for the Future Created ‘Transformative Moment’ for Peacekeeping

    Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, speaking on behalf of Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, said that this annual engagement by Member States is a key source of the “enduring strength as a preeminent symbol of multilateral resolve”.  Peacekeepers can be a “lifeline” for hundreds of thousands of civilians caught in conflict.

    The Committee’s sixtieth anniversary comes at a transformative moment for peacekeeping following the adoption of the Pact for the Future, where Member States equivocally reaffirmed peacekeeping as a critical tool to maintain international peace and security, she said.  “You have a unique opportunity to build on those efforts by providing a platform for dialogue, presenting innovative ideas and ensuring the effectiveness and accountability of UN peacekeeping operations,” she added.

    More Peacekeeper Resources Key amid Complex Terrain Marked by Geopolitical Challenges and Volatility

    As delegates took the floor, many stressed the need for more resources so that peacekeepers can carry out their work in an ever-shifting security landscape, with Morocco’s delegate, speaking for Non-Aligned Movement, noting that UN peacekeeping operations are currently navigating a complex terrain marked by geopolitical challenges.  “Funding and limited resources remain a significant issue,” she stressed.  “As a result, peacekeeping operations find themselves in a delicate position, needing to adapt to the realities on the ground while responding to international expectations.”

    Troop- and Police-Contributing Countries Stress Consultation with Them Key for Drafting Clear, Achievable Mandates

    Speakers from troop- and police-contributing countries stressed the Security Council must further consult with them to draft clear and achievable mandates that preserve the primacy of political solutions and help peacekeeping operations better address the evolving nature of global conflicts.

    “Our peacekeepers continue to serve in nations where security situations are volatile, but despite such challenges, our peacekeepers are striving to fulfil their mandates, and therefore we must ensure their safety and security,” said Indonesia’s delegate, speaking for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).  Noting that its member States contribute over 5,000 peacekeepers across various UN missions, he called for better quality training and equipment for the troops.

    Canada’s representative, also speaking for Australia and New Zealand, and echoing other speakers, emphasized the importance of including women in all areas of peacekeeping missions, and commitment to the women, peace and security agenda as a cornerstone of the UN’s efforts to promote gender equality and lasting peace, reduce training obstacles in order to guarantee women’s full, equal participation.  “We urge missions to step up efforts to support the role of women in conflict prevention, resolution and peacebuilding,” he said.  He further underscored the importance of planning and the deliberate implementation of transitions and drawdowns in peacekeeping operations, stressing:  “Several agencies need to be involved from the very beginning of these processes to identify the capacity of the host Government, the UN and civil society actors to support those transitions.”

    Countries Hosting Peacekeeping Missions Urge Focus on Linguistic Capacity-Building, Improved Cooperation

    Speakers from countries hosting peacekeeping missions laid out their priorities and concerns, as well, with the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, speaking for the French-Speaking Ambassadors Group, emphasizing that French-speaking areas host several operations that face growing and complex challenges.  “The fragility of ceasefire agreements, the high cost of conflict for the civilian population and the complexity of peace processes are making the work of the blue helmets more essential than ever,” he stressed. Recalibrating peacekeeping capacities is vital to improve cooperation with host States and “strengthen the links of trust” with the local population.

    “This is a priority that must also be looked at from the point of view of linguistic and intellectual capacity-building,” he said, calling for a focus on language abilities from the strategic planning to the operational phases.  Many countries in the Francophone space want to contribute more to peacekeeping operations, but they are being held back by language barriers at every stage of their engagement.

    Donor Countries Pledge Continued Support

    Donor countries, meanwhile, pledged to continue to support UN peacekeeping missions, and echoed many other Member States in calling attention to the unique opportunity created by the adoption of the Pact for the Future.  The European Union’s speaker, noting that the bloc provided almost one quarter of the UN’s peacekeeping budget last year, said it will continue to contribute constructively to the upcoming negotiations with the intent to improve UN peacekeeping in accordance with the Pact.  “We currently deploy almost 4,000 military police and civilian personnel to UN peace operations,” he said, adding:  “We cannot continue to demand more from our peacekeeping missions by expanding their mandates without providing the necessary resources for their implementation.”

