NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Domestic violence – Darwin City

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 25-year-old male in relation to domestic violence, firearm and drug offences on Sunday.

    Between 6 and 9 February 2025, it is alleged a serious domestic violence incident occurred involving a 25-year-old male threatening his 24-year-old female partner with a firearm. A report was received by police on 10 February 2025.

    Yesterday, about 11:20am, members from the Territory Response Group (TRG) were deployed to Manson Street in Darwin City to coordinate an arrest of the 25-year-old male. Police conducted a lawful search of a location associated to the male where a quantity of dangerous drugs were located. 

    The Northern Domestic and Family Violence Unit have carriage of the incident.

    The offender was charged with:

    •          Make threats to kill a person

    •          Deprive a person of personal liberty

    •          Aggravated Assault

    •          Damage to property

    •          Supply schedule 1 drug commercial quantity

    •          Possess schedule 1 drug commercial quantity

    •          Possess schedule 2 drug traffickable quantity

    •          Receive or possess property of commission of offence

    •          Possess, use firearm whilst unlicenced

    He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on 12 February 2025.

    If anyone has witnessed a disturbance in the vicinity of the Coolalinga Shopping Complex occurring around 6.30pm on Thursday 6 January 2025 or has information relating to incident, you can contact police on 131 444. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/ 

    If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between ageing and frailty? One is inevitable – the other is not

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julee McDonagh, Senior Research Fellow of Frailty Research, University of Wollongong

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Ageing is a normal part of the life course. It doesn’t matter how many green smoothies you drink, or how many “anti-ageing” skin care products you use, you can’t stop the ageing process.

    But while we’re all getting older, not everyone who ages will necessarily become frail. Ageing and frailty are closely related, but they’re not the same thing.

    Let’s break down the difference between the two.

    What is ageing?

    On a biological level, ageing is the result of the build-up of cellular and molecular damage in the body over time.

    The ageing process causes a gradual decline in physical and mental function, a higher risk of disease, and eventual (and unavoidable) death.

    Still, some people think they can cheat the system, spending millions trying to stay young forever. While we may be able to reduce the appearance of ageing, ultimately there’s no magic pill to increase our longevity.

    Around one in six Australians are over the age of 65 (16% of the total population). Yet as individuals and a society many of us still have a fear of ageing.

    But what is it about ageing we are so afraid of? When it comes down to it, many people are probably less afraid of ageing, and more afraid of becoming frail.

    Ageing is inevitable – but frailty isn’t.
    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    What is frailty?

    Frailty is defined as a state of vulnerability characterised by a loss of reserve across multiple parts of the body.

    Frailty is generally characterised by several physical symptoms, such as weakness, slow walking speed, exhaustion, unintentional weight loss, and low activity level.

    Lower bone density and osteoporosis (a condition where the bones become weak and brittle) are also associated with frailty, increasing the risk of falls and fractures.

    Notably, someone who is frail is less able to “bounce back” (or recover) after a stressor event compared to someone who is not frail. A stressor event could be, for example, having a fall, getting a urinary infection, or even being admitted to hospital.

    Frailty is more common in older people. But in some cases, frailty can affect younger people too. For example, people with advanced chronic diseases, such as heart failure, can develop frailty much younger.

    Frailty is more common in people who are older.
    Fit Ztudio/Shutterstock

    Frailty is dynamic. While it can get worse over time, in some cases frailty can also be reversed or even prevented through health and lifestyle changes.

    For example, we know physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle can significantly increase a person’s risk of becoming frail. On the flip side, evidence shows doing more exercise can reduce frailty in older adults.

    There are other lifestyle modifications we can make too. And the earlier we make these changes, the better.

    Preventing frailty

    Here are some key things you can do to help prevent frailty:

    1. Get moving

    Exercise more, including resistance training (such as squats and lunges, or grab some stretchy resistance bands). Many of these sorts of exercises can be done at home. YouTube has some great resources.

    You might also consider joining a gym, or asking your GP about seeing an accredited exercise physiologist or physiotherapist. Medicare subsidies may be available for these specialists.

    The physical activity guidelines for older Australians recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most days or preferably every day.

    The guidelines also highlight the importance of incorporating different types of activities (such as resistance, balance or flexibility exercises) and reducing the time you spend sitting down.

    2. Stay socially active

    Social isolation and loneliness can contribute to the progression of frailty. Reach out to friends and family for support or contact local community groups that you may be able to join. This might include your local Zumba class or bridge club.

    3. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to regularly check your medications

    “Polypharmacy” (when someone is prescribed five or more medications) is associated with an increased risk of frailty. The presence of frailty can also interfere with how the body absorbs medicines.

    Home medicine reviews are available for older adults with a chronic medical condition or a complex medication regimen. These reviews aims to help people get the most benefit from their medicines and reduce their risk of experiencing adverse effects.

    Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your current medications.

    4. Eat a protein-rich diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables

    Low nutrient intake can negatively impact physical function and may increase your risk of becoming frail. There’s some evidence to suggest eating more protein may delay the onset of frailty.

    A food-first approach is best when looking to increase the protein in your diet. Protein is found in foods such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.

    Adults over 50 should aim to eat 64 grams of protein per day for men and 46g per day for women. Adults over 70 should aim for 81g per day for men and 57g per day for women.

    Ask your GP for a referral to a dietitian who can provide advice on a dietary regime that is best for you.

    Supplements may be recommended if you are struggling to meet your protein needs from diet alone.

    Dr Julee McDonagh receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the NSW Office of Health and Medical Research. She is also a member of the executive committee of the Cardiovascular Nursing Council of the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand and the Emerging Leaders Committee of the Australian Cardiovascular Alliance.

    Professor Caleb Ferguson receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, Medical Research Future Fund, Heart Foundation (Australia) and Stroke Foundation (Australia). He is a Board Director of the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand and Chair of the Cardiovascular Nursing Council. He is Associate Editor for European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing and Heart Lung and Circulation. He was a co-author of the Australian Heart Foundation & Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand clinical guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation. He is co-leads the Western Sydney Clinical Frailty Registry, a clinical quality registry of older adults.

    – ref. What’s the difference between ageing and frailty? One is inevitable – the other is not – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-ageing-and-frailty-one-is-inevitable-the-other-is-not-247450

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: David Littleproud on US tariffs, a government-owned Rex, and the Nationals’ identity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    With the election only months away, the Labor government finds itself suddenly battling with the Trump administration for an exemption from new US tariffs on steel and aluminium.

    The opposition has supported the effort, but it also claims a Coalition government would be better place to deal with Donald Trump.

    Joining us on this podcast, Nationals leader David Littleproud says if Labor fails to get an exemption on the tariffs, a Dutton government would try again:

    Of course we will and I think that the relationship that Peter Dutton had and still has in Washington will play very much towards that. In fact, I was in Washington with Peter in July last year and so he can walk the halls of Washington with authority and confidence. And I think it’s important that we want this solved and it doesn’t matter who’s in power. This is team Australia, and we’ve got to have a bipartisan approach and I think Pete has shown that leadership.

    On net zero, while Littleproud firmly backs the target as in Australai’s national interest, he also says if the world walked away from it, so would we.

    What everyone’s trying to do is protect regional Australia. But, just so everyone appreciates, if we’re not signed up to net zero by 2050, the people are hurt the most are the people in regional Australia, our farmers and our miners, because if we don’t sign up to what the rest of the world has, the world gets to impose on us a border adjustment mechanism. That’s a tariff and that means we get less for what we produce in regional Australia.

    Now if the world changes and walks away from net zero, then we walk away with it. But we’re not the United States, we’re not the biggest economy in the world. You got to understand your place in the world, and you’ve got to understand the unintended consequences.

    The government this week announced it would be willing to take over Rex Airlines if it can’t be sold. Littleproud is sceptical:

    Well, I think we’ve spent over $130 million of Australian taxpayer’s money and don’t have a lot to show for it. I think what we’ve got to also look at is that Rex was a viable regional airline before they had a dalliance into competing with Qantas and Virgin in the golden triangle between Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. They couldn’t compete and instead of spending money on that, they should have upgraded their fleet.

    The government has wasted enough time. They should open up conversation with the broader regional aviation sector, which they haven’t done, to find a solution, whether that be one in totality of a purchaser for Rex or whether that be a carve out of players and with policy levers is being pulled, rather than the Australian taxpayer having to cut the check in entirety. So I think we haven’t exhausted all the options.

    On the coming election campaign, Littleproud stresses the closeness between the Nationals and the Liberals, rather than seeking to emphasise a separate Nationals’ pitch.

    Peter and I, I think, have the tightest coalition that we’ve ever had. There’s not a piece of paper between us. We’re literally joined at the hip and our campaigns will complement one another and in fact, they’ll intertwine in many places. I think that’s important that the people of Australia understand that the only coalition that they can trust to form government is the Nationals and Liberals, not Labor, Greens and teals – that that is the only coalition that’ll give them stability, not chaos.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Politics with Michelle Grattan: David Littleproud on US tariffs, a government-owned Rex, and the Nationals’ identity – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-david-littleproud-on-us-tariffs-a-government-owned-rex-and-the-nationals-identity-249708

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Powerless – another Asia-Pacific angle on the long siege of USAID

    COMMENTARY: By Robin Davies

    Much has been and much more will be written about the looming abolition of USAID.

    It’s “the removal of a huge and important tool of American global statecraft” (Konyndyk), or the wood-chipping of a “viper’s nest of radical-left marxists who hate America” (Musk) or, more reasonably, the unwarranted cancellation of an organisation that should have been reviewed and reformed.

    Commentators will have a lot to say, some of it exaggerated, about the varieties of harm caused by this decision, and about its legality.

    Some will welcome it from a conservative perspective, believing that USAID was either not aligned with or acting against the interests of the United States, or was proselytising wokeness, or was a criminal organisation.

    Some, often more quietly, will welcome it from an anti-imperialist or “Southern” perspective, believing that the agency was at worst a blunt instrument of US hegemony or at least a bastion of Western saviourism.

    I want to come at this topic from a different angle, by providing a brief personal perspective on USAID as an organisation, based on several decades of occasional interaction with it during my time as an Australian aid official.

    Essentially, I view USAID as a harried, hamstrung and traumatised organisation, not as a rogue agency or finely-tuned vehicle of US statecraft.

    Peer country representative
    My own experience with USAID began when I participated as a peer country representative in an OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) peer review of the US’s foreign assistance programme in the early 1990s, which included visits to US assistance programmes in Bangladesh and the Philippines, as well as to USAID headquarters in Washington DC.

    I later dealt with the agency in many other roles, including during postings to the OECD and Indonesia and through my work on global and regional climate change and health programmes, up to and including the pandemic years.

    An image is firmly lodged in my mind from that DAC peer review visit to Washington. We had had days of back-to-back meetings in USAID headquarters with a series of exhausted-looking, distracted and sometimes grumpy executives who didn’t have much reason to care what the OECD thought about the US aid effort.

    It was a muggy summer day. At one point a particularly grumpy meeting chair, who now rather reminds of me of Gary Oldman’s character in Slow Horses, mopped the sweat from his forehead with his necktie without appearing to be aware of what he was doing. Since then, that man has been my mental model of a USAID official.

    But why so exhausted, distracted and grumpy?

    Precisely because USAID is about the least freewheeling workplace one could construct. Certainly it is administratively independent, in the sense that it was created by an act of Congress, but it also receives its budget from the President and Congress — and that budget comes with so many strings attached, in the form of country- or issue-related “earmarks” or other directives that it might be logically impossible to allocate the funds as instructed.

    Some of these earmarks are broad and unsurprising (for example, specific allocations for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment under the Bush-era PEPFAR program) while others represent niche interests (Senator John McCain once ridiculed earmarks pertaining to “peanuts, orangutans, gorillas, neotropical raptors, tropical fish and exotic plants”) — but none originates within USAID.

    Informal earmarks calculation
    I recall seeing an informal calculation showing that one could only satisfy all the percentage-based earmarks by giving most of the dollars several quite different jobs to do. A 2002 DAC peer review noted with disapproval some 270 earmarks or other directive provisions in aid legislation; by the time of the most recent peer review in 2022, this number was more like 700.

    Related in part to this congressional micro-management of its budget — along with the usual distrust of organisations that “send” money overseas — USAID labours under particularly gruelling accountability and reporting requirements.

    Andew Natsios — a former USAID Administrator and lifelong Republican who has recently come to USAID’s defence (albeit with arguments that not everybody would deem helpful) — wrote about this in 2010. In terms reminiscent of current events, he described the reign of terror of Lieutenant-General Herbert Beckington, a former Marine Corps officer who led USAID‘s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) from 1977 to 1994.

    He was a powerful iconic figure in Washington, and his influence over the structure of the foreign aid programME remains with USAID today. … Known as “The General” at USAID, Beckington was both feared and despised by career officers. Once referred to by USAID employees as “the agency’s J. Edgar Hoover — suspicious, vindictive, eager to think the worst” …

    At one point, he told the Washington Post that USAID’s white-collar crime rate was “higher than that of downtown Detroit.” … In a seminal moment in this clash between OIG and USAID, photographs were published of two senior officers who had been accused of some transgression being taken away in handcuffs by the IG investigators for prosecution, a scene that sent a broad chill through the career staff and, more than any other single event, forced a redirection of aid practice toward compliance.

    Labyrinthine accountability systems
    On top of the burdens of logically impossible programming and labyrinthine accountability systems is the burden of projecting American generosity. As far as humanly possible, and perhaps a little further, ways must be found of ensuring that American aid is sourced from American institutions, farms or factories and, if it is in the form of commodities, that it is transported on American vessels.

    Failing that, there must be American flags. I remember a USAID officer stationed in Banda Aceh after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami spending a non-trivial amount of his time seeking to attach sizeable flags to the front of trucks transporting US (but also non-US) emergency supplies around the province of Aceh.

    President Trump’s adviser Stephen Miller has somehow determined to his own satisfaction that the great majority (in fact 98 percent) of USAID personnel are donors to the Democratic Party. Whether or not that is true, let alone relevant, Democrat administrations have arguably been no kinder to USAID than Republican ones over the years.

    Natsios, in the piece cited above, notes that The General was installed under Carter, who ran on anti-Washington ticket, and that there were savage cuts — over 400 positions — to USAID senior career service staffing under Clinton. USAID gets battered no matter which way the wind blows.

    Which brings me back to necktie guy. It has always seemed to me that the platonic form of a USAID officer, while perhaps more likely than not to vote Democrat, is a tired and dispirited person, weary of politicians of all stripes, bowed under his or her burdens, bound to a desk and straitjacketed by accountability requirements, regularly buffeted by new priorities and abrupt restructures, and put upon by the ignorant and suspicious.

    Radical-left Marxists and vipers probably wouldn’t tolerate such an existence for long. Who would? I guess it’s either thieves and money-launderers or battle-scarred professionals intent on doing a decent job against tall odds.

    Robin Davies is an honorary professor at the Australian National University’s (ANU) Crawford School of Public Policy and managing editor of the Devpolicy Blog. He previously held senior positions at Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and AusAID.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A new public statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter shows a bright future for Australian monuments

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Carlson, Professor, Critical Indigenous Studies and Director of The Centre for Global Indigenous Futures, Macquarie University

    The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains names and images of deceased people.

    Colonial commemorations such as the statues of James Cook or Lachlan Macquarie have become the focus of much contestation, particularly in the annual lead up to January 26.

    As authors of the book Monumental Disruptions: Aboriginal people and colonial commemorations in so-called Australia, we are often contacted by media to respond to whether colonial statues have a place in modern Australia.

    Such statues create controversy because they often honour people who have dubious histories. Journalist Paul Daley has described such statues as “assorted bastards” who have profited from the dispossession and exploitation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    The problem with many statues is they do not represent a shared history. They either represent colonial figures who have harmed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, or they represent a one-sided perspective that erases the other.

    This year we were asked to respond to a different kind of monument: a statue of music legends Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter, newly erected in the Melbourne suburb of Fitzroy in November 2024.

    An inspirational, unifying force

    Archie Roach, a Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung senior Elder, songwriter and storyteller sadly died in 2022 aged only 66. Anthony Albanese described him as a “brilliant talent, a powerful and prolific national truth teller”.

    His partner Ruby Hunter was a Ngarrindjeri woman and pioneering singer-songwriter. She was the first Indigenous woman to be signed to a major record label, and sadly died in 2010.

    Both were members of the Stolen Generations – Aboriginal children who were forcibly removed from their families by Australian government authorities as part of the assimilation policy. They met on the street as homeless teenagers.

    Their award-winning music took them around the world together. They performed alongside musical greats such as Tracy Chapman, Paul Kelly and Bob Dylan.

    They have been described as an inspiration to many, and a unifying force who altered the way white Australia saw itself.

    A statue that sits in conversation with community

    The statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter was commissioned by the Yarra City Council in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and Victorian government.

    The statue was made by local artist Darien Pullen. The surrounding park space was designed by Melbourne-based architect Jefa Greenaway (Wailwan/Kamilaroi) and landscape architect Paul Herzich (Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri).

    Fitzroy’s Atherton Gardens is a culturally significant site that once served as a traditional meeting place. It later became a hub of political activism and resistance for Victoria’s Aboriginal community.

    This monument stands in a place rich with history. It is where Archie and Ruby spent meaningful time with their family, and where Archie was reunited with his biological family.

    Their son, Amos Roach, emphasised the deep cultural significance of the location: “it’s a place of cultural significance because it was a meeting place, it’s an old camp”.

    He also reflected on his personal connection to the park, saying, “I was a parkie baby when I was born … and I still come here”.

    The statue stands at street level, embodying an ongoing presence. They are casual, approachable and engaged, as if in conversation with the community.

    Positioned to invite interaction, the statue forms a dynamic relationship with both the people who pass by and the place it inhabits.

    It is embraced rather than imposed, welcomed and wanted.

    The statue stands at street level, in conversation with the community.
    The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    While these figures are Aboriginal icons, they are also remarkable individuals who made significant contributions to Australia. Their commemoration carries meaning and connection for all.

    Compare it to the Cook statue in Hyde Park on Gadigal Country (Sydney). He is perched high above the observer, arm raised to the heavens in a theatrical “ta-daa”.

    Positioned in a location where the man himself never set foot, the text at the base of the statue? make the historically incorrect allegation that he “DISCOVERED THIS TERRITORY, 1770” – something Cook never personally claimed.

    A shared future

    Rather than erecting monuments to colonial figures who oppressed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, reinforcing a history of injustice and loss, we should instead celebrate a shared vision for the future.

    This vision should be built on recognition, respect and the commemoration of those who have made meaningful contributions to Australia.

    This statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter honours two individuals who, despite being shaped by the very colonial histories commemorated by other monuments, have profoundly enriched contemporary Australia through their resilience, talent and contributions.

    Until recently, commemorations of Aboriginal people were largely confined to the realm of prehistory — portraying them as nameless “Natives” in conflict with settlers, as loyal guides and servants, or as tragic figures labelled “the last of their tribe”.

    Like recent statues commemorating Aboriginal figures such as Pastor Sir Doug and Lady Gladys Nicholls, William Cooper, and William “Bill” Ferguson, this statue brings Aboriginal peoples into the present.

    It is a powerful recognition of their enduring impact in shaping this nation – one that calls for acknowledgement, respect and inclusion from us all.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A new public statue of Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter shows a bright future for Australian monuments – https://theconversation.com/a-new-public-statue-of-archie-roach-and-ruby-hunter-shows-a-bright-future-for-australian-monuments-249484

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australians may soon be able to fly with their pets in a plane’s cabin – but not every pet is suited to it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Hazel, Associate Professor, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide

    Masarik/Shutterstock

    In some overseas countries, pets can travel with their owners in a plane’s cabin, in a carrier under a seat.

    In Australia, pets must travel in the luggage hold of aircraft. But this may soon change. Virgin Australia last year announced it would allow small dogs and cats into the cabin from 2025. Now the plan has progressed further. The Australian newspaper this week reported two rows of Virgin aircraft will be designated as “pet friendly” on selected flights, although more work is needed before a trial begins.

    Only small dogs or cats would be allowed in the cabin. They would have to be contained in a carrier and placed under the seat in front of their owner. The combined weight of pet and carrier must be no more than 8 kilograms.

    Australians love their pets, and increasingly holiday with them. But the “pets on planes” policy is not without challenges. So how can the experience be made as smooth as possible for pets, pet owners and other passengers?

    Many Australians want to take their pets onto the plane cabin with them.
    Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock

    What are the potential negatives for pets?

    Research shows pets kept in the luggage or cargo areas of planes face risks. These include being deprived of food and water and being exposed to extreme temperatures. Pet owners may also give their pets sedatives or other drugs to calm them down, which can cause harm.

    Allowing pets to travel in a plane’s cabin, close to their owner, is likely to reduce these risks.

    But the plane’s cabin is still an unfamiliar environment with strange smells, sounds and people. So, some dogs and cats may still find the experience stressful.

    There are ways to minimise this. They include getting pets used to being in containers (a process known as “habituation”) and using positive reinforcement training to encourage pets to remain calm.

    If a dog or cat is already anxious and you want to travel with them, it’s best to consult a vet well before you fly.

    Some dogs and cats may benefit from a sedative or medication that reduces anxiety. This must be done in consultation with your vet, because these drugs may be dangerous for animals with certain health conditions.

    Pets can die on flights

    One study on dogs transported by air into the United States (many of which travelled in the cabin as “hand luggage”) found that every year, some pets die.

    Media outlets have reported several instances of pets that died while travelling in the cargo hold or while left on the tarmac before their flight.

    One risk factor occurs when the pet is a “brachycephalic” breed. These are dogs or cats with flat and shortened noses, such as pugs and the Boston terrier.

    These animals have abnormal airways, meaning they are at higher risk of hyperthermia if the temperature is high, and can also have breathing difficulties.

    Not all pets are suited to air travel.
    Regina Erofeeva/Shutterstock

    What should pet owners do before flying?

    Should the “pets on planes” policy at Virgin Australia come to pass, it’s still not clear how exactly practicalities such as offering food, water or managing toileting will work. The airline is yet to release these details.

    It’s possible you would need to “fast” your pet before arriving at the airport – in other words, refrain from feeding them for a period of time, to reduce the chance they will vomit or need to defecate.

    Melbourne and Sydney airports have reportedly upgraded their “pet relief” facilities – essentially pet toilets – to cope with increased future demand.

    Guide and assistance dogs that currently use these facilities will always have priority. These dogs are trained to toilet on cue, making it much easier to travel with them.

    If you and your pet would like to be frequent flyers, consider getting this type of training.

    If your pet gets anxious, consult a vet well before you fly.
    MarinaTr/Shutterstock

    What about other passengers?

    Virgin Australia is still consulting doctors and vets on their policy, including about risks to passengers with dog or cat allergies.

    Clearly, the allergy risk to humans must be well managed – especially when in the air, isolated from medical services.

    Air is filtered more frequently in plane cabins than in homes. However, even very low levels of an allergen can trigger severe reactions such as anaphylaxis or asthma attacks in some people. Also, pet dander (from shed skin cells) can remain on seats long after a pet has gone.

    What’s more, some people may be frightened of, or have a phobia relating to dogs or cats. Phobia to dogs may be linked to a direct traumatic event. People with serious phobias may not be able to enter a plane if they need to walk past a dog or cat. So, placement of the pets in cabins will need to be carefully considered.

    Pets are part of human lives and will likely be integrated more into transport in future, including planes. Careful planning will allow us to maximise the benefits for all: people travelling with and without pets, and the animals themselves.

    Susan Hazel is affiliated with the Dog & Cat Management Board of South Australia and the RSPCA South Australia.

    – ref. Australians may soon be able to fly with their pets in a plane’s cabin – but not every pet is suited to it – https://theconversation.com/australians-may-soon-be-able-to-fly-with-their-pets-in-a-planes-cabin-but-not-every-pet-is-suited-to-it-249689

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Assault police – Galiwinku

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an assault police incident that occurred in Galiwinku early this morning.

    Around 3:55am, police received a report that a group of unknown youths were allegedly attempting to unlawfully enter a service station in the community.

    Local members attended and when approaching the premises the youths allegedly threw rocks, striking one of the officers to the face and the leg. The group then fled the scene on foot.

    The injured officer attended the Galiwinku Clinic for treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

    Investigations are ongoing.

    Superintendent Jody Nobbs said, “This is despicable behaviour, and we will not tolerate it.

    “Police do not deserve to be assaulted while protecting and serving the community.

    “We are committed to identifying those responsible and ensuring they are held to account.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Total Fire Ban for North Central, South West and Central regions

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    A Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared for the North Central, South West and Central regions tomorrow, Thursday 13 February 2025.

    Tomorrow’s hot and windy conditions will see temperatures reach mid to high 30s statewide before a gusty cooler south westerly wind change in the early afternoon, likely to hit the Grampians by 2pm and Ballarat by 5pm.

    The northerly winds will bring early damaging gusts of 80 to 90km/hr around western and central areas in the morning and early afternoon before possible showers and a severe thunderstorm behind the change across the eastern and central districts.

    A Total Fire Ban means no fire can be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight from 12.01am to 11.59pm on the day of the Total Fire Ban. 

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the TFB has been declared due to the elevated fire risk that will come with the damaging afternoon winds, high temperatures and underlying dryness.

    “Tomorrow’s conditions in the central and south western parts of Victoria will make it difficult for firefighters to supress a fire should one start,” Jason said.

    “There is potential for dry lightning to come with the thunderstorms, and although we are anticipating rainfall to follow them, there is still a risk of strikes causing new fire starts.

    “While the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Little Desert National Park fires were contained over the weekend, we will continue to monitor containment lines for hot spots tomorrow both on the ground and in the air.

    “We’re asking people to follow the strict conditions associated with the TFB declaration, stay well informed with warnings through the VicEmergency app and understand how the increased fire risk will impact you, ensuring your fire plan covers all possible contingencies.”

    Victorians can find out if it is a Total Fire Ban on the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au, where it is usually published by 5pm the day before a Total Fire Ban.

    For more information on what you can and can’t do visit the Can I or Can’t I page on the CFA website. 

    Victorians should also make sure they have access to more than one source of information.

    They include:

    • ABC local radio, commercial and designated radio stations of Sky News
    • The VicEmergency App
    • The VicEmergency website www.emergency.vic.gov.au
    • The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
    • CFA or VicEmergency Twitter or Facebook
    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two arrested for drug trafficking at Port Augusta

    Source: South Australia Police

    Two people were arrested for drug trafficking after a traffic stop at Port Augusta yesterday afternoon.

    About 3.45pm on Tuesday 11 February, police pulled over a vehicle on Elsie Street, Port Augusta.

    Officers instructed the occupants to exit the car, as it was about to be searched.  The front passenger was allegedly seen removing an item from her handbag and throwing it underneath the vehicle.

    The car was searched and the item, a cloth zip-up bag, was retrieved from under the car.  It will be alleged the bag contained approximately 20 grams of suspected methamphetamine, scales, cash and other items.

    A 28-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man, both from Port Augusta, were arrested and charged with trafficking in a controlled drug.

    They were bailed to appear in the Port Augusta Magistrates Court on 31 March.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Channel 7

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    NATARSHA BELLING: Taxpayers could soon own Rex Airlines. The Federal Government says it’s open to acquiring the regional carrier and making it state owned if administrators can’t sell. And joining us live this afternoon is Transport Minister Catherine King. Minister, good afternoon. Thank you for joining us. Now, you’ve said it is a last resort, but at this stage there are no real bidders emerging. So is it likely?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, the first thing is the second sale process is about to start. There were no bidders on that expedited first sale process. What’s become evident, if we are to continue to have strong regional carriers and a strong Rex Airlines, is that it will require some support from the Commonwealth. We’ve indicated today that we are working very closely with the administrators on that second sale process, that we are willing to step in with support for our bidders, for the airline. We hope very much there is a market based solution and that the second sale process is successful. But we also want to say really clearly that it is too important to have a regional carrier of this nature- for this to fail. So we are also signalling that we will start the work to ensure that if the second sale process is not successful, then we will look to work with the states and territories around the possible acquisition by the Commonwealth.

    But we’re not there yet. What we’re at the moment is really saying, we are doing everything we can to make sure that there is a successful second sale, and to make sure that we continue to provide those services that are much needed in regional communities.

    NATARSHA BELLING: So why should taxpayers pay for it if you can’t find any other solutions at this stage?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, the first thing I’d say is that regional aviation is an incredibly important public good. Being able to make sure that we can get regional communities to medical appointments in our capital cities, or making sure that tourism actually operates in our regions, that is a really important part of our economies. But also remember, we already have seen $150 million plus JobKeeper provided to this airline by the Liberal and National Party with no strings attached, and we’re now in the position that we’re in. So where we are going to have to step in and provide support in order to make sure a second sale process is in place, we want to make sure that there is guarantees around regional routes, guarantees around regional services, guarantees about good governance to make sure we’ve got a strong regional aviator into the future.

    NATARSHA BELLING: All right, Minister. Hope it works, especially for regional people across the country. Thanks for joining us this afternoon.

    CATHERINE KING: Absolutely. Thank you so much for your interest.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is Elon Musk taking over the US government? Here’s how ‘state capture’ works – and why we should be concerned

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lee Morgenbesser, Associate Professor, School of Government and International Relations, Griffith University, Griffith University

    Many Americans have watched in horror as Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, has been permitted to tear through various offices of the United States government in recent weeks. Backed by President Donald Trump, and supported by a small team of true believers, he has successfully laid siege to America’s vast federal bureaucracy.

    On Tuesday, Trump signed an executive order giving Musk even more power. It requires federal agencies to cooperate with his “Department of Government Efficiency” (known as DOGE) in cutting their staffing levels and restricting new hires.

    In his first comments to the media since joining the Trump administration as a “special” government employee, Musk also responded to criticism that he’s launching a “hostile takeover” of the US government.

    The people voted for major government reform, and that’s what people are going to get.

    Are Musk’s actions akin to a “hostile takeover” of government, or a coup? I argue it’s more a form of “state capture”. Here’s what that means.

    Why it’s not a coup or self-coup

    Under the pretence of maximising government efficiency and productivity, DOGE has amassed quite a bit of power. It has:

    Musk’s blitzkrieg across Washington – carried out in apparent violation of numerous federal laws – has not only stirred confusion, but defied explanation.

    A popular argument, supported by some historians and commentators, is that Musk’s actions amount to a coup. They argue this is not a coup in the classic sense of a takeover of the physical centres of power. Rather, it’s a seizure of digital infrastructure by an unelected group seeking to undo democratic practices and violate human rights.

    This term, however, is not technically correct. The most widely accepted definition of a coup is:

    an overt attempt by the military or other elites within the state apparatus to unseat the sitting head of state using unconstitutional means.

    Since Musk and Trump are bedfellows in this plot, the tech billionaire is clearly not trying to violently unseat the president.

    Another possible explanation: this is a self-coup. This describes a situation in which

    the sitting national leader takes decisive illegitimate action against countervailing institutions and elites to perpetuate the incumbent’s power.

    In December, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol attempted a self-coup when he declared martial law in order to ostensibly protect the country from opposition forces. He quickly reversed his decision amid elite defections and mass public demonstrations.

    Though self-coups are becoming more common, Musk is doing the dirty work in the US – not Trump. Also, Musk’s chief target – the bureaucracy – does not nominally offset presidential power (except in conspiracy theories).

    What is ‘state capture’?

    More accurately, Musk’s siege amounts to a form of “state capture”. This refers to:

    the appropriation of state resources by political actors for their own ends: either private or political.

    By this logic, Musk’s aim could be to capture different pieces of the US government and turn the state into a tool for wealth extraction.

    State capture is a relatively simple but extremely destructive process. This is how it has played out in countries like Indonesia, Hungary, Nigeria, Russia, Sri Lanka and South Africa (Musk’s birthplace):

    First, political and corporate elites gain control of formal institutions, information systems and bureaucratic policy-making processes.

    Then, they use this power to apply rules selectively, make biased decisions and allocate resources based on private interests (rather than the public good).

    In captured states, strongman leaders often use economic policy and regulatory decisions to reward their political friends. For instance, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Russian President Vladimir Putin and former South African President Jacob Zuma have helped their allies by:

    • making government anti-trust decisions
    • issuing permits and licenses
    • awarding government contracts and concessions
    • waiving regulations or tariffs
    • conferring tax exempt status.

    State capture is fundamentally a predatory process.

    By taking over how the American government does business, Musk could be seeking to enrich a small but powerful network of allies.

    The first beneficiary would be Trump, who is no stranger to using his office to expand his family’s business empire. With a more fully captured state, Trump can take an active role in determining how public wealth is dispersed among corporate and political elites. This decision-making power often goes hand-in-hand with “personalist” regimes, in which everything is a transaction with the leader.

    The second beneficiary would be Musk himself and other Silicon Valley mega-billionaires who have bent a knee to Trump. By positioning their tech companies as the solution to what allegedly ails the federal government, particularly when it comes to the use of artificial intelligence, they stand to secure lucrative contracts handed out by the “new” state.

    The third beneficiary would be the small army of engineers and technicians working with Musk to upend the American government. As loyal foot soldiers, these individuals will be compensated with career advancement, financial gains and networking opportunities, while also enjoying legal impunity. This kind of quid pro quo is how authoritarian regimes work.

    What this could mean for the US

    As Musk continues his assault on the federal bureaucracy, the American people will suffer the consequences.

    The most immediate impact of state capture: worse decisions are made. By purging experienced civil servants, cancelling government contracts and accessing sensitive information systems, Musk’s actions will likely degrade the standard of living at home and endanger American lives abroad.

    State capture also means there would be less accountability for the Trump administration’s public policy decisions. With a lack of congressional and independent oversight, key decisions over the distribution of economic benefits could be made informally behind closed doors.

    Finally, state capture is inseparable from corruption. Doing business with the US federal government could soon require one to pass a loyalty test rather than a public interest test.

    Trump’s enemies will encounter more hurdles, while his allies will have a seat at the table.

    Lee Morgenbesser receives funding from the Australian Research Council (DP220103214). He is also a member of the Australian Labor Party.

    – ref. Is Elon Musk taking over the US government? Here’s how ‘state capture’ works – and why we should be concerned – https://theconversation.com/is-elon-musk-taking-over-the-us-government-heres-how-state-capture-works-and-why-we-should-be-concerned-249471

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Yaz and Yasmin contraceptive pills will be cheaper from March. How are they different from other pills?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nial Wheate, Professor of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Macquarie University

    Miriam Alonso/Pexels

    The oral contraceptive pills Yaz and Yasmin will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from March 1 2025, meaning Australian women will pay less for them.

    This listing follows advice from the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, which recommended adding these pills to the PBS so women who find other contraceptive pills unsuitable have more options. These contraceptives also help manage acne and some other hormone-related conditions.

    So how do Yaz and Yasmin work? And how much will they cost once they’re on the PBS?

    What makes Yaz and Yasmin different?

    From March, a three-month box of Yaz or Yasmin will cost $31.60 (or $7.70 with a concession card).
    Nial Wheate

    Oral contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy primarily by stopping ovulation – the release of an egg from the ovaries.

    They also thicken mucus in the cervix, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. And they thin the lining of the uterus, reducing the likelihood of implantation.

    Most combination oral contraceptive pills contain an oestrogen-based hormone (typically ethinylestradiol) and a progestogen hormone.

    Both Yaz and Yasmin contain ethinylestradiol and a synthetic progestogen, called drospirenone. They both contain 3 milligrams of drospirenone.

    They differ from each other in the amount of ethinylestradiol they contain. Yaz has 20 micrograms and Yasmin has 30 micrograms of the hormone. They also differ in the number of active and placebo pills a pack contains. Yaz has 24 active pills and 4 placebo pills while Yasmin has 21 active pills and 7 placebos.

    Both contraceptives are just as effective in preventing pregnancies as other oral contraceptives. The chance of getting pregnant while taking either medication is around 9%.

    In deciding which one is most suitable, a doctor will consider how their patient has responded to hormone treatment in the past and any other hormone-related conditions they have.

    Both Yaz and Yasmin have benefits beyond birth control. Drospirenone is thought to help reduce hormone-related acne and hirsutism (excessive facial hair growth).

    Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that causes intense mood swings, depression, anxiety, and irritability before menstruation. The hormonal stability provided by Yaz, with its short hormone-free interval, can help alleviate PMDD symptoms.

    Things to look out for if taking them

    All combined oral contraceptive pills have common side effects that women may experience, including nausea, vomiting, break-through bleeding, absent or missed periods, headaches, irritability and breast tenderness.

    There are some additional risks for the Yaz and Yasmin products. The drospirenone in the contraceptives has been associated with a slightly higher risk of blood clots when compared with other progestogens. The risk is low but may be higher in women who smoke, are over 35, or have other risk factors for clots.

    All contraceptive pills can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches and irritability.
    Mart Production/Pexels

    Drospirenone can also cause a build up of potassium in the blood. This is a particular risk for women with kidney problems, and for those who also take diuretics or blood pressure medications, which can also raise potassium levels.

    Elevated potassium can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, dizziness and an irregular heart rhythm.

    What’s changing? How much will they cost?

    These approvals are the first contraceptive pills to be added to the PBS in 30 years and are part of a larger package of women’s health measures the government announced on the weekend.

    The government will also provide incentives for doctors and nurses to bulk bill services for implanting long-term contraceptives such as IUDs (intrauterine devices).

    Currently, pharmacies advertise three-months’ supply of Yaz and Yasmin for around A$79 dollars ($316 per year).

    Come March, the price women will pay will drop to $31.60 per box, or $126.40 per year. Concession card holders will pay $7.70 per box, or $30.80 per year.

    But the price of Yaz and Yasmin will still be higher than other combined oral contraceptives (containing the hormones levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol) on the PBS, which start at $22 for a four-month supply or $66 per year.

    How can you switch?

    If you are considering Yaz or Yasmin, speak to your doctor. They will take your medical history and discuss your lifestyle and any other specific health needs.

    They will also explain the potential side effects to watch out for and any precautions you may need to take.

    If you proceed, your doctor will outline a process for transitioning to the new medication, including timing and where to start in the pill sequence.



    Read more:
    What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder? And how is it different to PMS?

    Nial Wheate in the past has received funding from the ACT Cancer Council, Tenovus Scotland, Medical Research Scotland, Scottish Crucible, and the Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance. He is a fellow of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute, a member of the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Nial is the chief scientific officer of Vaihea Skincare LLC, a director of SetDose Pty Ltd (a medical device company) and was previously a Standards Australia panel member for sunscreen agents. Nial regularly consults to industry on issues to do with medicine risk assessments, manufacturing, design, and testing.

    Shoohb Alassadi 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. Yaz and Yasmin contraceptive pills will be cheaper from March. How are they different from other pills? – https://theconversation.com/yaz-and-yasmin-contraceptive-pills-will-be-cheaper-from-march-how-are-they-different-from-other-pills-249480

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: BLACKWOOD ROAD, MILLICENT (Grass Fire)

    Source: Country Fire Service – South Australia

    Issued on
    12 Feb 2025 12:37

    Issued for
    MILLICENT in The Lower South East.

    Warning level
    Advice – Avoid Smoke

    Action
    Smoke from MILLICENT Fire is in the Southern Ports Highway,wattle Road,Blackwood Road, Acacia Drive, Hakea Drive, Racecourse Road, Banksia Road and Stringy Bark Drive. area.

    Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.

    Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.

    If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.

    More information will be provided by the CFS when it is available.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Integrated approaches to addressing disaster, climate and environmental risks enable impactful UN support to building resilience in Tajikistan

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Tajikistan is faced with the frequent occurrence of natural hazards, with climate change further exacerbating their impacts. In 2023, avalanches, mudflows, earthquakes, rockfalls, landslides, floods and severe weather events cost 51 lives. They displaced and affected the lives and livelihoods of thousands of people, while causing an estimated economic damage of over 7 million USD. Risk reduction measures such as river bank protection and watershed management are reducing the number of people living in areas most exposed to natural hazards, with currently around 15,000 persons remaining in high-risk areas. [1] Annual economic losses from disasters can reach up to 1.3 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

    The Government of Tajikistan and United Nations organizations in Tajikistan take an integrated approach to the management of disaster, climate and environmental risks, which is reflected in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023‐2026 and coordinated in the results group for Outcome 3. The United Nations Country Team in Tajikistan, under the leadership and convening role of the UN Resident Coordinator, are reinforcing the capacities of national institutions and actors to reduce disaster risk, supporting an all-of-society approach.United Nations organizations are supporting Tajikistan in strengthening the coordination of disaster risk reduction and related measures. Tajikistan’s National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction led by the Government of Tajikistan benefits from the support and active participation of a wide range of national and international stakeholders and partners.

    The Republic of Tajikistan’s National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction is aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and supported by the United Nations Country Team. An assessment of the strategy was carried out with the participation of the UNCT, academia and independent experts in 2021 and helped to identify priority areas and related tasks for its implementation, taking into account existing and emerging risks. In 2022, with UN support, Tajikistan conducted a Midterm Review of the implementation of the Sendai Framework in the country, which helped to identify Tajikistan’s achievements in disaster risk reduction and mainstreaming DRR into development, as well as gaps where greater engagement of all stakeholders is needed. Based on the identified priorities, the Government of Tajikistan actively engaged the UN Country Team in the development of the Midterm Programme and Action Plan for the National DRR Strategy implementation for the period 2023-2028. This joint work brought together all DRR activities that are being implemented and planned by national and international stakeholders in the country. The development and approval of the 3-year Action Plans allow for monitoring joint actions, making adjustments and introducing new measures based on needs, progress, and identified priorities. Also, Tajikistan’s disaster risk management system and its resilience to stress was assessed through a participatory approach. This joint initiative resulted in the development of an Action Plan to strengthen the capacity of the country’s disaster risk reduction system, which was endorsed by the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.

    In August 2023, the UN organizations in Tajikistan and the Government of Tajikistan launched the United Nations Secretary-General’s ‘Early Warnings for All’ Initiative (EW4All) to enhance disaster risk knowledge, detection, observation, monitoring, analysis, forecasting, dissemination, communication, preparedness and response under four interlinked pillars. The institutional mechanism of the initiative is anchored to the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and ensures the involvement of all key government partners. Under the co-chairmanship of the Deputy Prime-Minister and the UN Resident Coordinator, the implementing pillar leads from UN Agencies (UNDRR, WMO, ITC), IFRC and government partners (Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence, Committee of Environmental Protection, Agency of Hydrometeorology, Committee of Television and Radio, Communication Service) prepared a draft roadmap for 2024-2027 to ensure the initiative’s implementation. The draft roadmap has been discussed with participation of a wide range of participants at the national and local level and is to be endorsed in June 2024. It is expected to provide inclusive participation of all partners and secure adequate funding.

    In 2023, under Outcome 3 ‘Integrated management of climate and environmental risk’ of the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the United Nations Country Team members in Tajikistan implemented community-based integrated solutions for sustainable and inclusive natural resource management, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction that have significantly improved the livelihoods of more than 67,000 vulnerable people. This included support to smallholder farmers, cash assistance for food-insecure households to build assets such as greenhouses and irrigation systems, the development of 14 watershed action plans, agreed actions to prevent water pollution from mine tailings, as well as ecosystem-based interventions.

    Also, the Rapid Emergency Assessment and Coordination Team (REACT) was refocused on promoting effective disaster preparedness, response and recovery with a new Statement of Common Understanding. At the national level, REACT is co-chaired by the Chairman of the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense of the Government of Tajikistan and the UN Resident Coordinator and comprises Sectoral Coordination Groups, Technical Working Groups, Regional REACTs, and Rapid Response Teams. Two simulation exercises were undertaken in 2023 – one focused on responding to emergencies involving large numbers of refugees, and one simulated the actions of local authorities, emergency personnel, and partners in coordinating evacuations to safe areas during emergencies. The workplan for 2024 comprises the coordination of emergency assessments and responses, preparedness, early actions and activities aligned with the Early Warnings for All initiative.

    Together with strengthening DRR coordination, the UN Country Team under the leadership of the RC supports the Government of Tajikistan and relevant agencies in ensuring a coherent link between DRR activities and emergency response. In order to comprehensively address these issues and develop necessary proposals and solutions, assistance is provided in organising periodic extended meetings of the National Platform for DRR and REACT.

    [1] Chairman of the Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense Rustam Nazarzoda, reported in Asia Plus, 7 February 2024

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sydney Airport lands Hong Kong Airlines with daily non-stop flights

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Wednesday 12 February 2025

    • Hong Kong Airlines service to Sydney to launch on 20 June 2025
    • Daily service will boost seat capacity to Hong Kong by 20 percent
    • Cements Hong Kong as Sydney Airport’s 3rd busiest route after Singapore and Auckland

    Sydney Airport is set to welcome its second Hong-Kong based carrier, with Hong Kong Airlines to launch its inaugural daily service between Hong Kong and Sydney on 20 June 2025.

    This new service increases daily flights between the two cities from five to six and boosts seat capacity on the route by nearly 20 percent, giving passengers more choice and convenience than ever before.

    The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines follows the recent expansion of bilateral air traffic rights between Hong Kong and Australia, the first in nearly two decades. The expansion of traffic rights highlights the demand for travel on the already popular Hong Kong-Sydney route, further supported by Hong Kong International Airport’s increased capacity with its new third runway, which can now cater for 120 million passengers annually.

    The historic connection between Sydney and Hong Kong dates back 75 years to 1949, when Qantas first launched a charter service on this route. Today, it remains one of Sydney Airport’s busiest, with more than 850,000 passengers flying between the two cities in 2024 — 72% of pre-COVID levels — maintaining Hong Kong’s rank as Sydney’s third-busiest city route after Singapore and Auckland.

    The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines increases the number of carriers operating at Sydney Airport to a record 52, with Sydney Airport set to be the airline’s first capital city destination in Australia.

    Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said: “The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines marks an important new chapter for Sydney Airport and strengthens the long-standing connection between Sydney and Hong Kong. This new daily service not only increases capacity but also provides passengers with more choice to explore one of Asia’s most vibrant cities.

    “The arrival of Hong Kong Airlines will enhance opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Sydney and Hong Kong, delivering significant economic benefits to New South Wales, and Australia.

    “The support of the NSW Government and Destination NSW was critical in securing this new service and it’s a great example of how our strong and productive partnership is delivering for Sydney and NSW.

    “I would also like to thank and recognise the Albanese Government for their recent work in delivering the expansion of bilateral air traffic rights between Hong Kong and Australia. The new services announced today are a direct consequence of these efforts and will boost trade, economic growth, and job creation.”

    Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Mr Yan Bo said: “This is an important milestone for Hong Kong Airlines. In the past, we only operated flights to the Gold Coast and Cairns in Australia, offering passengers access to popular tourist hotspots in Queensland.

    “Now, we are honoured to extend our reach to Sydney, the country’s most iconic city. This new route will enable us to serve a broader range of international travellers and is also a testament to the efforts of the two governments to actively support more bilateral air traffic rights.

    “We are committed to providing passengers with high-quality services and competitive prices, ensuring they have more diverse and convenient options for their travel plans.”

    Hong Kong Airlines President Mr Jeff Sun said: “The three-runway system at Hong Kong International Airport has increased the capacity for additional flights, and with the support of the two governments and related organisations, we are delighted to become the second Hong Kong-based airline to operate in Sydney.

    “This new service will promote tourism, economic and cultural ties between Hong Kong and Australia. Sydney and Hong Kong have a rich shared history in aviation, and we are proud to be a part of this new chapter. Not only will it bring convenience to travellers, but it will also serve as a bridge connecting with our extensive mainland Chinese network.”

    The Hon. Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said: ““Since coming to government, we’ve landed a record number of air services agreements with over a dozen international markets, including Hong Kong, Canada, Malaysia, Chile, Turkiye, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka.

    “We’re so pleased to see Sydney Airport leveraging Australia’s new bilateral air agreements – with Turkiye since November and now with Hong Kong.

    “The Australian Government is working to expand our international aviation network, because more flights means more competition, more choice, and a better experience for Australian travellers.”

    The Hon. John Graham MLC, NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, said: “We are very excited to welcome Hong Kong Airlines to Sydney Airport.

    “The NSW Government is working to grow our visitor economy and boosting aviation capacity to key markets like Hong Kong will be critical in achieving that growth.

    “Hong Kong is a priority international market for Sydney, with incoming travellers contributing $290 million to the NSW visitor economy over the last year.”

    Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said: “We welcome the arrival of Hong Kong Airlines which will further boost seat capacity between Hong Kong and Australia.

    “When the new direct services begin in June it will be easier than ever before for Hong Kong business and leisure travellers to visit Australia. We hope these daily services will help to drive increased visitation, providing a further boost to our visitor economy.”

    Schedule information

    Flight Number Origin/Destination Departure/Arrival (Local)
    HX17 HKG-SYD 22:25 – 09:50+1
    HX18 SYD-HKG 11:30 – 18:50

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: There’s a new push to teach Australian students about civics. Here are 6 ways to do it well

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Murray Print, Professor of Education, University of Sydney

    A federal parliamentary inquiry has just recommended civics and citizenship become a compulsory part of the Australian Curriculum, which covers the first year of school to Year 10.

    The committee also recommended a mandatory civics and citizenship course for all Year 11 and 12 students to prepare them to vote.

    This comes amid growing concern about misinformation on social media, as well as increasing antisemitism and declining social cohesion.

    This is not the first time there have been calls to improve the quality of civics education in Australia – such calls have been made as far back as 1994.

    As a researcher in political education, I argue we need to make sure civics education is relevant, engaging and given adequate space in the curriculum.

    What is civics?

    At the moment, civics and citizenship is included in the national Australian Curriculum. But it is not mandatory and many states only make passing reference to it in primary school. Some states provide more opportunities in high school.

    The topics covered include how governments and democracy work, how laws work, the rights of individuals, diversity and national identity, and how to critically evaluate different sources of information.

    Every three years since 2004, a national sample of Year 6 and Year 10 students are assessed on their civics knowledge, skills and attitudes through a national test.

    In the most recent results from 2019, 53% of Year 6 students were at or above the national proficient standard for civics, while only 38% of Year 10 students were at or above the standard. Year 10 students’ results have shown a substantial decline since 2004.

    This suggests many young people are leaving school without the knowledge, skills and values to sustain our democracy.

    Both Australian and international studies have repeatedly shown civics and citizenship education makes a positive difference to young people’s political participation (including the likelihood they will vote), understanding of democracy and support for democratic values.

    What does good civics education look like?

    1. Make sure it has its own subject

    At the moment, civics education might be included as part of students’ work in history or other humanities subjects. But research shows it should be taught as a separate subject, otherwise it can get lost among other material.

    2. Don’t forget senior students

    It should also be taught at relevant points in students’ lives.

    While Year 11 and 12 are times when students get to pick most of their subjects for major exams, it is important they also study how the electoral system works. Many will vote in elections before they even leave school.

    3. Make it relevant to young people

    As important as they are, some aspects of civics – such as lawmaking or how parliament works – may seem dry to young people.

    Research shows teachers need to make the content engaging. This means students are shown how lessons relate to the real world.

    For example, a lesson on how parliament works could focus on the passage of contentious legislation such as banning social media for young people. Or lessons on misinformation could look at how social media had an impact on a particular issue or election.

    4. Have class discussions

    Research also shows students need to learn civics knowledge, skills and values in various ways, including role play, problem-solving, simulations and direct instruction.

    Students should be encouraged to ask questions in an open classroom environment. Class discussions are important for controversial issues so both sides of issues can be discussed in a supervised environment.

    5. Have school elections

    My research has found school elections (for school captains or a student council) can engage students in democratic processes. This way, they see first-hand how elections work and how voting can have an impact on their lives.

    6. Train teachers in law and government

    It is also important for teachers to have specific training in law, government or politics. Research shows teachers with these backgrounds have a greater impact on students’ civic knowledge – students come away knowing more. Similarly, teachers with these backgrounds achieve better results with students’ civic media literacy – or ability to handle misinformation and “outrage” online.

    This means existing teachers need to have professional opportunities to upgrade their civic knowledge and skills.

    Ultimately, it will take well-trained teachers, teaching a compulsory subject, to see Australian students appropriately educated about our democracy and how to participate in it.

    Murray Print receives funding from the Australian Research Council. An ARC grant was conducted in association with the Australian Electoral Commission.

    – ref. There’s a new push to teach Australian students about civics. Here are 6 ways to do it well – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-new-push-to-teach-australian-students-about-civics-here-are-6-ways-to-do-it-well-249584

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: OpenAI’s new ‘deep research’ agent is still just a fallible tool – not a human-level expert

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Raffaele F Ciriello, Senior Lecturer in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney

    Jan Antonin Kolar/Unsplash

    OpenAI’s “deep research” is the latest artificial intelligence (AI) tool making waves and promising to do in minutes what would take hours for a human expert to complete.

    Bundled as a feature in ChatGPT Pro and marketed as a research assistant that can match a trained analyst, it autonomously searches the web, compiles sources and delivers structured reports. It even scored 26.6% on Humanity’s Last Exam (HLE), a tough AI benchmark, outperforming many models.

    But deep research doesn’t quite live up to the hype. While it produces polished reports, it also has serious flaws. According to journalists who’ve tried it, deep research can miss key details, struggle with recent information and sometimes invents facts.

    OpenAI flags this when listing the limitations of its tool. The company also says it “can sometimes hallucinate facts in responses or make incorrect inferences, though at a notably lower rate than existing ChatGPT models, according to internal evaluations”.

    It’s no surprise that unreliable data can slip in, since AI models don’t “know” things in the same way humans do.

    The idea of an AI “research analyst” also raises a slew of questions. Can a machine – no matter how powerful – truly replace a trained expert? What would be the implications for knowledge work? And is AI really helping us think better, or just making it easier to stop thinking altogether?

    What is ‘deep research’ and who is it for?

    Marketed towards professionals in finance, science, policy, law and engineering, as well as academics, journalists and business strategists, deep research is the latest “agentic experience” OpenAI has rolled out in ChatGPT. It promises to do the heavy lifting of research in minutes.

    Currently, deep research is only available to ChatGPT Pro users in the United States, at a cost of US$200 per month. OpenAI says it will roll out to Plus, Team and Enterprise users in the coming months, with a more cost-effective version planned for the future.

    Unlike a standard chatbot that provides quick responses, deep research follows a multi-step process to produce a structured report:

    1. The user submits a request. This could be anything from a market analysis to a legal case summary.
    2. The AI clarifies the task. It may ask follow-up questions to refine the research scope.
    3. The agent searches the web. It autonomously browses hundreds of sources, including news articles, research papers and online databases.
    4. It synthesises its findings. The AI extracts key points, organises them into a structured report and cites its sources.
    5. The final report is delivered. Within five to 30 minutes, the user receives a multi-page document – potentially even a PhD-level thesis – summarising the findings.

    At first glance, it sounds like a dream tool for knowledge workers. A closer look reveals significant limitations.

    Many early tests have exposed shortcomings:

    • It lacks context. AI can summarise, but it doesn’t fully understand what’s important.
    • It ignores new developments. It has missed major legal rulings and scientific updates.
    • It makes things up. Like other AI models, it can confidently generate false information.
    • It can’t tell fact from fiction. It doesn’t distinguish authoritative sources from unreliable ones.

    While OpenAI claims its tool rivals human analysts, AI inevitably lacks the judgement, scrutiny and expertise that make good research valuable.

    What AI can’t replace

    ChatGPT isn’t the only AI tool that can scour the web and produce reports with just a few prompts. Notably, a mere 24 hours after OpenAI’s release, Hugging Face released a free, open-source version that nearly matches its performance.

    The biggest risk of deep research and other AI tools marketed for “human-level” research is the illusion that AI can replace human thinking. AI can summarise information, but it can’t question its own assumptions, highlight knowledge gaps, think creatively or understand different perspectives.

    And AI-generated summaries don’t match the depth of a skilled human researcher.

    Any AI agent, no matter how fast, is still just a tool, not a replacement for human intelligence. For knowledge workers, it’s more important than ever to invest in skills that AI can’t replicate: critical thinking, fact-checking, deep expertise and creativity.

    If you do want to use AI research tools, there are ways to do so responsibly. Thoughtful use of AI can enhance research without sacrificing accuracy or depth. You might use AI for efficiency, like summarising documents, but retain human judgement for making decisions.

    Always verify sources, as AI-generated citations can be misleading. Don’t trust conclusions blindly, but apply critical thinking and cross-check information with reputable sources. For high-stakes topics — such as health, justice and democracy — supplement AI findings with expert input.

    Despite prolific marketing that tries to tell us otherwise, generative AI still has plenty of limitations. Humans who can creatively synthesise information, challenge assumptions and think critically will remain in demand – AI can’t replace them just yet.

    Raffaele F Ciriello 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. OpenAI’s new ‘deep research’ agent is still just a fallible tool – not a human-level expert – https://theconversation.com/openais-new-deep-research-agent-is-still-just-a-fallible-tool-not-a-human-level-expert-249496

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Charting a path for global action on land and drought

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Climate and Environment

    The largest and most inclusive UN land conference wrapped up in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, charting a path for global action following two weeks of intense negotiations on how best to tackle land degradation, desertification and drought, which affects one quarter of the world.

    The nearly 200 countries gathered at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and committed to prioritising land restoration and drought resilience in national policies and international cooperation as an essential strategy for food security and climate adaptation.

    While parties failed to agree on the nature of a new drought regime, they adopted a strong political declaration and 39 decisions shaping the way forward.

    According to UNCCD’s newly released World Drought Atlas and Economics of Drought Resilience reports, droughts affect the livelihoods of 1.8 billion people worldwide, pushing already vulnerable communities to the brink. They also cost an estimated $300 billion per year, threatening key economic sectors such as agriculture, energy and water.

    Among the main outcomes reached at COP16 were:

    • A prototype launch of the International Drought Resilience Observatory, the first ever global AI-driven platform to help countries assess and enhance their capacity to cope with harsher droughts
    • Mobilisation of private sector engagement under the Business4Land initiative
    • The creation of designated caucuses for Indigenous Peoples and for local communities to ensure their unique perspectives and challenges are adequately represented

    “Today, history has been made”, said Oliver Tester from Australia, a representative of Indigenous Peoples. “We look forward to championing our commitment to protect Mother Earth through a dedicated caucus and leave this space trusting that our voices be heard.”

    UN News/Martin Samaan

    Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, an Indigenous Peoples rights campaigner, attends the COP16 desertification conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

    Global drought regime

    Nations also made significant progress in laying the groundwork for a future global drought regime, which they intend to complete at COP17 in Mongolia in 2026.

    At COP16, more than 30 decisions were issued on key topics through the negotiation process, including migration, dust storms, enhancing the role of science, research and innovation, and empowering women to tackle environmental challenges.

    Some decisions introduced new topics to the agenda, namely environmentally sustainable agrifood systems and rangelands, which cover 54 per cent of all land. The degradation of rangelands alone threatens one sixth of global food supplies, potentially depleting one third of the Earth’s carbon reserves.

    At the same time, more than $12 billion was pledged to tackle land challenges around the world, especially in the most vulnerable countries. Right now, some two billion people living in pastoral areas are among the world’s most vulnerable in the face of desertification, land degradation and drought.

    Now, the work begins

    COP16 was the largest and most diverse UNCCD COP to date. It attracted more than 20,000 participants, around 3,500 of them from civil society, and featured more than 600 events as part of the first Action Agenda to involve non-State actors in the work of the convention. It also set records for youth attendance and for the most ever private sector participants at a UN land conference, with more than 400 representatives from such industries as finance, fashion, agri-food and pharmaceuticals.

    UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed said now, the work begins.

    “Our work does not end with the closing of COP16,” she told delegates. “We must continue to tackle the climate crisis. It is a call to action for all of us to embrace inclusivity, innovation and resilience”

    She said youth and Indigenous Peoples must be at the heart of these conversations.

    “Their wisdom, their voices, and their creativity are indispensable as we craft a sustainable future with renewed hope for generations to come.”

    Vital turning point

    The meeting also marked a turning point in raising international awareness of the pressing need to accelerate land restoration and drought resilience, according to COP16 president, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Alfadley.

    “We hope the outcomes of this session will lead to a significant shift that strengthens efforts to preserve land, reduce its degradation, build capacities to address drought, and contribute to the wellbeing of communities around the world,” he said in closing remarks.

    UN Under-Secretary-General and UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw agreed, underscoring a significant shift in the global approach to land and drought issues and the interconnected challenges with broader global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food security, forced migration and global stability.

    NOOR for FAO/Benedicte Kurzen

    In Koyli Alpha, Senegal, women work in tree nurseries created as part of the Great Green Wall Initiative.

    ‘Solutions are within our grasp’

    During COP16, participants heard that UNCCD estimates that at least $2.6 trillion in total investments are needed by 2030 to restore more than one billion hectares of degraded land and build resilience to drought.

    This equals $1 billion in daily investments between now and 2030 to meet global land restoration targets and combat desertification and drought.

    New pledges were also announced for large-scale land restoration and drought preparedness and for some existing projects that are already winning the battle, like the Great Green Wall, an African-led initiative to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land straddling across the Sahel region, which mobilised $11.5 million from Italy and nearly $4 million from Austria.

    UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw summed up a common message heard throughout COP16 in his closing remarks.

    “As we have discussed and witnessed, the solutions are within our grasp,” he said.

    “The actions we took today will shape not only the future of our planet but also the lives, livelihoods and opportunities of those who depend on it.”

    Read more stories on climate and the environment here.

    Sacred Lands Declaration

    © UNCCD/Papa Mamadou Camara

    Assessing drylands in Caating, Brazil.

    In a landmark decision, COP16 parties requested the creation of a caucus for Indigenous Peoples with the goal of ensuring that their unique perspectives and priorities are represented in the work of the Convention to Combat Desertification.

    The Sacred Lands Declaration, presented during the inaugural Indigenous Peoples Forum on 7 December, underscored their role in sustainable resource management and called for greater involvement in global land and drought governance, including through participation in land restoration efforts.

    Here are some calls for action in the declaration:

    • We call on parties to ensure an approach that embraces human rights and Indigenous Peoples’s rights in all policies and actions related to land restoration and resilience building
    • We call on parties to respect, recognise, promote and protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights, based on the fundamental right to self-determination, provided for in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the International Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and its General Recommendation 23

    • We encourage the UNCCD to create a dedicated fund for Indigenous Peoples’ initiatives on land restoration, conservation, desertification and drought resilience

      Read the full Sacred Lands Declaration here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: It’s official: January was the warmest on record

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Climate and Environment

    The world has just experienced the hottest January ever recorded, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Thursday, citing data crunched by UN partner the Copernicus Climate Service

    Last month was 1.75 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level and 0.79°C above the 1991-2020 average, despite expectations that the La Nina weather phenomenon might bring cooler temperatures.

    In 2015, the international community agreed to try to limit average global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Surprise data

    The January data was “surprising” even to climate change experts at Copernicus, the European climate change service, which noted that it was the 18th month in the last 19 where the global-average surface air temperature was more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial level.

    “January 2025 is another surprising month, continuing the record temperatures observed throughout the last two years, despite the development of La Niña conditions in the tropical Pacific and their temporary cooling effect on global temperatures,” said Samantha Burgess, Copernicus Strategic Lead for Climate.

    For many in the northern hemisphere January 2025 will be remembered by “wetter-than-average conditions” over western Europe, as well as parts of Italy, Scandinavia and the Baltic countries, Copernicus said, highlighting “heavy precipitation” and flooding in some regions.

    Regional variations

    On the other hand, drier than average conditions were recorded in the northern UK and Ireland, eastern Spain and north of the Black Sea.

    Beyond Europe, it was wetter than average in Alaska, Canada, central and eastern Russia, eastern Australia, southeastern Africa, and southern Brazil, with regions experiencing floods and associated damage.

    But drier-than-average conditions took hold in southwestern United States and northern Mexico, northern Africa, the Middle East, across Central Asia and in eastern China as well as in much of southern Africa, southern South America and Australia.

    Global temperature rise is primarily attributed to humans burning fossil fuels which have led to record concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Other factors are also key, including deforestation. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign trade grows despite headwinds

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An aerial drone photo shows the China-Kazakhstan (Lianyungang) Logistics Cooperation Base in Lianyungang, east China’s Jiangsu Province, July 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Continuous innovation, global expansion and industrial upgrade will empower Chinese companies to counter rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions this year, driving foreign trade growth and reinforcing China’s global competitiveness, said market observers and exporters.

    Despite challenges, China’s foreign trade remains resilient, adapting to an increasingly complex global landscape shaped by the United States’ new tariff policies, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory uncertainties in certain countries, they added.

    Zhang Xiaotao, dean of the School of International Trade and Economics at the Central University of Finance and Economics in Beijing, said that as a major player in global trade, China has accumulated extensive experience in navigating international political and economic shifts over the past decade.

    “Foreign trade companies have already seen positive results from their strategic adjustments to tackle headwinds, including building new factories and overseas warehouses in countries such as Thailand, Hungary, the U.S. and Brazil, as well as increasing investment in research and development,” Zhang said.

    Denis Depoux, global managing director at German management consultancy Roland Berger, said that China is now increasingly recognized for its high-value, technologically advanced products, including electric vehicles, solar cells and liquefied natural gas carriers, as it moves up the value chain to drive export growth.

    Chinese companies exporting high-value products include Narwal, a manufacturer of household robots based in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. The company saw the number of its export markets expand from less than 10 in 2023 to over 30 last year, covering multiple regions and countries including North America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

    “We will continue to invest in multiple fields such as 3D perception, artificial intelligence solutions, binocular vision technologies and big data applications to win more orders,” said Zhang Junbin, the company’s founder.

    Li Lizhong, sales director at Zhejiang Yueli Electrical Co, a home appliances manufacturer based in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, said the company’s personal care products, such as hair dryers and curling irons, previously targeted the U.S. and Western Europe markets.

    “However, our exports to these traditional markets have been impacted by the U.S. tariff hike and the Russia-Ukraine conflict in recent years,” he said, adding that the company has launched more intelligent, eco-friendly home appliances to expand into markets in Central and Eastern Europe, and economies participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Data from Ningbo Customs showed that Zhejiang Yueli’s hair dryer exports reached 602 million yuan ($82.4 million) in 2024, marking a 6.3 percent year-on-year increase, while the company’s exports in this category to Central and Eastern Europe totaled 45.46 million yuan, up 39.2 percent compared with 2023.

    Li said the increasing penetration of the internet in Central and Eastern Europe has allowed e-commerce to expand at a remarkable pace in countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic and Romania. The company’s cross-border e-commerce exports emerged as a key growth driver after it deployed resources in this business segment in the region, he added.

    As China continued to enhance its high-value export portfolio and deepen its market presence in emerging economies, the nation’s foreign trade rose 5 percent year-on-year to reach a record high of 43.85 trillion yuan in 2024, according to the General Administration of Customs.

    Meanwhile, China’s mechanical and electrical product exports grew 8.7 percent year-on-year, accounting for 59.4 percent of the country’s total exports. Last year, the country’s EV exports rose 13.1 percent compared with 2023, while its 3D printer exports increased 32.8 percent and industrial robot exports surged 45.2 percent.

    Lan Qingxin, a professor at the School of International Trade and Economics of the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said the restructuring of global supply chains and protectionist moves in certain countries have pushed Chinese companies to adapt and leverage their strong manufacturing and technological capabilities.

    By responding innovatively to these changes, the companies can meet market needs in other emerging economies, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and expanding their global presence, said Lan.

    A Chinese business delegation, organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, departed on Monday for Kazakhstan to explore new opportunities for economic and trade exchanges.

    During the four-day trip, the delegation, comprising representatives of more than 30 Chinese companies across industries such as petrochemicals and machinery manufacturing, hopes to sign several cooperation agreements and foster mutually beneficial outcomes.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: US, Australia, and UK forces conduct joint combined operations

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SOUTH CHINA SEA  –  

    The U.S. Navy (USN), Royal Australian Navy (RAN), and Royal Navy (RN) joined together to conduct a link exercise, a coordinated maneuvering exercise, and a variety of other combined operations in the South China Sea, Feb. 6-7.

    Participating units included the USN Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65), the RAN Hobart-class guided-missile destroyer HMAS Hobart (DDG 39), the RN River-class offshore patrol vessel HMS Spey (P234).

    “Regular military engagements between the defense forces in the Indo-Pacific will help maintain regional security and stability” said Commodore Jonathan Ley, Joint Force Maritime Component Commander for Australia’s Headquarters Joint Operations Command. “This activity is a testament to the growing ability of Australia and the United States to work together in this complex maritime environment. As one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes and home to almost two thirds of the world’s population, it is essential we are ready, willing and able to meet any challenge.”

    During the maritime training, the three ships exercised their ability to exchange data using their tactical datalink systems, while the maneuvering exercise trained the crews’ ability to sail alongside each other in various conditions, improving the self-defense and communication capabilities of the three countries.

    “Operating alongside our Royal Navy and Australian counterparts strengthens collaboration at sea,” said Capt. Justin Harts, Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. “We will continue to reinforce our interoperability with our allies at every corner to maintain a consistent presence in the Indo-Pacific.”

    The U.S. Navy regularly operates alongside our allies in the Indo-Pacific region as a demonstration of our shared commitment to upholding international law. Combined operations provide valuable opportunities to train, exercise and develop tactical interoperability across allied navies in the Indo-Pacific.

    Benfold is forward-deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

    U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘New Quest Unlocked’: UN experts counter violent extremism in gaming spaces

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Law and Crime Prevention

    As millions unwrap new gaming devices this holiday season, UN experts are warning that these digital playgrounds need next-generation protection against extremist exploitation. 

    In an industry that has outgrown Hollywood in sheer monetary value – reaching $196 billion in 2023 – these digital platforms are becoming recruitment grounds for extremists, prompting an unprecedented collaboration between counter terrorism specialists and gaming companies.

    To discuss the growing threat, UN News’s Sarah Daly sat down with Steven Siqueira, Deputy Director of the UN Counter Terrorism Centre (part of the counter-terrorism office, UNOCT) and Leif Villadsen, Acting Director of the UN Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI).

    The senior officials hosted a landmark event on the issue called New Quest Unlocked held earlier in December, which brought together gaming companies, policymakers and researchers to address violent extremism in gaming spaces.

    “The alarming trend has necessitated a collaborative research approach with the gaming industry and adjacent platforms,” Mr. Siqueira said, highlighting how extremist groups are increasingly targeting gaming spaces and adjacent platforms like Discord and Telegram.

    This interview has been edited for length and clarity

    UN News:  Your joint event, New Quest Unlocked, brought together both UNICRI and UNOCT as well as gaming companies, policymakers and researchers. What prompted this collaboration?

    Steven Siqueira: Last year in 2023, the gaming industry and adjacent platforms was a $196 billion industry. By comparison the movie industry was about 40 billion, so it’s five times the size of the movie industry.

    Young people are being reached by terrorists and violent extremist groups through these platforms, with propaganda videos increasingly appearing across Discord, Telegram and Tiktok. This alarming trend necessitated collaborative research and working together with the gaming industry, adjacent platforms and of course, our members and member governments.

    UN News: Recent intelligence reports suggest the threat level is higher than previously understood. What exactly are you seeing?

    Steven Siqueira: While gaming has many positive aspects in terms of social interaction around the world – there’s also increasing risk that terrorists and violent extremist groups are using these platforms and the gaming adjacent platforms to get their message out.

    The findings are stark: in Australia alone, approximately one in five counter-terrorism cases now involve young people, with gaming platforms playing a role in every investigated case.

    Soundcloud

    UN News: These findings challenge common perceptions about gaming platforms. How has the landscape evolved?

    Steven Siqueira: The industry is not only open to young people. Increasingly, the average age of gamers is about 30-35 and it’s much more gender balanced than it has been in previous years.

    UN News: Your research focuses particularly on Africa’s gaming market. Why is this region so crucial in understanding future challenges?

    Leif Villadsen: Africa has indeed become one of the fastest growing markets for mobile games. With an unprecedented 11 per cent year-over-year growth rate, the continent represents both an extraordinary opportunity and a potential vulnerability.

    We aim to better understand the industry, the community, the tactics used and the gaps and challenges in our own understanding of this threat across the continent.

    UN News: You’re developing something called ‘gaming intelligence’ as part of global prevention strategies. How will this transform digital security?

    Leif Villadsen: Gaming intelligence is focused on carrying intelligence from open-source platforms like in games, chats and social media to track extremist content and recruitment activities. This intelligence information will inform early warning systems help to detect and prevent radicalisation at an early stage.

    UN News: How crucial is artificial intelligence to these global prevention measures?

    Leif Villadsen: Given the size of the ecosystem, we are looking to develop and deploy advanced content moderation tools, with AI-based tools. However, the gaming community is filled with personalities with large followings so, we want to avoid any type of takedowns or massive actions which could be counterproductive and seen as suspicious by gamers.

    It is crucial that we work with the gaming community, private sector companies and with gamers themselves, including young women and men to educate and build resilience across the community.

    UN News: As we look toward 2025, what concrete outcomes, will make gaming spaces safer?

    Leif Villadsen: By creating shared global standards and encouraging collaboration between governments, tech companies and civil society, we can provide a framework for addressing these threats in a more coordinating manner.

    Steven Siqueira: The Global Digital Compact recognises these dual realities of the digital age and calls for unified global commitment to ensure that digital spaces are safe, inclusive and aligned with human rights principles.

    Ultimately, finding the right actors in the gaming system – those who have a voice, but who are also open to understanding what the threat is and where to mitigate and how best to mitigate threats, could really help us strengthen and make the gaming ecosystem more resilient to violent extremism. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 50,000 first home buyers in dream home under Minns Government stamp duty leg-up as support passes $1 billion

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Treasurer, Minister for Finance

    More than 50,000 first home buyers have found their dream home thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s signature stamp duty assistance program.

    The popular initiative has seen first home buyers save an average of $20,540, easing the pressure on the key task of saving for a deposit.

    Total stamp duty savings for first home buyers across NSW have topped $1 billion since July 2023.

    First home buyers are using the program to get a foot on the property ladder in a market heavily influenced by investors.

    The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme provides a full exemption from stamp duty for eligible buyers purchasing up to $800,000, and a concession for purchases between $800,000 and $1 million. This means first home buyers can save up to $30,529 in stamp duty.

    Of the more than 50,000 first home buyers who have received support under the Minns Government’s program, more than 37,000 first home buyer households received a full exemption and more than 14,500 received a concession.

    More than 3,200 buyer households in the City of Parramatta have saved a total of $74.1 million, while more than 2,100 on the Central Coast have saved a total of $47.3 million.

    The 50,000 households milestone coincides with the release of a helpful dashboard detailing the program’s impact suburb-by-suburb.

    The First Home Buyers Assistance Dashboard also provides program statistics by Local Government Area and regional classifications. It will be updated regularly and can be viewed here: https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/help-centre/resources-library/statistics/fhba-dashboard

    First home buyers can learn more about the program and calculate their potential stamp duty savings here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/home-buying-assistance/first-home-buyers-assistance-scheme/how-to-apply

    This program is part of a suite of reforms from the Minns Government to help address the housing crisis and ease cost of living pressures.

    This includes sweeping reforms of the planning system to deliver more housing, including establishing the Housing Delivery Authority to speed up approvals.

    Premier Chris Minns said:

    “We have now delivered more than $1 billion for first home buyers since coming to Government.

    “There is more to do on cost of living, but this is real relief that has helped 50,000 NSW singles, couples and families.

    “Our Government is helping more buyers to get a foot on the ladder, without having to leave Sydney or NSW.

    “This is the best first home buyer scheme in the country, and just one part of our plan to address the housing crisis and build a better NSW.”

    Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

    “This is an incredible milestone for this program.

    “50,000 families have been able to get into their first home sooner because of this essential stamp duty relief.

    “The savings mean more money in people’s pockets, easing pressure on households and giving crucial assistance in the task of saving for a deposit.”

    Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

    “Families and households in NSW are feeling under pressure with increasing costs of living. We want to support families and households to realise the certainty of home ownership.

    “This shows our program is working, delivering real savings that can make a real difference for first home buyers.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Local knowledge vital to addressing regional crime

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to create safer communities across regional New South Wales by addressing the concerning rates of youth crime, with over $4 million to support place-based efforts across Bourke and Kempsey.

    Government support for place-based initiatives reflects the fact that a one size fits all approach does not work for issues like youth crime in regional communities. This funding means local communities are empowered to make decisions, develop strategies, design programs and decide how resources are used to address local needs.  

    In Bourke and Kempsey, this funding will match the Commonwealth Government’s investment in the Stronger Places, Stronger People program, which supports community-led place-based responses to local issues.

    This funding will support the existing successful local teams in each community who work in tandem with Government to develop and implement projects to address identified issues.

    This program, which has run since 2019 in these communities has been recognised as having positive impacts including improved social, cultural, health, justice and economic outcomes.

    This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing work to crackdown on crime across the state, which has included:

    • Amending the Bail Act to include an additional bail test for young people between 14 and 18 charged with committing a ‘serious break and enter offence’ or motor vehicle offence while on bail for a similar offence.
    • Creating a new ‘post and boast’ offence under the Crimes Act, criminalising the filming and disseminating of footage of certain serious offences to publicise or advertise the commission of that offence.
    • Paying recruits to attend the Goulburn Police Academy and welcoming 294 probational constables to the NSWPF ranks in December, the largest class to graduate in a decade.
    • Passing and enacting ‘Jacks Law’ which provides NSW Police with powers to scan people for knives without a warrant and raised the age from 16 to 18 for the sale of knives to young people.
    • Doubling the maximum penalty for certain knife crimes.
    • Introducing new offences for repeated and serious breaches of Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders.
    • Introducing Serious Domestic Abuse Prevention Orders.
    • Modernising the definition of ‘stalking’ to include monitoring a person online.
    • Making it harder than ever for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail.

    NSW Premier, Chris Minns said:

    “We know that what works in the middle of Sydney won’t work for our regional communities, which is why we are making this long-term investment to ensure local knowledge informs the action we take to address local issues.

    “We know there is no easy solution to address the issue of crime in our regional communities, but that is why we are pulling every lever possible from law reform to investing in local organisations. “

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work continues to fix one of Sydney’s worst intersections while guaranteeing Revesby Police Station remains in Revesby

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism

    The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to address traffic concerns at one of Sydney’s worst intersections while retaining a police station in the Revesby area that is currently on the corner of the intersection.

    The corner of River Road and Marco Avenue has been ranked as the 6th most confusing intersection in Sydney and has been the site of many car crashes and near misses, including the tragic death of a young man in a car crash.

    Due to the location of the Revesby Police Station on the intersection it may not be possible to address issues with the intersection without relocating the police station.

    As a result, at the 2023 state election, the Member for East Hills Kylie Wilkinson committed to working with the local council and the Federal Government who have committed funding to fix the intersection.

    This commitment included the possible relocation of Police Station while keeping it in the Revesby area, acknowledging the critical role this station and it’s officers play keeping this community safe.

    The current Member for East Hills, Kylie Wilkinson is now working with all levels of government to finally fix this intersection and keep Revesby Police Station in the Revesby area.

    For 12 years, the former Liberal and National Government failed to address this issue with the former Member for East Hills completely missing in action on this while in parliament.

    Disappointingly the former Liberal Member who is now a Councillor has resorted to spreading misinformation in the community by falsely claiming that Revesby is set to lose a police station.

    The Minns Labor Government is working to deliver a real solution by fixing this nightmare intersection while also maintaining a Police Station in the area.

    This follows action already taken by the NSW Government including by providing historic pay rises to NSW Police and paying police to train – already delivering the largest graduating classes of police in a decade.

    Police Minister Yasmin Catley said:

    “For too long this intersection outside Revesby Police Station has put lives at risk and I am proud that our government is working with council and the federal government to upgrade this intersection while retaining a police station in the Revesby area.

    “It’s very disappointing that this Liberal councillor is spreading misinformation and playing politics with our police, all to stop a much needed upgraded to this dangerous intersection.

    Member for East Hills, Kylie Wilkinson said:

    “We shouldn’t have to choose between safe roads and a safe community. That’s why we’re fixing this dangerous and confusing intersection while keeping a police station in the Revesby area.

    “I’ve lost count of the number of people who have spoken to me about how dangerous this intersection is and I call on all local councillors to join us in fixing this issue once and for all.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government’s crackdown on rogue turf businesses to stop fire ants pays off

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    Two Queensland businesses have been separately convicted in the NSW Local Court of breaching biosecurity regulations designed to protect NSW from red imported fire ants and in total ordered to pay $60,000.

    These successful prosecutions highlight the effectiveness of the Minns Labor Government’s surveillance and compliance activities in preventing fire ants into the state.

    Both businesses illegally moved turf, soil, turf underlay and compost from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW.

    Since being elected in 2023 the NSW Government has made biosecurity a priority and fighting fire ants a top order.

    This commitment to fight fire ants entering NSW was demonstrated by raising the funds to address the menace of the fire ants from the former Government’s low $15 million annually, to $95 million over four years, only a few months after the 2023 election.

    To strengthen the fight against fire ants entering NSW in mid-November last year, the NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty took the unprecedented step of banning the movement of any turf from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW.

    These recent successful prosecutions demonstrate that the Government’s crackdown on rogue businesses potentially spreading fire ants is working and is now sending a message.

    The importance of movement controls and the ability of the Minns Government’s restructured NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to trace carrier movements back to their point of origin is producing successful prosecutions.

    The first landscaping supply business was convicted on the 29 January and the second on Friday 7 February.

    The first business, Brytarbri Pty Ltd trading as Allenview Turf, was convicted of nine offences after moving soil, turf underlay and compost into NSW from the Queensland fire ant infested area without the required biosecurity certificates.

    The second business, Marlyn Compost, was convicted of 20 offences under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 for moving turf from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW without certificates.

    Early detection surveillance is continuing across NSW’s border state agencies with detection cameras and operations with Police and Department of Primary Industries and Regional NSW teams working together as exemplified by Operation Victa.

    So far four waves of Operation Victa have resulted in eight penalty notices issued and three warnings after stopping 352 vehicles, 156 of which were from fire ant infested areas, and ordering 12 vehicles back to Queensland, due to not meeting certification requirements.

    In addition, fire ant sniffer dogs are on patrol in Kyogle and Tweed Valley sites to monitor trucks, landscaping sites and target properties.

    The NSW Government’s fire ant team has completed the following since December 2023:

    • Checked 1,366 voluntary community reports of potential fire ant sightings
    • Received 12,750 Record of Movement declarations from businesses
    • Undertaken with 1,613 surveillance events

    NSW Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “The Minns Labor Government is serious in stopping fire ants getting into NSW and in the three instances when they have got through the nets we have eradicated them quickly.

    “There will be no sympathy for a business who flouts our biosecurity controls and threatens our state’s land, homes and farms with fire ants. The full force of the law will be instigated to show this is very serious and will not be tolerated.

    “I urge everyone to do the right thing and comply with our biosecurity requirements to protect NSW from fire ants, or if you know someone is flouting the controls please let us know.

    “We are applying monitoring, CCTV, police, sniffer dogs, controls and border checks to address the fire ant situation as well as supporting the Queensland Government eradicate their infestation.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Greater Sydney is about to get a whole lot greener

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    Councils in Greater Sydney and the Central Coast are invited to apply for a share of $4 million in grants to build more parks, playgrounds, walking tracks and restore local bushlands.

    The Metropolitan Greenspace Program 2024-25 is available to 34 councils for projects such as shared pedestrian and cycle pathways as well as open space strategies and master plans for future works.

    Established in 1983 by the Wran Labor Government, the Metropolitan Greenspace Program is the longest running open space grants program in NSW.

    Since 1990, more than $56 million has been provided for 680 projects.

    This funding will support the Minn’s Government’s planning reforms as we unlock more homes and deliver supporting community infrastructure and green space.

    Last year, the program awarded $3 million in funding supporting better access to open spaces for more than 31,000 homes within a 10-minute walk from residential areas.

    A panel of experts will assess applications against selection criteria designed to ensure funding is awarded based on merit and impact.

    Applications for the 2024-25 round of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program will open on 12 February and close on 31 March 2025.

    This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to build a better NSW with more green spaces, so young people, families and key local workers have somewhere to relax and play in the communities they choose.

    For more information on the Metropolitan Greenspace Program visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructure-funding/metropolitan-greenspace-program.

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The NSW Government is fast-tracking the delivery of more homes, and these residential areas will need to be supported by more parks and green spaces.

    “The Metropolitan Greenspace Program helps councils provide more of these facilities where people can relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

    “The program has a strong track record of increasing and improving open space to create thriving places and connected communities.

    “I encourage eligible councils to apply for the next round of funding so they can build more high-quality green spaces for their residents and visitors alike.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Technical consultation open on the ban on the use of adverse genetic testing results in life insurance

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    The Albanese government is progressing work to implement a total ban on the use of adverse genetic test results in life insurance underwriting.

    Consultation is now open on the legislative design and technical details including the definition of a genetic test, enforcement of the ban, and implementation.

    Genetic research is constantly evolving. The consultation is to ensure this legislation captures the intent of the Government’s decision and does not have unintended consequences.

    The Government’s decision to introduce a total ban is world leading and work is underway to legislate the ban as soon as practicable. Delivering this reform requires consideration of technical details of the legislation, which aren’t easily adapted from other jurisdictional laws.

    Where countries have adopted some form of ban on life insurers using genetic tests, they have defined ‘genetic test’ for the purposes of their own regime, which vary in complexity and specificity.

    The Albanese government is committed to providing Australians with the confidence to undergo potentially life‑saving genetic testing without fear of it affecting their life insurance.

    The Government encourages all interested parties to make a submission. The consultation paper can be found on the Treasury website.

    The government will release exposure draft legislation ahead of introduction to Parliament.

    Submissions will close on 12 March 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Prairie Provident Announces up to $9.1 Million Brokered Equity Financing with $7.35 Million in Lead Orders and Basal Quartz Horizontal Drilling Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Provident Resources Inc. (TSX:PPR) (“Prairie Provident” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Research Capital Corporation, as lead agent and sole bookrunner, on behalf of a syndicate of agents including Haywood Securities Inc. (collectively, the “Agents”), for a brokered “best efforts” equity financing for aggregate gross proceeds of up to approximately $9,100,000, comprised of:

    (a) an offering up to 96,470,589 units of the Company (“Units”) at a price of $0.0425 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $4,100,000, on a prospectus-exempt basis pursuant to the ‘listed issuer financing exemption’ (LIFE) under applicable Canadian securities laws (the “LIFE Offering”), with (i) each Unit consisting of one common share of the Company (“Common Share”) and one Common Share purchase warrant (“Warrant”), and (ii) each Warrant to entitle the holder to subscribe for and purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.05 for a period of 36 months following closing; and

    (b) a private placement of up to 117,647,059 Common Shares at a price of $0.0425 per Common Share for gross proceeds of up to $5,000,000, pursuant to available exemptions from the prospectus requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws (the “Private Placement” and, together with the LIFE Offering, the “Offerings”). Warrants will not be issued to purchasers under the Private Placement.

    The Company’s principal and largest shareholder, PCEP Canadian Holdco LLC (“PCEP”), along with certain directors and officers of the Company, have indicated an intention to participate in the Offerings in an aggregate amount of approximately $7,350,000 (collectively, the “Lead Orders”). It is expected that the Private Placement will be fully subscribed through the Lead Orders, and that the balance of the Lead Orders not fulfilled under the Private Placement will be fulfilled under the LIFE Offering. All subscriptions on account of Lead Orders will be subject to insider participation limits under applicable Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) rules.

    Prairie Provident intends to use the net proceeds from the Offerings to drill two additional Basal Quartz horizontal wells in the first quarter of 2025 and for working capital and general corporate purposes, including expenses related to the Offerings. Including the above two Basal Quartz horizontal wells, the Company anticipates drilling a total of three Basal Quartz horizontal wells in the first quarter of 2025.

    Prairie Provident’s Basal Quartz Play in Michichi: A Unique Publicly Traded BQ Junior

    Prairie Provident has established its Basal Quartz (“BQ”) play in the Michichi core area as a significant growth driver, supported by robust well economics, an extensive drilling inventory, and strategic infrastructure. In December 2024, Prairie Provident reported strong initial results from its first two BQ wells, effectively proving the play concept. The first horizontal well achieved an IP30 (initial 30-day average production) rate of approximately 415 boe/d (66% liquids)1 and the second delivered an IP21 (initial 21-day average production) rate of approximately 375 boe/d (64% liquids).2 Continued production in the weeks following has yielded IP60 (initial 60-day average production) rates of approximately 333 boe/d (66% liquids)3 and approximately 305 boe/d (62% liquids)4, respectively. A focus on operational efficiency brought both wells on-stream within 25 days of their respective spud dates.

    Prairie Provident has a Michichi-area land position of approximately 153,000 net acres (239 net sections) on which it has identified over 40 horizontal BQ drilling opportunities, providing ample room for growth. None of the Company’s BQ drilling opportunities are booked locations to which any reserves were attributed in the most recent independent evaluation of Prairie Provident’s reserves data, effective December 31, 2023, by Sproule Associates Limited.

    Activity in the BQ play is primarily led by private operators. Prairie Provident has a unique position as the only publicly-traded company actively drilling in this play.

    Basal Quartz: A Top-Tier Play in the WCSB

    The BQ fairway, extending from Brooks to Drumheller (Michichi) in central Alberta, has rapidly become, in the Company’s view, one of the premier oil-producing plays in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB). The availability of extensive 2D and 3D seismic data, along with legacy vertical wells penetrating the Mannville group, has significantly de-risked this play. Modern horizontal drilling techniques combined with enhanced frac completion designs have unlocked substantial economic potential, making the BQ competitive with other leading plays in the WCSB, including the Montney and Clearwater. Publicly-available industry data indicates that production along the BQ trend has surpassed 40,000 boe/d (77% liquids), with operators having drilled over 100 horizontal wells in 2024 alone, further de-risking the play. Offset competitor wells in analogous zones have demonstrated peak production rates exceeding 1,200 bbl/d, further validating the play’s potential.

    Basal Quartz Well Economics: High Returns, Quick Payouts

    The Company estimates that the average drill, complete, equip, and tie-in cost for a single BQ horizontal well in Michichi is approximately $3.5 million. The BQ play offers attractive returns and payouts, making it, in the Company’s view, one of the most competitive plays in the WCSB. Based on internal estimates, the Company’s BQ wells have the potential to deliver impressive internal rates of return (“IRRs”) greater than 300% (based on WTI US$70/bbl and AECO C$3.00/mcf) with payout periods of approximately eight months or less.

    Strategic Land Base with Multi-Year Inventory

    Prairie Provident holds a strategic and concentrated approximately 153,000 net acre (239 net sections) land base in Michichi and with multi-zone potential. In addition to the BQ, the acreage offers development opportunities in the Banff and other formations. With over 40 identified BQ drilling opportunities, Prairie Provident has the scalability to support long-term growth, benefiting from the de-risked nature of its lands due to offsetting competitor activity.

    Company-Owned Infrastructure and Significant Tax Pool Coverage

    Prairie Provident benefits from a combination of legacy and third-party infrastructure in the Michichi area, providing advantageous egress solutions. The Company owns two oil batteries (one LACT-connected) and two gas plants with a combined inlet capacity of 10 MMscf/d. Year-round access, existing surface leases and on-site facilities combine to facilitate cost-efficient operations with reduced downtime, supporting Prairie Provident’s development strategy.

    Prairie Provident has significant tax pool coverage with approximately $590 million in tax pools, including approximately $330 million of non-capital losses.

    Additional Financing Details

    The Agents will be granted an option to increase the size of the LIFE Offering by up to an additional 14,470,589 Units (up to $615,000), exercisable in whole or in part up to two business days before closing.

    Closing of the Offerings is expected to occur on or about February 24, 2025, or such other date or dates as Prairie Provident and the Agents may agree, and is subject to certain conditions including receipt by Prairie Provident of all necessary approvals from the TSX.

    The LIFE Offering will be made in accordance with the ‘listed issuer financing exemption’ in Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”), to purchasers in any province of Canada, except Québec. The Units issued and sold under the LIFE Offering will not be subject to a ‘hold period’ pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.

    There is an offering document related to the LIFE Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.ppr.ca. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

    The Private Placement will be made in reliance on available exemptions from the prospectus requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws, and the Common Shares issued and sold thereunder will subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance.

    In consideration for their services, the Agents will receive a cash commission of 8.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offerings (reduced for Lead Orders) and non-transferable broker warrants equal to 8.0% of the total number of Units sold under the LIFE Offering (except for Lead Orders). Each broker warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one Unit at an exercise price of $0.0425 per Unit for a period of 36 months following closing.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities in the United States or to or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons or persons in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which, or to or for the account or benefit of any other person to whom, any such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. These securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act“), or the securities laws of any state of the United States, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons or persons in the United States except in compliance with, or pursuant to an available exemption from, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. “United States” and “U.S. person” have the meanings ascribed to them in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act.

    ABOUT PRAIRIE PROVIDENT

    Prairie Provident is a Calgary-based company engaged in the exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties in Alberta, including a position in the emerging Basal Quartz trend in the Michichi area of Central Alberta.

    For further information, please contact:

    Prairie Provident Resources Inc.
    Dale Miller, Executive Chairman
    Phone: (403) 292-8150
    Email: info@ppr.ca

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain statements (“forward-looking statements”) that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future performance, events or circumstances, are based upon internal assumptions, plans, intentions, expectations and beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated or suggested therein. All statements other than statements of current or historical fact constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically, but not always, identified by words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “budget”, “forecast”, “target”, “estimate”, “propose”, “potential”, “project”, “seek”, “continue”, “may”, “will”, “should” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or events or statements regarding an outlook.

    Without limiting the foregoing, this news release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to: Basal Quartz drilling opportunities, including estimated payout periods on potential Basal Quartz wells; completion of the Offerings; the expected closing date of the Offerings; the successful completion of the Lead Orders; the intended use of proceeds from the Offerings; and the intended number of Basal Quartz wells that are anticipated to be drilled by the Company in the first quarter of 2025.

    Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors, expectations or assumptions of Prairie Provident which have been used to develop such statements, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, which are inherently uncertain and depend upon the accuracy of such expectations and assumptions. Prairie Provident can give no assurance that the forward-looking statements contained herein will prove to be correct or that the expectations and assumptions upon which they are based will occur or be realized. Actual results or events will differ, and the differences may be material and adverse to the Company. In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified herein, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: results from drilling and development activities; consistency with past operations; the quality of the reservoirs in which Prairie Provident operates and continued performance from existing wells (including with respect to production profile, decline rate and product type mix); the continued and timely development of infrastructure in areas of new production; the accuracy of the estimates of Prairie Provident’s reserves volumes; future commodity prices; future operating and other costs; future USD/CAD exchange rates; future interest rates; continued availability of external financing and internally generated cash flow to fund Prairie Provident’s current and future plans and expenditures, with external financing on acceptable terms; the impact of competition; the general stability of the economic and political environment in which Prairie Provident operates; the general continuance of current industry conditions; the timely receipt of any required regulatory approvals; the ability of Prairie Provident to obtain qualified staff, equipment and services in a timely and cost efficient manner; drilling results; the ability of the operator of the projects in which Prairie Provident has an interest in to operate the field in a safe, efficient and effective manner; field production rates and decline rates; the ability to replace and expand oil and natural gas reserves through acquisition, development and exploration; the timing and cost of pipeline, storage and facility construction and expansion and the ability of Prairie Provident to secure adequate product transportation; the regulatory framework regarding royalties, taxes and environmental matters in the jurisdictions in which Prairie Provident operates; and the ability of Prairie Provident to successfully market its oil and natural gas production.

    The forward-looking statements included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance or promises of future outcomes and should not be relied upon. Such statements, including the assumptions made in respect thereof, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward- looking statements including, without limitation: reduced access to external debt financing; higher interest costs or other restrictive terms of debt financing; changes in realized commodity prices; changes in the demand for or supply of Prairie Provident’s products; the early stage of development of some of the evaluated areas and zones; the potential for variation in the quality of the geologic formations targeted by Prairie Provident’s operations; unanticipated operating results or production declines; changes in tax or environmental laws, royalty rates or other regulatory matters; the imposition of any tariffs or other restrictive trade measures or countermeasures affecting trade between Canada and the United States; changes in development plans of Prairie Provident or by third party operators; increased debt levels or debt service requirements; inaccurate estimation of Prairie Provident’s oil and reserves volumes; limited, unfavourable or a lack of access to capital markets; increased costs; a lack of adequate insurance coverage; the impact of competitors; and such other risks as may be detailed from time-to-time in Prairie Provident’s public disclosure documents (including, without limitation, those risks identified in this news release and Prairie Provident’s current Annual Information Form dated April 1, 2024 as filed with Canadian securities regulators and available from the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) under Prairie Provident’s issuer profile).

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release, and Prairie Provident assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, or otherwise, except as may be required pursuant to applicable laws. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    Oil and Gas Reader Advisories

    Barrels of Oil Equivalent

    The oil and natural gas industry commonly expresses production volumes and reserves on a “barrel of oil equivalent” basis (“boe”) whereby natural gas volumes are converted at the ratio of six thousand cubic feet to one barrel of oil. The intention is to sum oil and natural gas measurement units into one basis for improved analysis of results and comparisons with other industry participants. A boe conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet to one barrel of oil is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip. It does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead nor at the plant gate, which is where Prairie Provident sells its production volumes. Boe’s may therefore be a misleading measure, particularly if used in isolation. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency ratio of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion ratio may be misleading as an indication of value.

    Analogous Information

    Information in this news release regarding initial production rates from offset wells drilled by other industry participants located in geographical proximity to the Company’s lands may constitute “analogous information” within the meaning of National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101). This information is derived from publicly available information sources (as at the date of this news release) that Prairie Provident believes (but cannot confirm) to be independent in nature. The Company is unable to confirm that the information was prepared by a qualified reserves evaluator or auditor within the meaning of NI 51-101, or in accordance with the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation (COGE) Handbook. Although the Company believes that this information regarding geographically proximate wells helps management understand and define reservoir characteristics of lands in which Prairie Provident has an interest, the data relied upon by the Company may be inaccurate or erroneous, may not in fact be indicative or otherwise analogous to the Company’s land holdings, and may not be representative of actual results from wells that may be drilled or completed by the Company in the future.

    Potential Drilling Opportunities vs Booked Locations

    This news release refers to potential drilling opportunities and booked locations. Unless otherwise indicated, references to booked locations in this news release are references to proved drilling locations or probable drilling locations, being locations to which Sproule Associated Limited (Sproule) attributed proved or probable reserves in its most recent year-end evaluation of Prairie Provident’s reserves data, effective December 31, 2023. Sproule’s year‑end evaluation was in accordance with NI 51-101 and, pursuant thereto, the COGE Handbook. References in this news release to potential drilling opportunities are references to locations for which there are no attributed reserves or resources, but which the Company internally estimates can be drilled based on current land holdings, industry practice regarding well density, and internal review of geologic, geophysical, seismic, engineering, production and resource information. There is no certainty that the Company will drill any particular locations, or that drilling activity on any locations will result in additional reserves, resources or production. Locations on which Prairie Provident in fact drills wells will ultimately depend upon the availability of capital, regulatory approvals, seasonal restrictions, commodity prices, costs, actual drilling results, additional reservoir information and other factors. There is a higher level of risk associated with locations that are potential drilling opportunities and not booked locations. Prairie Provident generally has less information about reservoir characteristics associated with locations that are potential drilling opportunities and, accordingly, there is greater uncertainty whether wells will ultimately be drilled in such locations and, if drilled, whether they will result in additional reserves, resources or production.

    Type Well Information

    Information contained in this news release regarding estimated payout periods and internal rate of return (IRR) on potential Basal Quartz wells is based on the Company’s internally-defined type wells. Type well information reflects Prairie Provident’s expectations and experience in relation to wells of the indicated types, including with respect to costs, production and decline rates. There is no assurance that actual well-related results (including payout periods and IRR) will be in accordance with those suggested by the type well information. Actual results will differ, and the difference may be material.

    Payout

    Prairie Provident considers payout on a well to be achieved when future net revenue from the well is equal to the capital costs to drill, complete, equip and tie-in the well based on project economics. Forecasted payout periods disclosed in this news release are based on the following commodity price and CAD/USD exchange rate assumptions: USD $70.00/bbl WTI, CAD $3.00/Mcf AECO, CAD $1.35-to-USD $1.00.

    Initial Production Rates

    This news release discloses initial production rates for certain wells as indicated. Initial production rates are not necessarily indicative of long-term well or reservoir performance or of ultimate recovery. Actual results will differ from those realized during an initial short-term production period, and the difference may be material.

    Non-GAAP Measures

    This news release uses the financial measure internal rate of return (IRR). IRR is a non-GAAP financial measure within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws , which does not have a standardized or prescribed meaning under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP measures should not be construed as a substitute or an alternative to net income or cash flows from operating activities as determined in accordance with IFRS. IRR is a measure used in financial analysis to estimate the profitability of potential investments and/or projects, and means the discount rate that makes the net present value equal to zero in a discounted cash flow analysis.

    1 Comprised of approximately 275 bbl/d of medium crude oil and 850 Mcf/d of conventional natural gas.

    2 Comprised of approximately 240 bbl/d of medium crude oil and 800 Mcf/d of conventional natural gas.

    3 Comprised of approximately 221 bbl/d of medium crude oil and 674 Mcf/d of conventional natural gas.

    4 Comprised of approximately 189 bbl/d of medium crude oil and 697 Mcf/d of conventional natural gas.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Nobody wants to talk about AI safety. Instead they cling to 5 comforting myths

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Salmon, Professor of Human Factors, University of the Sunshine Coast

    Google Deepmind / Unsplash

    This week, France hosted an AI Action Summit in Paris to discuss burning questions around artificial intelligence (AI), such as how people can trust AI technologies and how the world can govern them.

    Sixty countries, including France, China, India, Japan, Australia and Canada, signed a declaration for “inclusive and sustainable” AI. The United Kingdom and United States notably refused to sign, with the UK saying the statement failed to address global governance and national security adequately, and US Vice President JD Vance criticising Europe’s “excessive regulation” of AI.

    Critics say the summit sidelined safety concerns in favour of discussing commercial opportunities.

    Last week, I attended the inaugural AI safety conference held by the International Association for Safe & Ethical AI, also in Paris, where I heard talks by AI luminaries Geoffrey Hinton, Yoshua Bengio, Anca Dragan, Margaret Mitchell, Max Tegmark, Kate Crawford, Joseph Stiglitz and Stuart Russell.

    As I listened, I realised the disregard for AI safety concerns among governments and the public rests on a handful of comforting myths about AI that are no longer true – if they ever were.

    1: Artificial general intelligence isn’t just science fiction

    The most severe concerns about AI – that it could pose a threat to human existence – typically involve so-called artificial general intelligence (AGI). In theory, AGI will be far more advanced than current systems.

    AGI systems will be able to learn, evolve and modify their own capabilities. They will be able to undertake tasks beyond those for which they were originally designed, and eventually surpass human intelligence.

    AGI does not exist yet, and it is not certain it will ever be developed. Critics often dismiss AGI as something that belongs only in science fiction movies. As a result, the most critical risks are not taken seriously by some and are seen as fanciful by others.

    However, many experts believe we are close to achieving AGI. Developers have suggested that, for the first time, they know what technical tasks are required to achieve the goal.

    AGI will not stay solely in sci-fi forever. It will eventually be with us, and likely sooner than we think.

    2: We already need to worry about current AI technologies

    Given the most severe risks are often discussed in relation to AGI, there is often a misplaced belief we do not need to worry too much about the risks associated with contemporary “narrow” AI.

    However, current AI technologies are already causing significant harm to humans and society. This includes through obvious mechanisms such as fatal road and aviation crashes, warfare, cyber incidents, and even encouraging suicide.

    AI systems have also caused harm in more oblique ways, such as election interference, the replacement of human work, biased decision-making, deepfakes, and disinformation and misinformation.

    According to MIT’s AI Incident Tracker, the harms caused by current AI technologies are on the rise. There is a critical need to manage current AI technologies as well as those that might appear in future.

    3: Contemporary AI technologies are ‘smarter’ than we think

    A third myth is that current AI technologies are not actually that clever and hence are easy to control. This myth is most often seen when discussing the large language models (LLMs) behind chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini.

    There is plenty of debate about exactly how to define intelligence and whether AI technologies truly are intelligent, but for practical purposes these are distracting side issues.
    It is enough that AI systems behave in unexpected ways and create unforeseen risks.

    Several AI chatbots appear to display surprising behaviours, such as attempts at ‘scheming’ to ensure their own preservation.
    Apollo Research

    For example, existing AI technologies have been found to engage in behaviours that most people would not expect from non-intelligent entities. These include deceit, collusion, hacking, and even acting to ensure their own preservation.

    Whether these behaviours are evidence of intelligence is a moot point. The behaviours may cause harm to humans either way.

    What matters is that we have the controls in place to prevent harmful behaviour. The idea that “AI is dumb” isn’t helping anyone.

    4: Regulation alone is not enough

    Many people concerned about AI safety have advocated for AI safety regulations.

    Last year the European Union’s AI Act, representing the world’s first AI law, was widely praised. It built on already established AI safety principles to provide guidance around AI safety and risk.

    While regulation is crucial, it is not all that’s required to ensure AI is safe and beneficial. Regulation is only part of a complex network of controls required to keep AI safe.

    These controls will also include codes of practice, standards, research, education and training, performance measurement and evaluation, procedures, security and privacy controls, incident reporting and learning systems, and more. The EU AI act is a step in the right direction, but a huge amount of work is still required to develop the appropriate mechanisms required to ensure it works.

    5: It’s not just about the AI

    The fifth and perhaps most entrenched myth centres around the idea that AI technologies themselves create risk.

    AI technologies form one component of a broader “sociotechnical” system. There are many other essential components: humans, other technologies, data, artefacts, organisations, procedures and so on.

    Safety depends on the behaviour of all these components and their interactions. This “systems thinking” philosophy demands a different approach to AI safety.

    Instead of controlling the behaviour of individual components of the system, we need to manage interactions and emergent properties.

    With AI agents on the rise – AI systems with more autonomy and the ability to carry out more tasks – the interactions between different AI technologies will become increasingly important.

    At present, there has been little work examining these interactions and the risks that could arise in the broader sociotechnical system in which AI technologies are deployed. AI safety controls are required for all interactions within the system, not just the AI technologies themselves.

    AI safety is arguably one of the most important challenges our societies face. To get anywhere in addressing it, we will need a shared understanding of what the risks really are.

    Paul Salmon receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Nobody wants to talk about AI safety. Instead they cling to 5 comforting myths – https://theconversation.com/nobody-wants-to-talk-about-ai-safety-instead-they-cling-to-5-comforting-myths-249489

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –