NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-OSI: SIMPPLE LTD. Announces Receipt of Nasdaq Staff Determination Letter

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, Oct. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIMPPLE LTD. (Nasdaq: SPPL) (the “Company” or “SIMPPLE”), an advanced technology solution provider in the emerging property-technology (“PropTech”) space, today announced that on April 26, 2024, the Company received a letter from the Listing Qualifications staff of The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) notifying the Company that based on the closing bid price of the Company for the period from March 14, 2024 to April 25, 2024, the Company no longer meets the continued listing requirement of Nasdaq under Nasdaq Listing Rules 5550(a)(2) (the “Rule”), to maintain a minimum bid price of $1 per share. The Company was provided 180 calendar days, or until October 23, 2024, to regain compliance.

    On October 24, 2024, the Company received written notice from the Listing Qualifications Staff of Nasdaq notifying the Company that, the Company has not regained compliance with the Rule and was not eligible for a second 180 day period.

    The Company intends to request a hearing before the Panel. Such a request will stay any delisting action in connection with the notice and allow the continued listing of the Company’s Ordinary Shares on The Nasdaq Capital Market until the Panel renders a decision and any extension the panel grants. At the hearing, the Company intends to present a plan to regain compliance with the Rule and request that the Panel allow the Company additional time within which to regain compliance. While the Company believes that it will be able to present a viable plan to regain compliance, there can be no assurance that the Panel will grant the Company’s request for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market, or that the Company’s plans to exercise diligent efforts to maintain the listing of its common stock on Nasdaq will be successful.

    About SIMPPLE LTD.

    Headquartered in Singapore, SIMPPLE LTD. is an advanced technology solution provider in the emerging PropTech space, focused on helping facilities owners and managers manage facilities autonomously. Founded in 2016, the Company has a strong foothold in the Singapore facilities management market, serving over 60 clients in both the public and private sectors and extending out of Singapore into Australia and the Middle East. The Company has developed its proprietary SIMPPLE Ecosystem, to create an automated workforce management tool for building maintenance, surveillance and cleaning comprised of a mix of software and hardware solutions such as robotics (both cleaning and security) and Internet-of-Things (“IoT”) devices. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: http://www.investor.simpple.ai. 

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    SIMPPLE LTD.

    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@simpple.ai 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Assaults at Marion and Mitchell Park

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating after a woman was assaulted in her Mitchell Park home overnight.

    Police were called to a disturbance in Maldon Avenue, Mitchell Park at 3am on Saturday 26 October.

    Patrols arrived to find a front window had been smashed and the occupant, a 68-year-old woman, had been assaulted with a stick.

    She was taken to hospital for medical treatment.  Her injuries are not considered life-threatening.

    Police searched the area for the three suspects; however, they have not been located at this time.

    Detectives are investigating whether the same group of people were involved in an incident at a Marion service station a short time earlier.

    Police had been called to the services station on Marion Road, Marion just before 2am by reports that four people had been assaulted by two suspects.

    Two of the victims, and 18-year-old man and a 24-year-old man, were taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

    Crime scene investigators attended and examined the scenes and investigations are continuing to try to identify and locate the suspects.

    They are described as young men of Aboriginal appearance, wearing hoodies and dark clothing.

    Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 7th Air Force joins ROKAF to host Freedom Flag 24-1

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

    The Seventh Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force Operations Command are hosting a combined large force exercise, Freedom Flag 24-1, with U.S., Republic of Korea, and Royal Australian Air Force participants Oct. 21 – Nov. 1, 2024.

    The event is part of an annual training schedule designed to enhance the combined readiness and interoperability of combined air component forces, with large scale, integrated training on advanced, high-end tactics, techniques and procedures against an advanced adversary.

    “Freedom Flag demonstrates the strength of the ROK-U.S. Alliance and the shared commitment of the ROK and U.S. air forces to the defense of the Korean peninsula and the United States,” said Lt. Gen. David Iverson, Seventh Air Force commander. “It enables us to work together to build the readiness we need, to deter our adversaries, and if that deterrence fails, to be ready to prevail quickly in any type of conflict.”

    As Seventh Air Force adapts and adjusts its training focus to ensure continued preparedness, it is shifting its fall and spring major flying training events to be flag-level air exercises, modeled after the U.S. Red Flag exercises, to provide complex, scalable training opportunities to air and joint commanders in the Indo-Pacific region.

    The name Freedom Flag was chosen to demonstrate the shared U.S. and ROK commitment to freedom and peace on the Korean peninsula.

    “Freedom Flag represents the past, present, and future of the U.S.-ROK alliance,” said ROK Lt. Gen Kim Hyoung Soo, AFOC commander.  “The ROK Air Force has been protecting the airspace of the Republic of Korea and safeguarding the freedom and peace of the Korean peninsula based on a strong U.S.-ROK combined defense posture.”

    This year’s exercise seeks to improve multinational airpower in two phases, focusing on high-quality, face-to-face planning sessions Oct. 21 to 25, and then executing complex flying scenarios Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, featuring offensive and defensive counter-air, air interdiction, close air support, combat search and rescue, air drops, and aerial medical evacuation missions.

    Military personnel from the ROK Air Force, USAF, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and Royal Australian Air Force, assigned to units from across the Indo-Pacific region including the U.S. Special Operations Command Korea and ROK Special Warfare Command, plan to participate in the training. RAAF support will not only include aircraft and aircrew – RAAF air battle managers will also join U.S. and ROKAF air controllers in the Korean Air Operations Center for the first time.

    “Many nations value freedom for their people, and the international, rules-based order,” said Iverson. “Freedom Flag provides a valuable opportunity to train together and raise our readiness to defend those ideals.”

    U.S. aircraft scheduled to participate include the F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-35B Lightning II, A-10 Thunderbolt II, E-3 Sentry, U-2 Dragon Lady, MQ-9 Reaper, MQ-1C Grey Eagle, KC-135 Stratotanker, C-130J Super Hercules, MC-130J Command II, and AH-64 Apache, coming from locations both on and off the Korean peninsula. The RAAF will be providing aerial refueling support with a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, while ROKAF aircraft will participate with their F-35A Lighting II, F-15K Slam Eagle, KF-16 Fighting Falcon, FA-50 Fighting Eagle, F-5 Freedom Fighter, KA-1 light attack aircraft, C-130H Hercules, CASA CN-235 and KC-330. Various U.S. and ROK intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft will also join the training.

    “This exercise will play an important role in enhancing the readiness of the ROK and U.S. air forces to deter enemy threats through high-level training,” Iverson said. “Although we focus on deterrence, every single day we are ready to defend both the Republic of Korea and the United States together with thousands of Airmen and hundreds of combat aircraft.”

    Combined flying training events like Freedom Flag 24-1 are focused on readiness, not related to any current real-world situations, and are not intended to be threatening or provocative toward any other country.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Naval Forces Participate in Republic of Korea Multi-National Mine Warfare Exercise

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    BUSAN, Republic of Korea  –  

    Naval forces from the U.S., the Republic of Korea (ROK) and 17 partner and allied nations concluded Multi-National Mine Warfare Exercise (MNMIWEX) 24 in Busan, ROK, Oct. 25, 2024.

    Part of an annual series of exercises hosted by the ROK Navy, MNMIWEX 24 increased proficiency in mine countermeasures (MCM) operations within a multi-national naval force.

    This year’s iteration had 19 nations and approximately 100 personnel participating, making MNMIWEX 24 the largest of the series to be held.

    “I was grateful for the opportunity to work with our hosts, the ROK Navy, and our partner nations and allies,” said Capt. Antonio Hyde, commodore of Mine Counter Measures Squadron (MCMRON) Seven, which belongs to Task Force 76, U.S. 7th Fleet’s expeditionary warfare force. “This multi-national training refines how we operate in a complex maritime environment to maintain open sea-lanes and freedom of navigation for all countries in the region.”

    MCM forces from the U.S., Australia, Canada and New Zealand embarked the tank landing ship ROKS Cheon Wang Bong (LST 686), which teamed with the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Patriot (MCM 7) to conduct mine hunting operations during the eight-day at-sea phase.

    A multinational watch floor directed MNMIWEX operations ashore. This facilitated a command structure that promoted interchangeability and helped build the capacity of multinational MCM forces to operate effectively as a team.

    “Through this exercise, we improve our abilities to carry out multinational mine operations to protect major ports and sea lines of communication from the complex threats of enemy in case of emergency,” said Capt. Lee Taek-sun, commander of ROK Navy Mine Squadron 52. “We will continue to develop the combat capabilities necessary for mine warfare and further improve mine operation abilities and procedures with multinational forces.”

    MNIMIWEX 24 featured participants from the United States, Republic of Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of the Philippines, Italy, Greece, Türkiye, Thailand, Belgium, Malaysia, Oman, Colombia, United Arab Emirates, Chile and the Netherlands.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCSD’s “Cheers!” Series to present family entertainment programmes from December to March next year (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCSD’s “Cheers!” Series to present family entertainment programmes from December to March next year (with photos)
    LCSD’s “Cheers!” Series to present family entertainment programmes from December to March next year (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

    　　The “Cheers!” Series, presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will be held from December to March next year. Eight local and visiting performing groups are invited to give audiences fabulous family entertainment programmes, covering dance, music, puppetry and music theatre performances, which are ideal for friends and families to celebrate fun-filled winter festivities together.  　　”Släpstick” from the Netherlands will make its Hong Kong debut with “Schërzo”, a performance blending music and comedy elements. With virtuosic musicianship and hilarious physical language, the five musicians of the troupe will deliver an absurd and entertaining musical feast for all ages. Australia’s Windmill Theatre Company will present the puppetry show “Grug and the Rainbow”. Grug is a character from the much-loved picture books by the Australian writer Ted Prior. The grassy little friend will return to Hong Kong to meet his fans and toddlers and embark on a heart-warming adventure full of surprises.　　The performances prepared by local performing groups are also exciting. Local a cappella group Boonfaysau will kick off the series with a new a cappella musical, “Peter and the Wolf”, featuring a rearranged version of Prokofiev’s classic symphonic tale for children by local composer Austin Leung, as well as original Cantonese songs with lyrics written by renowned lyricist and film director Norris Wong, to delight the audience. In the Musical Fairy Tales: “Goldipegs & The Three Cellos”, Premiere Performances of Hong Kong will bring together local music ensembles and musicians to present three musical fairy tales, from Ferdinand the Bull who enjoys flowers, to the Frog Prince awaiting his royal kiss, and Goldipegs who enters the home of a family of cellos and discovers amazing music. 　　”The Snowman & The Bear” concert will return this winter, with the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong performing live on stage alongside the screening of the two Christmas animated films accompanied by storytelling and singing, bringing audiences into a dreamlike winter world. In the “A Christmas Wish for Peace On Earth” concert, the Hong Kong Oratorio Society will collaborate with Hong Kong Strings and a number of musicians to present a variety of classical Christmas pieces, classic Christmas carols, and a new Christmas suite by local composer Alfred Wong. 　　Local puppet theatre troupe Make Friends With Puppet will stage a children’s puppet musical “Winter in Sweetyland 2024 – Snowy Dreams”, which uses cute puppets and original music to tell a touching story of Cotton Candy, who decides to find winter for saving Sweetyland, sending audiences into a sweet and cosy world of candy. Featuring dancers from the professional tap dance company R&T (Rhythm & Tempo) and child performers, “Papa is My New Classmate” is a tap theatre show that combines tap dance and local folk songs to bring back memories and feelings for grown-ups while introducing children to the music of an earlier era.　　For programme dates, venues and ticket prices of the “Cheers!” Series, please see the Annex. Tickets will be available from October 28 (Monday) onwards at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. Various discount schemes, such as package discount and family package discount, will be offered. For programme enquiries and discount schemes, please call 2268 7323 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/f_entertainment/groups_1809.html.

     
    Ends/Saturday, October 26, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW support for the Commonwealth community safety order scheme

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: NSW support for the Commonwealth community safety order scheme

    Published: 25 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Corrections

    The Australian Government and New South Wales Government have signed an agreement to support the Commonwealth’s implementation of its Community Safety Order (CSO) Scheme.

    As a result of the High Court’s decision in NZYQ v. Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs & Anor, NZYQ and other similarly affected people were required to be released from immigration detention.

    The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for the CSO scheme, which seeks to ensure that individuals who pose an unacceptable risk to the community, who have no real prospect of being removed from Australia in the reasonably foreseeable future, are subject to either a community safety detention order or a community safety supervision order.

    New South Wales has agreed to support the Commonwealth’s delivery of services under the CSO Scheme, including the Community Safety Detention Order scheme (CSDO) and the Community Safety Supervision Order (CSSO) scheme.

    This will include – where it is ordered by a court – accommodation of CSDO offenders within Corrective Services NSW facilities, and assistance to the Australian Government with CSSO supervision case management.

    Corrective Services NSW support for therapeutic case management will be limited to development of case plans, assessments and the referral or provision of therapeutic programs.

    The Commonwealth will continue to be responsible for the monitoring of NZYQ affected people, including those on the CSSO scheme, and responding to any breaches of conditions.

    This support is in addition to the ongoing support provided to the Commonwealth by the NSW Police Force since the High Court’s decision in November 2023.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: LNP wins Queensland election, likely with a clear majority

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    With 45% of enrolled voters counted in today’s Queensland state election, The Poll Bludger’s results have the Liberal National Party (LNP) winning 38 of the 93 seats, Labor 26, Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) three and independents one.

    Including undecided seats where one party is ahead, it’s 49 LNP, 39 Labor, three KAP, one Green and one independent. A majority is achieved with 47 seats, so the LNP are on track for a majority.

    The statewide two-party estimate is a 53.1–46.9 win to the LNP, a 6.3% swing to the LNP since the 2020 election. Current primary votes are 40.9% LNP (up 5.7%), 33.4% Labor (down 6.6%), 10.3% Greens (up 0.7%), 7.8% One Nation (up 1.0%) and 2.3% KAP (down 0.3%).

    As pre-poll and postal votes have come in, the swing to the LNP has increased as these votes have had stronger swings to the LNP than election day votes. There are many more pre-poll and postals still to be counted, so it’s more likely that the LNP will exceed its current projections than fall below them.

    I believe the Resolve poll that gave the LNP a 53–47 lead will be the most accurate. While Labor recovered from landslide defeat margins in polls taken about the middle of this year, it wasn’t enough. The uComms poll that gave the LNP just a 51–49 lead two days before the election was poor.

    The Greens lost South Brisbane to Labor, after the LNP recommended preferences to Labor on their how-to-vote material after recommending preferences to the Greens in 2020. Analyst Kevin Bonham said this is the first time the Greens have lost a single-member seat that they won at the previous general election.

    The key reasons for Labor’s defeat were an “it’s time” factor, as Labor has governed since winning the January 2015 election, the federal Labor government tending to hurt state Labor parties, and Queensland easily being the most pro-Coalition state at the 2022 federal election.

    At that election, Queensland was the only state where the Coalition won the two-party vote (by 54.1–45.9). The second best state for the Coalition was New South Wales, where Labor won the two-party vote by 51.4–48.6.

    Labor’s defeat in Queensland will give some assistance to federal Labor. An unpopular and old Queensland Labor government would have hindered federal Labor’s prospects in Queensland at the federal election that is due by May 2025.

    Late polls

    The Newspoll and uComms poll were both released after Wednesday’s preview article on the Queensland election.

    A Newspoll, conducted October 18–24 from a sample of 1,151, had given the LNP a 52.5–57.5 lead, a 2.5-point gain for Labor since a mid-September Newspoll. Primary votes were 42% LNP (steady), 33% Labor (up three), 11% Greens (down one), 8% One Nation (steady) and 6% for all Others (down two).

    Labor premier Steven Miles gained seven points for a -3 net approval, with 48% dissatisfied and 45% satisfied. LNP leader David Crisafulli’s net approval plunged 15 points to -3. Miles led Crisafulli by 45–42 as better premier, a reversal from a 46–39 Crisafulli lead in September.

    A uComms poll that was conducted Thursday from a sample of 3,651 using robopolling, gave the LNP a 51–49 lead. Bonham had primary votes from this poll, which was not commissioned by anyone. The primary votes were 39.3% LNP, 33.6% Labor, 12.9% Greens, 7.8% One Nation, 2.9% KAP and 3.5% others.

    Federal Essential poll: Labor slumps and Dutton’s ratings jump

    A national Essential poll, conducted October 16–20 from a sample of 1,140, gave the Coalition a 48–46 lead including undecided (49–47 to Labor in early October). Primary votes were 35% Coalition (up one), 28% Labor (down four), 12% Greens (steady), 7% One Nation (down one), 2% UAP (up one), 9% for all Others (steady) and 6% undecided (up one).

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval improved one point from September to -4, with 48% disapproving and 44% approving. He has improved six points since August. Peter Dutton’s net approval jumped six points to +6, his best in any poll this term.

    King Charles had a 50–26 approval rating. By 45–39, voters supported Australia becoming a republic (42–35 in January). On Australia’s colonial history, 26% thought it something we should be proud of, 12% something we should be ashamed of and 62% said it had both positive and negative elements.

    On the National Anti-Corruption Commission, 46% thought it is largely operating as intended but could be improved, 14% wanted it abolished and 10% said it’s successful.

    Freshwater poll: Coalition holds narrow lead

    A national Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted October 18–20 from a sample of 1,034, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead, a one-point gain for Labor since the September Freshwater poll. Primary votes were 41% Coalition (down one), 30% Labor (steady), 13% Greens (steady) and 16% for all Others.

    Albanese’s net approval was up one point to -14, with 49% unfavourable and 35% favourable. Dutton’s net approval improved two points to -2. Albanese was just ahead as preferred PM by 44–43 (45–41 in September).

    Asked about Albanese buying a $4.3 million house, 52% said it had no impact on their view of him, 36% said it had worsened their view and 4% improved their view.

    Cost of living remained the top issue with 72% saying it was important. The Coalition retained a 14-point lead over Labor on this issue and a 16-point lead on managing the economy.

    Morgan poll: Labor jumps ahead

    A national Morgan poll, conducted October 14–20 from a sample of 1,687, gave Labor a 52–48 lead, a two-point gain for Labor since the October 7–13 Morgan poll.

    Primary votes were 36.5% Coalition (down one), 32% Labor (up two), 13.5% Greens (down 0.5), 5.5% One Nation (down 0.5), 9% independents (steady) and 3.5% others (steady).

    The headline figure uses respondent preferences. By 2022 election preference flows, Labor led by 53–47, a two-point gain for Labor.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. LNP wins Queensland election, likely with a clear majority – https://theconversation.com/lnp-wins-queensland-election-likely-with-a-clear-majority-241918

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Background Press Call on Israel’s Targeted Strikes Against Military Targets in  Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Via Teleconference
    11:15 P.M. EDT
    MODERATOR:  Good evening, everyone.  Thanks so much for joining the call, especially one on short notice and late on a Friday. 
    As a reminder, this call is on background, attributable to a senior administration official.  For your awareness, not for your reporting, on the call today we have [senior administration official]. 
    This call is embargoed until the conclusion of the call. 
    [Senior administration official] is going to have a few words at the top, and then we’ll take your questions. 
    Over to you.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Thank you, everybody, for joining here late on a Friday. 
    So, I’m here to provide some brief comment and background on Israel’s response earlier this evening against Iran.  And just as you will recall, on October 1st, so a few weeks ago, Iran launched an unprecedented attack of nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, which was a significant escalation.  Many of these missiles targeted Israel’s most populated city of Tel Aviv.  Those missiles had the potential to kill hundreds of civilians. 
    Fortunately, that attack was defeated and ineffective thanks in no small part to U.S. assistance.  President Biden directed the U.S. military to help defend Israel during the attack.  And in the hours after that attack, we promised serious consequences for Iran. 
    The next morning, on October 2nd, the President spoke with his G7 counterparts to coordinate a diplomatic response.  And over the course of the following week, we and our partners implemented a coordinated series of sanctions against Iran.
    And just to review:
    The United States, we issued new sanctions against Iran’s oil sector, including its so-called Ghost Fleet that carries illicit oil products around the world. 
    The European Union for the first time sanctioned Iran’s civilian airliners, including Iran Air, rendering those airlines no longer able to access European destinations. 
    The United Kingdom and Australia issued new and sweeping sanctions against Iran’s missile program. 
    This is a coordinated effort across multiple jurisdictions that President Biden led, and those efforts are ongoing with allies and partners. 
    Tonight, Israel carried out a direct military response against Iran.  Specifically, Israel conducted precision airstrikes against multiple military targets across Iran and outside populated areas. 
    The United States was not a participant in this military operation. 
    The President and his national security team, of course, worked with the Israelis over recent weeks to encourage Israel to conduct a response that was targeted and proportional with low risk of civilian harm, and that appears to have been precisely what transpired this evening. 
    The President discussed the overall situation with Prime Minister Netanyahu last week.  He encouraged the Prime Minister to design a response that served to deter further attacks against Israel while reducing risk of further escalation.  And that is our objective; it’s Israel’s objective, as well, as they have stated this evening.
    Should Iran choose to respond, we are fully prepared to once again defend against any attack.  We recently deployed a THAAD battery, which is a ballistic missile defense system, to Israel.  And we have worked to strengthen Israel’s air defense systems in the run-up to tonight’s response.
    President Biden and Vice President Harris have demonstrated clearly that we will always help defend Israel and secure its people and territory from Iran and its proxy terrorist groups.
    If Iran chooses to respond once again, we will be ready, and there will be consequences for Iran once again.  However, we do not want to see that happen.  This should be the end of this direct exchange of fire between Israel and Iran.  Israel has made clear to the world that its response is now complete. 
    Accordingly, we would call on all countries of influence to press Iran to stop these attacks against Israel so that we can move beyond this direct cycle of attacks.
    Over the coming days, we are prepared to lead an effort to secure an end to the war in Lebanon through an agreement that allows civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to safely return to their homes.  We are also prepared to lead an effort to finally achieve a ceasefire in Gaza together, with the return of hostages, which must happen without delay. 
    The overall contours of those arrangements are in place.  Tony Blinken was in the region last week.  This week, there will be further engagements, including a meeting of hostage negotiators over the coming days.  And it’s time to bring these deals to a resolution once and for all.  
    I would just note for some color on the recent hours here over the course of this evening: Of course, the President was briefed throughout the evening by Jake Sullivan, his National Security Advisor, as we are here at the White House.  Secretary Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Minister Yoav Gallant, a couple of hours ago.  And we just issued a — the Defense Department just issued a readout of that call, again, affirming Israel’s full right to self-defense against Iran and our support for its actions tonight, and our commitment to help defend Israel should Iran make the mistake to respond to this attack. 
    And with that, I’m happy to take a few questions. 
    MODERATOR:  Thank you.  We’ve got time for just a couple of questions. 
    First up, we’ll go to Aamer Madhani.  You should be able to unmute yourself. 
    Q    Hey.  Thank you both.  Did the U.S. assist in any manner at all?  Target selection, intel, jamming?  And do you assess this action to have had significant-enough impact on Iran’s ability to continue to strike Israel directly or its ability to arm Hezbollah?
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  So, as I said in my statement, we did not participate in this military operation, and I think that’s very clear. 
    I would just say: I’ll leave it to the Israelis to describe the scope and breadth of their response this evening.  It was extensive.  It was targeted.  It was precise.  It was against military targets across Iran.  It was in multiple waves.  It was very carefully prepared.  And again, I think it was designed to be effective. 
    And I think — again, I will leave it, though, to the Israelis to characterize and to provide more details, given that this was their military operation. 
    MODERATOR:  Next up, we’ll go to Trevor Hunnicutt.
    Q    Hey.  Thanks for doing this.  Could you talk a little bit about what, if any, communications or indications you had from Iran heading into this about what level of response they’re willing to engage in?  And could you talk a little bit about the President’s — any plans for the President to follow up with Netanyahu after this?
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  We do have multiple channels with Iran, direct and indirect.  We try to avoid any sense of miscommunication.  And they know exactly what our position is on multiple issues, including the dangers and risks of their course of conduct, particularly the launching of 200 ballistic missiles focusing primarily on densely populated areas in Israel’s most populated city, which also includes tens of thousands of Americans. 
    That is totally unacceptable.  We will not accept it.  We will support Israel defending itself.  And, obviously, we’ll support Israel fully in its right to self-defense.  Iran knows our position on that is unequivocal.  And we are quite clear that there’s no misunderstanding or miscommunication between us and Iran.
    In terms of communication with the Israelis, we are in constant communication with the Israelis up and down their system — military to military, intel to intel, and at the political level.  That is something that is ongoing and continuous. 
    Again, Jake briefed the President multiple times throughout the evening as this was unfolding and, of course, throughout the day today as it was developing.  And I think that will obviously continue through the weekend.  But I don’t have any calls to preview or read out.
    MODERATOR:  We have time for one last question.  We’ll go to the line of Kayla Tausche.
    Q    Thank you, guys, so much for doing this.  We appreciate it. 
    I have two questions.  The first is: You’ve described these strikes as “designed to be effective.”  Can you elaborate on what effect they were intended to have and whether they, in fact, did?
    And then, you’ve suggested that this should be the end to the conflict, but does the administration believe it will be the end of the conflict?
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  So, first of all, the effect, it’s a proportionate self-defense response to an unbelievably brazen and reckless ballistic missile attack, almost unprecedented in history, that has launched almost three weeks ago.  So, the effect is to deter future attacks and also to degrade the capabilities of Iran being able to conduct those types of activities.
    As to specific targets, I will say we know them, but I would leave it to the Israelis to discuss them in any further detail. 
    What was your second question?  I’m sorry.
    Q    The second question was: You have suggested that this should be the end of the conflict, but does the administration actually believe that it will be?
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Well, this should be the end of the direct military exchange between Israel and Iran.  And so, we had a direct exchange in April, and that was closed off, and we’ve now had this direct exchange.  Again, a direct — 200 ballistic missiles fired from Iran at Israel.  Israel did not attack Iran.  Iran attacked Israel, 200 ballistic missiles.  And Israel, tonight, has responded to that attack as an exercise of self-defense.  As far as we’re concerned, that should close out that direct exchange between Israel and Iran.
    As to the broader conflicts in the region, obviously much more complex.  I mentioned and alluded to them in my statement.  We do have a number of initiatives ongoing with respect to those. 
    But as to the direct military exchange between Israel and Iran, we do think this should complete that direct exchange.  And, again, should Iran choose to respond, we are fully prepared to defend Israel and support Israel, and there will be consequences should Iran make that unfortunate decision. 
    But as far as we’re concerned, this direct exchange, this should be the end of it.  I will say we’ve heard the same thing from many across the region, including many with close ties to Iran.  So we’ll see how that unfolds. 
    But that is our very strong view.  That’s been communicated to our partners throughout the region, and obviously it’s been communicated through multiple channels, indirectly and directly, to Iran. 
    MODERATOR:  Thanks, everyone.  That’s all the time we have for tonight.  As a reminder, this call was on background to a senior administration official, and the embargo is now lifted.  Thanks so much, and have a good night.
    11:27 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the International Workshop on Use of Modern Technology in Survey-ReSurvey of Urban Land Records in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the International Workshop on Use of Modern Technology in Survey-ReSurvey of Urban Land Records in New Delhi today

    Digitally updated and transparent land records facilitate optimization of the land resources and sharing of information with various agencies for assisting in policy and planning: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

    We will benefit from the presence of experts from around the world and the knowledge they present will help us apply modern technologies in land management: Union Minister

    The department has approved the National Geo-Spatial Knowledge Based Land Survey of Urban Habitations pilot project for creation of land records in urban areas: Shri Chouhan

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 5:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the International Workshop on the use of “Modern Technologies in Survey-Resurvey for Urban Land Records” at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi today through video conferencing. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in his keynote address as the Chief Guest reaffirmed the commitment of Govt. of India in boosting digitization and maintenance of land records under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). Highlighting the importance of the quality land records, Minister stated that digitally updated and transparent land records facilitate optimization of the land resources and sharing of information with various agencies for assisting in policy and planning. He elaborated that for a robust property record and tax administration, seamless access to land records is crucial to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery through various schemes of the Centre and States. Minister emphasized the need for close coordination in the Central and State Governments and requested the Department of Land Resources and State Governments to work in close coordination.  

    He also discussed the steps taken by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in creating urban land records and informed that drone flying has been completed in 34 towns and Orthorectified Imagery (ORI) production is complete in 12 towns. He expressed his happiness on the pilot programme called the “National geospatial Knowledge-based land Survey of urban Habitations (NAKSHA)” of the Department of Land Resources with a view to create Land Records in Urban Areas. The Pilot project will be started in more than 100 cities/towns in all the States / UTs and it is expected to be completed in one year’s time. This will be followed by full-fledged survey which would cover the entire urban area in the country within a period of 5 years.   Shri Chouhan added that he is happy to report that aerial photography with 3D imagery is a powerful tool for urban planning. Considering the rainfall and flood situation at the local level, it is very important to develop better drainage and flood management. Aerial photography with accurate GPS coordinates will help in accelerating the speed of land survey, which will ultimately be useful in property tax assessment, better transport system, planning of drainage and flood management and preparation of master plans for our urban areas. 

    Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that he is happy to inform that his department is making tireless efforts in this direction.  He wanted to consult with experts from other countries on creation and reconciliation of land records and this two-day conference is an effort to discuss and understand global best practices in the use of new and emerging technologies in this regard. He is sure that the distinguished participants will put forth their views which will be discussed in detail during the sessions. He requests the representatives of the State Governments present here to actively participate in the discussions, because only with the cooperation of the States will we be able to integrate modern technologies in urban land administration and improve efficiency and transparency in land management systems. We will benefit from the presence of experts from around the world and the knowledge they present will help us apply modern technologies in land management.

    Union minister extended his best wishes for successful organization of this event and he hope that the information gained from the workshop will help the government in formulating policies to further strengthen the urban local bodies.

    Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Shri Manoj Joshi said that this international workshop has been organized and along with this we have started a pilot program to conduct surveys in urban areas. For this, Survey of India is our technical partner so that drone flying can be done in all the cities. From the images obtained from drone flying, the revenue and urban departments of the states will prepare urban land records, master plans and drainage records of cities. The objective of this workshop is that foreign experts in land records can take advantage of the experts in software. States which have done the land record survey work. They will be able to share information with each other. We will be able to complete this work of land records in one year.

    In the inaugural session, Shri Kunal Satyarthi, Joint Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India welcomed the participants and set the agenda of the workshop. Shri Abedelrazq Khalil, World Bank’s Practice Manager for Urban and Land, South Asia Infrastructure Department highlighted the importance of land records in Urban area. Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India shared experience of SVAMITVA Scheme and stressed the urgent need for digital land records for urban area too.

    The first session of the Workshop on International Best Practices in Establishing and Maintaining Urban Digital Land Record was chaired by Shri Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Land Resources and moderated by Mr. Klaus Deininger, Lead Economist, World Bank. This session had global participation from the land registration/survey departments of South Korea, Spain, Netherlands, France, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, USA, Germany.  The importance of registration laws, land surveying, aerial mapping and the integration and implementation of GIS was discussed extensively, during this session.

    The workshop is a unique gathering of the stakeholders from the Ministries/Departments of the Government of India, Revenue and Urban Development Secretaries of 34 States/UTs, the Municipal Commissioners, international experts, Municipal officers /CEOs of around 120 Urban Local Bodies which are taking part in the Pilot programme National Geospatial Knowledge based Survey of habitations (NAKSHA) for Modernization of Urban Land records and industry &technology partners from India and abroad.

    Further, a Technology Exhibition on survey and resurvey featuring more than 30 Technology Companies from India as well as abroad was inaugurated by Shri Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India.

    *****

     

    SS

    (Release ID: 2066731) Visitor Counter : 53

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gouverneur Bancorp, Inc. Announces Semi-Annual Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GOUVERNEUR, N.Y., Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gouverneur Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQB Marketplace: GOVB) (the “Company”), the holding company for Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association (the “Bank”), announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a semi-annual cash dividend of $0.08 per common share. The dividend will be paid on or about November 18, 2024 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 4, 2024.  

    This is the first cash dividend for the Company since the completion of the Bank’s conversion from the mutual holding company form of organization to the stock holding company form of organization.

    About Gouverneur Bancorp, Inc.

    Gouverneur Bancorp, Inc. is the holding company for Gouverneur Savings and Loan Association, which is a New York chartered savings and loan association founded in 1892 that offers deposit and loan services for businesses, families and individuals. At June 30, 2024, the Company had total assets of $195.1 million, total deposits of $153.4 million and total stockholders’ equity of $31.7 million.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates” or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements and all other statements that are not historic facts are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors. These factors include, among others, the following: the Bank’s ability to complete its previously announced proposed conversion to a national banking association charter; the ability to successfully integrate acquired entities and realize expected cost savings associated with completed mergers and acquisitions; changes in interest rates; national and regional economic conditions; legislative and regulatory changes; monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board; the size, quality and composition of the loan or investment portfolios; demand for loan products; deposit flows and our ability to effectively manage liquidity; competition; demand for financial services in our market area; changes in real estate market values in our market area; changes in relevant accounting principles and guidelines; and our ability to attract and retain key employees. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Should one or more of these risks materialize, actual results may vary from those anticipated, estimated or projected. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as may be required by applicable law or regulation, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    CONTACT:    Robert W. Barlow
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    (315) 287-2600
         

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Element Welcomes New Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Evelyne Roy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, is excited to announce the appointment of Evelyne Roy as its new Chief Data and Analytics Officer. In this role, Ms. Roy will be accountable for designing and building scalable data and analytics systems that enable insights and responsible AI to optimize business operations, drive growth, improve safety, and ensure an exceptional client experience. 

    “We are delighted to welcome Evelyne to the Element team,” said Laura Dottori-Attanasio, CEO, Element. “She is an adept data technology leader, whose extensive experience and passion for leveraging data to drive business success make her the ideal candidate for this role and delivering our Purpose to Move the world through intelligent mobility.”

    Ms. Roy, whose appointment is effective immediately, brings with her over 25 years of experience leading the data strategy, architecture, and distribution for data and analytics platforms, having previously held leadership roles at Thompson Reuters Corporation, as well as increasingly senior roles in the financial industry in both Australia and Canada. With a proven track record of utilizing data to drive business strategies and improve client experiences, Ms. Roy is a valuable addition to the Element team. This appointment reflects Element’s continued commitment to investing in the modernization of its digital capabilities to deliver increased value to its clients.

    “As a leader in fleet management, we recognize the importance of data and analytics in delivering efficient and effective solutions for our clients,” said Kobi Eisenberg, President Element Mobility and Autofleet. “We are confident that Evelyne will play a pivotal role in our ongoing commitment to providing best-in-class mobility solutions and ensuring we stay ahead of the evolving needs of our industry.”

    “I’m thrilled to join the Element team, and be a part of this Purpose-driven, client-centric organization,” said Ms. Roy. “Together, we are going to deliver data and digital-first solutions that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.”

    About Element Fleet Management

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, providing the full range of fleet services and solutions to a growing base of loyal, world-class clients – corporations, governments, and not-for-profits – across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Element’s services address every aspect of clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, accidents and remarketing, to integrating EVs and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce fleet operating costs and improve productivity and performance. For more information, visit elementfleet.com/investor-relations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: North American Construction Group Ltd. Third Quarter Results Conference Call and Webcast Notification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ACHESON, Alberta, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — North American Construction Group Ltd. (“NACG” or “the Company”) (TSX:NOA.TO/NYSE:NOA) announced today that it will release its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 after markets close. Following the release of its financial results, NACG will hold a conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time (9:00 a.m. Eastern Time).

    The call can be accessed by dialing:
    Toll free: 1-800-717-1738
    Conference ID: 86919

    A replay will be available through November 29, 2024, by dialing:
    Toll Free: 1-888-660-6264
    Conference ID: 86919
    Playback Passcode: 86919

    A slide deck for the webcast will be available for download the evening prior to the call and will be found on the company’s website at http://www.nacg.ca/presentations/

    The live presentation and webcast can be accessed at: North American Construction Group Ltd. Third Quarter Results Conference Call Registration (onlinexperiences.com)

    A replay will be available until November 29, 2024, using the link provided.

    About the Company

    North American Construction Group Ltd. is a premier provider of heavy civil construction and mining services in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. For over 70 years, NACG has provided services to the mining, resource and infrastructure construction markets.

    For further information, please contact:

    Jason Veenstra, CPA, CA
    Chief Financial Officer
    North American Construction Group Ltd.
    Phone: (780) 960-7171
    Email: ir@nacg.ca

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government’s Three Strikes reboot fails victims, again – Sensible Sentencing Trust

    Source: Sensible Sentencing Trust

    The Sensible Sentencing Trust is slamming the Government’s tweaks to it’s Three Strikes 2.0 law labelling them a ‘weak compromise that lets victims down’.

    Lawyer, and Sensible Sentencing Trust spokesman, Stephen Franks, said:

    “The Three Strikes changes are a triumph of public service bureaucrats over evidence-based policy.  Changing the threshold so a strike only counts if a crim get12 months imprisonment at the first strike stage and two year threshold for second and third strikes makes no sense at all.”

    “The Government just doesn’t get it. The whole idea of Three Strikes is that the strike occurs upon conviction not based on the sentencing judge’s discretion.”

    “We’ve modelled the Government’s changes using the 25 ‘third strikers’ under the original regime. Under the Bill as it was, just seven would qualify for a third strike. And with these changes, it’s still just eight – less than a third who would face the deterrent of a third strike under the original law.”

    “It doesn’t even carry over the existing strikes of of the old regime. It restores strike status only to those who meet these new thresholds. It’s literally letting previous strikers off.”

    “National and ACT talk tough on crime, but are failing to deliver. This watered down version of Three Strikes won’t work.”

    “What was the point of ACT campaigning on reinstating what the judges and Labour’s luvvies canned, if they bottle it when in power?

    NOTES:

    Analysis by the Sensible Sentencing Trust shows that only one additional third striker would qualify under the changes announced today compared to the proposal introduced in April.

    This new threshold also applies to the “carry over” aspect – which means that most of the 14,687 former strikers will not qualify at all (so will be ‘let off’ from their existing strikes, despite convictions for serious offences).’

    We’ve also modelled applying the 12 month sentence threshold to just the third strike stage.  If that proposal had been adopted, just two cases that would not qualify as third strikers. These two cases are those opponents of Three Strikes regularly refer to: Both Daniel Fitzgerald and Raven Campbell would not qualify as Third Strikers.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – New data shows surgery mortality outcomes improving

    Source: Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission

    Surgery mortality outcomes are improving in Aotearoa New Zealand despite an aging population and more complex surgeries being performed.
    Data updated to December 2023 by the National Mortality Review Management Group, Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission Health Quality Intelligence team, and the Perioperative Mortality (POM) subject matter experts’ group, shows overall surgical mortality rates in New Zealand are not increasing.
    This is despite an aging population, surgeries now performed on those who might not have previously been operated on, and increasingly complex surgeries undertaken on patients with more illnesses.
    Despite pressures on the health system the data shows outcomes have not deteriorated, with surgery here continuing to be as safe as countries like Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
    “Māori and Pacific peoples’ mortality after planned surgery has also improved when compared to Pākehā and other ethnicity groups,” Elizabeth Dennett, University of Otago Wellington, Associate Professor of Surgery and POM member, said
    However, Associate Professor Dennett noted that for acute or emergency surgeries this improvement had not happened for Pacific peoples.
    The data is summarised in an updated ‘Surgery and risk in Aotearoa New Zealand’ infographic, released today and available on Te Tāhū Hauora website.
    Covering a range of information including risk factors, the infographic can be used by health care professionals when discussing upcoming surgery with patients.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Real world information for car buyers acclaimed internationally

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The real-world vehicle testing program funded by the Albanese Government and run by the Australian Automobile Association has won an innovation award from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile for Empowering Cleaner Choices.

    The program is a global first and allows car buyers to save money and make more informed choices by measuring fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles in real road conditions.

    Those results are compared to the results of laboratory tests provided by manufacturers.

    The testing gives consumers information they haven’t previously had about how a car may perform. It is intended to help buyers looking for more efficient and cheaper-to-run cars.

    It also helps provide policymakers in Australia and overseas with insights to help develop more accurate laboratory tests for the future.

    The Albanese Government is providing $14 million to the Australian Automobile Association over the next four years to test the real-world fuel usage of a range of popular cars, SUVs and utes sold in Australia.

    The testing to date has found results for 70 of Australia’s most popular cars, with 52 found to be using more fuel than reported from lab testing, and the latest results released today show some new cars consume over 30% more fuel than advertised.

    The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the AAA’s international parent body and has membership from 242 organisations in 147 countries and this year held the inaugural Innovation Challenge Awards.

    The winners of the four categories were selected from 44 entries.

    The FIA congratulated the Real-World Testing program for providing “users with unprecedented information, enabling them to make more informed choices, save money and better protect the planet.”

    The Albanese Government committed to funding the Real-World Testing program at the 2022 election, and it was launched in October 2023.

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King: 

    “This program helps Australians make informed decisions based on the real costs of running a vehicle.

    “Transport takes a percentage of every household budget, that’s why it is important Australians have access to tools like this to help maximise savings.

    “That’s why we are funding this program and I congratulate the AAA on its success.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The PACT ACT – Updated Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry | The BLUF

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In this episode of The BLUF, we take a look at the recently redesigned and updated Airborne Hazards and Open Air Burn Pit Registry associated with the PACT Act. The PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.

    For more information on this story:
    https://www.va.gov/pact

    VA redesigns and expands Burn Pit Registry


    https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp

    File a disability claim online:
    https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction

    Apply for VA health care:
    https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/introduction

    The BLUF
    A VA Rocky Mountain Network Production
    This show is made by Veterans for Veterans

    Executive Producer: Shawn Spitler
    Producer, Director, Editor: Matt Murray
    Host, Producer: Sarah Kallassy
    Technical Director: Patrick Battle
    Audiovisual Production Specialist: Adam Desaulniers
    Stories by: Katie Beall, Jesus Flores, Sarah Kallassy, and Matt Murray

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeBeqkKOwf4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update 13: Further tests on soil and shellfish are planned for the former BNAS and Harpswell Cove

    Source: US State of Maine

    October 21, 2024

    CONTACT:

    Results from ten (10) rounds of surface water sampling conducted in Mare Brook have been provided to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The most recent data was obtained on September 19, 2024, one month after the AFFF release date. PFAS concentrations have been significantly reduced during this time however they remain elevated from pre-spill concentrations. Trends continue to generally decrease as the PFAS works its way through the watershed, and no significant rebound of concentrations have occurred to suggest a further emergency removal effort is warranted. The DEP will continue to monitor surface water into the foreseeable future but plans to reduce the sampling frequency from weekly sample events to monthly, beginning in November. The DEP has also begun submitting samples to its contracted laboratory on a standard turnaround time for analysis which provides results of samples approximately one month after sample collection. These changes to the sampling program were deemed appropriate after reviewing all available data and determining that additional definition in trends provided by sampling frequency will not increase protectiveness to human health or the environment.

    This week, DEP staff plan to complete additional soil sampling in the Pond B area. The previous soil sampling event near Pond B was completed in September from an area where appreciable amounts of foam accumulated on the day of the AFFF release. The soil in this area was found to have concentrations of PFAS below the States Remedial Action Guidelines for the park user exposure scenario, but the concentrations were well above background levels for Maine soil. The additional soil sampling will be completed to evaluate potential risk to adjacent site users immediately north and south of Neptune Drive near the Pond B area.

    The Department is coordinating with the Department of Marine Resources (DMR) and the Town of Brunswick to conduct additional shellfish sampling in Harpswell Cove in and adjacent to the area currently under an extended seasonal closure. DEP personnel collected softshell clam and blue mussel samples from Harpswell Cove in September and expects to receive PFAS lab results in December. While these results are pending and with help from Brunswick, the Department will collect additional softshell clam, blue mussel and quahog samples in October and November to provide additional data if necessary. DMR will use these PFAS data to support future decisions about reopening or continued closure of the shellfish harvesting area.

    On October 16, 2024, the Navy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and DEP project teams met to discuss the initial review of DEP data resulting from the AFFF release at Hangar 4 at the former Naval Air Station in Brunswick. Surface water, soil, and drinking water data were shared with the Navy by DEP to identify trends and preliminary findings. The initial discussions were intended to identify agreed upon next steps under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process, but did not address liability, policy conflicts, or final cleanup actions. Action items resulting from the CERCLA project team meetings will be released as soon as consensus has been reached.

    A new web map produced by the Department summarizes the surface water, treated wastewater, soil, fish, and private water well samples that the DEP has collected since the AFFF release in August. Visit the DEP BNAS webpage to view the map.

    For additional information, contact: David R. Madore, Deputy Commissioner david.madore@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Loch Fire Brigade the link to their local community

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Andy Teitge and Phillip Clarke – Loch Fire Brigade Volunteers

    If you live in a rural Victorian town, you undoubtably know your local CFA.
    Loch Fire Brigade rolled up their doors to show others what giving time to your local fire brigade looks like and how fulfilling it can be.

    Are you

    Volunteering with Loch has been the link to getting to know the local community for Andy Teitge, who joined only two years ago.

    Phillip Clark who has been a volunteer with CFA since his junior years, credits his long-term involvement with CFA for his passion for emergency services – having also volunteered with Ambulance Victoria and now through his current employment with Victoria Police.

    If you’re interested in joining CFA or learning more about volunteering, head to http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer to ‘Give Us Hand’. 

    Submitted by Courtney Walker

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cathay Pacific celebrates 50 years connecting Sydney and Hong Kong

    Source: Sydney Airport

    Tuesday 22 October 2024

    • Cathay Pacific marks 50 years of flights between Sydney and Hong Kong
    • Landmark journey began in 1974 with 108 passengers on board a Boeing 707
    • Today, the Cathay Group flies to over 90 passenger and cargo destinations across the globe with Skytrax naming Cathay Pacific ‘World’s Best Airline’ four times

    Cathay Pacific marks an important milestone today, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its inaugural direct flights between Sydney and Hong Kong, a journey that has transformed travel to Asia.

    In October 1974, 108 passengers boarded the first Boeing 707 bound for Hong Kong, a direct route that eliminated the need for complicated layovers across Australia and Asia. This milestone not only revolutionised travel but also strengthened ties between two vibrant cities.

    Over the past five decades, Cathay Pacific has evolved into one of the world’s strongest and most connected airlines. The Cathay Group now serves over 90 passenger and cargo destinations globally.

    Greg Botham Group Executive, Aviation Growth & Group Strategy, Sydney Airport, said: “We are proud to celebrate Cathay Pacific’s 50-year milestone of flying between Sydney and Hong Kong. This iconic route has been a vital cornerstone of our Asia network, fostering connections and promoting tourism between two major cities.

    “Cathay Pacific’s unwavering commitment to service and excellence has played a pivotal role in enhancing Sydney Airport’s position as a global gateway, and we look forward to many more years of partnership and growth together.”

    Frosti Lau, Regional General Manager Southwest Pacific, Cathay Pacific said: “Cathay Pacific has had a long history with Australia, with one of our founders being Sydneysider, Sydney de Kantzow. To celebrate 50 years of flying passengers direct between Sydney and Hong Kong is truly a momentous occasion.

    “While Sydney has always been a key destination for Cathay Pacific customers, we have also been moving cargo between the two cities and beyond since our inception in 1946.

    We look forward to continuing our partnership with Sydney Airport and bringing exceptional service to those we connect with the rest of the world.”

    The Sydney service has expanded significantly, growing from a daily flight to double, triple, and now four daily flights, reflecting Sydney Airport’s commitment to meeting passenger demand and enhancing connectivity.

    Today, Cathay Pacific continues to expand its offering for passengers, not only transporting them to new destinations across its expansive network, but also providing a premium service and state-of-the-art in-flight products seen through its recent unveiling of its new Business Class, the Aria Suite. The airline has also garnered recognition from Skytrax World Airline Awards, being named ‘World’s Best Airline’ four times and was recently named “World’s Best Economy Class” and “#5 in World’s Best Airline” for 2024.

    Notes to editor

    Cathay Pacific facts

    • The first Sydney to Hong Kong flight was piloted by Captain Bob Howell, First Officer Hal Dyball, and Flight Engineer Bruce Holyman.
    • Since 1994, over 1,800 Cathay Pacific pilots have trained in Adelaide, reinforcing the airline’s dedication to safety and excellence in aviation.
    • To celebrate Cathay Pacific’s 50th anniversary flying between Sydney Airport and Hong Kong, the airline is giving away Cathay Pacific Flight Vouchers worth $500. Customers can enter the competition here

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Keeping Australian communities informed

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to bolster public interest journalism with $15 million in urgent funding for regional and community news.  
     
    Opening in November, the News Media Relief Program (NMRP) will provide grants to eligible regional, independent suburban, multicultural and First Nations news publishers creating news content.

    The news content must be distributed online, but can also be distributed in other formats.
     
    The program will deliver critical support to a sector struggling to survive in the face of changing readership habits, increasing costs and declining advertising revenue.
     
    With local and community news outlets playing a vital role in keeping Australians up to date about the matters and events that impact them – enabling them to make informed decisions and contributing to social cohesion. The program will help to strengthen the health and diversity of our media sector.
     
    Grants will be open to regional or suburban publishers with an annual revenue under $30 million, or which predominantly serve First Nations and multicultural communities, with the primary purpose of publishing core news content.
     
    It will help these news organisations to keep their doors open and audiences informed.
     
    The NMRP forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to safeguard Australia’s media diversity and promote public interest journalism, through the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP).
     
    Earlier this year, the Government completed consultation on News MAP which will provide a principles-based policy framework, informed by robust evidence, for future interventions to inform next steps on measures to ensure the news sector remains robust and strong, and continues to serve communities across Australia.
     
    Details on this forecast opportunity can be found at: GrantConnect
     
    For more information on News MAP visit: News Media Assistance Program (News MAP) | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
     
    Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
     
    “Local and community news outlets play a huge role in supporting a diverse and inclusive news media sector that is so vital to the healthy functioning of Australian society and democracy.
     
    “We want to see more local journalists and publishers reporting on the issues that matter to their communities.
      
    “This funding will provide the urgent assistance local news outlets need as we continue our work on News MAP – an ongoing program that will enable us to deliver effective support to the Australian news sector into the future.”  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemala Prioritizes Capacity Building, Palliative Care and Strengthening Cancer Registry Following Cancer Control Review

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    A laboratory technician analysing samples at the Totonicapan Hospital. (Photo: M. Nobile/IAEA) 

    Guatemala is setting new priorities for cancer control following a thorough review of its cancer care capacities and needs during an imPACT Review mission to the country. A team of nine international experts appointed by the IAEA, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) was on the ground in June 2024 to evaluate progress since the previous imPACT Review in 2010. The team also provided tailored and updated recommendations to the Ministry of Health on priority actions for cancer control.

    “The recent imPACT Review mission was an opportunity to thoroughly review and assess the quality of all cancer prevention and control services in the country,” said Silvia Palma, focal point for the imPACT Review at the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare of Guatemala. “By setting priorities for human resource capacity building, strengthening the cancer registry and financing palliative care, Guatemala is taking a targeted, evidence-driven approach for more impactful cancer control,” she added.

    Close to 18 000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in Guatemala, with numbers expected to substantially increase by 2045 (Globocan 2022). For women, cancers of the breast and cervix account for 40 per cent of all newly diagnosed cases. For this reason, prevention and early detection of these types of cancer in were high on the agenda during the visit.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Second person charged in relation to aggravated armed robbery at Red Hills in April

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Second person charged in relation to aggravated armed robbery at Red Hills in April

    Tuesday, 22 October 2024 – 9:28 am.

    Police have charged a second person – a 26-year-old Launceston woman – in relation to an aggravated armed robbery at Red Hills on 30 April 2024. 
    Around 6:10pm, two people allegedly entered a residence at Red Hills and threatened the occupants with what was reported to be a firearm.
    No one was physically injured during the incident and the offenders reportedly left the area in a vehicle, believed to be a blue Mazda hatch. 
    The 26-year-old Launceston woman will appear in court at a later date. 
    A 24-year-old Newnham woman has already been charged in relation to this matter.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Finalists for the 62nd Australian Export Awards announced

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Congratulations to the 88 national finalists who have been recognised as winners at state and territory Export Award ceremonies for their outstanding export achievements.

    These finalists represent a diverse range of sectors and industries and have made a significant contribution to our national economy, creating jobs and opportunities in our cities, regions, and rural areas.

    Every product and service that we export to the world represents thousands of stable, well-paying Australian jobs. Collectively this year’s finalists employed more than 24,300 people and generated close to $8 billion in export earnings last financial year.

    Over half of this year’s finalists are small businesses with an annual turnover of less than $10 million.

    Small businesses who export create opportunity in every corner of the country. Whether they are based in capital cities or in regional towns, they share a common goal – to grow their business by tapping into new markets and expanding the reach of Australian goods and services.

    Since 1963, the Australian Export Awards have recognised the contribution of more than 2,000 Australian businesses to have achieved international success in a broad range of sectors.

    I look forward to celebrating the 13 award category winners and announcing the Australian Exporter of the Year at the 62nd Australian Export Awards National Ceremony on 20 November 2024.

    The Awards program is presented by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), in collaboration with state and territory partners and sponsors.

    For the full list of national finalists, visit: 62nd Australian Export Awards.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Grants now available for councils to hire 1,300 additional apprentices and trainees

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 22 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Local Government

    Councils across NSW can now apply for grants to employ hundreds more apprentices and trainees as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $252.2 million investment in securing the future of the local government workforce.

    The Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets Program which will fund the wages of 1,300 apprentices, trainees and cadets over the next six years, is the largest state government investment in the direct hire of new apprentices in recent memory.

    The program aims to support a 15 per cent increase in the local government workforce through new apprentices and trainees, starting with 1,300 new roles across metropolitan, rural and regional NSW councils.

    The program has been designed so councils can determine their own workforce priorities and the types of roles they hope to fill – whether that’s more plumbers, childcare workers and carpenters, or mechanics, landscapers and planners.

    Applications will be assessed on merit with the funding to be administered by the Office of Local Government.

    Following an assessment period grants will be allocated to councils and the first round of apprentices, trainees and cadets are expected to start work in early 2025.

    Guidelines for the grants are now available and all 128 councils, county councils and joint organisations are eligible to apply for round one of the funding.

    Applications can be made to the Apprentice and Trainee program through the Office of Local Government. Submissions close 8 November 2024.

    Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

    “Apprenticeships provide opportunities for young people to learn a trade and work in a role where they can have a direct impact on their community.

    “We need to create more of these opportunities across NSW to boost the capability of councils, reverse the trend of outsourcing and keep council jobs in councils where they belong.

    “This significant investment by the Minns Labor Government will help ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital workforce which provides the services and builds the infrastructure we use every day.

    “A stronger local government sector means stronger communities, so I encourage all councils to apply as soon as possible.” 

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: 226-2024: Key dates and information for the 2024-25 Continued Biosecurity Competency period

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    22 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    ​​Biosecurity industry participants and accredited persons operating under the department’s approved arrangement class 19.1 non-commodity for containerised cargo clearance (NCCC) & approved arrangement class 19.2 automatic entry processing for commodities (AEPCOMM); Continued Biosecurity Competency (CBC) providers and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

    What has changed?

    ​​Key dates for the Continued…

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ombudsman to provide advice and dispute resolution for community members hosting renewable energy

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 22 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Energy and Climate Change

    The Minns Labor Government is taking further measures to ensure community members and landowners hosting renewable energy infrastructure projects are actively supported, by expanding the functions of the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW.

    For the first time, the Ombudsman will provide impartial information and an external dispute resolution service to landholders and community members impacted by new major renewable energy transmission infrastructure and renewable energy infrastructure projects which will deliver more affordable and reliable power across NSW.

    $1.3 million in grant funding from the NSW Government will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in addressing complaints by individual community members or landowners hosting renewable energy generation and transmission projects.

    The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will provide a ‘no wrong door’ referral service for residents, connecting them with the most appropriate channels to address their complaints where they fall outside the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction.

    The service will also provide an investigation and resolution process for residents dissatisfied with how their complaints are handled by the relevant transmission and renewable energy entities.

    The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will actively engage with residents to understand their concerns and identify any widespread issues requiring action.

    The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW was established in 1998 as the NSW Government-approved dispute resolution scheme for electricity and gas customers, and some water customers. The external dispute resolution scheme operates independent of Government and industry.

    The new services will be rolled out by the NSW Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW from December.

    Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe:

    “We have listened to communities and understand that better engagement and support is needed for communities hosting renewable energy infrastructure.

    “The investment in expanding this dedicated complaint handling function proves our commitment to a fair and transparent energy sector.

    “Residents will no longer have to navigate a maze of agencies. The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will connect them with the right people to have concerns investigated and addressed.”

    Quote attributable to Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young:

    “The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW is the established, trusted and independent dispute resolution scheme for NSW energy and water customers. We resolved more than 28,000 energy and water complaints last year.

    “This isn’t new territory for us. We already handle complaints about existing energy transmission and distribution infrastructure, so we’re well placed to expand into managing complaints and disputes regarding new network and renewable energy infrastructure projects.

    “The renewable energy sector is developing rapidly, and customers need a free and impartial Ombudsman scheme to help them navigate the energy transition.”

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: $6 million for better Budgewoi transport network

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 22 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for the Central Coast, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Minns Labor Government is pressing ahead with building a better Budgewoi transport network with a $6 million investment to improve Scenic Drive.

    More than 16,000 motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and bus passengers who use the road daily will benefit from safety and access improvements to be delivered along the section of Scenic Drive between Wills Road and Ourringo Street.

    Safety improvements at intersections along Scenic Drive will be a key focus of the upgrades which will help make it easier for people to access Halekulani Oval, the skate park and Budgewoi West Village.

    Potential solutions include:

    • enhanced accessibility of bus stop facilities
    • additional pedestrian refuges along the corridor
    • upgrades to existing active transport infrastructure around Budgewoi Bridge
    • adjusting the Budgewoi West Village car park entry location at Noela Place intersection
    • traffic slowing measures at the Alawai Avenue intersection and
    • replacement of the existing pedestrian refuge adjacent Budgewoi West Village with a signalised pedestrian crossing.

    To help Transport for NSW determine what improvements should be prioritised to best meet community needs, Budgewoi locals are being invited to share their improvement ideas by:

    The feedback period ends on 13 November and Transport for NSW expects to share final improvement plans with the community in 2025.

    Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

    “We want these changes to help create a vibrant centre for Budgewoi with a high-quality transport network, so we’ll be looking at design options that improve the amenity of the local street environment.

    “Feedback from residents and other stakeholders is encouraged during this early stage of project development and it will help Transport for NSW get the final plans right so the whole community benefits.”

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “Thanks to strong advocacy from Yasmin Catley and David Harris, projects like the better Budgewoi transport network are being delivered by the Minns Labor Government.

    “I encourage community members to share their ideas and help decide what the final set of upgrades look like for Budgewoi.”

    Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:

    “We’ve long advocated for changes to the Budgewoi transport network, and now the first steps are finally being taken to improve transport for people on the Central Coast.

    “While it’s great to have community facilities, it’s crucial that they’re accessible to locals – a priority that has been overlooked in the past.

    “Locals know their community best, so I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and have their say.”

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Today marks the sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.

    The appalling abuse endured by vulnerable children, including current generations, by the very people who were supposed to care for them, left immeasurable and lasting damage.

    The Australian Government is committed to ensuring those who experienced this abuse are heard, recognised, valued and supported.

    The National Apology was delivered in response to a five-year Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse initiated by former Prime Minister, the Honourable Julia Gillard AC.

    The National Apology acknowledged and apologised for the abuse inflicted by institutions on vulnerable children.

    Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth highlighted the courage of survivors and advocates who spoke out to expose the abuse in institutions.

    “Six years ago, the Government apologised for the inexcusable actions of perpetrators of institutional child sexual abuse,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “I recognise on this anniversary that no apology could ever change the immense trauma and pain caused by the abuse faced by many Australians.

    “Today is an opportunity to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to survivors of institutional child sexual abuse through the National Redress Scheme and its continuous improvement to make it more trauma-informed, efficient, and survivor-focussed.”

    Last week the Minister hosted the seventh Survivor Roundtable in Adelaide with Kyam Maher MLC, Attorney General of South Australia, to hear directly from survivors about their experiences with the Scheme and ensure it is as survivor-focussed as it can be.

    In March this year, the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse Amendment Act 2024 was passed in Parliament, completing the implementation of all primary legislative measures from the Australian Government’s Response to the Final Report of the Second Year Review of the National Redress Scheme.

    The changes include:

    • allowing applicants to provide additional information when requesting a review of a finalised application
    • reducing the circumstances where applications from those with a serious criminal conviction must undergo a special assessment process
    • removing restrictions preventing incarcerated survivors from lodging an application, and
    • enabling reassessment of finalised applications if a relevant institution later joins the Scheme (noting that this change will take effect at a later date).

    The Scheme continues to engage with jurisdictions and strives to on-board new institutions and pursue ‘funder of last resort’ arrangements with State and Territory Governments so applications can continue to progress.

    Minister Rishworth said that the Scheme has continued to grow receiving more than 50,000 applications for redress, demonstrating the widespread and enduring impact child sexual abuse has had on the nation.

    The Royal Commission also recommended a National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse in Canberra, to provide an enduring place of reflection and recognition, a place to gather and honour those whose voices were not heard.

    Work on the National Memorial continues to progress, informed by survivors of institutional child sexual abuse and is on track to commence construction in 2025.

    The Government continues to prioritise implementation of recommendations of the Royal Commission, including Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, the National Office for Child Safety and the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Child Sexual Abuse 2021 – 2030.

    The Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC launched the ‘One Talk at a Time’ campaign, including a children’s storybook, Australia’s first national campaign aimed at preventing child sexual abuse. The $22.4 million campaign is targeted at adults who play an active role in the lives of children and young people and encourages them to have ongoing, proactive and preventive conversations about child sexual abuse.

    More information about the National Redress Scheme via 1800 737 377 or on its website.

    More information about the National Memorial is available on its website.

    Reading about child sexual abuse can bring up strong feelings. Support is available. For 24/7 support you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14; call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via http://www.1800RESPECT.org.au, or text 0458 737 732; or 13YARN (13 92 76) for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis support. Bravehearts supports anyone seeking advice or help related to child sexual abuse, and is available Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. Blue Knot Foundation provides support and information to adult survivors of childhood trauma including child sexual abuse, their families and friends, and is available Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Visit ChildSafety.gov.au/get-support for a dedicated list of support services.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s sustainability story for 2023/24

    Source: Auckland Council

    Steps to creating a sustainable Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland are demonstrated by the region’s economic and cultural agency in its annual sustainability story, highlighting the organisation’s multifaceted approach to climate change and sustainability, and its commitment to continuous improvement.

    A snapshot for the 2023/24 financial year shows Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s initiatives and achievements in fostering a more resilient and inclusive Auckland, on the heels of its strong annual results delivering value for Auckland and its people. It shows how the organisation is embedding sustainability practices internally while simultaneously taking on a leadership role across the region.

    Nick Hill, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive, emphasises the importance of a holistic approach.

    “This is testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable future for Auckland. While Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is charged with the social, cultural and economic outcomes of our activities, we are increasingly considering climate change and environment in decision-making. Taking an integrated approach is crucial for building a resilient, thriving and future-ready region.”

    Key highlights include:

    1. Climate Change and Environment Strategic Plan: This inaugural plan outlines Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s actions for the next three years towards its sustainability goals and targets.

    2. Decarbonisation project at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki: A successful transition from gas- fired heating to electric heat pumps resulted in a 99 per cent reduction in natural gas consumption and a 22 per cent decrease in overall energy use within the first three months.

    3. Climate Connect Aotearoa initiatives: The climate innovation hub, established and led by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, brought together 115 stakeholders to explore Māori knowledge systems in climate action. This hui was an extension of He Kete Mātauranga, a knowledge hub to connect businesses, communities and organisations with Māori-led climate resources. Additionally, Climate Connect Aotearoa launched ClimateLink, a tool to increase access to connections, resources and funding for climate action.

    4. Proactive climate resilience planning: Adaptation planning for the Aotea Precinct to help mitigate risks associated with physical climate hazards, including extreme heat and flooding.

    5. PalmOil Scan app: Auckland Zoo released a mobile app in New Zealand and Australia to help consumers identify products using certified sustainable palm oil, supporting rainforest conservation and biodiversity.

    6. Commitment to diversity and inclusion: Initiatives include the refresh of Te Mahere Aronga (Māori Outcomes Plan), participation in the whāia te ao Māori self-assessment programme, support for the Rainbow Games and publication of gender and ethnic pay gap data.

    Dr Parin Rafiei-Thompson, Head of Climate Innovation and Sustainability at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says, “Our approach to sustainability aligns with Auckland’s broader climate goals in Te Tāruke-ā- Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan. Our work in areas like decarbonisation, climate resilience and collaborative climate innovation demonstrates our commitment to driving meaningful change at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited for Tāmaki Makaurau. While there is a lot more work to be done, we are progressing year-on-year towards our goals and seeking out areas for improvement.”

    “We’re proud of the progress we’ve made, but we also recognise that this is an ongoing journey,” says Nick Hill. “We celebrate our achievements while also setting the stage for future actions. We’re committed to continuous improvement and transparent reporting of our progress.”

    Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s ‘Our Sustainability Story’ is available on the organisation’s website, alongside the Climate Change and Environment Strategic Plan.

    More information is available here.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Welcoming Universities Summit

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Conference is taking place today, and I pay my respects to elders, past and present. 

    I would also like to acknowledge:  

    • CEO of Welcoming Australia, Mr Aleem Ali  
    • Associate Professor Kathomi Gatwiri 
    • Professor Kylie Readman 

     Thank you for the invitation to speak to you today and I’m sorry I can’t be there in person.  

     You know, like I do, that education is the most powerful cause for good in this country. 

    It doesn’t just change lives.  

    Its impact ricochets through generations.  

    It changes communities and it changes countries.  

    It’s changed ours.  

    We are a different country today to the one I grew up in. 

    When I was a kid less than 10 percent of young Australians had a uni degree. Now it’s almost half.  

    That’s changed us. We are a different country because of it. Stronger, smarter, wealthier.  

    But that change hasn’t reached into every corner of the country or every home. 

    One in two young Australians might have a degree. But not everywhere.  

    Not where I grew up.   

    Not on our outer suburbs. Not in the regions or the bush.  

    Not if you grew up in a poor family. Not if you have a disability or if you are indigenous.  

    Changing that is, at its core, what the Universities Accord is all about.  

    Cutting student debt.  

    Creating Paid Prac.  

    Massively expanding funding for free university preparation courses.  

    Doubling the number of university hubs – in the regions and for the first time in our outer suburbs. 

    A new funding system for universities – that guarantees a place a university for everyone from a disadvantaged background who gets the marks to get in.  

    And needs based funding to support them when they get there.  

    All of it designed to break down that invisible barrier that stops so many people getting a crack at university.  

    But there are other barriers we also have to break down.  

    Barriers that make university an unwelcome place.  

    That make university an unsafe place.  

    They can take many forms, including sexual violence and harassment, antisemitism, Islamophobia and other types of racism and discrimination. 

    You can see it in the one in 20 students who have reported being sexually assaulted since they started university. 

    Or the one in six who have reported being sexually harassed. 

    The students who are being made to feel unwelcome because of their faith or the colour of their skin.  

    All of it requires action.  

    In the Parliament right now is legislation to establish a National Student Ombudsman.  

    A dedicated, national body to handle student complaints within our higher education system. 

    The National Student Ombudsman will have the powers: 

    • to investigate complaints about a broad range of issues; 
    • to bring parties together to resolve those issues, including offering restorative engagement processes and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate; 
    • to make findings and recommendations on what actions universities should take; and 
    • to monitor the implementation of those recommendations. 

    It will also have strong investigative powers, similar to those of a Royal Commission. 

    It is a direct response to the terrifying evidence of sexual violence in our universities, but its remit is broader than that.  

    It will include complaints about everything from homophobia to antisemitism to Islamophobia to any other form of racism or discrimination.  

    It is also a recommendation of the Universities Accord.  

    So is the work I have asked the Australian Human Rights Commission to do.  

    An examination of racism in our universities and what we need to do to address it.  

     All of it is necessary.  

    All of it is about making our universities more welcoming places.  

    For everyone.  

    Regardless of your gender, where you live, what your parents do, where you worship or the colour of your skin.  

    John Curtin, one of our greatest Prime Ministers, described what he thought a great university should be.  

    He said it should be: 

    “a friend of the reformer, the host ever willing to receive the initiator, the champion always ready to defend the poor and the obscure”. 

    I believe that too.  

    It’s what drives me.  

    And I know it drives you too. 

    It’s why you are here, at this Summit.  

    Because you want our universities to be more welcoming places for everyone.  

    I hope you have a great Summit today and I look forward to seeing what comes out of it. 

     

     

     

     

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