    UN peacekeeping operations are confronted with increasingly complex challenges, he observed, citing regional threats, the effects of climate change, mis- and disinformation, increased presence of non-State actors, such as private military companies, transnational criminal activities and the weaponization of new and emerging technology, as demonstrated by the first attack ever last September on UN peacekeepers with an improvised armed unmanned aerial system.

    Election of Officers

    At the opening of the meeting, the Committee by acclamation elected Francisco Tropepi (Argentina), Michael Gort (Canada), Takayuki Iriya (Japan) and Michal Miarka (Poland) as Vice-Chairs; and Mohamed Soliman (Egypt) as Rapporteur.  Michael Gort (Canada) was elected to serve as Chair of the Working Group of the Whole.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: House fire Croydon

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police and emergency services were called to reports of a house fire at Scotia Street earlier this morning.

    Just after 12.10am today Wednesday 19 February police and emergency services were called to reports of a house fire.

    When MFS entered the property they located cannabis plants and hydroponic equipment.

    The fire was contained to the roof space causing minor damage to the structure.

    The property was vacant and no reports of injuries.

    Police will return to the scene to dismantle the grow house and investigations are ongoing.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ne Zha 2: the ancient philosophies behind China’s record-breaking new animated film

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yanyan Hong, PhD Candidate in Communication and Media Studies, University of Adelaide

    IMDB

    On the surface, Ne Zha 2: The Sea’s Fury (2025), the sequel to the 2019 Chinese blockbuster Nezha: Birth of the Demon Child, is a high-octane, action-packed and visually stunning animated spectacle, full of hilarious moments and thrilling fight scenes.

    But beneath all that, it’s something much deeper: a bold re-imagining of Chinese traditional mythology, cultural history and philosophies.

    Unlike Hollywood’s classic hero’s journey, Ne Zha 2 is rooted in Chinese thought, weaving together ideas from Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism, Legalism and more.

    Through the story of a baby-faced warrior god who battles demons, it channels centuries of Chinese tradition into something refreshing, relevant and undeniably global.

    The film’s success speaks for itself. Directed by Yang Yu (aka Jiao Zi), Ne Zha 2 has shattered multiple global box office records, pulling in more than US$1 billion in China in just one week.

    It has even entered the top 10 highest-grossing films of all time, and is the second highest-grossing animated film behind Inside Out 2 (2024).

    But what makes Ne Zha 2 so compelling beyond its visual spectacle? At its heart, it’s an inspiring story about identity, free will, self-determination and rebellion – ideas that resonate far beyond China.

    A child hero forged in myth and philosophy

    Ne Zha is a rebellious deity in traditional Chinese folklore – a boy born with immense superpower, who defies both divine and social expectations.

    Most people who know of Ne Zha will trace his legend back to Fengshen Yanyi, or Investiture of the Gods, a Ming Dynasty novel that blends mythology with historical elements.

    Ne Zha’s true origins, however, trace back to India.

    “Ne Zha” is a shortened transliteration of the Sanskrit Nalakuvara (or Nalakūbara), an Indian mythological figure who appears in Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

    As Buddhism spread to China during the Tang Dynasty, Ne Zha evolved from an intimidating guardian deity into the rebellious, fire-wheeled warrior we know today.

    In Ne Zha 2, this “fighting spirit” against authority and hierarchy is taken even further, turning the story into a deeper philosophical exploration of morality, fate, self-worth and power.

    Good and evil – a Daoist perspective

    One of the most thought-provoking aspects of Ne Zha 2 is how it challenges the idea of good and evil.

    In Daoist philosophy, evil and good, often known as Yin and Yang, are not absolute, but are rather shifting, interconnected forces.

    Through its two protagonists: the “Demon Pill” (Ne Zha) and his noble dragon prince buddy, “Spirit Pearl” (Ao Bing), the film beautifully reflects this Daoist idea of balance and self-discovery.

    Their merging further blurs the line between hero and villain and brings to life a core concept from the 2,400-year-old text Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), written around 400 BC by Chinese philosopher Laozi (also called Lao Tzu).

    Laozi emphasises that righteousness and villainy aren’t always what they seem. “When the world knows beauty as beauty, there arises ugliness,” he says.

    Those we assume to be noble may turn out to be dark inside, while those deemed evil might be fighting for what is right.

    Ne Zha’s character in the film embodies this Daoist philosophy. Echoing the Xisheng Jing, The Scripture of Western Ascension, he declares, “My fate is up to me, not the Heaven.”

    He is the demon child who is willing to die fighting for his own destiny, proving that even the smallest, most underestimated individual can change the world.

    Beyond family bonds: rebirth of Confucianism

    In one scene, Ne Zha is struck by the “heart-piercing curse”, a brutal spell that covers his body in ten thousand thorns, causing unbearable pain and keeping him under control by targeting his heart. Ne Zha’s human mother, Lady Yin, clings to him as his thorns pierce her skin – yet she refuses to let go.

    It’s a moment of heartbreak, parental love and inner awakening. As his mother takes her final breath, in Ne Zha’s grief, his body shatters into a million pieces. And then, he is reborn.

    This is the film’s emotional climax, in which the so-called demon child awakens to “Rén” (benevolence), a core Confucian virtue.

    Confucianism teaches that true morality isn’t imposed by rules but arises naturally from within. Ne Zha doesn’t just seek revenge, he awakes to fight for those who have been oppressed, embracing his identity with unwavering resolve.

    But perhaps the most profound transformation comes from the dragon prince Ao Bing. As the last hope of his people, burdened by centuries of expectation, he finally makes a choice, not for legacy, not for his ancestors, but for himself.

    In this moment, his once-imposing father Dragon King releases his grip: “Your path is yours to forge.”

    The weight of tradition gives way to something new, reflecting a changing China where younger generations are defining their own paths.

    Wisdom of Legalism and Mohism

    Beyond Daoist and Confucian ideals, Ne Zha 2 also weaves in Legalist reform and Mohist resistance. These philosophies challenge rigid hierarchies (or in Ne Zha’s case, “divine order”) and advocate for collective justice.

    Across Ne Zha’s three major trials and the climactic celestial-demon war, a brutal truth emerges: those deemed unworthy – whether groundhogs, mystical beings, or ordinary humans – are sacrificed to uphold the elite’s rule.

    Take the small groundhogs. Dressed in patched clothes, surviving on pumpkin porridge. They’ve never harmed anyone. Yet, they are mercilessly crushed in the name of celestial balance.

    Then there’s Shiji Niangniang, or Lady Rock, a recluse who harms no one. She indulges only in her own beauty and speaks to her enchanted mirror. Yet the heavens brand her a demon, sealing her fate.

    A similar cruelty befalls the Dragon Clan and the people of Chentangguan, all caught in a war where they are mere pawns on a celestial chessboard.

    Even the last battle is not just Ne Zha’s fight, but a battlefield showing the Chinese spirit of collectivism. Dragons, shrimp soldiers, crab generals, octopus warriors, humans and millions of goblins stand side by side to rewrite destiny.

    The celestial-demon war itself plays out like a lesson in Sun Tzu’s Art of War, which states that “All warfare is based on deception.” War is about strategy, resilience and the unstoppable will to rise.

    Ne Zha carries the weight of Eastern cultural essence: Daoist balance, Confucian ethics, Mohist resistance, Legalist reform and the strategic wisdom of The Art of War. It is a truly Chinese story, igniting next year’s Oscar buzz and sparking a global awakening to Eastern culture.

    Just as Ne Zha is reborn in flames, so too does Chinese animation rise, not by breaking from its past, but by forging a bold future.

    Yanyan Hong 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. Ne Zha 2: the ancient philosophies behind China’s record-breaking new animated film – https://theconversation.com/ne-zha-2-the-ancient-philosophies-behind-chinas-record-breaking-new-animated-film-249850

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves the acquisition of certain interest in Blackwater Coal Mine by NS Blackwater Pty Limited and JFE Steel Australia (BW) Pty Ltd

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 7:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of certain interest in Blackwater Coal Mine by NS Blackwater Pty Limited and JFE Steel Australia (BW) Pty Ltd.

    The Proposed Combination envisages the acquisition of 20% and 10% interest in Blackwater Coal Mine (BW Coal Mine) by NS Blackwater Pty Limited (NS Blackwater) and JFE Steel Australia (BW) Pty Ltd. (JFE Steel BW), respectively.

    NS Blackwater is a newly incorporated special purpose vehicle formed for the purposes of the Proposed Combination. It is ultimately owned by Nippon Steel Corporation.

    JFE Steel BW is a newly incorporated special purpose vehicle formed for the purposes of the Proposed Combination. It is ultimately owned by JFE Holdings, Inc.

    The BW Coal Mine is an open-cut mine in Queensland, Australia, which has been operating since 1967. In India, the BW Coal Mine supplies coking coal by way of imports.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2104453) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: More dry lightning in Tasmania is sparking bushfires – challenging fire fighters and land managers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Bowman, Professor of Pyrogeography and Fire Science, University of Tasmania

    Tasmania has been burning for more than two weeks, with no end in sight. Almost 100,000 hectares of bushland in the northwest has burned to date. This includes the Tarkine rainforest and alpine ecosystems of Cradle Mountain that may never recover.

    The situation has taken emergency services and land management agencies by surprise. The seasonal bushfire outlook for summer 2024 suggested Tasmania’s fire risk was nothing out of the ordinary. The state was also well prepared for bushfire fighting, particularly with specialised aircraft.

    But this fire season has turned out to be anything but typical. Firefighting capacity has been stretched to the limit and interstate crews have been called in.

    It all began with a massive lightning storm in the evening of Monday February 3. The incidence of such lightning fires has been increasing in Tasmania since the 1990s.

    An official inquiry into the bushfires will no doubt be held, given the substantial social, economic and environmental harm – as well as the sizeable costs associated with fighting the fires from the air in remote and rugged landscapes.

    Nonetheless, important lessons are emerging from these fires, which speak to the broader, worsening threat as the climate changes.

    Understanding the impacts of the fires

    Fortunately, direct economic losses from theses fires have been limited so far, despite significant disruption associated with evacuation and road closures. Tourism operators and honey producers have been hardest hit.

    The fires caused brief but substantial smoke pollution across the state, placing a range of people with medical conditions at risk.

    The full environmental effects and the benefits of prescribed burning are yet to be evaluated. Nonetheless, there is grave concern about damage to unique rainforests and alpine ecosystems. If sufficiently dry the organic soils, or peats, that supports forests and treeless areas in western Tasmania are also vulnerable to combustion.

    We undertook a preliminary estimate of how much highly fire-sensitive vegetation – plant communities that will take more than 50 years to recover – may have burned. This involved comparing the current bushfire boundaries or footprint, based on satellite data and field reconnaissance, to vegetation mapping used for various purposes including fire management. We put the figure at 19,716 hectares of vegetation. However, it’s possible not all of this burned and islands of unburned vegetation persist within the broad fire boundary.

    Our estimation includes 10,419 hectares of temperate rainforest (10% of the fire area) and 462 hectares of alpine vegetation (0.45% of the fire area). Neither of these vegetation types can readily tolerate fire.

    Our analysis suggests about half of fire-affected rainforest areas have been previously burned by fires since 1982 (48%) and some small areas have burned twice (5%). Recurrent fires in rainforest can result in permanent loss of this vegetation. Just how much damage has been done will require further assessment.

    Current area affected by bushfires in northwestern Tasmania, comparing data from Geoscience Australia on bushfire boundaries and Land Information Services Tasmania on vegetation. Note, not all of the shaded area has burned.
    Grant Williamson

    Emergence of new fire patterns

    The number of fires ignited by lightning have increased in Tasmania since the 1990s. When the lightning occurs in storms without much rain, or where the rain evaporates before it hits the ground, it’s known as dry lightning.

    Concerningly, in the last decade two other major dry lightning fire events have occurred,
    likely a signal of a change in fire activity. As a result, fires are burning into areas that historically are rarely affected by fire, damaging the natural values of the Tasmanian wilderness.

    This event could not be predicted

    Going into summer, experts were concerned that soils across western Tasmania were particularly dry. This increased the fire risk in the seasonal outlook.

    The recent rapid fire growth in Tasmania was caused by the unusual combination of regional drying (including dry soils), an extreme lightning storm and subsequent strong winds.

    But the sequence of events that caused this fire to take off could not have been predicted more than a week ahead. That’s because it is impossible to predict lightning and windstorms outside the seven-day window of weather forecasts.

    What’s more, our research shows it is currently not possible to reliably predict which lightning strikes will start fire.

    By February 12, more than a dozen fires had burned around 50,000 hectares in the state’s northwest.
    NASA Earth Observatory

    Rapid attack and fire suppression have practical limits

    Massive lightning storms that ignite multiple fires overwhelm the capacity of firefighters to locate and immediately extinguish all the flames.

    Unfavourable weather conditions caused the west coast fires to rapidly grow. Firefighting shifted from attempts to extinguish the fire to instead contain its spread. This involved techniques such as targeted waterbombing, back burning and building fire breaks.

    These approaches have been successful in some cases, notably the deployment of retardant drops to contain the Canning Peak fire, saving extensive stands of conifer rainforest. But suppression efforts were imperfect, as the loss of a private tourist facility hut on the Overland Track has demonstrated.

    Managing these massive fires demands triage – making difficult choices about where to direct firefighting effort. Effective triage requires a detailed understanding of the location of areas of high economic, cultural and environmental value. High-quality mapping of these sites and involvement of specialists in the broader decision-making process is essential.

    The Tasmanian government does have maps and expertise to guide triage, but there are calls for more investment to protect the region’s ecological values. This is particularly important for small, localised sites vulnerable to fire, such as groves of ancient Huon pine.

    Fires continue to burn in Tasmania’s west, putting wilderness areas at risk (7.30)

    Broader lessons for fire fighting

    Dry lightning storms are hard to predict, extraordinarily difficult to contain, and can cause substantial economic, social and environmental harms.

    Technology alone – such as that which combines satellites, artificial intelligence, drones and water bombers – is not enough to eliminate these fires. What’s needed is a diverse portfolio of approaches, involving a combination of:

    • reducing fuel loads by prescribed burning
    • firefighting that is carefully targeted using high quality data
    • expertise embedded in firefighting teams.

    Researchers and fire managers must also identify the best strategies for prescribed burning to reduce bushfire risk while protecting areas of high economic, conservation and cultural value.

    Climate change will bring more frequent monster fires – and fighting them demands a broad suite of investment.

    David Bowman is an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow and also receives funding from the New South Wales Bushfire and Natural Hazards Research Centre, and Natural Hazards Research Australia.

    Grant Williamson receives funding from the NSW Bushfire and Natural Hazards Research Centre, and Natural Hazards Research Australia.

    – ref. More dry lightning in Tasmania is sparking bushfires – challenging fire fighters and land managers – https://theconversation.com/more-dry-lightning-in-tasmania-is-sparking-bushfires-challenging-fire-fighters-and-land-managers-250063

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: More than half of Australia’s homes were built before fire standards came in. Here are 5 ways to retrofit them

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Subha Parida, Lecturer in Property, University of South Australia

    Carl Oberg/Shutterstock

    Houses and fire do not mix. The firestorm which hit Los Angeles in January destroyed nearly 2,000 buildings and forced 130,000 people to evacuate.

    The 2019–20 Australian megafires destroyed almost 2,800 homes. This summer, houses and buildings have been lost in Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania.

    As temperatures inch upwards, bushfires will become more severe and more frequent, posing risks to more homes. But fires don’t affect homes equally. Older homes built before fire resilience standards became mandatory are at higher risk of going up in flames.

    In the aftermath of the devastating LA fires, there are signs that newer homes have fared better than older ones. Previous fires in California and Australia have shown newer homes built with fire-resilient features are more likely to survive than older homes.

    The problem is, more than half (55%) of Australia’s homes were built 30 or more years ago – before national standards for fire resilience were introduced.

    The good news: you can take action to make older homes more resilient.

    Why are new homes better able to survive bushfires?

    Location, vegetation and luck play a role in determining which houses survive fires. But there is also evidence newer homes with heat- and ember-resistant features survive better.

    Construction standards in both Australia and the United States require the use of materials and designs which reduce fire risk.

    In Australia, the national construction standards have been in place since the early 1990s. Over time, the standards have expanded to include more fire-resistant features, such as fire-resistant external walls.

    By contrast, older homes are more likely to be built of flammable materials such as wood and untreated timber. Older homes are also more likely to have mature trees and shrubs closer to the house, which can increase fire risk. But as the CSIRO Bushfire Best Practice Guide points out, “trees can also be used to shield against wind, absorb radiant heat, and to filter embers […] when located at a safe distance from the house”.

    More exacting construction standards apply for homes built in areas considered at risk of bushfire. State and territory governments have interactive maps of these areas.

    Unfortunately, climate change is expanding these areas at risk. As the LA wildfires show, warmer climates mean fire can attack suburbs and cities thought to be safe from bushfire.

    Climate change is also making home ownership more expensive, as insurance premiums rise in the wake of more expensive disasters. Analysts predict banks may begin rejecting mortgage applications for properties in areas at high risk from fire.

    Older homes are more likely to burn if a bushfire comes through.
    Ekaterina Kamenetsky/Shutterstock

    How can we make older homes more resilient?

    Older homes remain highly sought after, especially in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

    But for these homes to be brought up to modern standards of bushfire resistance, they often require significant retrofitting. These retrofits can drastically reduce the risk of ignition.

    How do houses actually ignite? Wind-blown embers are a common cause in starting house fires. If a few houses in a town start burning, the fire can spread house to house.

    Here are 5 ways to protect your older house:

    1. Upgrade external vents. Traditional external vents are designed to ventilate rooms and roofs. But they also permit embers to gain access to attics and crawl spaces and spark a fire. Upgrading to ember-resistant vents can directly improve your home’s resilience.

    2. Install ember gutter guards. Ember-resistant gutter guards are made of metal and have finer mesh than normal gutter guards. These help to prevent the build-up of dry leaves and twigs and stop small embers from landing.

    3. Upgrade windows and walls. You can cut your risk further by installing bushfire-resistant shutters for windows, using fire-resistant material for wall insulation and replacing combustible material with better alternatives such as metal roofing, fibre cement siding for walls and tempered glass windows.

    4. Check your deck and verandah. Wooden decks and verandahs are risky in high-risk areas. If they need to be rebuilt, choose fire-resistant materials.

    5. Make space around your home. In fire-prone areas, removing trees and shrubs within 20 metres of the house can reduce risk. A well-managed area of pavers and low-density plants and shrubs close to the home acts as a fire break.

    Ahead of fire season, making and updating an evacuation plan is equally vital. Homeowners should prepare emergency kits with essential documents, medications, and protective gear. If a fire starts in your area, applying fire-retardant gels to surfaces at risk can provide temporary protection.

    In high risk areas, ensuring clear space between vegetation and the house can cut fire risk. Pictured: a house in Balmoral, New South Wales, after fire passed through in 2020.
    Daria Nipot/Shutterstock

    Homeowners can use the National Emergency Management Authority’s bushfire resilience rating app to assess their home’s bushfire risk and to see which retrofits are highest priority.

    State or territory governments offer advice on making your house more resistant to fire attack: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory.

    Protecting our homes takes time – and money

    Australia’s housing crisis has been front page news for months. As we head towards the federal election, it will remain a hot-button issue. Unfortunately, we haven’t yet heard discussion of the risk posed to our housing stock from bushfires made worse by climate change.

    While planning controls and building standards can raise the standards of future homes, better support and incentives are needed to retrofit existing homes – especially for those built before fire safety standards became the norm.

    Retrofitting is crucial. But it’s not cheap. Costs can range from A$8,500 to $47,000 per property.

    These expenses can be prohibitive for many homeowners. Initiatives such as the Bushfire Resilience Rating Home Self-Assessment app can result in insurers offering premium discounts to homeowners using it to introduce recommended measures.

    In some areas, local governments offer financial assistance for retrofitting, such as the Bushfire Wise Rebate by Ku-ring-gai Council in NSW.

    Without greater financial support or government incentives, a significant portion of Australia’s housing stock will remain vulnerable, increasing risks as climate change expands fire-prone areas.

    Subha Parida receives receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI)

    Lyrian Daniel receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI).

    Michaela Lang receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI).

    – ref. More than half of Australia’s homes were built before fire standards came in. Here are 5 ways to retrofit them – https://theconversation.com/more-than-half-of-australias-homes-were-built-before-fire-standards-came-in-here-are-5-ways-to-retrofit-them-249490

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australian women will soon be eligible for a menopause health check. Here’s what to expect

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Davis, Chair of Women’s Health, Monash University

    SpeedKingz/Shutterstock

    The federal government has recently pledged to create a new Medicare rebate for menopause health assessments. It’s due to be available from July 1.

    The announcement featured in the government’s response to the Senate inquiry into menopause, released last week, though was first flagged earlier this month as part of the government’s pre-election funding package for women’s health.

    So what is a menopause health assessment? And how will it improve the health care women receive during this stage in their lives?

    Why we need this

    Outside reproductive health, women’s health care has generally been modelled on the needs of men. A prime example is the government-funded midlife health check for people aged 45 to 49. This is intended to identify and manage risks to prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

    The recent Senate inquiry into issues related to menopause and perimenopuase highlighted that the timing of this health check is not fit for purpose for women. This is because at menopause, which occurs on average at the age of 51 in Australia, women’s health profiles change.

    Women gain tummy fat, their cholesterol levels go up, and glucose (sugar) metabolism becomes less efficient. All these changes increase a woman’s risk of heart disease and diabetes.

    Vast numbers of women are given a clean bill of health at this midlife health check in their late 40s. But when they subsequently go through menopause, they can go on to develop heart disease and diabetes risk factors, which may go undetected.

    Some women also go through early menopause: around 12% between the ages of 40 and 45, and around 4% before 40.

    Those women who experience menopause before age 45 are known to be at significantly higher risk of heart disease than other women. But, by the time women with early menopause qualify for the midlife health check, crucial metabolic changes may have silently occurred, and the opportunity to intervene early to address them may be missed.

    Changes that happen at menopause can increase a woman’s risk of developing a chronic disease.
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    What will a menopause health check involve?

    The federal government has committed A$26 million over two years to fund the new menopause health assessments, as part of a $64.5 million package designed to improve health care for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause.

    Some $12.8 million will also be dedicated to a menopause-related community awareness campaign.

    My own research has shown women understand menopause means the loss of fertility, but often have little knowledge of the health changes that occur as part of the menopause transition. So increasing health literacy around menopause is much needed.

    Similarly, for the introduction of these menopause-specific consultations to be effective, women will need to know what these health checks are for, if they’re eligible, and how to access a menopause health check.

    The new menopause health checks will be provided by GPs. Exactly what they will involve is yet to be clarified. But I would anticipate they will include a combination of the assessment and management of perimenopause and menopause, overall health and wellbeing, and assessment of risk and prevention of future ill health, notably heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.

    Upskilling health-care providers

    Equally, health-care providers will need to understand the impact of menopause on long-term health and how best to mitigate against disease risks, including the role of menopausal hormone therapy.

    My research has shown health-care providers lack confidence in delivering menopause-related care, indicating a need for more education around menopause.

    In line with this, the Senate inquiry called for the upskilling of the medical workforce in the field of menopause through medical school training, postgraduate specialist programs, and ongoing education of clinicians.

    Women in Australia will soon be able to access menopause health assessments.
    Sabrina Bracher/Shutterstock

    While the government cannot mandate what is taught in medical schools or the content of specialist training programs, its response to the inquiry encourages these institutions to incorporate menopause in their curricula.

    Further, part of the government funding will go towards expanding a professional development program on managing menopause offered by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health.

    A good start, but still not enough

    The government’s new funding, and the new menopause health checks in particular, recognises that women’s health is strongly dictated by major biological events, such as menopause, as opposed to age.

    This is good news. But we need to do more to equip health professionals to provide the best menopause care to women in these health assessments and beyond.

    Adding new menopause modules to medical school and specialist training programs will ensure greater awareness of the impact of menopause on women’s health and wellbeing. However, awareness alone won’t ensure high-level training for the complex care many perimenopausal and menopausal women need.

    The opportunities for medical graduates to gain hands-on clinical experience in menopausal medicine are mostly limited to the select few who get to work in a hospital specialist menopause clinic during their training.

    Notably, there’s no credentialed training program in menopause medicine in Australia. Meanwhile, the North American Menopause Society does offer a credentialed program.

    The challenge has been that menopause does not belong to one medical specialty. This is why we need an accredited training program – for both GPs and medical specialists – to ensure a truly skilled workforce able to deliver gold standard menopause care.

    But without further federal funding to set this up, it will not happen.

    Susan Davis receives funding from NHMRC, Medical Research Future Fund, the Heart Foundation, MS Australia. She has prepared and delivered educational presentations for Besins Healthcare, Bayer, and Mayne Pharma and has served on Advisory Boards for Theramex, Astellas, Abbott Laboratories, Mayne Pharma, and Besins Healthcare. She is a Member of the Executive of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences.

    – ref. Australian women will soon be eligible for a menopause health check. Here’s what to expect – https://theconversation.com/australian-women-will-soon-be-eligible-for-a-menopause-health-check-heres-what-to-expect-249499

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How to protect more Australian homes from the growing risks of floods, fires and other climate disasters

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Annette Kroen, Research Fellow Planning and Transport, RMIT University

    The cleanup is underway in northern Queensland following the latest flooding catastrophe to hit the state. More than 7,000 insurance claims have already been lodged, most of them for inundated homes and other structures.

    The Queensland floods are a reminder that climate-induced natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe in Australia. Recent reports have identified the high number of Australian homes that are vulnerable to the increased risks of floods, coastal erosion and bushfires.

    Despite the evidence of escalating danger to homes and communities, we are ill-prepared for severe weather events. A new report from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute spells out the case for better integration, especially of urban planning processes. This is urgently needed to reduce the exposure of housing to growing disaster risks.

    Top priorities for planning authorities must include an end to building homes in the wrong locations, such as flood zones, and improving the resilience of dwellings to disaster hazards.

    Poor coordination

    At the national level, there is little integration of the three pillars of sound strategy: housing policy, settlement planning and disaster management. For example, neither housing policy nor planning frameworks incorporate disaster preparedness or mitigation.

    A focus on disaster response and recovery also hinders proper coordination in the disaster prevention area, even though avoidance in the first place is clearly more cost effective.

    However, this may be changing. Both the Issues Paper for the National Housing and Homelessness Plan and State of the Housing System report have acknowledged climate change and natural disasters are risk factors affecting housing.

    And the National Urban Policy includes “sustainable and resilient” as one of its three major goals for liveable cities.

    At the state and territory level, there is more clearly defined coordination through state emergency management planning. It also occurs via fire agencies that advise on planning proposals.

    In New South Wales, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is responsible for developing and implementing the State Disaster Mitigation Plan and for housing recovery.

    This means settlement planning and relevant housing issues are directly under the auspices of the agency responsible for disaster prevention and recovery. This is one way to improve integration, but further coordination with housing and planning agencies would be desirable.

    Greater focus on risk reduction

    Relevant Australian agencies are enhancing their approaches to disaster management in relation to housing. But housing policy still needs to accord greater priority to disaster risk reduction. This includes the location and resilience of housing relative to climate change hazards, such as fires and floods.

    In settlement planning, tensions between disaster risk reduction and economic and other development goals need to be addressed. Planning processes and policies to move communities away from risk areas via managed retreat and possibly compensation schemes must be developed.

    We can look to international experience for guidance. In Quebec, Canada the provincial government offered significant funding towards property buybacks after floods in 2017 and 2019. It also introduced a cap on disaster aid in high risk locations. Bylaw regulations banned any new developments or reconstruction.

    Households had to decide to either relocate or bear the cost of repeated disaster recovery. This strategy is an example of a successful relocation plan in an area at risk of repeated future flooding.

    The strategy received a relatively positive response from the affected municipalities and homeowners, potentially due to the generous buyout offers.

    This example illustrates the need for policies to manage disaster risk and urban development much more clearly.

    Better integration needed

    A whole of government approach that establishes clear policy and planning responsibilities would improve integration. It would also allow agencies to develop clearer strategies for the task. Improved data availability and harmonisation of risk identification would further support good decision making by housing and planning agencies.

    At the operational level, more staff exchanges between housing, planning, and emergency agencies would support capacity building.

    Detailed evaluations of housing experiences and planning outcomes from previous disasters would underpin improvements and integration. This occurs to some extent through formal statutory inquiries into disasters.

    A standardised evaluation for housing and planning agencies would provide more focused insights. One idea is to gauge temporary housing programs to build an inventory of suitable and available temporary housing types.

    In addition to coordination between government agencies, there is also a need to better communicate with the public on potential disaster risks. Local communities need to be included in planning, both for short-term disaster management and longer-term resettlement decisions.

    If we fail to better integrate housing policy with disaster preparation, we will continue to build on flood plains and other high risk areas. People, and their homes, will remain on the front line of deadly natural disasters.

    Annette Kroen receives funding from Natural Hazards Research Australia and the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute.

    RMIT University receives finding from AHURI and NHRA to support Jago Dodson’s research which is relevant to this article, as well as a range of other funding sources.

    – ref. How to protect more Australian homes from the growing risks of floods, fires and other climate disasters – https://theconversation.com/how-to-protect-more-australian-homes-from-the-growing-risks-of-floods-fires-and-other-climate-disasters-249860

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –