MIAMI, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. (the “Company”) (NYSE: PFLT) announced that it will report results for the fourth fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2024 on Monday, November 25, 2024 after the close of the financial markets.
The Company will also host a conference call at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) on Tuesday November 26, 2024 to discuss its financial results. All interested parties are welcome to participate. You can access the conference call by dialing toll-free (888) 394-8218 approximately 5-10 minutes prior to the call. International callers should dial (646) 828-8193. All callers should reference conference ID #3226260 or PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. An archived replay will also be available on a webcast link located on the Quarterly Earnings page in the Investor section of PennantPark’s website.
ABOUT PENNANTPARK FLOATING RATE CAPITAL LTD.
PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. is a business development company which primarily invests in U.S. middle-market private companies in the form of floating rate senior secured loans, including first lien secured debt, second lien secured debt and subordinated debt. From time to time, the Company may also invest in equity investments. PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. is managed by PennantPark Investment Advisers, LLC.
ABOUT PENNANTPARK INVESTMENT ADVISERS, LLC
PennantPark Investment Advisers, LLC is a leading middle market credit platform, managing $8.0 billion of investable capital, including potential leverage. Since its inception in 2007, PennantPark Investment Advisers, LLC has provided investors access to middle market credit by offering private equity firms and their portfolio companies as well as other middle-market borrowers a comprehensive range of creative and flexible financing solutions. PennantPark Investment Advisers, LLC is headquartered in Miami and has offices in New York, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and Amsterdam.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release are forward-looking statements and are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement made herein. You should not place undue influence on such forward-looking statements as such statements speak only as of the date on which they are made.
CONTACT:
Richard T. Allorto, Jr. PennantPark Floating Rate Capital Ltd. (212) 905-1000 http://www.pennantpark.com
Cabinet approves India to Join International Energy Efficiency Hub by signing the Letter of Intent Decision will help India gain access to an exclusive 16 nation group sharing strategic energy practices and innovative solutions
Posted On: 03 OCT 2024 8:25PM by PIB Delhi
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of ‘Letter of Intent’ thus enabling India to join the ‘Energy Efficiency Hub’.
India will join the International Energy Efficiency Hub (Hub), a global platform dedicated to fostering collaboration and promoting energy efficiency worldwide. This move solidifies India’s commitment to sustainable development and aligns with its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), in which India was a member, the Hub brings together governments, international organizations, and private sector entities to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions. By joining the Hub, India will gain access to a vast network of experts and resources, enabling it to enhance its domestic energy efficiency initiatives. As of July, 2024, sixteen countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, United States and United Kingdom) have joined the Hub.
As a member of the Hub, India will benefit from opportunities for collaboration with other member states, sharing its own expertise and learning from international best practices. The country will also contribute to global efforts to address climate change by promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices.
Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), the statutory agency, has been designated as the implementing agency for the Hub on behalf of India. BEE will play a crucial role in facilitating India’s participation in the Hub’s activities and ensuring that India’s contributions align with its national energy efficiency goals.
By joining the Hub, India is taking a significant step towards more sustainable future. The country’s participation in this global platform will help to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and improve energy security.
SUBJECTS: Planned protests to mark one year anniversary of Oct 7 attacks; Australians in Lebanon; NRL grand final
SARAH ABO, HOST: Well, thousands of protesters will take to the streets this weekend to mark a year of the Israel-Gaza conflict, with authorities calling for calm after the rallies were given the green light. For more, we’re joined by NDIS and Government Services Minister Bill Shorten in Melbourne and opposition leader Peter Dutton in Brisbane. Good to see you both. Pete, I’ll start with you. So, New South Wales tried to block this rally, that was overruled. The SA, in South Australia, the police say they don’t oppose it. Those attending say it’ll be peaceful. So how do we strike the right balance here?
PETER DUTTON, LIBERAL PARTY: Well, Sarah, this is the biggest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust. And that’s what October 7th is. So, it’s the anniversary of the terrorist attack in the kibbutz’s and where people were slaughtered in the Nova music festival. So, there were no attacks, no rockets launched by Israel on October 7th or October 8th or October 9th. The response came after that, as we know. So, this is an anniversary of 1200 people losing their lives. And that’s why the protests shouldn’t go ahead. And you would only be protesting the anniversary of that loss of life if you were trying to be provocative or difficult. If you were marking the anniversary of the Holocaust, people would be outraged. And I just think it’s completely unacceptable that people would be using this opportunity to essentially rub, you know, I just think they’re compounding the grief of people who have lost lives. And it’s completely unacceptable.
ABO: Yeah, I mean, Pete, I guess despite all of that, they are still going ahead. I mean, there’s nothing we can do to stop it. So, it’s really just about upholding the peaceful intended nature of it.
DUTTON: Well, just again, Sarah, I mean, why would people why would people want to do this? And I think there are people within the community, leaders so-called within the community, who should show greater sensitivity and there are other dates that they can commemorate. But October 7th is an anniversary where 1200 people were killed by a terrorist organization and people who were sympathizers to the terrorist organization in this country, frankly, are at odds with our values and our rule of law.
ABO: And, Bill, there are obviously significant sensitivities around this. And as we know, the tensions are escalating currently in the Middle East. There’s a lot of heat in the community, and it seems little is being done to sort of turn down that temperature. Is the government concerned that these protests may cause further rifts in the community?
BILL SHORTEN, MINISTER FOR THE NDIS AND GOVERNENT SERVICES: Well, I agree with a fair bit of what Peter was saying there. October the 7th was a massacre of Israelis. Hamas crossed the border. They killed young people at a concert. They committed shocking crimes. They kidnapped people. They sexually abused people. I don’t know what someone who’s – I don’t know why someone would protest about that or be in some fashion being seen to lend their weight to it. I mean, we are a free country. We don’t want to become like the countries that we criticize. But I just think on October the 7th, that was a massacre of innocent people. Now, there might be some people watching who say, oh, what about, you know, my side of the argument and my hurt and my pain. I accept that, but one, you’ve got to keep it peaceful. Two, why do it on the day where – you know, if you really think that Hamas was right. I do not understand how you think. I do not understand how people would want to celebrate Hamas’ actions.
ABO: Yeah.
SHORTEN: So yeah, but I think most Australians don’t want to see these arguments from overseas coming to these shores. They certainly expect it to be peaceful. And I’ll just say to any protesters, if you think somehow, you’re convincing or changing anyone’s mind, think again.
ABO: It is truly horrific, that’s for sure. The fresh wave of attacks that we’re seeing, bill in Lebanon at the moment. The UN has called this truly catastrophic. We know that the Australian government is doing what it can, deploying the RAAF planes there to try and evacuate some. How is that all tracking at the moment?
SHORTEN: Yeah. I want to thank our people in the Australian Defence Force. We have military resources to help evacuate people pre-positioned in Cyprus. I know the government’s assisted people on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday to get commercial flights out. I know there’ll be opportunities on Saturday for 500 Australian citizens and immediate family members. But also, I have to say that the Prime Minister and the government has been saying since last November, please do not go to Lebanon. Whilst it might have been a surprise on which particular day the fighting escalated, the point is there was a big chance the fighting was going to escalate. So please get out now. Do not go to Lebanon. Please get out now. The Australian Government has a phone number. I think it’s 6261 3305. 6261 3305. But yeah, just let’s get out of there. It’s just – there’s nothing going to be good about being in Lebanon right now.
ABO: Yeah. I think both sides are in agreement on that. Look, it’s all very heavy and really tragic and awful. So, let’s focus on something a little bit different now because this weekend of course we have the big NRL grand final decider. It’s less than 48 hours away with the Storm taking on the Panthers. Pete, I wanted to ask you. I mean, seeing as you’re single handedly responsible for the turning of the political tide in Victoria, you would, of course, be backing the Storm right now, right?
DUTTON: Well, I’ve picked. I’ve picked Penrith, I think. Just an amazing –
ABO: What? Pete.
DUTTON: They are an amazing team. They are an amazing team.
ABO: You need to win Melbourne over mate, come on.
DUTTON: I’m still celebrating the Lions win. I’m still, I’m still – every Victorian was going against the New South Wales team last weekend. So, they were all on the Lions and we were on a unity ticket. So, this week – you know I just think I mean storms had had an incredible season as well. But I just think Penrith will be too strong.
ABO: Billy, surely you’ve got the storm, right?
SHORTEN: Yeah. No, I think the Storm’s a really well-run club. I’ve been lucky enough to have a bit to do with them over the journey and, you know they did beat Penrith in 2020. Craig Bellamy, ten grand finals. Penrith is a really strong team. One thing’s for sure. The two best teams are playing in the grand final. But, you know, Pete, there was that chance for you to sort of cement the deal in Victoria, but given two choices –
ABO: I know, I gave him an opportunity.
SHORTEN: But you went the wrong way, I know
ABO: He didn’t take it. . SHORTEN: Sarah just laid it out in the red carpet. I don’t know. I don’t know.
DUTTON: Hey, Bill, I’m just glad that you know there’s an NRL team in in Victoria. Well done.
ABO: We couldn’t leave this chat without a sledge. Right? Okay.
SHORTEN: That’s good. And do you know what? Even though we’re not an NRL, even though we’re not an NRL state, we can still win the flag. I love it. When Victorians turn their mind to something. We’re unstoppable.
ABO: Yes. Let’s go with that.
SHORTEN: It’s actually the third Queensland team anyway.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have impounded a vehicle in relation to recent hooning offences in Katherine.
On the evening of Wednesday 2 October 2024, two vehicles were sighted by members of the public driving in a manner that caused damage to road surface and public places as well as driving a vehicle causing a deliberate loss of traction.
NT Police members from the Road Policing Division became aware of the incident after footage was posted on social media by a member of the public. Police have since located one of the vehicle’s following an investigation.
Police subsequently seized the vehicle under hooning legislation, which has since been impounded.
The registered owner of the vehicle will receive an infringement notice for drive vehicle causing loss of traction and damaging road surfaces.
Sergeant Rowan Benson said “ Hooning will not be tolerated in our community. The manner of driving is dangerous and put the occupants of the vehicle and members of the community at unnecessary risk.
A 23 year old Penguin woman and a 36 year old Burnie man have been charged by police with trafficking in controlled substance and other crimes committed in the state’s north and north west. Yesterday members of the Western Drugs and Firearms Unit and other specialist units arrested a man and woman in the Exeter area after a targeted operation. A search was conducted at the time of the arrest where police seized illicit drugs, stolen property and cash. As a result of the investigation, the woman was charged with trafficking in controlled substance, selling controlled drug, possessing a controlled drug, dealing with proceeds of crime, using controlled drugs, burglaries, stealing and failing to appear in court. The man was charged with trafficking in controlled substances, possessing a controlled drug, burglaries, stealing, aggravated evade, unlicenced driving, and attaching false registration plates. The man has appeared in court and has been remanded in custody to reappear on 7 November. The woman was also remanded in court to reappear on 11 November. Police will continue to target those who cause harm to our community through illicit drug distribution. Anyone with information to assist is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
Monitoring stations detect small magnitude earthquakes at Mount Adams (September 2024)
During the month of September, the U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) and Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) located six earthquakes at Mount Adams.
SUMMARY
In September, the U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) and Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) located six earthquakes at Mount Adams, ranging from magnitudes 0.9 to 2.0. Typically, earthquakes at this volcano are located at a rate of about 1 earthquake every 2-3 years. With just one seismic station near the volcano, monitoring capabilities are currently limited. CVO and PNSN plan to install temporary seismic stations in the Mount Adams area, which will allow detection of smaller earthquakes and better estimates of size, location, and depth, information necessary to assess the significance of the activity. Currently, there is no indication that the level of earthquake activity is cause for concern, and the alert level and color code for Mount Adams remain at GREEN / NORMAL. CVO and the PNSN will continue to monitor earthquake activity and release further updates as the situation warrants.
RECENT ACTIVITY
Six locatable earthquakes (magnitude 0.9–2.0) were detected in September on seismic station ASR2, a PNSN-operated station located about 7 miles (11 km) southwest of the summit of Mount Adams, as well as other stations much farther away from the volcano. This represents the most earthquakes located at Mount Adams in a month since monitoring began in 1982. No earthquakes were felt at the surface. The locations and depths are not well constrained due to the sparse Mount Adams seismic network, and smaller earthquakes have occurred that seismologists have been unable to locate.
Satellite imagery does not show any detectable ground deformation at the volcano. Mount Adams does not have a dedicated volcanic gas sampling program.
WHAT WE ARE DOING
To improve seismic monitoring capabilities, CVO has permission from the U.S. Forest Service to install temporary seismic stations south and southwest of Mount Adams. The seismic stations are part of CVO’s rapid deployment instrument packages that can be deployed quickly as needed.
Data from the new temporary stations will be transmitted in real-time to CVO and PNSN along with data from the existing permanent station. This will improve our ability to locate smaller earthquakes with more certainty and assist in understanding the cause of these earthquakes. The results of our findings will determine if any additional actions are needed.
OCTOBER 3, 2024
Scientists from USGS and the U.S. Forest Service installed one new temporary seismic station ASCR, pictured below.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MOUNT ADAMS AND ITS HAZARDS
Mount Adams in south-central Washington is about 50 miles (80 km) west-southwest of Yakima, Washington, and 30 miles (55 km) north of the White Salmon-Hood River area of Washington and Oregon along the Columbia River. Mount Adams is the most prominent summit along the north-south trending Mount Adams-King Mountain volcanic field, which includes more than 120 smaller volcanoes located in parts of Skamania, Lewis, Klickitat, and Yakima counties, and the western part of the Yakama Nation.
Mount Adams is the second tallest volcano in Washington State and is the state’s largest active volcano in both area and volume. Typical behavior of Mount Adams has been primarily effusive (lava flows) and seldom explosive. The few downwind ash layers it has produced in the last 12,000 years are small in volume and limited in extent. Over the last 12,000 years, there have been four lava flows originating on the apron of the volcano and two vents along its south ridge. The lava flows have typically travelled only a few miles from their vents. The last volcanic eruption occurred between 3,800 and 7,600 years ago.
The greatest threat to people living near Mount Adams are lahars (muddy flows of rock, ash, and ice that surge downstream like rapidly flowing concrete) that could occur during eruptive or noneruptive periods. About 6,000 and 300 years ago, lahars generated by landslides of weakened rock high on the southwest side of the volcano flowed as far as the Trout Lake area and beyond. Much smaller landslide-triggered avalanches of altered rock and snow from the headwall above the Avalanche Glacier on the southwest side of the summit block occurred as recently as 1921 and 1987 but did not travel more than a few miles. The ice-capped summit conceals large volumes of hydrothermally weakened rock, and future landslides of this weakened rock could generate far-traveled lahars.
The USGS national volcanic threat assessment ranked Mount Adams as a high-threat volcano. The threat-potential assessment takes into account both volcano hazards and community exposure. Hazards are derived from what is known about the recency and style of previous eruptions and exposure factors include impacts on nearby population, aviation activity, and infrastructure during a volcanic event. The USGS, through its Cascades Volcano Observatory, is working to improve monitoring capabilities at high- and very-high threat volcanoes in the Cascade Range through network expansion vital to the National Volcano Early Warning System authorized in 2019.
Released by: Minister for the Central Coast, Minister for Gaming and Racing
Fans of the Central Coast Mariners FC will continue to enjoy A-League games with less sports betting advertising thanks to a new Reclaim the Game partnership with GambleAware.
Under the new partnership, the Club will turn down sports betting sponsorships and eliminate sports betting advertising at their home games across both the men’s and women’s A-League teams.
The Mariners will also work to educate fans, players and staff about the risks and harms which can arise from gambling.
Reclaim the Game launched in 2020 and has grown to include 19 teams across six codes in NSW. It has reached millions of sports fans, both on TV and in stadiums.
The Mariners, who continue to grow in popularity, particularly off their back-to-back men’s A-League titles over the past two seasons, are the first Central Coast sporting club to sign on for this awareness initiative.
The Central Coast has a high rate of gambling participation and Reclaim the Game will remind fans that they can enjoy watching their team without spending their hard-earned money on betting.
A recent survey conducted by Reclaim the Game suggests that Mariners’ fans are on board with the new partnership. In the survey, 85% of fans agreed that there is too much gambling advertising.
As well as the new Mariners’ partnership, GambleAware has extended its partnerships with the Western Sydney Wanderers, and Cricket NSW which includes Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder.
The Minns Labor Government has a strong track record on reducing gambling harm since coming into office, including:
Committing $100 million to harm minimisation – investing in research, treatment, services and reform
Establishing an Independent Panel of experts overseeing a cashless gaming trial
Banning all external gambling signage in venues and introducing Responsible Gambling Officers for venues with more than 20 machines
Forbidding political donations from clubs with electronic gaming machines.
For free and confidential gambling support 24/7 call GambleAware on 1800 858 858.
Minister for Gaming and Racing and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:
“Sports betting advertising and sponsorship is just about everywhere. We see it across most codes and many fans don’t know sport without it.
“The NSW Government, through Reclaim the Game, is partnering with sporting clubs to take a stand and challenge the impact that sports betting advertising has on fans.
“All our partners are committed to eliminating sports betting advertising at their home games, and to take action in educating their fans, players and staff about the potential harms of sports betting.
“It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the mighty Mariners, so I am absolutely delighted by this new partnership, which will have a positive impact on the Central Coast.”
Mariners CEO Alyssar Narey said:
“We are proud to partner with the NSW Government’s Reclaim the Game initiative.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to promoting a healthy and positive environment in sports, where our players and fans can thrive without the influence of gambling.
“Together, we can create a stronger community and ensure that the joy of the game remains at the forefront.”
About Reclaim the Game:
Reclaim the Game was launched in 2020. 19 teams from six codes are partners in the program:
Rugby League: 1. Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 2. South Sydney Rabbitohs
Basketball: 3. Illawarra Hawks 4. Sydney Kings 5. Sydney Flames
Football (Soccer): 6. Western Sydney Wanderers (A-League men’s) 7. Western Sydney Wanderers (A-League women’s)
8. Central Coast Mariners (A-League men’s)
9. Central Coast Mariners (A-League women’s)
Cricket: 10. Sydney Sixers (BBL) 11. Sydney Sixers (WBBL) 12. Sydney Thunder (BBL) 13. Sydney Thunder (WBBL) 14. NSW Blues 15. NSW Breakers
Australian Football League (AFL): 16. Sydney Swans (AFL) 17. Sydney Swans (AFLW)
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The Albanese Government has launched a Project Noticeboard to assist communities to identify potential projects or locations to be funded from Round 3 of the Mobile Network Hardening Program (MHNP). The MNHP aims to reduce the risks of service outages and improve restoration times of mobile telecommunications in communities impacted by natural disasters by co-funding projects with carriers and telco companies that aim to deliver resilience upgrades. This can include portable generators, power back-up upgrades and physical mobile tower hardening. Under Round 3, the Government is providing $20 million for projects located in areas impacted by, or at risk of, a natural disaster in regional and remote Australia and – for the first time – in the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities. The peri-urban fringe is where the bush meets the edges of the suburbs, creating risks of natural disasters for those living and working in those areas. The expansion of Round 3 to include peri-urban areas ensures they will also have access to resilient mobile communications services during and after natural disasters. Opening today, the Project Noticeboard allows local councillors and state, territory and federal parliamentarians to identify potential projects or locations suitable for funding under Round 3, with telco industry applicants encouraged to review these submissions when preparing their applications. In total, the Government is investing $2.2 billion in regional communications – the most significant investment in this critical area since the inception of the National Broadband Network. Rounds 1 and 2 of the MNHP are funding approximately 1,386 projects nationwide, with 896 already complete. To view the Project Noticeboard, please visit:https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/phone/mobile-network-hardening-program/mobile-network-hardening-program-round-3-project-noticeboard For more information on the Government’s Better Connectivity Plan, visitinfrastructure.gov.au/bcp For more information on the Mobile Network Hardening Program, visithttp://www.infrastructure.gov.au/mnhp Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP: “Access to reliable communications can be a matter of life and death during times of disaster – which is why our Government is continuing to invest strongly in communications network resilience through the Mobile Network Hardening Program. “Ahead of the next round of applications opening, we want to hear from representatives of local communities in areas at risk of natural disaster to inform how best to target this funding. “Importantly, the program has now expanded to include peri-urban locations, as we know that communities on the urban fringes of our major cities face particular risks when it comes to natural disasters. “I encourage locals to speak with their councillors and federal, state or territory representatives to identify potential projects or locations that would benefit from improved communications resilience, and make their voice heard.”
More than 3,900 students across NSW have already benefitted from the Minns Labor Government’s $120 million investment in tertiary health study subsidies, with all subsidies now awarded for the 2024 calendar year.
The recipients of the subsidies include 1,840 nursing students, 280 midwifery students, 1,020 allied health, 520 medical students and 262 paramedical students.
Students beginning their degrees will receive subsidies of $4,000 per year over three years.
The subsidies, announced as part of the 2023-24 Budget, are also expected to support a further 8,000 healthcare students over the next four years.
Students seeking to receive the subsidy in 2025 can apply from mid-January 2025 and must be willing to make a five-year commitment to the NSW public health system.
The subsidies form part of a series of measures introduced by the Minns Labor Government to further strengthen the state’s health workforce, including:
Implementing the Safe Staffing Levels initiative in our emergency departments
Providing permanent funding for 1,112 FTE nurses and midwives on an ongoing basis
Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in over a decade for nurses and other health workers
Beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities.
The full list of 2025 eligible workforce groups will be available in October 2024 on the NSW Health website.
Quotes attributable to Premier Chris Minns:
“I am so pleased more than 3,900 people across NSW have already benefitted from our health worker study subsidies.
“The subsidies help students with costs such as fees, technology, travel, and helps us keep talented people here in NSW, working in the country’s largest public health system.
“Attracting skilled healthcare workers is a longstanding challenge, and while there is a long way to go rebuilding our healthcare system, we are committed to doing it so that people can access the care they need, when they need it.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“We are shoring up the future of our health workforce in NSW and we’re honouring our election commitment to reducing financial barriers to studying healthcare.
“When we boost our health workforce we improve health outcomes, it’s as simple as that.
“It’s encouraging to see such a strong subscription of these subsidies.”
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mark S Tremblay, Professor of Pediatrics in the Faculty of Medicine and Senior Scientist at the CHEO Research Institute, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa
A recent study found that only 14 per cent of preschoolers around the world are meeting movement recommendations for physical activity, sleep and screen time.(Shutterstock)
Appropriate levels of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep (collectively termed movement behaviours) are essential for the healthy growth and development of preschool-aged children.
This was the impetus for creating the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years (birth to four years). Likewise, this is why the World Health Organization adopted the Canadian guidelines when creating the global guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under five years of age.
Considering the extensive benefits of movement behaviours, it is very alarming that a recent study found that only 14 per cent of preschoolers around the world are meeting movement behaviour guideline recommendations.
three or more hours of total physical activity (including at least one hour of energetic play or activities that make them slightly out of breath),
one hour or less of screen time, and
10 to 13 hours of good quality sleep
Importantly, preschoolers who meet these guidelines gain health benefits such as reduced risk of obesity, improved social and emotional skills, and proficient motor skills.
Global levels
Preschoolers with healthy movement behaviour habits meeting these guideline recommendations gain health benefits such as reduced risk of obesity, improved social and emotional skills, and proficient motor skills. (Pixabay/Oleksandr Pidvalnyi)
A new global study shows most children around the world don’t meet these guidelines. The study included more than 7,000 preschoolers from 33 different countries, including Canada. The countries represented various World Bank income groups (e.g., high, middle and low income countries); and the geographical regions of Africa, Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, Southeast Asia and Western Pacific.
When looking at each movement behaviour individually for preschoolers around the world, 49 per cent met the physical activity recommendations, 42 per cent met the screen time recommendation, and 81 per cent met the sleep recommendation.
That most young children are not meeting each of these basic recommendations separately is cause for concern; that 86 per cent are not meeting all guideline recommendations combined is alarming and places preschoolers around the world at risk of sub-standard health and development.
Globally, 81 per cent of preschoolers met sleep recommendations. (Shutterstock)
Seventeen per cent of boys met all the guideline recommendations, compared to 13 per cent of girls. This slight difference was driven by more boys meeting the physical activity recommendation (56 per cent boys, 42 per cent girls), and protected from being even worse by more girls meeting the screen time (45 per cent girls, 38 per cent boys) and sleep (82 per cent girls, 79 per cent boys) recommendations.
Better screen time and sleep habits for girls protected their overall movement behaviour adherence from being even worse, showcasing the various paths to health through different movement behaviour combinations. However, the low number meeting all movement behaviour recommendations demonstrates the need for all preschoolers to routinely be more active, reduce screen time and accumulate good quality sleep in a day.
By income
Screen time in the evening is associated with less sleep and lower sleep quality. (Shutterstock)
Low-income countries had the highest movement behaviour guideline adherence levels (17 per cent), compared to middle-income (12 per cent) and high-income (14 per cent) countries.
While children from high-income countries were more active and had more quality sleep, they also had the worst screen time behaviours compared to low- and middle-income countries. It is a double-edged sword that in higher-income countries, children have more access to physical activity opportunities and quality sleep environments, but also more access to screen time devices.
Likewise, middle-income countries with the lowest movement behaviour adherence rates could symbolize a region’s development transition where infrastructure in the homes and communities cannot yet support more physical activity and good quality sleep, but availability of cell phones, televisions and other screens leads to increased sedentary behaviours.
By region
The African and European regions had the highest movement behaviour adherence (24 per cent), while the Americas region had the lowest (eight per cent). With 17 per cent meeting the screen time recommendations and 68 per cent meeting the physical activity recommendations, the Americas region had the worst screen time and best physical activity.
The physical activity levels of the Americas region preschoolers are higher compared to the 39 per cent of older Canadian children and youth as reported in the ParticipACTION Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. But these older Canadian children and youth did have slightly better, albeit still poor, screen time behaviours with 27 per cent meeting the guidelines.
Sixty-eight per cent of preschool-aged children in the Americas were meeting the physical activity recommendations, compared to only 26 per cent of Southeast Asian children. However, it remains a concern that roughly half of all young children around the world are at risk of sub-optimal health and development from lack of physical activity.
Roughly half of all young children around the world are at risk of sub-optimal health and development from lack of physical activity. (Shutterstock)
Guidance for improvements can be drawn from the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity, where the goal of a 15 per cent relative reduction in global physical inactivity rates by 2030 relies on capacity-building collaborations within research organizations and alliances to strengthen our global understanding of movement behaviours.
Along with the best movement behaviours overall, the African region had the best screen time levels with 63 per cent meeting the recommendations. This is potentially explained by limited access to screen time devices.
However, to better understand why screen time behaviours are better in Africa, initiatives like the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance Global Matrix project should be used as a model. Within the Global Matrix, region-level differences are an opportunity to learn the strengths of other regions, while addressing regional weaknesses at home.
For instance, Canada could be a model for less active countries, while attempting to model the African region’s reduced screen time lifestyles. Further, projects such as the SUNRISE study — where researchers from more than 70 countries are collaborating to measure preschoolers’ movement behaviours, health and development — are excellent venues for this necessary capacity-building and global learning.
However, health movement behaviour levels in Canada and across the globe are unsatisfactory and forecast further global health challenges, inequalities, and distancing from United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It’s time to get our little ones a little more active.
Mark S Tremblay has received research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Public Health Agency of Canada for research distally related to this article. He is affiliated with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology who created the Canadian 24-hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years, under his leadership. He was also on the expert panel for the World Health Organization for the development of the global guidelines cited in the article.
Nicholas Kuzik 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.
International travel: July 2024 – 11 September 2024 – International travel covers the number and characteristics of overseas visitors and New Zealand resident travellers (short-term movements) entering or leaving New Zealand.
Key facts Monthly arrivals – overseas visitors Overseas visitor arrivals were 221,800 in the July 2024 month, an increase of 8,000 from the July 2023 month. The biggest changes were in arrivals from:
Australia (up 11,400)
China (up 10,000)
United States (down 13,100).
July 2023 saw a boost in overseas visitor arrivals from the United States, coinciding with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 hosted by New Zealand and Australia.
Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this information release:
Missy Higgins’ recent ARIA number-one album, The Second Act, represents an increasingly rare sighting: an Australian artist at the top of an Australian chart.
My recently published analysis of Australia’s best-selling singles and albums from 2000 to 2023 shows a significant decline in the representation of artists from Australia and non-English-speaking countries.
The findings suggest music streaming in Australia – together with algorithmic recommendation – is creating a monoculture dominated by artists from the United States and United Kingdom. This could spell bad news for our music industry if things don’t change.
Who dominates Australian charts?
In 2023, Australia’s recorded music industry was worth about A$676 million, up 10.9% year on year.
Building a strong local music industry is important, not only to support diverse cultural expression, but also to create jobs and boost Australia’s reputation on a global stage.
When Australian artists succeed, this attracts global investment, which in turn stimulates all aspects of the local music industry. Conversely, a weak music economy can lead to global disinvestment, thereby disadvantaging local companies, artists and consumers.
My research shows how the rise of music streaming – which became the dominant format for Australian recorded music sales in 2017 – has had a noticeable impact on the diversity of artists represented in the ARIA top 100 single and album charts.
In the year 2000, the top 100 singles chart featured hits from 14 different countries. By contrast, only seven countries were represented in 2023.
The percentage of Australian and New Zealand artists in the top 100 single charts declined from an average of 16% in 2000–16 to around 10% in 2017–23, and just 2.5% in 2023.
Album share also declined from an average of 29% in 2000–16 to 18% in 2017–23, and 4% in 2023.
This chart shows changes in diveristy in the ARIA top 100 albums chart over 22 years. Author provided
Similarly, the proportion of artists from outside the Anglo bloc of North America, the UK and Australia/New Zealand declined from an average of 11.1% in 2000–16 to 7.3% in 2017–23 – while album share declined from 5% in 2000–16 to 2.3% in 2017–23.
My study also found representation of Indigenous artists remained low, but stable, over the period studied – and in line with population ratios.
Concetration of power
The findings suggest the decline in Australian and non-Anglo representation in the ARIA top 100 charts is linked.
Some economists and academics have argued easier access to independent music and global distribution via streaming will lead to greater diversity in music. But this hasn’t been the case in Australia, at least as far as chart-topping artists are concerned.
The global recorded music industry has consolidated in recent years. In the early 2000s there were five major music labels. Currently there are just three: Universal, Sony and Warner.
Last year, these three labels were responsible for more than 95% of the Australian top 100 single and album charts. Meanwhile, Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube make up an estimated 97% of the Australian streaming market.
These concentrations of power allow a handful of record labels and distributors to have a disproportionate influence over music design, production, distribution and governance – thereby limiting opportunities for diversity.
The need for new policy
My findings align with European research that found markets with a strong cultural differentiator of language are showing increased national diversity with streaming.
However, countries without a distinctive language are being increasingly dominated by global music production. In Australia’s case, we’re becoming reliant on the star-making machinery of the US.
Recently, Australia’s live music crisis came under scrutiny at a federal government inquiry, which highlighted the significant power imbalance between artists and multinational promoters.
As I and manyothers have suggested, targeted cultural policies are necessary to combat our highly concentrated and US-dependent market.
Relying on labels and streaming platforms will do little to preserve and promote our nation’s unique musical and cultural identity.
Previous employment at Sony Music, Universal Music, Inertia Music. ARIA Chart Committee member 2005-2017. Employment at these labels ceased by 2017. No continued professional relationship with any of the companies.
Over the years, it has been the subject of controversy about potential misdiagnosis and overdiagnosis. There has also been variation in levels of diagnosis and drug prescription, depending on where you live and your socioeconomic status.
To address these concerns and improve consistency in ADHD diagnosis and prescribing, the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association has released a new prescribing guide. This will help the health-care workforce to consistently get the right treatment to the right people, with the right mix of medical and non-medical supports.
Here’s how ADHD prescribing has changed over time and what the new guidelines mean.
What is ADHD and how is it treated?
Up to one in ten young Australians experience ADHD. It is diagnosed due to inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that has negative effects at home, school or work.
Psychostimulant medication is a central pillar of ADHD treatment.
However, the internationally recognised approach is to combine medicines with non-medical interventions in a multimodal approach. These non-medical interventions include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), occupational therapy, educational strategies and other supports.
Medication use has changed over time
In Australia, Ritalin (methylphenidate) was originally the most prescribed ADHD medication. This changed in the 1990s after the introduction of dexamphetamine, along with the subsequent availability of Vyvance (lisdexamfetamine).
Perhaps the most significant change has come with “slow release” versions of the above medications that can last more than eight hours (longer than a school day).
When following clinical guidelines, prescribing medication for ADHD is safe practice. Yet the use of amphetamines to treat young people with ADHD has caused public concern. This highlights the importance of consistent guidelines for prescribing professionals.
Medication for ADHD can be combined with other non-drug approaches. Caleb Woods/Unsplash
Growth in diagnosis and prescribing
Starting from low levels, there was a dramatic rise in diagnosis and drug treatment in the 1990s. Much of this was overseen by a small number of psychiatrists and paediatricians in each state or territory. While this promised the potential of consistency in the early days, it also raised concerns about best practice.
This led to the development of the first ADHD clinical guidelines by the National Medical Health and Research Council in 1997.
It was followed by several refinements as prescription expanded due to changing diagnostic criteria (expanding to include a dual diagnosis with autism) and the need for best practice with the growing prescription by GPs. These guidelines enhanced the consistency of approaches nationally and reduced the likelihood of misdiagnosis or overdiagnosis.
However, a recent Senate inquiry found diagnosis and drug treatment continued to grow substantially in the five years to 2022. It emphasised the need for a more consistent approach to diagnosis and prescribing.
First the ingredients, then the recipe
The most recent clinical guidelines, released by the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association in 2022, outlined a roadmap for ADHD clinical practice, research and policy. They did so by drawing on the lived experience of those with ADHD. They also emphasised broader health questions, such as how to respond to ADHD as a holistic condition.
It remains difficult to predict individual responses to different medication. So the new prescribing guide offers practical advice about safe and responsible prescribing. This aims to reduce the potential for incorrect prescribing, dosing and adjusting of ADHD medication, across different age groups, settings and individuals.
To put this visually, the clinical guidelines describe what the ingredients of the cake should be, while the prescribing guidelines provide step-by-step recipes.
So what do they recommend?
An important principle in both these documents is that medication should not be the first and only treatment. Not every drug works the same way for every child. In some cases they do not work at all.
The possible side effects of medication vary and include poor appetite, sleep problems, headaches, stomach aches, moodiness and irritability. These guidelines assist in adapting medication to reduce these side effects.
Medication provides an important window of opportunity for many young people to gain maximum value from psychosocial and psychoeducational supports. These supports can, among others, include:
Support for ADHD can also include parent training. This is not to suggest parents cause ADHD. Rather, they can support more effective treatment, especially since the rigours of ADHD can be a challenge to even the “perfect” parent.
However, the message from these new guidelines is that ADHD diagnosis is a complex process that takes a specialist at least three hours. Online sources might be useful to prompt people to seek help, but diagnosis should come from a qualified health-care professional.
Finally, while we have moved beyond unhelpful past debate about whether ADHD is real to consolidate best diagnostic and prescribing practice, there is some way to go in reducing stigma and changing negative community attitudes to ADHD.
Hopefully in future we’ll be better able to cherish diversity and difference, and not just see it as a deficit.
Brenton Prosser is a Board Member of the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions Australasia and affiliated with the School of Population Health at UNSW.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested multiple youths in relation to a ram raid in Moil early this morning.
Around 2:30am, police received reports that a business in Moil Place had been ram raided with a stolen Mitsubishi Pajero. The alleged offenders then stole a quantity of alcohol and fled the scene in the vehicle.
A crime scene was established and investigations commenced.
Detectives from Strike Force Trident have now arrested 4 males, aged between 13 and 15. All remain in custody and are expected to be charged later today.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact 131 444 and quote occurrence number P24273707.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Westaway, Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Archaeology, School of Social Science, The University of Queensland
The NSW Education Standards Authority has announced that teaching of the Aboriginal past prior to European arrival will be excluded from the Year 7–10 syllabus as of 2027.
Since 2012, the topic “Ancient Australia” has been taught nationally in Year 7 as part of the Australian Curriculum. In 2022, a new topic called the “deep time history of Australia” was introduced to provide a more detailed study of 65,000 years of First Nations’ occupation of the continent.
However, New South Wales has surprisingly dropped this topic from its new syllabus, which will be rolled out in 2027. Instead, students will only learn First Nations’ history following European colonisation in 1788.
This directly undermines the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration of 2020. This is a national agreement, signed by education ministers from all jurisdictions, which states:
We recognise the more than 60,000 years [sic] of continual connection by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as a key part of the nation’s history, present and future.
If the planned change to the syllabus goes through, the only Aboriginal history taught to NSW students would be that which reflects the destruction of traditional Aboriginal society. It also means Aboriginal students in NSW will be denied a chance to learn about their deep ancestral past.
The significance of Australia’s deep time past
Bruce Pascoe’s groundbreaking 2014 book Dark Emu (which sold more than 500,000 copies), and the associated documentary, have highlighted an enormous appetite for learning about Australia’s deep time past.
Hundreds of thousands of Australians engaged with Dark Emu. As anthropologist Paul Memmott notes, the book prompted a debate that encouraged a better understanding of Aboriginal society and its complexity.
It also generated research that investigated whether terms such as “hunter-gatherers” are appropriate for defining past Aboriginal society and economic systems.
In schools, teachers have used Pascoe’s book Young Dark Emu to introduce students to sophisticated land and aquaculture systems used by First Peoples prior to colonisation.
The book raises an important question. If you lived in a country that invented bread and the edge-ground axe – a culture that independently developed early trade and social living – and did all of this without resorting to land war – wouldn’t you want your children to know about it?
For many students, the history they learn at school is knowledge they carry into their adult lives – and knowledge is the strongest antidote to ignorance. Rather than abandoning the Aboriginal deep time story, schools should be encouraging students to engage with it.
Learning on Country
One of the strengths of the current NSW history syllabus is the requirement for students to undertake a “site study” in Years 8 and 9. Currently, NSW is the only jurisdiction that has made this mandatory.
Site studies are an excellent opportunity for students to learn on Country. Many teachers organise excursions to Aboriginal cultural sites where students can directly engage with local Traditional Owners and Elders.
New South Wales is brimming with sites of cultural significance to Aboriginal people. The map below highlightssome of these, ranging from megafauna sites, to extensive fish traps, to the enigmatic rock art galleries and ceremonial engravings (petroglyphs).
How students will miss out
The Ngambaa people and archaeologists from the University of Queensland are currently investigating one of the largest midden complexes in Australia. This complex, located at Clybucca and Stuart’s Point on the north coast, spans some 14 kilometres and dates back to around 9,000 years ago.
Middens, or “living sites”, are accumulations of shell that were built over time through thousands of discarded seafood meals. Since the shells help reduce the acidic chemistry of the soil, animal bones and plant remains are more likely to be preserved in middens.
For instance, the Clybucca-Stuarts Point midden complex contains remains from seals and dugongs. Both of these animals were once part of the local ecosystem, but no longer are.
The middens also extend back to before the arrival of dingoes, so studying them could help us understand how biodiversity changed once dingoes replaced thylacines and Tasmanian devils on the mainland.
Local school students, especially Aboriginal students, will be actively participating in this cutting-edge research alongside the Ngambaa people, archaeologists and teachers. Among other things, the students will learn how the Ngambaa people sustainably managed land and sea Country over thousand of years during periods of dramatic environmental change.
But innovative programs like this will no longer be as relevant if Australia’s deep time history is removed from the NSW syllabus.
An opportunity for leadership
The study of First Nations archaeological sites, history and cultures tells us a broader human story of continuity and adaptability over deep time. Indigenising the curriculum – wherein Aboriginal knowledge is braided with historical and archaeological inquiry – is a powerful way to reconcile different approaches to understanding the past.
The NSW Education Standards Authority’s proposed changes risk sending young people the message that Australia’s “history” before colonisation is not an important part of the country’s historic narrative.
But there is still time to show leadership – by reversing the decisions and by connecting teachers and students to powerful stories from Australia’s deep time past.
Michael Westaway receives funding from the Australian Research Council and Humanities and Social Science at the University of Queensland .
Bruce Pascoe is the author of the texts mentioned in this article, Dark Emu and Young Dark Emu: A Truer History. He also has positions on the boards of Black Duck Foods, the Twofold Aboriginal Corporation and First Languages Australia.
Louise Zarmati receives research funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence of Australian Biodiversity and Heritage.
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
04 October 2024
Who does this notice affect?
Approved arrangements operators, customs brokers, importers, manned depots, and freight forwarders who will be required to book and manage requests for import inspections using the Biosecurity Portal during this scheduled maintenance window.
Approved arrangements operators who will be required to view electronic government certificates (eCertificates) and relevant attachments online as part of document assessment for imported…
Police have investigated the circumstances of an unoccupied boat washing ashore at Kingston Beach on Wednesday, and have determined there are no suspicious circumstances. “As part of our investigation, police have reviewed cctv from several locations, located personal items, and spoken to a number of people, and it has been determined there are no suspicious circumstances,” said Commander Jason Elmer. “Sadly we believe the owner of the vessel – a man in his 70s – entered the water on Wednesday.” “Extensive searches have been conducted, utilising marine resources and two helicopters, however unfortunately at this stage the man has not been located.” “Following a comprehensive review, the search has been suspended, however we will continue to investigate any information received.” Anyone with information that may assist the police investigation is asked to contact police on 131 444 – quote ESCAD 211-02102024. “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the missing man.”
The Albanese Labor Government’s vision of a New Specialist Disability Employment Program that puts participants back at the centre is one step closer to being realised with a request for tender now open.
From 1 July next year the new program will replace the current Disability Employment Services program to improve the employment and career outcomes for people with disability through high quality, individualised and effective specialist disability employment services.
The new Program will focus on providing tailored supports to assist people with disability, injury and/or a health condition to find and maintain suitable, sustainable employment that supports their career goals.
It will build a more viable and attractive market that includes a wider range of small and specialist providers with deep expertise to provide real choice for people with disability.
The new specialist Program features several key changes, including:
expanded eligibility to help more people with disability, injury and/or a health condition to prepare for and find sustainable employment. This will support up to 15,000 additional people a year with an assessed work capacity below eight hours per week, and people not on income support;
the removal of the current two-year program limit;
a focus on the meaningful engagement of participants by providers, with the expectation that providers will work with participants to build positive relationships and take a partnership-based approach to goal setting and engagement in activities; and
increased flexibility and customisation to meet the individual needs of participants through two new service offers based around intensive or flexible servicing arrangements.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the design of the new Program will see providers place both participants and employers at the centre of their services, focusing on these important relationships rather than unnecessary complexity.
“We are inviting organisations with diverse expertise and a focus on providing quality services and are passionate about improving employment outcomes for people with disability to submit a tender response,” Minister Rishworth said.
“Under the new Program, providers will be expected to design and deliver services to meet the unique needs of their participants and employers.
“We are prioritising both intensive and flexible services to meet the individual needs of participants and will expand eligibility to help those who will benefit most. Because we believe that if a person with disability wants help to find a job, support should be available.”
The new specialist Program was announced as part of this year’s Budget, following two years of stakeholder consultation on DES reforms.
The program’s design has been informed by extensive consultation with the disability employment sector and multiple reviews, including feedback received through public consultation on an Exposure Draft of the request for tender in August 2024.
Interested organisations can submit a tender through AusTender.
More information on the Government’s reforms to Disability Employment Services is available on the DSS website.
The new Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Aeromedical Training Academy in Bundaberg is now officially opened.
Located next to the Bundaberg RFDS base, the new academy has a Beechcraft King Air B360/260 Flight simulator – the first of its kind in Australia – as well as two simulator rooms, two full motion aircraft simulation bays, five meeting rooms and two offices.
The facility also features changerooms, IT and storage rooms, solar energy capabilities, 18 car parking spaces and an access road to service the simulator building.
This world-class facility will train the next generation of Queensland RFDS pilots, with non-RFDS pilots also able to use the simulator for their endorsements or regular training for King Air aircraft.
In total, the simulator will be able to provide 7,000 hours of simulator training on a 24/7 basis, with the RFDS to utilise 1,500 of those available hours.
The project supported 200 jobs during construction, 90 per cent of these living in the region.
The Australian Government committed $14.9 million to the $28.88 million project, with the RFDS ($10.4 million) QCoal Foundation ($3 million) and Bundaberg Regional Council ($580,000 in kind donation) providing the remaining funds.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:
“This new state-of-the-art academy will support essential medical services by ensuring Queensland RFDS pilots are trained to meet current flight standards in a superior training device.
“We’re proud to have played a role in making this project a reality, through our $14.9 million contribution, so the RFDS has the facilities they need to save lives in the future.
“This project highlights our commitment to delivering the services and infrastructure that regional, rural and remote communities need.
“The RFDS Aeromedical Training Academy won’t just benefit the hundreds of people who receive care from the RFDS each year, it will also cement Bundaberg as a hub for regional healthcare and training in specialist services.”
The City of Wanneroo’s 2024/25 free events series guarantees to entertain residents and visitors from this October through to May 2025.
We have 12 fun-filled family friendly events lined up, from toe-tapping concerts and buzzing festivals, to laid-back evenings in the park.
Mayor Linda Aitken said the series was all about highlighting the importance of community and encouraging everybody to get involved and attend an event in their suburb.
“Get ready for the return of our crowd-favourite, Symphony Under the Stars! This year, we’re turning up the spotlight on some incredible local talent,” she said. “Enter our Search for a Star competition and you might just find yourself performing with a 70-piece orchestra!”
“This concert is always popular, and it’s easy to see why – it’s a night of unforgettable music under the open sky.
“From the carnival vibes of the Banksia Grove Fun Fest that kicks off the season, to the City-wide celebration of art at the Beach to Bush Arts Festival in May, our event season has something for everyone.
“Wherever you are in the City, don’t miss out on the fun, there’s something to please everyone.”
The 2024/25 City of Wanneroo events series includes:
Banksia Grove Fun Fest, Saturday 26 October 2024, Grandis Park, Banksia Grove
Evening in the Park, Saturday 9 November 2024, Ridgewood Park, Ridgewood
Sunset Sounds Alkimos, Saturday 30 November 2024, Leatherback Park, Alkimos
Aquamotion Outdoor Cinema, Saturday 7 December 2024, Wanneroo Aquamotion
Christmas Fiesta, Saturday 14 December 2024, Wanneroo Town Centre
Aquamotion Family Fun Day, 11 January 2025, Wanneroo Aquamotion
Sunset Sounds Landsdale, Saturday 18 January 2025, Warradale Park, Landsdale
Wanneroo Festival, Saturday 1 February 2025, Wanneroo Showgrounds, Wanneroo
Symphony under the Stars, Saturday 22 February 2025, Kingsway Sporting Complex, Madeley *includes Search for a Star competition
Fun Fest Clarkson, Saturday 8 March 2025, Riverlinks Park, Clarkson
Multicultural Evening in the Park, Friday 21 March 2025, Hudson Park, Girrawheen
Beach to Bush Arts Festival, Friday 9 May to Sunday 25 May, various locations across the City.
All events are free to attend, with no registration required.
The Albanese Government continues its crack down on unethical tax avoidance behaviour with a consultation paper released today to review the tax promoter penalty laws. This forms the next part of the government’s steadfast response to the PwC tax scandal.
The promoter penalty laws are designed to capture tax agents who promote illegal and fraudulent schemes to clients to reduce their taxes. However, the PwC scandal exposed gaps in these laws, which did not capture the heinous activity of those involved in the promotion of illegal tax dodging schemes to multinational corporations.
The government responded quickly to close the obvious loopholes, and this consultation builds on the legislation passed in May 2024, which significantly increased the maximum civil penalties for promoters of tax exploitation schemes.
This consultation is considering whether the regime, as amended in response to the scandal, is fit for purpose, adequately addresses current types of promoter activity, and effectively safeguards taxpayers from being enticed into illegal tax exploitation schemes.
The government is committed to ensuring the ATO has the tools to address tax exploitation schemes and closing gaps identified during the PwC matter.
The government seeks feedback on:
The effectiveness of the current regime in deterring and addressing the promotion of tax exploitation schemes
Operation of the framework, including whether existing exemptions provide appropriate safeguards to tax practitioners providing genuine advice
How other existing, comparable regimes effectively deter misconduct.
The Albanese Labor Government is overseeing the biggest crackdown on tax adviser misconduct in Australian history.
The PwC scandal exposed severe shortcomings in our regulatory frameworks that were largely ignored by the Coalition, and we’re taking significant steps to clean up the mess.
We’re cracking down on misconduct to rebuild people’s faith in the systems and structures that keep our tax system and capital markets strong.
Interested stakeholders are encouraged to provide their feedback by 1 November 2024.
Further information regarding the consultation process is available on the Treasury website.
This is the fifth of eight Treasury‑led reviews announced by the Government in its PwC response.
More than 70 brigade members recently gathered in Swan Reach to compete in CFA’s District 11 Firefighter Games.
While the sun shone across the weekend (September 15), members travelling from Mallacoota, Cann River and Omeo drove through snow to participate at Swan Reach Recreation Reserve.
Seven brigades got involved in the day, competing for medals and trophies throughout activities that made use of their general firefighter, driving, leadership and teamwork skills.
New Bairnsdale recruit Vijay Ravi was one of the fresh faces to embrace the day, having just completed his General Firefighter Course three weeks ago.
“It was such a great day. It was really nice to see other members from different brigades and to have so many people there supporting,” Vijay said.
“I really enjoyed the bushfire event and the hydrant relay – it was a good opportunity to continue developing my skills.
“Since I finished my practical test a few weeks ago, I haven’t missed a call out.”
That day entailed a round-robin approach, with members making their way through a running grass fire event, a hydrant relay, entrapment drill, draughting, a five-person fog attack and a navigation and communication exercise.
Up to five participants took part in each event, with fire ground practices adhered to and time deductions for any errors made. Coaches were encouraged on the course and judges gave feedback at the conclusion of runs.
To close out the day, each team nominated two pairs to compete in a hose race, with Group Officers jumping in for a go. Metung Fire Brigade were the eventual winners with their promising juniors coming in second, and their Junior Leaders winning the race by less than a second.
The overall trophy was presented to Bairnsdale Fire Brigade by Tim Bull MP, who were said to be practicing across many nights in the lead up. While gold, silver and bronze medals were presented in each event by Tim Bull MP, CFA’s Manager for South East Region Volunteer Sustainability Lisa Peters and Councillor Arthur Allan.
“I’ve just moved from Eagle Point, and I knew one of my friends was already in CFA so I just asked him if I could come down with him and give it a go,” Vijay said.
“It’s a great way to make friends and events like these are such fun experiences.”
Participants and supporters were also treated to a showcase of specialist vehicles, including the Metung Marine Unit, Lakes Entrance Rescue Unit, Sarsfield Big Fill, Paynesville Rehab Unit and Bairnsdale’s Breathing Apparatus Support Unit.
The D11 Headquarters Brigade staging area truck and communications van was also on display, and onlookers got a sneak peek at the Light Tanker Prototype truck that is currently touring Victoria.
Headline: Get on board: make this summer your safest boating season yet
Published: 4 October 2024
Released by: Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Minister for Transport
NSW Maritime, Marine Rescue NSW, NSW Police Marine Area Command, and Surf Life Saving NSW have joined forces on NSW waterways, calling on the public to put safety first this boating season, which begins this Labour Day long weekend.
With a hot summer predicted, the state’s water rescue agencies are on high alert for a busy boating season ahead.
The start of the boating season aligns with National Safe Boating Week, a week long initiative with a focus on lifejacket wear, care and servicing. All boaters are encouraged to always wear a lifejacket, make sure everybody on board is wearing one, and remember it can only save your life if you’re wearing it.
Over the last five years, there have been 13 boating-related fatalities on Hunter waterways, with nine of those found to not be wearing a lifejacket.
Statewide, there were 61 coastal drownings along the state’s coastline last financial year, with life savers undertaking 4,489 surf rescues.
Leading into the season launch NSW Maritime kicked off the school holidays with Operation Get On Board, a two-day statewide safety and education blitz to help boaters prepare for the months ahead on the water.
NSW Maritime has conducted 33,265 vessel safety checks in the Hunter over the past five years.
While the majority of boaters have been doing the right thing, the top 3 offences in the Hunter over the last five years have been:
License offences or unregistered vessels – 1478
Lifejacket non-compliance – 1239
Improper or no safety equipment on board – 969
All boaters are encouraged to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW before spending a day on the water.
Logging On provides peace of mind for boaters and their families, knowing that dedicated volunteers will keep watch for their safe return. It is quick and easy to Log On via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16. It only takes a minute to protect a lifetime.
“New South Wales is the best place in the world to get out on the water, but popular waterways are busy waterways and we have to work hard to remind every skipper and their passengers safe.
“Lots of boats will have been sitting idle over winter, so give them a proper once over and check all your safety gear is on board before you set out on the water.
“Last summer, Boating Safety Officers carried out around 35,000 vessel safety checks across the state and lifejacket non-compliance was the number one offence, accounting for 30 per cent.
“Sadly, there have been six boating related fatalities this financial year, and five of whom were not wearing a lifejacket.
“A lifejacket can only save you if you’re wearing it. So if you step into a boat, pop on a lifejacket. It’ll keep you safe.”
Police Minister Yasmin Catley said:
“Police will be patrolling all the state’s waterways including dams and rivers and will not tolerate any dangerous and anti-social behaviour this boating season.
“Officers will be conducting drug and alcohol testing as well as compliance checks – so make sure that your vessel is in good working order, know your vessel’s capabilities and don’t go beyond its limits.
“We want everyone to get home safely, so we remind skippers that they are responsible for the safety of everyone on board their vessel – it is vital that everyone has a fitted lifejacket, as it could save a life.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“As the weather warms up and people flock back to our waterways, it’s important that boat users check they have enough life jackets on board and make sure their vessels are seaworthy.
“Our Marine Rescue NSW volunteers dedicate their time to keeping water users safe, and communities need to do their bit by logging on and off with Marine Rescue NSW so volunteers know they are on the water.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have charged a man after a dangerous driving incident in Coolalinga overnight.
Around 9:10pm, Darwin Traffic Operations were conducting speed enforcement duties along the Stuart Highway, Coolalinga, when a blue Holden Commodore utility was detected travelling at 122 km/hr in a posted 80 km/hr zone.
Police followed the offending vehicle along the Stuart Highway up until the Lambrick Avenue intersection, at which time a traffic apprehension was attempted. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated through the Palmerston suburbs of Zuccoli, Rosebery, Gunn and Bakewell.
Tyre Deflation Devices were deployed on Lambrick Avenue near the intersection of Hutchison Terrace at which time the vehicle came to a stop. The driver refused to exit the vehicle resulting in him being extracted and arrested.
The 42-year-old man has since been charged with:
Exceed speed limit 31 – 45 km/hr over
Fail to obey direction of Police officer
Resist Police in execution of duty
Drive under the influence of drugs
Not stop at stop sign
Exceed speed limit 01-15 km/hr over
Senior Sergeant Devrim Kanyilmaz said “ This was an incredibly dangerous driver that was putting himself, other motorists and police at risk.
“ There is absolutely zero excuse for this behaviour on our roads and I commend the officers involved who no doubt averted a potentially fatal incident from occurring. ”
Headline: Record breaking season for Snowy Mountains Bus Service
Published: 4 October 2024
Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads
A record breaking number of people have ditched cars for the Minns Labor Government’s expanded Snowy Mountains Bus Service which has hit a major milestone of more than 90,000 customer journeys for the first time.
This snow season has been the service’s most successful ever, with more than 10,000 additional journeys taken compared to the 2023 season.
The success of the service has led to improved road safety, with Transport for NSW estimating about 30,000 fewer car trips have been taken to and from the Alpine slopes due to the availability of the bus service.
The winter school holidays was unsurprisingly the busiest period this year, with an additional 50 services scheduled to manage the demand. Between 8 and 28 July, 409 services ran at 100 per cent capacity – or about 20 per cent of all services.
Feedback from passengers was again overwhelmingly positive, with 90 per cent of those surveyed saying they would use the service again.
The Snowy Mountains Bus Service for 2024 will conclude on 6 October.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to have supported another successful season for the Snowy Mountains Bus Service which is going from strength to strength.
“In response to this growing demand, we delivered an expansion of routes to include a Cooma via Berridale to Jindabyne service while more trips were also added to support the school holiday peak.
“Increased services led to improved safety on our roads at the busiest times for the snowfields, contributing to fewer journeys by car on roads impacted by ice and snow.
“The convenience was experienced by both locals and visitors to our region who not only used the bus as a reliable way to get to the snow, but also to access our mountain trails for other recreational activities.”
Member for Monaro Steve Whan said:
“The Snowy Mountains Bus Service continues to offer a reliable public transport option improving access to the snowfields for workers, visitors and locals. This also means less cars on the road which is a great safety outcome.
“The service allows a stress-free journey to the snowfields for all snow goers and takes the stress off drivers who might not have much experience driving in the alpine conditions.”
Grassroots organizations can help address fragility. The work of Villijoali highlights the critical role of grassroots organizations in fostering social inclusion and resilience, particularly in fragile contexts. By focusing on inclusive dialogue and empowering marginalized groups, they help strengthen social cohesion in communities facing fragility. Community engagement not only mitigates vulnerabilities but also enhances the community’s capacity to recover from societal disruptions, aligning closely with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Development partners play an important supporting role. Without government support, Villijoali’s work remains limited in scale. CSOs need capacity-building support and partnerships with development organizations to expand their impact. Development actors can play a vital role by offering technical assistance and exposure to global best practices, empowering organizations to scale its efforts and collaborate with other grassroots movements. A notable example is the Australian High Commission’s support in helping Villijoali raise funds through community engagement. Additionally, the Commission invited Villijoali to participate in focus group discussions with persons with disabilities (PWDs) and allies, fostering collaboration on enhancing the inclusivity of Australia Awards scholarships for PWDs in Maldives.
In this context, ADB’s fragility and resilience assessments under its Fragile and Small Island Developing States Approach (FSA) provides a comprehensive framework for engaging CSOs like Villijoali. These assessments emphasize the importance of resilience through community engagement, social cohesion, and the empowerment of marginalized groups. This engagement is essential in conflict contexts where the role of CSOs is crucial in service delivery and fostering social trust.
Interconnected issues require a nexus approach. Incorporating the Humanitarian–Development–Peace (HDP) nexus into CSO work could also significantly enhance its capacity to build resilience in fragile communities. The HDP nexus emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanitarian aid, long-term development, and peacebuilding. Through Villijoali’s ongoing efforts to empower local communities, the organization contributes to both immediate relief (such as support for disabled persons and migrant workers) and long-term development (such as youth empowerment and environmental advocacy). By engaging at-risk youth and promoting peaceful dialogue, Villijoali’s initiatives also play a critical role in preventing the escalation of conflict, a core tenet of the HDP approach.
As the organization continues to flourish, its role in advancing social inclusion, environmental stewardship, and community resilience will be pivotal in shaping the future of Maldives.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
A wet and unseasonably hot September A wet and unseasonably hot September ************************************
Mainly attributing to weaker than normal northeast monsoon over southern China, September 2024 was much hotter than usual in Hong Kong. The mean temperature of 29.2 degrees, mean maximum temperature of 32.0 degrees and mean minimum temperature of 26.8 degrees were 1.3 degrees, 1.5 degrees and 0.7 degrees above the respective normals and were respectively the third, one of the fourth and one of the seventh highest for September on record. With stronger than normal troughing flow in the lower atmosphere over the coast of southern China and the northern part of the South China Sea, the month was also cloudier and wetter than usual. The mean amount of cloud in the month was 74 per cent, 8 per cent above the normal of 66 per cent and one of the ninth highest on record for September. The monthly total rainfall was 520.9 millimetres, about 62 per cent above the normal figure of 321.4 millimetres. The accumulated rainfall this year up to September was 2104.3 millimetres, about 6 per cent lower than the normal figure of 2242.8 millimetres for the same period. Under the influence of an anticyclone aloft, the weather of Hong Kong was very hot with sunny periods during the day on the first four days of the month. High temperatures also triggered thundery showers over the territory from September 2 to 4. The showers were particularly heavy on September 3 and more than 30 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over many places of Hong Kong. After a quiet period of tropical cyclone activities over the South China Sea in August, an area of low pressure over the seas east of the Philippines intensified into a tropical depression on September 1 and was named Yagi. Yagi moved across Luzon the next day and entered the northern part of the South China Sea on September 3. Moving generally westward across the northern part of the South China Sea, Yagi rapidly intensified from a severe tropical storm to a super typhoon in just 24 hours. Yagi attained its peak intensity with an estimated maximum sustained wind of 230 kilometres per hour near its centre on September 6, making it the second strongest tropical cyclone in the South China Sea since the Observatory’s records began in 1950. After moving across Hainan Island and Beibu Wan, Yagi made landfall over the northern part of Vietnam later on September 7 and progressively weakened into an area of low pressure over the inland areas on September 8. In Hong Kong, it was still very hot with sunny intervals during the day on September 5. With the approach of Yagi, the weather of Hong Kong deteriorated later on that day and the Observatory issued the first No. 8 Gale or Storm Signal in the year. Strong to gale force winds generally affected the territory with occasional storm force winds on high ground later on September 5 and at first on September 6. With Yagi departing from Hong Kong, local winds moderated later on September 6. The outer rainbands of Yagi brought heavy showers, violent gusts and thunderstorms to Hong Kong on the night of September 5 and the next two days. Violent gusts of around 139 kilometres per hour were once recorded at Central Pier on the night of September 5. More than 100 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over most parts of Hong Kong from September 5 to 7 and rainfall even exceeded 200 millimetres over the northeastern part of the New Territories. Under the influence of an upper-air disturbance, it was mainly cloudy with occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms on September 8 and 9. The showers were particularly heavy over parts of Sha Tin, Wong Tai Sin and Eastern Districts with more than 80 millimetres of rainfall recorded on these two days. Under light wind conditions, apart from isolated showers and thunderstorms, the weather was generally fine and very hot from September 10 to 13 and the morning of September 14. Thundery showers associated with upper-air disturbances affected the territory on the afternoon of September 14 and more than 50 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over Kowloon. Affected by an upper-air disturbance, the weather was a mixture of sunny periods and showers on September 15 and 16. The weather was generally fine and very hot during the day from September 17 to 19. With plenty of sunshine, it was extremely hot on September 17, with temperatures at the Observatory rising to a maximum of 35.7 degrees, the highest of the month and also the hottest Mid-Autumn Festival on record. However, thundery showers triggered by high temperatures developed over the coast of eastern Guangdong and moved towards Hong Kong at night, bringing around 30 millimetres of rainfall to many places of the territory. A broad trough of low pressure lingered over the northern part of the South China Sea and the coast of Guangdong from September 20 to 24, causing local weather to turn cloudy with occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms. The showers were particularly heavy during the day on September 21 when an area of low pressure over the trough moved across Hong Kong, necessitating the issuance of the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal. More than 50 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over many places of the territory and rainfall even exceeded 70 millimetres over Hong Kong Island on that day. The weather remained unsettled in the next few days. More than 100 millimetres of rainfall were generally recorded over the territory and rainfall even exceeded 250 millimetres over most parts of Hong Kong Island from September 20 to 24. Furthermore, a northeast monsoon reached the coast of southern China on September 22 and brought slightly cooler weather to Hong Kong on September 22 and 23. Under the rain and affected by the northeast monsoon, the temperatures at the Observatory dropped to a minimum of 23.4 degrees on the morning of September 23, the lowest of the month. With the weakening of the trough of low pressure, the showers eased off with sunny periods during the day on September 25. An anticyclone aloft brought generally fine weather on September 26 and 27. Affected by an upper-air disturbance, the weather turned cloudier with more showers on September 28 with severe squally thunderstorms in the afternoon. Waterspout was also reported over the sea area off Hung Hom, the first occurrence in Victoria Harbour according to reports received by the Observatory since 1959. Under the influence of the outer subsiding air of Super Typhoon Krathon, apart from isolated showers, it was generally fine in Hong Kong on the last two days of the month. Eleven tropical cyclones occurred over the South China Sea and the western North Pacific in September 2024. Details of issuance and cancellation of various warnings/signals in the month are summarised in Table 1. Monthly meteorological figures and departures from normal for September are tabulated in Table 2.
Responding toGoogle’s claim that it will stop linking to New Zealand news sitesif the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill passes, ACT Leader David Seymour says:
“The Government is now playing chicken with Google, and New Zealanders stand to lose. ACT has always said this Labour Government Bill wouldn’t work, that’s why we agreed to disagree with our partners on it. We renew our call on National and New Zealand First to dump the Fair News Digital Bargaining Bill.
“If Google make good on their threat, New Zealand audiences and media companies will be worse off. Smaller media outlets in particular would suffer as they would be denied the opportunity to connect with new audiences via search results.
“It is not any government’s job to protect businesses from customers making different choices. The internet has made it easier than ever to report news, and certain outlets need to stop blaming the internet and start looking at their product.
“It is not accurate to describe the bill as any kind of ‘bargaining’. Instead, politicians would decide who gets what. This undermines the separation between government and media which is fundamental to democracy.”
Consumer Affairs Victoria is inviting renters and people living in retirement housing to take part in a review of our services.
We fund several renting and retirement housing programs run by not-for-profit community organisations across the state. These programs help at-risk Victorians manage issues or disputes about their housing.
For example, advocates provide information and advice, help negotiating with rental providers and estate agents, assistance preparing for court or tribunal hearings and connections to other services.
The housing market and demand for renter support services has changed since the programs started. We want to know how our services are working and ways we can improve to suit your needs.
You can take part in the review by visiting the Engage Victoria website. We have published a discussion paper to help guide feedback. Feedback is open until 30 October 2024.
This review is part of a larger consultation to improve our programs. We recently invited feedback on our Domestic Building Legal Service.
