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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: Police 101 Call Waits Drop as Forces Boost Transparency & Speed

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Contact Portfolio today (29 May) announces a significant step forward in policing transparency and efficiency: the publication of monthly 101 call wait time data. This initiative demonstrates the continued commitment of police forces across England and Wales to improving public contact, responsiveness, and service accessibility.

    Starting with figures for the financial year 2024/25, the data – published on Police.uk – will offer the public clearer insights into how long it takes to reach their local force via 101. The publication of these figures reflects years of dedicated efforts to modernise police contact systems, introduce technology-driven solutions, and provide greater accountability to the communities that police serve.

    Policing Efforts Cut 101 Call Wait Times to Just 32 Seconds 

    Significant advancements in contact management, including enhanced digital triage, AI-driven call routing, and smarter resourcing strategies, have led to a remarkable reduction in 101 call wait times across the country – now just 30 seconds.

    This achievement reflects the dedication of forces in adopting modern solutions and refining call-handling processes to ensure that members of the public receive swift assistance when they need it. Investments in intelligent queuing systems, workforce optimisation, and automated call-back technology have played a pivotal role in delivering these improvements.

    The NPCC Contact Management Portfolio remains committed to further refining these systems, driving innovation, and maintaining the highest standards in public service efficiency.

    T/DCC Catherine Akehurst is the outgoing NPCC Contact Management Lead and has led the development and implementation of this initiative. She said:

    “This marks a defining moment in how policing connects with the public. The journey to reach this point has been one of collaboration, dedication, and sheer determination by colleagues across forces who have worked tirelessly to modernise contact management.

    “From refining call-handling processes to integrating new technologies, every step has been guided by a commitment to ensuring that people who need assistance can access it efficiently. I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed their expertise and passion to this project; it is their ingenuity and perseverance that have made this possible.”

    DCC Simon Megicks is the Digital Public Contact Lead and new NPCC Contact Management Lead. He added:

    “Publishing this data is not only about transparency – it is about progress. Police forces are now leveraging artificial intelligence, digital call-routing, and smarter triage systems to enhance contact management like never before. We are at the forefront of technological transformation in policing, ensuring that public interactions become more efficient, seamless, and responsive.

    “I want to thank T/DCC Catherine Akehurst and all those who have worked to bring us to this moment. Now, we move forward – continuing to evolve, innovate, and push the boundaries of what is possible in contact management. The future is bright, and this initiative is just the beginning of what’s to come.”

    “This new standard in transparency and data publication reinforces policing’s commitment to continuous improvement in service accessibility, responsiveness, and efficiency. As forces integrate smarter digital solutions and refine operational processes, the focus remains on providing reliable and responsive contact management for communities across the country.”

    Think Before You Call – Keep Emergency Lines Clear This Summer

    With summer approaching, police forces are preparing for a surge in calls. The warmer months bring an increase in demand, and it’s essential that emergency lines remain clear for those who truly need urgent help.

    999 is for emergencies only – serious crimes, threats to life, and situations requiring immediate police response. 101 should be used for genuine police matters, such as reporting non-urgent crime or seeking advice from your local force.

    Unfortunately, we receive a surprising number of unnecessary calls, which clog up the system and delay responses for those in real need. Some examples include complaints about fast-food orders, requests for lost remote controls, and even enquiries about celebrity gossip.

    Here are some unexpected examples of emergency calls that, in reality, were far from urgent:

    • Cambridgeshire Police received calls from individuals asking for assistance with homework and even placing requests for fast food.
    • Gloucestershire Police were dialled on 999 over a spilled cup of coffee and grievances about car wash employees.
    • Hertfordshire Constabulary had a caller seeking nothing more than a phone number for a taxi service.

    Police urge the public to pause and consider before calling – if the issue isn’t police-related, it could be taking time away from someone in distress. Let’s keep the lines open for those who truly need help and ensure our emergency services can focus on keeping communities safe.

    Many police forces now offer digital contact options, making it easier for people to get the help they need without picking up the phone.

    Police.uk provides a range of services to help people report crimes, seek support, and access policing information. Here are some key services available:

    • Reporting Crimes – You can report incidents such as theft, fraud, domestic abuse, hate crimes, and missing persons online.
    • Advice & Support – The site offers guidance on staying safe, dealing with crime, and understanding your rights.
    • Local Policing Information – Find out about crime rates, policing teams, and safety initiatives in your area.
    • Performance & Statistics – Access data on police effectiveness and crime trends across the UK.
    • StreetSafe – A tool that allows people to highlight areas where they feel unsafe, helping police improve public safety.

    The Police.UK app, available on Google Play and the iOS App Store, makes reporting crime and accessing vital policing information easier than ever. Whether you want to track local crime trends, find practical safety advice for your home, or stay updated on your local police team’s activities, the app puts essential services at your fingertips. Any contact made through the app is handled by the same trained professionals who manage 101 calls, ensuring consistent and reliable support.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More support for neurodivergent children in mainstream schools

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    More support for neurodivergent children in mainstream schools

    Around 300,000 children across 1,200 primary schools to benefit from earlier and better neurodiversity support.

    Around 300,000 children, including those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, will be better supported to achieve and thrive as the government expands successful programme to help boost attendance and behaviour.

    Backed by £9.5 million in government funding, the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) programme – which supports neurodiverse students by training teachers to identify and better meet their needs and improves parental engagement – will be extended for another year across a further 1,200 schools.

    One in seven children are estimated to be neurodiverse, and a lack of specialist training and awareness to support them means they often face bullying, higher rates of suspensions due to challenging behaviour, absence, and poor mental health.

    The positive impact of the PINs programme is already being seen in 1,600 primary schools which have previously taken part, with staff reporting increased attendance, improved behaviour, and better pupil wellbeing – which in turn benefits the entire school community.

    It ensures mainstream primary schools are more inclusive, enabling more children with SEN to thrive with their peers, meaning special schools can cater to those with the most complex needs – in line with the Government’s vision for a reformed SEND system as part of its Plan for Change.

    Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson said:

    The impact on life chances when there is a lack of appropriate support for neurodivergent children can be devastating.

    We want a different future for children with SEND: inclusive and tailored to meet their needs, so everyone has the chance to achieve and thrive, and excellence is for every child.

    As part of our Plan for Change, we are determined to fix the broken SEND system and restore the trust of parents by ensuring schools have the tools to better identify and support children before issues escalate to crisis point.

    Some neurodivergent children are highly sensitive to loud noises or bright lights, leading to sensory overload which makes it difficult to learn, while others have difficulty understanding social cues or communication, leading to feelings of isolation.

    Others can find skills such as managing time difficult, impacting their ability to complete tasks, and some may experience hyperactivity or difficulties with emotional regulation, which make behaviour challenging. On top of this, some pupils ‘mask’, which can lead to increased anxiety and burnout.

    Through the PINS programme, specialist education and health professionals provide vital training to school staff to better identify conditions and access interventions tailored to their specific needs, and to better understand how to interact with neurodivergent children in a supportive way.

    Schools are also expected to host termly meetings with parents and carers, allowing them to feedback on the school’s approach to supporting children’s needs, increasing parental confidence.

    Carfield Primary School in Yorkshire received support from a speech and language team and occupational therapist through the PINS programme which helped teachers better identify and support children’s needs.

    They now open the school gates earlier and stagger their lunch time for pupils to ensure there is a calmer, more regulated school environment to avoid overstimulation. Plus, each child has a profile for teachers to understand their individualised needs.

    Parent at the school, Abi Olajide, said:

    My son was finding some aspects of school difficult and I felt isolated until I was invited to a parents’ forum which made me feel like I wasn’t alone and we were in it together. 

    We got the opportunity to encourage one another as parents and better learn how to support our children’s needs.  My son’s class teacher is marvellous and is always giving updates on how he’s getting on. Before PINs, I didn’t know what to do but now the school and parents are all linked up and work in partnership.

    My son has improved in reading and in his enjoyment of school and he is starting to have better relationships with his peers. I feel really grateful for PINs because of all the support my son is getting, and how well he is now doing at school.

    Bethan Arthur, SENCO and Deputy Head Teacher at the school, said:

    We have seen a massive improvement in the schools’ relationship with parents and a significant improvement in children’s attendance – from 93% to 95%, which has been supported by engaging with the PINS programme.

    Tom Cahill, National Director for learning disability and autism at NHS England, said:   

    It is fantastic news that thousands more neurodivergent children are to be better supported to thrive in mainstream primary schools. 

    I visited a PINS primary school and saw first hand how health professionals can support schools in meeting the needs of neurodivergent children – I heard from parents who appreciated the support without the need for diagnoses or waiting lists.  

    Effective partnerships between local NHS systems, local authorities, schools and parent carer forums allows schools to access specialist health professionals to provide advice and training. Strengthening relationships between schools and parent carers ultimately leads to improved children’s experiences at school and provides us with a blueprint for the future.

    Sarah Clarke and Jo Harrison, Directors and Co-Chairs of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums said:

    The PINS programme has been an inspiring initiative, bringing together educators, health professionals, and parents to ensure neurodivergent children receive the support they need in their local schools.

    Through close collaboration with families and Parent Carer Forums, the programme has strengthened communication and mutual understanding between schools and families, leading to reduced isolation for those with SEND and improved access to additional support services. This collective effort has created a powerful network of expertise dedicated to improving outcomes for all neurodivergent children.

    The Government established its Neurodivergence “Task and Finish Group”, led by Professor Karen Guldberg, which brings together a group of experts to drive understanding of how to improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, in a way that works for neurodivergent children and young people.

    Professor Karen Guldberg, the Chair of the Neurodivergence Task and Finish Group, said:

    I welcome the expansion of the Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) programme. It focuses on strengthening the knowledge, understanding and skills of those who support neurodiverse children and young people in mainstream schools.

    It is an excellent example of strong partnership work between education, health and parent carers to meet the needs of neurodiverse children and young people.

    This comes as £740 million has been invested to encourage councils to create more specialist places in mainstream schools, driving inclusivity and enabling more children to achieve and thrive at their local school.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    DfE media enquiries

    Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government launches newly digitised historic editions of world’s oldest English language daily newspaper

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK Government launches newly digitised historic editions of world’s oldest English language daily newspaper

    From today (Thursday 29 May) copies from three centuries of the historic Belfast title will become accessible to the public online for the first time

    Secretary of State Hilary Benn views newly digitised historic editions of the News Letter during a visit to the British Library in London, accompanied by British Library Chief Executive Rebecca Lawrence and Richard Hall, DC Thomson Deputy Chair.

    • Belfast News Letter editions featuring key historical moments from the 18th-20th centuries now online, including the signing of the American Declaration of Independence.
    • Project delivers Safeguarding the Union command paper commitment.

    People around the world can now access newly digitised historic editions of the world’s oldest English language daily newspaper still in circulation, thanks to a UK Government project to highlight Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage.

    From today (Thursday 29 May) copies from three centuries of the historic Belfast title will become accessible to the public online for the first time, strengthening understanding of Northern Ireland’s newspaper heritage around the world and delivering on commitments made in the Safeguarding the Union command paper.

    First published in September 1737, the News Letter will mark its 288th anniversary as the oldest continuously published English language daily paper this year. The Northern Ireland Office has worked in partnership with the British Library and Findmypast to expand the online collection of the historic publication on the British Newspaper Archive dating to the late 18th, early 19th and 20th centuries. 

    Announcing the launch, Secretary of State Hilary Benn visited the British Library in London to view the new additions to the online archive. The British Library provided originals of the News Letter in microfilm and newspaper format, which were digitised by the online platform Findmypast, which has spent nearly 15 years working on a separate collaborative project to digitise the British Library’s vast newspaper collection.

    The Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, said:

    It was wonderful to be able to view the newly digitised editions of the Belfast News Letter at the British Library in London using the online archive.

    Bringing Northern Ireland’s newspaper heritage to a global audience will encourage research, exploration and appreciation of Northern Ireland’s rich political and cultural history.

    This UK Government project has opened up a unique resource to readers and researchers in nations around the world with historic links to Northern Ireland, including the USA.

    The archive is available online through the British Newspaper Archive and on Findmypast, and can be viewed freely at the British Library sites in London and Yorkshire, as well as at any library or by any private individual around the world with a subscription.

    Lee Wilkinson, Managing Director of DCThomson History, which owns Findmypast and the British Newspaper Archive, said:

    We’re delighted to bring these historic News Letter pages to the public, enabling more people to access this rich resource documenting Northern Ireland’s past at the click of a mouse.

    Over the past 15 years, through our unique relationship with the British Library, we have been able to bring millions of these key historical records to communities across the globe, so that families and researchers alike can uncover and understand their heritage.

    Rebecca Lawrence, Chief Executive of the British Library, said: 

    We are thrilled to make all known surviving copies of the News Letter accessible for the first time through the British Newspaper Archive, in partnership with Findmypast and the UK government. As the world’s oldest English language general daily newspaper still in circulation, the historic Belfast title offers insight into centuries of life, politics, and culture in Northern Ireland and beyond.

    The British Library is custodian of one of the world’s largest news archives, with over 60 million newspaper issues dating back to the 1600s, alongside growing collections of broadcast and digital news. Digitising all known surviving copies of the News Letter and making them available online preserves a vital piece of heritage and opens up the archive to researchers around the world.

    David Montgomery, founder, National World, said:

    Digitising The News Letter is an important step in preserving the paper’s iconic history of covering news from Northern Ireland and across the world for three centuries. By making historic copies of the paper available, we can recognise its continuing role in delivering quality journalism on stories that matter to its community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More regional events to get funding boost

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is driving economic growth in the regions by investing $2.6 million in 152 regional events, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.
    “I’m thrilled with the variety of exciting events on offer, encouraging more New Zealanders to enjoy and explore our beautiful country beyond the main centres,” Louise Upston says. 
    “Events include the National Waka Ama Sprint Championships in Waikato, the National Jazz Festival in the Bay of Plenty, the 2026 Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, and NZ Premier Motorsport Summer Series events around the country.
    “Some of the new events coming to the regions include the Whakapapa Festival, a non-skiing event occurring over June 2026, and Summernats NZ, a car festival in the Waikato.”
    “I’m particularly pleased to support events in regions which traditionally don’t see as many domestic tourists,” Louise Upston says. 
    “Investing in these events has a direct impact, with visitors spending money in local cafes, businesses and accommodation providers, driving economic activity in our communities.
    “By growing regional tourism, our remote and rural communities can benefit from the economic opportunities it brings.
    “Events are excellent drawcards to get more visitors into our regions, particularly in quieter parts of the year for the tourism and hospitality sector. 
    “New Zealand is open for business, and we encourage both Kiwis and international visitors alike to explore and enjoy what New Zealand has to offer.”
    Funding comes from the $5 million Regional Events Promotion Fund. Over its two rounds, the Fund has invested in 284 regional events.
    The full list of funding recipients is available on the MBIE website. 
    Note to editors: 

    The Regional Events Promotion Fund was a contestable fund over two financial years to support regions to host local events attracting domestic tourists.
    The Fund was established using $5 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy ($2.375 million for round one and $2.652 million for round two).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Excellence celebrated at first-ever Minister for Manufacturing Awards

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Exceptional Kiwi businesses and outstanding individuals who are driving industry productivity, innovation and job creation have been honoured at New Zealand’s inaugural Minister for Manufacturing Awards. 
     
    “Manufacturing fuels the economy by contributing over 8.4 percent to New Zealand’s GDP, generating more than 250,000 jobs and reinforcing our position as a global competitor,” Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing Chris Penk says. 
     
    “The 2025 Minister for Manufacturing Awards celebrated the prosperity this industry drives and most importantly, the outstanding people behind it.” 
     
    Held yesterday evening at Christchurch’s premier industry showcase, SouthMACH, the event was hosted by Mr Penk in collaboration with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa.
     
    “The calibre of finalists and winners reflects the strength and diversity of New Zealand’s manufacturing sector – from suppliers of sustainably harvested timber, to developers of ground-breaking recycling technologies and producers of life-saving medical equipment,” Mr Penk says.  
     
    “These businesses are led by innovative thinkers and powered by skilled, hard-working Kiwis. Their success is something we can all take pride in and shows that manufacturing will continue to play a significant role in shaping New Zealand into a world-class economy.” 

    The awards recognise excellence across four key categories. The winners are: 

    • Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year supported by Enztec: 
      Michael Vitale – Pacific Steel 
      Michael is working towards his Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship through Competenz at Pacific Steel. His early completion of theory components and impressive focus on health and safety in example projects shows remarkable dedication, and his success has encouraged the company to open apprenticeships to other operations employees.  
       
    • Excellence in Manufacturing Leadership supported by Lawson Williams Consulting:  
      Nathan Hay – Argus ManuTech 
      Nathan Hay is a passionate manufacturing leader who has championed technology adoption, grown the workforce and empowered his team through focused upskilling. Mr Hays has led impactful partnerships, including med-tech ventures with MARS Bioimaging, that highlight how progressive manufacturing can drive positive social and environmental outcomes.
       
    • Excellence in Process Innovation supported by Swell Group: 
      Breadcraft Wairarapa Ltd  
      Breadcraft Wairarapa is a fourth-generation artisan bakery that’s been proudly baking in Masterton since 1942. Through innovative brands like Rebel Bakehouse, they’re combining tradition, sustainability and creativity to lead New Zealand’s baking evolution.  
       
    • Manufacturer of the Year supported by BNZ: 
      Douglas Pharmaceuticals  
      Douglas Pharmaceuticals specialises in high-barrier prescription medicines, produced in FDA and TGA-certified GMP facilities. They have grown from a family business into a people-focused industry leader that is continually innovating and delivering strong financial results. Douglas Pharmaceuticals sets the benchmark for New Zealand manufacturing and is a worthy recipient of this award.  

    “I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the outstanding businesses and individuals honoured at the awards ceremony, and a sincere thanks to everyone who entered and attended,” Mr Penk says.  
     
    “Your dedication to building a thriving industry inspires the future generations of Kiwi makers and creators. I look forward to celebrating your achievements again at future Minister for Manufacturing Awards.” 

    Notes to editors: 

    For more information about the awards and finalists, visit the AMANZ website:  https://www.amanz.nz/news/meet-our-finalists-minister-for-manufacturing-awards-2025/ 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Look after yourself as floodwaters recede

    Source:

    As floodwaters recede in New South Wales, look after yourself – both physically and emotionally. Floods increase the risk of infections, mosquito-borne illnesses, and food and water contamination. Finding medicines can be harder, and the mental health toll, significant. Support is available.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Gel blasters and replica firearm seized

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Gel blasters and replica firearm seized

    Tuesday, 27 May 2025 – 1:00 pm.

    A replica pistol, gel blasters and an electronic stun device disguised as a torch were among items seized by Tasmania Police during searches of properties in the state’s north and south this morning.
    A 35-year-old Hobart man has been interviewed by police and issued with a summons to appear in court at a later date, as part of the ongoing joint operation between Tasmania Police and Australian Border Force authorities.
    This morning, (Tuesday, May 27) police executed simultaneous searches at two Tasmanian properties – one in the Hobart suburb of Lenah Valley and another in Mowbray, Launceston.
    The operation involved members from the Tasmania Police Drugs and Firearms Units (Southern and Northern), the Police Dog Handling Unit, Australian Border Force and specialist resources.
    Following the search of the Lenah Valley property, police seized four gel blaster-type pistols, one metal replica pistol, one foldable gel blaster submachine gun and quantities of alleged controlled substances (steroids).
    At the Mowbray address, officers searched a shed on the property and seized three gel blaster firearms resembling pistols, an electronic stun device disguised as a torch (Taser), ammunition and various chemicals.
    Also seized at the Mowbray property were body armour, ballistic helmets, balaclavas and police-style patches and insignia.
    Police advise that in Tasmania, gel blasters are considered firearms under the Firearms Act 1996.
    To lawfully possess any firearm in Tasmania – including a gel blaster – a licence of the category which is appropriate to that firearm is required. This means that to possess a gel blaster, which is an air rifle, a Category A licence is required.
    To possess a gel blaster which is an air pistol, a Category H licence is required.
    A person needs a genuine reason to possess a gel blaster, in the same way that they need a genuine reason to possess any other firearm.For further firearms information, go to www.fas.police.tas.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Nick Brown’s Statement on Appealing I-2066 to the Washington State Supreme Court

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following statement today after filing an appeal of a King County Superior Court’s ruling on Initiative-2066 to the Washington state Supreme Court:

    “While I personally disagreed with I-2066, it was passed by Washington voters and is the law of the state. My job as Attorney General is to enforce and defend the laws of Washington and I will continue to vigorously do so in this case.”

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: One Year In: How the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo Is Changing the Way People Do Laundry

    Source: Samsung

    Since debuting in February 2024, Samsung Electronics’ Bespoke AI Laundry Combo1 has sold more than 100,000 units in Korea and won 21 major awards,2 building a strong presence in the all-in-one washer-dryer market.
     
    Designed to boost convenience and make smarter use of time and space, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is reshaping daily life. Samsung Newsroom took an inside look at how that transformation is taking place and why.
     
     
    Wash and Dry in One Go — A Simpler Routine for Better Living
    According to a Samsung survey3 of 206 buyers in Korea who purchased all-in-one washer-dryers released in 2024, respondents cited the following top reasons for their purchase — no laundry transfer needed (23%), saving space (21%), single installation for both washing and drying (12%), and one-step operation from wash to dry (11%).
     

     
    As laundry becomes simpler and more convenient, how and when people do it is evolving. Compared to before purchasing all-in-one models, people are washing their clothes more frequently. Dual-income households, in particular, are increasingly doing their laundry on weeknights after work.
     

     

     
    As washing and drying are completed in a single automated cycle, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo allows users to simply load their clothes, press start and walk away. There’s no need to wait around or manually move wet clothes to a separate dryer. Furthermore, the Auto Open Door feature even opens the door automatically once drying is complete, releasing moisture quickly and enhancing hygiene and convenience.
     
     
    Simple Setup, Smarter Use of Space and AI-Optimized Cycles
    The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo also offers improved space efficiency and greater flexibility in installation. Unlike conventional setups that require separate space for both washer and dryer units, the all-in-one unit reduces spatial demand by around 40%,4 with no need to stack two machines or place them side-by-side. Its lower height also allows for extra shelving in laundry or utility rooms.
     
    ▲ The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo reduces spatial demand by around 40% compared to conventional washer and dryer setups.
     
    In addition, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s AI-powered features significantly boost efficiency. AI Wash & Dry5 automatically selects the best wash and dry settings based on weight, fabric type and soil level, removing the need for manual configuration.
     
    In the survey, customers in Korea expressed high satisfaction6 with features like the Flex Auto Dispense System7 (91%) and AI Energy Mode8 (89%). The Flex Auto Dispense System adjusts the detergent amount to suit the load of laundry when detergent is pre-filled in the compartment, reducing maintenance hassle and preventing overuse or underuse of detergent, which is a common issue with conventional washing machines.
     
    Energy efficiency has also improved, as the 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo consumes 45% less electricity per kilogram than the minimum required for top-rated front-load washers in Korea.9 With AI Energy Mode, users can reduce energy consumption by up to 60% without compromising performance.10
     
    Samsung continues to drive the popularization of all-in-one washer-dryers by introducing products with industry-leading drying capacity.11 The 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo increases capacity by 3kg to a total of 18kg, while reducing drying time by 20 minutes to complete a full wash-and-dry cycle in as little as 79 minutes.12
     
    “We are committed to introducing more products like the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo that bring meaningful changes to users’ daily lives,” said Jong-Hun Sung, Vice President and Head of Clothing Care R&D Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics. “With our innovative technology and focus on personalized user experiences, we aim to open a new chapter in home appliances.”
     
    As laundry becomes an increasingly seamless experience, Samsung will continue to enable a smarter, more convenient way of living, one cycle at a time.
     
     
    1 All information regarding the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo in this article is based on products launched in South Korea. Product specifications may vary by country and region of release. For accurate information, please refer to the official sales outlet or the manufacturer’s website in your country.
    2 Recognitions include Winner of the iF Design Award (2024, 2025), Finalist of the IDEA Design Award (2024), Bronze for the Good Design Award by the Korea Institute of Design Promotion (2024), Winner of the Korea Innovation Frontier Award by the Korean Standards Association (2024), Honoree at the CES Innovation Awards (2024), Winner of the Ergonomic Design Award by the Ergonomics Society of Korea (2024), Korea Green Product of the Year by the Korea Green Purchasing Network (2024), Winner of the Jang Young-Shil Award by Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (2024), Winner of the Korea Electronics Show Innovation Award (2024), No.1 in INNO STAR and GREEN STAR by Korea Management Registrar Inc. (2024, 2025), No.1 in Home Appliance A/S in the KS-SQI and KSQI by the Korean Standards Association and Korea Management Association Consultants respectively (2024), No.1 in the Washer-Dryer Category in the KS-QEI by the Korean Standards Association (2024), Winner of the Korea Brand Hall of Fame by the Institute for Industrial Policy Studies (2025), Winner of the Canstar Blue Most Innovative Award in Australia (2025), and No.1 in the Washer-Dryer Category by Consumer Reports in the United States (2024, 2025).
    3 Based on an online survey conducted on 206 buyers of all-in-one washer-dryers in Korea, including 154 who purchased Samsung’s Bespoke AI Laundry Combo. Participants included purchase decision-makers, primary users and buyers of models released in 2024.
    4 When installing the Bespoke AI Washer (25kg) and Dryer (22kg) in a stacked configuration, the required height is 1,890mm. In a side-by-side configuration, the required width is 980mm. In comparison, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo has a height of 1,110mm and width of 686mm.
    5 Detects fabric type under AI Wash & Dry mode for loads up to 3kg. Detects soil level under the same mode for loads up to 9kg. Detects a total of five fabric types — normal, towels, delicates, denim and outdoor — and when multiple fabric types are mixed, identifies them as either “normal” or the type that most closely matches.
    6 Research Methodology: Satisfaction levels for each of the 2024 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s 14 features were measured using a 7-point scale. The results reflect the proportion of respondents who selected the top two ratings: “Very satisfied” and “Satisfied.”
    7 Based on a 5kg laundry load using the standard wash cycle, with the detergent amount set to “normal” and concentration set to “regular.” Results are based on internal testing and may vary depending on actual usage conditions. When filling the main and optional compartments with regular detergent, the auto-dispense system can operate for up to 13 weeks per refill under a usage rate of three cycles per week.
    8 AI Energy Mode activates immediately when “Maximum Saving” is selected as the monthly usage target within the SmartThings Energy service. When “Progressive tier” or “Custom” settings are selected, operation time and energy savings may vary depending on the user-defined conditions. To manage energy use based on tiered electricity pricing, a separate smart meter may be required depending on the user environment. AI Energy Mode is available exclusively via SmartThings, which may have limitations depending on the supported environment and usage conditions.
    9 Based on data for front-load (or electric) washing machines listed on the Korea Energy Agency website. The minimum standard for Grade 1 energy efficiency is 45.8 Wh/kg. The 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s energy efficiency rate is 24.9 Wh/kg.
    10 Conducted using 3kg of standardized test fabric in accordance with KS C IEC 60456, with the fabric type identified as “normal” and the water temperature set to 20°C. Power consumption was compared with AI Energy Mode (set to “Maximum Saving”) turned on and off. Test model: WD25DB8995BZ; Reference model: WD90F25***.
    11 As of March 5, 2025, the 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s 25kg washing capacity is the largest among household washing machines registered with the Korea Energy Agency. Its 18kg drying capacity is the largest among front-load models as of March 10, 2025.
    12 Based on DOE standard test fabric composed of 50% cotton and 50% polyester, using the Quick Cycle. Actual results may vary depending on fabric type, moisture content, characteristics, and laundry load in real-world usage conditions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Barragán and California Democrats Urge Trump Administration to Protect Head Start

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) and every Democratic member of the California Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., urging them to safeguard federal funding for the Head Start program. The letter comes in response to alarming reports that the Trump Administration considered eliminating Head Start funding during recent federal budget discussions.

    “From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability,” wrote the members. “These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.”

    California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, Head Start and Early Head Start programs served more than 94,000 children across the state. These programs offer critical support to children by integrating early education with health, nutrition, and family services – providing targeted support to those experiencing poverty, housing insecurity, and systemic inequities.

    “The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children – disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.”

    Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has served over 40 million children and families nationwide. Decades of research confirm that the program improves school readiness, boosts long-term academic and employment outcomes, and helps break the cycle of poverty.

    “Head Start is not optional – it is a national commitment that must be honored,” the members added. “We urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.”

    The letter was co-signed by each of the 45 Democratic members of the California Congressional Delegation: Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, and Representatives Pete Aguilar, Nancy Pelosi, Robert Garcia, Linda Sánchez, John Garamendi, Kevin Mullin, Mark Takano, Ted Lieu, Maxine Waters, Laura Friedman, J. Luis Correa, Ro Khanna, Mike Thompson, Norma Torres, Mark DeSaulnier, Juan Vargas, Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr., Judy Chu, Derek Tran, Raul Ruiz, Jared Huffman, Doris Matsui, Salud Carbajal, Brad Sherman, Ami Bera, Jimmy Panetta, Zoe Lofgren, Eric Swalwell, Lateefah Simon, Dave Min, Jimmy Gomez, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Jim Costa, George Whitesides, Luz Rivas, Sara Jacobs, Scott Peters, Josh Harder, Adam Gray, Mike Levin, and Sam Liccardo.

    The full letter can be found here and below:

    President Trump and Secretary Kennedy:

    We write today to express serious concern over reports that your Administration considered proposals to eliminate federal funding for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Head Start program in recent budget discussions. While we are relieved that the White House Office of Management and Budget’s Fiscal Year 2026 proposal did not include this cut, that such an action was even contemplated underscores the vulnerability of this vital program under your Administration. As members of the California Congressional Delegation, we urge you to safeguard this critical program, which plays an irreplaceable role in supporting California’s children and families, especially those facing economic hardship and systemic barriers.

    California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, more than 94,000 children and pregnant women in California were served by Head Start and Early Head Start programs. These services are not just beneficial – they are essential. From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability. These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.

    Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has supported more than 40 million children and their families nationwide – and millions in California alone. Research continues to confirm what educators and parents have long known: Head Start works. It boosts school readiness, improves long-term academic outcomes, increases high school graduation and employment rates, and helps break cycles of generational poverty.

    The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children – disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities. Thousands of parents would also lose their ability to go to work or school, and otherwise participate in the economy.

    Head Start is not optional – it is a national commitment that must be honored. For these reasons, we urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Education

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pressley’s Statement on Five-Year Anniversary of George Floyd’s Murder

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Ahead of Anniversary, Pressley Introduced Suite of Bills to Transform Criminal Legal System, Improve Police Accountability

    BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) released the following statement marking the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder. Last week, ahead of the anniversary, Congresswoman Pressley reintroduced the People’s Justice Guarantee (PJG), the Ending Qualified Immunity Act, and the Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act – a suite of bills that collectively would help build a fair, equitable, and just legal system in America, and improve police accountability.

    “George Floyd should be alive today. Like every Black man, he deserved to grow old, to laugh with his children, to love and be loved. But five years ago today, George Floyd was murdered in broad daylight by police—a harrowing reminder of the brutal, state-sanctioned violence that Black folks in America have endured for generations and that we continue to endure to this day.

    “In the days and weeks that followed, America underwent a so-called ‘reckoning’ on racial injustice. People from every corner of this country mobilized, demanding justice, accountability, and transformative change. But five years later, meaningful policy change remains stalled in Congress, corporations are backing away from their commitments to racial equity, and a white supremacist once again occupies the White House—continuing his unprecedented assault on Black America, rolling back policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and advancing harmful executive actions to ‘unleash law enforcement’ and threaten Black lives. Without meaningful policy and budget change, the unjust status quo will persist, and we will continue to be robbed of innocent lives.

    “This anniversary must be more than hashtags, performative statements, and remembrance—it must be a recommitment to dismantling the systems of oppression that enabled George Floyd’s murder and the killing of many, many others. That means continuing to advance policies like the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and my People’s Justice Guarantee, Ending Qualified Immunity Act, and Andrew Kearse Act, which I was proud to re-introduce this past week. It means legislating to affirm housing, healthcare, food security, and education as the human rights that they are. It means centering compassion, accountability, and healing in our policymaking—not cruelty, criminalization, and incarceration.

    “We’ll never have true justice for George Floyd. True justice would be George Floyd alive today, at home with his fiancée, children, and siblings. As we mark this somber anniversary, we owe it to George, his family, and everyone killed at the hands of law enforcement to continue governing like lives depend on it and building a more just America where everyone can thrive and live free from fear.”

    In April 2021, Congresswoman Pressley authored an op-ed in USA Today in which she responded to reports that the guilty verdicts in the Derek Chauvin trial have reduced the appetite amongst lawmakers—in both parties—for action on police reform. In the op-ed, Rep. Pressley called for meaningful policy and budget change to dismantle every system that finances and perpetuates brutality, murder and state-sanctioned violence at home and abroad.

    Congresswoman Pressley has introduced over a dozen pieces of precise legislation informed by the People’s Justice Guarantee to fundamentally redefine what justice looks like in America, including the Ending Qualified Immunity Act and Andrew Kearse Accountability for the Denial of Medical Care Act.

    Congresswoman Pressley also led calls in Congress for President Biden to use his clemency authority to address mass incarceration and has applauded the President for granting clemency to thousands of people and commended him for commuting the death sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row.

    • In June 2023, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12)unveiled the Housing for Formerly Incarcerated Reentry and Stable Tenancy (Housing FIRST) Act, bold legislation to help people who are formerly incarcerated and those with criminal histories access safe and stable housing.
    • In May 2023, Rep. Pressley reintroduced her Justice for Incarcerated Moms Act to improve maternal health care and support for pregnant individuals who are incarcerated. It was originally introduced in March 2020 and reintroduced in February 2021 as part of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Package—a suite of 12 bills aimed at addressing the Black maternal health crisis.
    • In May 2023, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Co-Chair of the Mental Health Caucus, requested the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to research post-traumatic prison disorder and share findings related to prevention and treatment for people returning from behind the wall.
    • In April 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) re-introduced their Ending Qualified Immunity Act, legislation that would eliminate the unjust and court-invented doctrine of qualified immunity and restore the ability for people to obtain relief when state and local officials, including police officers, violate their legal and constitutionally secured rights. Rep. Pressley originally introduced the bill in June 2020 with Rep. Justin Amash (L-MI) and reintroduced it with Sen. Markey in March 2021.
    • On April 6, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Hank Johnson led 25 of their colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus in calling on Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation to address racial disparities in traffic enforcement.
    • In April 2023, Rep. Pressley, in partnership with Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Ilhan Omar (MN-05), re-introduced the Ending PUSHOUT Act, their legislation to end the punitive pushout of girls of color from schools. It was originally introduced in December 2019 and reintroduced in March 2021.
    • In March 2023, Rep. Pressley, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Congressman Greg Casar (TX-35) and 27 Members of Congress, alongside more than 300 advocacy organizations and community leaders, reintroduced the New Way Forward Act, a landmark piece of legislation that addresses some of the most harmful provisions of immigration law that drive racist enforcement practices, expanded incarceration in immigration detention centers, and unjust deportations. It was originally introduced in December 2019 Reps. Chuy Garcia (IL-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Karen Bass (CA-37) and was reintroduced in January 2021.
    • In March 2023, Rep. Pressley and her colleagues re-introduced the Facial Recognition and Biometric Technology Moratorium Act to stop federal entities’ use of facial recognition tools and prohibit federal support for state and local law enforcement entities that use biometric technology. They reintroduced the bill in June 2021.
    • In December 2022, the House passed Congresswoman Pressley’s amendment to strengthen maternal health care for people who are incarcerated.
    • In December 2021, Rep. Pressley unveiled the Fair and Independent Experts in Clemency (FIX Clemency) Act, historic legislation to transform our nation’s clemency system and address the mass incarceration crisis.
    • In March 2021, Rep. Pressley sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland urging him to consider H. Res. 266, the People’s Justice Guarantee, as a framework for embedding justice in our criminal legal system and building integrity in the Department of Justice (DOJ). 
    • In February 2021, October 2020, Congresswoman Pressley reintroduced the Mental Health Justice Act with Reps. Katie Porter (CA-45), Tony Cardenas (CA-29), and Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), to support the creation of mental health first responder units that would be deployed in lieu of law enforcement when 911 is called due to a mental health crisis. The lawmakers originally introduced the legislation in October 2020.
    • In January 2021, she reintroduced the Federal Death Penalty Prohibition Act of 2021 with Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) to prohibit the use of the death penalty at the federal level, and require re-sentencing of those currently on death row. The lawmakers originally introduced the bill in July 2019.
    • In August 2020, she introduced the COVID-19 in Corrections Data Transparency Act with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and others, requires federal, state, and local prisons and jails to collect and publicly report COVID-19 data. The legislation was reintroduced last month.
    • In July 2020, she introduced the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act with Reps. Ilhan Omar (MN-05) and Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), to prohibit federal funds to support the increased presence of police in K-12 schools and supports school districts that invests in counselors.
    • In June 2020, she introduced the Dismantle Mass Incarceration for Public Health Act with Reps. Tlaib (MI-13) and Barbara Lee (CA-13) to require decarceration to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in prisons and jails.
    • In June 2020, she introduced the Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Ed Markey (D-MA), to hold police officers criminally liable for denying care to those in medical distress.
    • In May 2020, she introduced a resolution with Reps. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Karen Bass (CA-37) and Barbara Lee (CA-13) to condemn any and all acts of police brutality, racial profiling, and militarization and over-policing of Black and brown communities.  
    • In July 2019, she introduced the No Biometric Barriers Housing Act with Reps. Yvette Clarke (NY-09) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-13) that would prohibit the use of biometric recognition technology in most public and assisted housing units funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), protecting tenants from biased surveillance technology. 
    • In June 2019, in conjunction with Gun Violence Awareness Month and the 5th Annual National Gun Violence Awareness Day, she introduced a resolution to honor survivors of homicide victims by establishing National Survivors of Homicide Victims Awareness Month. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shoplifter lands in custody after thorough Police work

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A sticky-fingered thief almost bagged nearly $1000 worth of groceries before Police tracked him down in Auckland last week.

    It’s led to Police laying charges for a wider spate of offending valued at over $10,000.

    At around 9am on Saturday 24 May Police received a report of a male shoplifting from a Manukau supermarket.

    “This male has taken a large amount of meat products and fled the scene in a vehicle,” Counties Manukau Central Area Prevention Manager Inspector Warrick Adkin says.

    Officers attending the incident made enquiries into the vehicle and discovered the same male had been involved in a shoplifting event at a Three Kings supermarket only an hour earlier.

    “Police Officers immediately responded in an attempt to locate this male and the vehicle,” Inspector Adkin says.

    “Not long after, the vehicle was located a short distance away, as it was about to enter State Highway 20.”

    Police successfully stopped the vehicle and took the alleged offender into custody.

    Inside the vehicle, approximately $800 worth of groceries were located, which were returned to the store.

    “Further enquiries revealed this male has allegedly been involved in numerous shoplifting or theft incidents this year, totalling several thousand dollars,” says Inspector Adkin.

    “We are pleased to have brought this spree to an end and for this male to be held accountable for his actions. We will not tolerate such brazen criminal offending.”

    A 17-year-old appeared in the Manukau Youth Court on May 24 charged with multiple shoplifting.

    ENDS

    Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Thermomix pays penalties for allegedly misleading customers over NDIS endorsement

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd, trading as Thermomix in Australia, has paid $79,200 in penalties after the ACCC issued it with four infringement notices for allegedly making false or misleading representations to consumers online, suggesting two of its household appliances were endorsed by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

    In November 2024, the ACCC put businesses on notice of its focus on problematic advertising practices targeting NDIS participants. Since then, it has taken compliance and enforcement action against a number of businesses.

    The ACCC alleges that in November 2024 and March 2025, Thermomix made false or misleading representations on its website promoting the Thermomix TM6 cooking product and Kobold cordless vacuum and mop as being endorsed through the NDIS or registered by an entity administering the NDIS.

    This included allegedly describing the products as ‘NDIS approved’, ‘NDIS-registered product’, ‘NDIS-consumables’, ‘NDIS assistive technology’, and ‘NDIS equipment’.

    “The NDIS does not provide specific approval for any particular goods or services. Each NDIS participant has unique needs, and what’s funded under their plan is determined individually, not through a list of approved products. There are no categories of goods or services which are automatically NDIS approved or funded for all NDIS participants,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “Misleading consumers experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage is of concern to us, and we will not hesitate to take appropriate action.”

    The Australian Government’s NDIS (Fair Price and Australian Consumer Law) Taskforce is comprised of the ACCC, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and the NDIA. The taskforce was established in December 2023 to address potential breaches of Australian Consumer Law amid concerns that NDIS participants were being charged more for goods and services than other consumers.

    Any person who thinks a business has made false or misleading statements about products or services, including whether they are endorsed or approved by the NDIS, or who considers their consumer rights have not been met, can make a report to the ACCC.

    Further information for NDIS participants is available on the ACCC website.

    Note to editors

    The ACCC can issue an infringement notice when it has reasonable grounds to believe a person or business has contravened certain consumer protection provisions in the Australian Consumer Law.

    The payment of a penalty specified in an infringement notice is not an admission of a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law. The Australian Consumer Law sets the penalty amount.

    What false or misleading advertising about the NDIS might look like

    Examples of concerning advertising that may be false or misleading include:

    • The use of the words ‘NDIS approved’ as the NDIS does not have the function of approving or endorsing particular goods or services.
    • Advertising suggesting NDIS funds will cover “all inclusive” holidays, when general costs associated with holidays would not be covered by NDIS funding.
    • Meal delivery services suggesting the cost of meals is covered by the NDIS, when the NDIS does not cover food expenses.
    • Advertising that provides instructions on how to use NDIS funding codes to cover costs of recreational services that are not covered by the NDIS – for example, going to the movies or a theme park.
    • Advertising that suggests a business is affiliated or endorsed by the NDIS, by using NDIS in its business name or in the description of its services, for example ‘NDIS therapies’.

    Background

    Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd is the sole Australian distributor of Thermomix products in Australia and the owner of TheMix Shop, an ecommerce store for Thermomix and Kobold products.

    In November 2024, Vorwerk International AG, the Germany-based manufacturer of Thermomix and Kobold appliances, completed an acquisition of The Mix Australia Pty Ltd, which held the sole official licence to distribute Thermomix appliances in Australia and operated the ecommerce store TheMix Shop. After the acquisition, The Mix Australia Pty Ltd was renamed as Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd.

    In December 2024, the ACCC instituted proceedings against registered NDIS provider Ausnew Home Care Service Pty Ltd, for alleged false and misleading representations, including statements that certain products were ‘NDIS approved’ relating to aged care and disability products. The matter remains before the Court.

    Last week, Bedding retailer Bedshed paid $39,600 in penalties for allegedly making false and misleading representations that some of the products it sold were ‘NDIS approved’ and ‘NDIS permitted’.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier urges greater efforts to combat desertification

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HOHHOT, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has called for greater efforts and more pragmatic measures to achieve further key results in the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP), which is the world’s largest afforestation initiative and tackles desertification in the northwestern, northern and northeastern parts of China.

    He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks on Tuesday at a meeting on advancing desertification control for the meandering bends of the Yellow River in Bayannur, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

    The Yellow River is China’s second-longest river — after the Yangtze. The areas near the meandering bends of the Yellow River are among the three key areas for the promotion of desertification control under the TSFP.

    The vice premier also visited the sites of a water conservancy project, a quicksand control project along the Yellow River, and a new energy storage project.

    Noting at the meeting that significant progress has been made in advancing the TSFP over the past two years, He said that the project is now at a critical stage, and stressed the need to recognize the current situation and its challenges, and to steadfastly implement strategic plans.

    The TSFP was launched in 1978 and is set to conclude by 2050, aiming to restore green areas prone to desertification in the “three norths.”

    By 2030, the country aims to achieve significant desertification control results through the TSFP in three regions: the Hexi Corridor-Taklimakan Desert region, the two sandy lands of Horqin and Hunshandake, and the areas near the meandering bends of the Yellow River.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier calls for sound development of platform economy

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SHANGHAI, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has underscored the importance of efforts to promote the sound development of the platform economy, and of maintaining a fair, orderly market environment.

    Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour in east China’s Shanghai which lasted from Tuesday to Wednesday.

    During visits to online retail, livestream e-commerce and food delivery companies, Zhang said that the platform economy plays a crucial role in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as in boosting domestic circulation. He encouraged relevant businesses to allocate more resources toward the provision of high-quality products and services.

    Platform rules should be established in an open and fair manner, Zhang said, stressing that malignant competition characterized by cheap, low-quality products must be prohibited.

    All platforms should utilize positive, beneficial algorithms while also ensuring appropriate, transparent pricing standards, Zhang said. He called for strengthened measures to crack down on irregularities, including malicious price comparisons, false advertising and inflated sales rankings.

    On market regulation, Zhang called for accelerated efforts to eliminate regulations and practices that impede a unified market or fair competition. He also emphasized the need to address illegal charges on businesses to maintain a favorable market environment.

    Additionally, Zhang urged market regulators to expedite the adoption of new technologies, such as those in the fields of big data and artificial intelligence, to enhance regulatory efficiency.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: U.S.-funded financial institutions welcome to participate in China’s capital market: vice premier

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    U.S.-funded financial institutions welcome to participate in China’s capital market: vice premier

    BEIJING, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with Co-President of Morgan Stanley Dan Simkowitz in Beijing on Wednesday.

    He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China’s commitment to promoting high-quality development through high-level opening up will invigorate and add impetus to the Chinese and global economies.

    He welcomed more U.S.-funded financial institutions and long-term capital, including Morgan Stanley, to continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China and actively participate in the construction and development of China’s capital market.

    Simkowitz was pleased with the substantive progress made in the U.S.-China economic and trade talks and said that he would continue to focus on the Chinese market and provide high-quality services to promote investment cooperation between U.S. and Chinese enterprises.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump Admin Encourages Max $200k Pay for Political Appointees as It Fires Veterans, Cancer Researchers, & More—Murray, Democratic Colleagues Demand Answers, List of Top-Paid Political Staff

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    OPM encourages agencies to offer maximum salary to Trump political appointees, encouraging them to sidestep agency HR offices & standard vetting process
    Lawmakers: “Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars.”
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) sent a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) calling out its recent memo encouraging agencies to ignore the recommendations of agency HR offices and offer the maximum available salary of $195,200 to Schedule C political appointees.
    As the Trump administration fires dedicated federal employees en masse across government, the senators demanded information about the Trump administration’s hiring of Schedule C political appointees, their salaries, the number of appointees making the maximum salary, justification for sidestepping HR recommendations and vetting processes, any guardrails implemented to prevent cronyism, and the costs to taxpayers.
    “You issued a memo to the heads and acting heads of departments and agencies encouraging them to offer the maximum available salary to political appointees and sidestep the regular hiring process,” write the senators. “This memo, coupled with the Administration’s widespread layoffs of career government workers who have loyally served in the Executive Branch for Presidents of both political parties, makes clear your intention: fire dedicated public servants in droves, cut essential government services, and use taxpayer dollars to instead hire underqualified and overpaid political cronies.”
    “While this Administration pushes out scores of public servants and guts entire agencies, often in defiance of Congress and federal law, your memo encourages agencies to help install loyalists who have not been properly vetted, in critically important positions—and to pay them at the highest possible rate. As dedicated career public servants are receiving notice that they have been fired, the Administration is offering higher pay for those hired under Schedule C,” they continue.
    “Per your memo, agencies may consider setting initial salaries at up to $195,200, almost five times the median income for individuals in the U.S.,” write the lawmakers.
    The lawmakers note that the OPM memo “demonstrates a desire for the expeditious hiring of underqualified and overpaid political elites. Schedule C hires are not career civil servants. They will not be answering phones at Social Security field offices or conducting food inspections or fighting wildfires.”
    “Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars and massively wasteful,” they state.
    The full letter is available HERE and below:
    Mr. Charles Ezell
    Acting Director
    Office of Personnel Management
    1900 E Street N.W.
    Washington, D.C. 20415
    Dear Acting Director Ezell:
    On April 10, 2025, you issued a memo to the heads and acting heads of departments and agencies encouraging them to offer the maximum available salary to political appointees and sidestep the regular hiring process. This memo, coupled with the Administration’s widespread layoffs of career government workers who have loyally served in the Executive Branch for Presidents of both political parties, makes clear your intention: fire dedicated public servants in droves, cut essential government services, and use taxpayer dollars to instead hire underqualified and overpaid political cronies.
    Since President Trump took office, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has worked with Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to facilitate the firings of tens of thousands of government employees under the guise of government efficiency. The American people have experienced only chaos as a result. The phone lines at Social Security are overwhelmed, food inspections are down, and as fire season begins, the Forest Service is planning to layoff wildland firefighters—to name just a few of the consequences of this administration’s arbitrary and thoughtless cuts. Put simply, OPM’s actions have sowed inefficiency and counter-productivity for the essential government services that our constituents depend on.
    While this Administration pushes out scores of public servants and guts entire agencies, often in defiance of Congress and federal law, your memo encourages agencies to help install loyalists who have not been properly vetted, in critically important positions—and to pay them at the highest possible rate. As dedicated career public servants are receiving notice that they have been fired, the Administration is offering higher pay for those hired under Schedule C, a type of appointment for those serving in confidential or policy roles, including as confidential assistants, policy experts, special counsel, and schedulers. Per your memo, agencies may consider setting initial salaries at up to $195,200, almost five times the median income for individuals in the U.S. Further, your memo encourages agency heads to sidestep the standard hiring process and remove the objective additional reviewer of candidates. This would allow appointees to begin work in sensitive roles without any vetting, including for conflicts of interest or background checks, bypassing the basic guardrails that have been in place for decades. On its face, OPM’s April 10 memo demonstrates a desire for the expeditious hiring of underqualified and overpaid political elites.
    Schedule C hires are not career civil servants. They will not be answering phones at Social Security field offices or conducting food inspections or fighting wildfires. They do not work for the American people; they work to advance the political agenda of the President. OPM’s April 10 memo makes clear the Trump Administration’s ultimate goal is to decimate the nonpolitical career civil service and use taxpayer dollars to enrich and reward political allies, all at the cost of the government services that people rely on.
    Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars and massively wasteful.
    In order to ensure OPM works to actually promote efficiency and productivity in the government workforce, we request you provide the following information:
    The salary information of all Schedule C appointees, and the current number of Schedule C appointees, broken down by agency. For those Schedule C appointees the administration has hired at a pay level of GS-15 or $195,200, please provide a brief job description for each.
    The justification for revoking the authority of agency HR departments to set the terms for Schedule C appointment and additional information as to how agencies will set the terms for Schedule C appointment without HR involvement.
    Any guidance or detail OPM has provided to agencies as to how to set the terms for a Schedule C appointment in order to avoid widespread corruption.
    The agency-level cost of hiring the desired number of Schedule C appointees.
    Any written information detailing the role of the Presidential Personnel Office (PPO) in hiring Schedule C appointees.
    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward receiving your responses no later than June 4, 2025.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Congratulates Fellow LSU Tiger John Foster on American Idol Run

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, congratulated Louisiana native and LSU freshman John Foster on finishing strong in the American Idol finale. Each month, Cassidy highlights a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.  
    Read his full May 2025 Local Spotlight below:
    Mr. President, I want to congratulate John Foster, a Louisiana native and fellow LSU Tiger, on an impressive run on American Idol.John was the runner-up on this season of American Idol. And while it was not the outcome everyone in Louisiana was hoping for, he represented himself and Louisiana well on a national stage. John’s performances were excellent and inspiring. He was also practicing and performing as he is pursuing pre-med!John, well done on pursuing both your dream and your education. From all of us back home, keep singing. You are first place in Louisiana.
    Background
    Last month, Cassidy highlighted Mrs. Louise McClelland for her 105th birthday. Louise served her community for 35 years as a teacher and continues to inspire her community with her joy and adventurous spirit.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2025, No. 18)

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    1. On the results of the passage of housing and communal services enterprises and electric power industry entities in the autumn-winter period of 2024-2025 and the tasks of preparing for the passage of the autumn-winter period of 2025-2026

     

    2. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the federal budget for 2024”

     

    3. On the draft federal law “On ratification of the Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the elimination of double taxation with respect to taxes on income and capital, and on the prevention of tax avoidance and evasion”

    The bill aims to ratify the agreement signed in Abu Dhabi on February 17, 2025.

     

    4. On the implementation and evaluation of the effectiveness of state programs of the Russian Federation based on the results of 2024

    The materials of the Consolidated Report contain information on the assessment of the effectiveness of 37 state programs.

     

    5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 33332–1 of Part Two of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill is aimed at forming a common market for veterinary drugs within the Eurasian Economic Union.

     

    6. On Amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 327 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance)

    The draft act is aimed at granting Rosselkhoznadzor the right to establish departmental awards.

     

    7. On amendments to certain acts of the Government of the Russian Federation (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Federal Agency for Fisheries)

    The development of the draft act was dictated by the lack of authority of the Federal Agency for Fisheries to create a certification commission, which is necessary to conduct, in the established manner, the certification of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Northern Expeditionary Squad for Emergency Rescue Operations” and the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Far Eastern Expeditionary Squad for Emergency Rescue Operations”, subordinate to the Federal Agency for Fisheries, which carry out emergency rescue operations to ensure the safety of fishing vessels in fishing areas during fishing.

     

    8. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the budget of the Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund for 2024”

     

    9. On amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 19, 2012 No. 608 (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation)

    The draft resolution supplements the provision with a new authority to approve the procedure for providing representatives of a medical insurance organization with consultations to insured persons in filing claims against medical organizations in connection with refusal to provide medical care or poor-quality medical care and the collection of funds for the provision of medical care.

     

    10. On the draft federal law “On Amending Article 49 of the Air Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill was developed with the aim of improving the legal regulation of the procedure for concluding lease agreements in relation to federal real estate of civil aviation airfields.

     

    11. On the distribution of subsidies to the budgets of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic, the Zaporizhia region and the Kherson region

    The development of the draft act is dictated by the need to bring public roads of regional, inter-municipal or local significance, including the street road network, into compliance with the regulatory requirements by 2025.

     

    12. On the allocation to the Ministry of Construction of Russia in 2025 of budgetary allocations reserved in the federal budget for the provision of subsidies to the budgets of the Republic of Kalmykia and the Pskov Region for the implementation of measures to modernize the public utility infrastructure

    The draft order is aimed at achieving the goals of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”.

     

    13. On the allocation to the Ministry of Construction of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision of one-time financial assistance in the form of a subsidy to the budget of the Saratov Region

    The draft order proposes to allocate additional funds to the Saratov Region budget for the implementation of measures to improve public and courtyard areas.

     

    14. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the budget of the Pension and Social Insurance Fund of the Russian Federation for 2024”

     

    15. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 151 and 18 of the Federal Law “On the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens in the Russian Federation”

    The bill is aimed at improving the implementation of state migration policy, as well as legal regulation of issues related to the need for foreign citizens to confirm their proficiency in the Russian language, knowledge of Russian history and the fundamentals of legislation.

     

    16. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 35 and 38 of the Federal Law “On Basic Guarantees of Electoral Rights and the Right to Participate in a Referendum of Citizens of the Russian Federation”

    The adoption of the bill will make it possible to avoid refusal to register a list of candidates, candidates for single-mandate (multi-mandate) electoral districts due to the expiration of the statutory deadline for submitting documents required for registration, if the failure to comply with this deadline was caused by a refusal to certify the list of candidates, the list of candidates for single-mandate (multi-mandate) electoral districts and this refusal was cancelled or recognized as illegal.

     

    17. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 3 and 9 of the Federal Law “On Combating the Legalization (Laundering) of Criminally Obtained Incomes and the Financing of Terrorism”

    The implementation of the draft federal law will improve the effectiveness of the national system for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

     

    18. On Amendments to Certain Acts of the Government of the Russian Federation (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Federal Service for Environmental, Technological and Nuclear Supervision)

    The draft act is aimed at bringing certain provisions of the regulation into line with current legislation.

     

    Moscow, May 28, 2025

     

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting

    May 28, 2025

    Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting

    May 28, 2025

    Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting

    May 28, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, as co-chairman, held the 39th ministerial meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC countries, as well as the 60th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee of OPEC countries via videoconference.

    The parties to the deal confirmed their commitment to follow the Declaration of Cooperation signed on December 10, 2016. They confirmed the agreements agreed upon at the 38th Ministerial Meeting of the countries participating in the deal on December 5, 2024, on the overall level of crude oil production until the end of 2026.

    The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee, assisted by the OPEC Secretariat, will continue to review global oil market conditions and the compliance levels of oil production by the parties to the deal with their agreed quota. The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee will meet every two months.

    The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee reserves the right to call additional meetings or request a ministerial meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC members if necessary.

    The meeting participants confirmed the importance of full compliance with the agreements within the framework of the OPEC deal and commitment to the conditions for compensating for oil overproduction should it occur.

    Following the meeting, the OPEC Secretariat was tasked with developing a mechanism for assessing the maximum sustainable production capacities of countries participating in the deal, which will be used as a reference for determining oil production levels in 2027 for all countries participating in the agreement.

    The 40th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting will take place on November 30, 2025.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Four deposit auctions of JSC “KAVKAZ.RF” will be held on 05/29/2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N90589

    Categories24-7, Mil-SOSI, Moscow, Moscow Stock Exchange, Russian Economy, Russian Federal, Russian Language, Russian economy

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    Parameters
    Date of the deposit auction 05/29/2025
    Placement currency Rub
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 409,000,000.00
    Placement period, days 151
    Date of deposit 05/30/2025
    Refund date 08.10.2025
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 20.20
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 409,000,000.00
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Treaty General Agreement
     
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 11:30 to 11:40
    Applications in competition mode from 11:40 to 11:45
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 11:55
       
    Additional terms  

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 05/28/2025, 18-11 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZZNW5 (IA DOM 4P2) were changed.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    05/28/2025 18:11

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on 05/28/2025, 18-11 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 98.17) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 123.11 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 30.0%) of the security RU000A0ZZNW5 (IA DOM 4P2) were changed

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: IPCA recommends Police improve investigative interviewing training

    Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority

    29 May 2025

    The Independent Police Conduct Authority has completed a review of the Police’s use of the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (CIPEM) interviewing method and found that, although it was a laudable attempt to enhance officers’ investigative interviewing skills, its implementation fell short in several respects.

    The Authority’s review was prompted by criticism that arose after evidence in a murder case was ruled inadmissible in September 2021 and concerns were subsequently raised in the media. We also received several complaints. However, the review ultimately focused on examining the development and use of CIPEM, rather than tangential allegations of misconduct that could not be substantiated.

    The Authority found that CIPEM had a heavy focus on engagement skills and building rapport, which is consistent with international best practice. However, the normal processes for quality assurance and implementation of the training were not followed, and the model was not reviewed by an independent expert until about two and a half years after the training began.

    We reviewed five cases in which CIPEM-trained interviewers had been brought in to assist investigation teams. In two of the five cases, we found that the questioning itself departed from good practice and failed to comply with the Judges’ Rules on Police Questioning. However, these failures were generally not integral to CIPEM and were due to poor practice and inadequate oversight.

    We also found that Police leadership should have done more to support the individual officers impacted by persistent media criticism and proactively correct the perception that CIPEM alone caused the downfall of the case in which evidence was ruled inadmissible.

    Police have taken steps to identify and address the problems they are experiencing with interviewing. A recent review has resulted in recommendations for improvement, including creating a new Manager of Investigative Interviewing role.

    The Authority recommends that Police proceed with establishing that role, which should focus among other things on improving investigative interviewing and engagement training and making it available to all staff; ensuring that the interviewing trainers have a high level of operational experience and excellent engagement skills; and developing training for interviewing suspects and hostile witnesses.

    Public Report

    Police Investigative Interviewing and the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (PDF 628 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $10.5 Million for Maine Public Housing Properties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: May 28, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that 15 Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in Maine have been awarded a total of $10,772,889 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Public Housing Capital Fund Formula Grant program to support the development, financing, and modernization of Public Housing properties.
    “The dedicated staff at housing authorities throughout Maine work hard to connect seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income individuals and families to programs that help them improve their quality of life,” said Senator Collins. “With this funding, housing authorities across the state will continue the important work within their local communities to ensure that the needs of their residents are met.”
    The grant funding is allocated as follows:
    Portland Housing Authority – $3,413,858
    Bangor Housing Authority – $2,052,361
    Lewiston Housing Authority – $1,298,068
    Waterville Housing Authority – $745,293
    Presque Isle Housing Authority – $688,006
    Auburn Housing Authority – $478,784
    Brewer Housing Authority – $452,242
    Bar Harbor Housing Authority – $383,748
    Van Buren Housing Authority – $332,926
    Fort Fairfield Housing Authority – $266,251
    Old Town Housing Authority – $252,695
    Ellsworth Housing Authority – $156,688
    Southwest Harbor Housing Authority – $139,133
    Tremont Housing Authority – $60,782
    Mount Desert Housing Authority – $52,054
    HUD’s Public Housing program ensures safe, decent, and affordable housing, and creates opportunities for residents’ self-sufficiency and economic independence.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police response to IPCA report into Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (CIPEM) interviewing method

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Commissioner Richard Chambers:

    Police acknowledge and fully accept the findings and recommendations of the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report into Police’s use of the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (CIPEM) interviewing method.

    The CIPEM interviewing programme was implemented in 2018 with the knowledge and support of the Police Executive, and the staff involved acted in good faith striving to improve an acknowledged gap in our interviewing capacity.

    While there are lessons to be learned for Police, the staff involved displayed passion and dedication in working to try to advance difficult and complex cases. Police acknowledge that more support should have been afforded to the officers involved at the time and apologise to the staff involved for not providing that support, particularly during a prolonged period of media reporting.

    The murder case interview referenced in the IPCA media statement was subject to an independent review, which found that those involved in that interview were not involved in the wider investigation management, including making key decisions relevant to progressing the investigation or prosecution. They were brought in to conduct an interview phase only. In these circumstances, it would be both wrong and unfair for conclusions to be drawn that these staff were to blame for the charges being withdrawn.

    Consequently, the internal review also focussed on the way the Police lead, review and manage serious crime investigations and an examination of those areas specific to that case. Police are unable to release a full copy of that review as it contains sensitive information that would prejudice further investigation and potential prosecution outcomes. A summary of the review (previously released under the Official Information Act 1982) is provided with this release.

    Police also commissioned a broad review of interviewing practices across all of Police, which was completed in November 2024. The recommendations of that review and the recommendations of the IPCA review are accepted and are being implemented as a programme of work. A full copy of this review is provided with this release.

    Police is also establishing a new position, the Manager Investigative Interviewing, to lead this programme of work, as was recommended by the IPCA. Police expect to recruit for this position in coming weeks.

    Engaging with and interviewing victims, witnesses and suspects is a core policing skill and pivotal to advancing all investigations and other aspects of policing.

    The Police Executive is committed to ensuring that NZ Police’s interviewing training programme is world leading.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE apprehends Venezuelan woman who fled the scene of jet ski accident that killed woman on kayak at Lake Grapevine

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DALLAS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in a joint operation with state and federal law enforcement, arrested Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez, a 22-year-old citizen of Venezuela in Dallas on May 27, following a state warrant execution for felony manslaughter.

    Gonzales was operating a personal watercraft with a female passenger at high speed near the shoreline of Oak Grove Park May 25, when she collided with a kayak occupied by 18-year-old Ava Moore. The collision resulted in Moore’s death. Gonzalez fled the scene with her passenger on board.

    Gonzalez and the passenger returned to Oak Grove Park. The passenger remained on the scene with witnesses and was interviewed by Grapevine Police Department while Gonzalez left in a vehicle with 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo, also of Venezuela.

    Perozo has been charged with hindering apprehension. As the investigation unfolds, more state charges could be filed.

    “This criminal alien and her boyfriend will account for the tragic accident that ended the life of a young woman who exhibited enormous potential,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas acting Field Office Director Josh Johnson. “ICE Dallas will remain steadfast in our commitment to arresting and removing criminal aliens who pose threats to the safety of our communities.”

    ERO Dallas lodged immigration detainers with the Grapevine Police Department following Gonzalez and Coello’s arrests. Both are in removal proceedings pursuant to the policies of the Immigration and Nationality Act as aliens present without admission or parole.

    “Our partnerships with law enforcement across jurisdictions are key during these types of investigations,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “This investigation will continue to be driven by facts, evidence and a firm commitment to justice. The arrests of these two illegal aliens reflect the diligence and professionalism of our law enforcement team.”

    On Sept. 28, 2023, Gonzalez illegally entered the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration officer. On the same day, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested and processed Gonzalez with a Notice to Appear and released her on an order of recognizance.

    On Jan. 22, 2023, Coello arrived at the Camino Real Port of Entry without authorization. He was released pending an immigration hearing.

    This investigation included law enforcement officials from ERO Dallas, HSI Dallas, the Texas Department of Wildlife, the Grapevine Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Office of the Attorney General, the Dallas Police Department and the Dallas U.S. Marshals office.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form .

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @ERODallas or @HSI_Dallas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Are you thinking about starting an NFP?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If you’ve decided to start a not-for-profit (NFP), you need to be aware of the tax and super obligations that come with it.

    Once you have chosen an appropriate legal structure for your NFP, you may need to register for an Australian business number (ABN). You need an ABN to register with us for tax obligations such as PAYG, GST or FBT, or if you are seeking endorsement for tax concessions or deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.

    Types of NFPs

    An NFP is an organisation that operates for its purpose, as outlined in its governing documents, and not for the profit or personal gain of its individual members.

    Depending on the type of NFP, your organisation may either be eligible for a range of tax concessions or it may need to pay income tax.

    NFPs fall within 3 broad categories:

    • Charitable NFPs – NFPs with only charitable purposes that meet the legal definition of a charity must be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC)External Link and endorsed by us to access tax concessions or deductible gift recipient (DGR) status. NFPs with only charitable purposes that choose not to register with the ACNC, are not eligible to self-assess as income tax exempt, and will not be exempt from income tax. They are taxable and may be required to lodge an annual income tax return.
    • NFPs that self-assess as income tax exempt – An NFP can self-assess as income tax exempt if it is not a charity and meets the requirements of one of 8 specific categories set out in tax law. Self-assessing NFPs with an active ABN are required to lodge an annual NFP self-review return each year by 31 October to notify us of their eligibility to self-assess as income tax exempt. 
    • Taxable NFPs – NFPs that aren’t eligible to self-assess as income tax exempt, or those with only charitable purposes that are not registered as a charity with the ACNC and endorsed by us, are taxable. If you’re a taxable NFP you may have to lodge an income tax return and pay tax or notify us of a non-lodgment advice.

    We recommend you review your organisation’s entitlement to tax concessions on an annual basis and whenever there is a change in your structure or operations.

    Getting it right from the start

    Starting an NFP is a lot like running a business – in particular, a lot of the same tax and super obligations apply. Our small business resources and guidance may help you get ready for running your NFP. The resources explain key tax, super and registration obligations you need to consider so you can start your NFP journey on the right foot. This includes some important information you need to know if your NFP will employ staff.

    Need more help?

    • Visit Starting an NFP or phone us: 1300 130 248 between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
    • Read more articles in the Not-for-profit newsroom and, if you haven’t already, subscribeExternal Link to our free monthly newsletter Not-for-profit news to be alerted when we publish new articles.
    • For updates throughout the month, Assistant Commissioner Jennifer Moltisanti regularly shares blog posts and updates on her LinkedInExternal Link profile. And you can check out our online platform ATO CommunityExternal Link to find answers to your tax and super questions.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE Lodges Detainers Against Two Illegal Aliens Involved in Hit and Run Killing 18-Year-Old Air Force Academy Cadet Candidate Ava Moore over Memorial Day Weekend

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    The Biden Administration released both illegal aliens into the country in 2023

    WASHINGTON – On May 25, 18-year-old Ava Moore was hit by an illegal alien on a jet ski while kayaking in Lake Grapevine and tragically killed. The illegal alien fled the scene. Moore recently accepted an appointment to join the U.S. Air Force Academy as a member of the class of 2029. 

    The driver of the jet ski was allegedly Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez, an illegal alien from Venezuela. Following the collision, Gonzalez allegedly fled the scene with Maikel Alexander Coello-Perozo, also an illegal alien, and they also struck two vehicles while leaving.

    Ava Moore, one of the countless victims of illegal alien crime. 

    Gonzalez has been charged with felony manslaughter.

    Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez 

    Perozo has been charged with hindering apprehension. 

    Maikel Alexander Coello-Perozo

    ICE lodged immigration detainers with the Grapevine Police Department following the arrest of Gonzalez and Perozo. Both are in removal proceedings.

    Gonzalez entered the United States illegally on Sept. 28, 2023, and was released by the previous administration into the country. 

    Perozo entered the country illegally on January 22, 2023, and was released by the previous administration into the country.

    “Ava Moore was a patriot serving her country when she was killed by an illegal alien in a hit-and-run over Memorial Day weekend. This senseless tragedy was 100 percent preventable,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Daikerlyn Gonzalez and Maikel Perozo should have never been in our country and Ava Moore should be alive today preparing for the Air Force Academy. The previous administration’s open border policies have cost too many Americans their lives. President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to stand with victims of illegal alien crime and their families.”

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman Indicted for Metro Bus Robbery and Stabbing

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Tywanna Johnson, 29, of Washington, D.C., was indicted today by a grand jury on charges stemming from a stabbing aboard a Metro Bus in January 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Michael Anzallo of the Metro Transit Police Department.  A Superior Court grand jury indicted Johnson on robbery while armed, assault with intent to rob while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon – knife, assault with a significant bodily injury while armed, and felony threats.

               This case is set for a status hearing on July 14, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia before the Honorable Robert Salerno.

               According to the government’s evidence, on January 22, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Johnson was aboard Metro Bus #3303 in the vicinity of 15th Street NE and Duncan Street NE, when she snatched the phone out of another passenger’s hands. The passenger was able to get his phone back, but then Johnson pulled a knife out of her jacket. Johnson then demanded the passenger’s phone, threatening to kill the passenger if they did not comply. While the passenger ran to the front of the bus to escape Johnson, she lunged forward and stabbed the passenger in the lower back. Johnson was arrested on scene.

               This case is being investigated by the Metro Transit Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. 

               It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jasmine Dohemann. 

               A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fairfield Man Indicted for Failure to Pay Over $2 Million in Employment Taxes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 41-count indictment against Warren Soto Delfin, 54, of Fairfield, charging him with failure to pay more than $2 million in trust fund taxes to the IRS, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, between January 2018 and December 2022, Delfin owned and operated five home health care businesses that accumulated more than $2 million in employment taxes. The employment tax liabilities stem from amounts Delfin withheld from his employee’s paychecks. Instead of paying the employee withholdings to the IRS as required under the law, Delfin retained them and made purchases of luxury items including a Lamborghini, jewelry, and real estate.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nchekube Onyima is prosecuting the case.

    If convicted, Delfin faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each charged count. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MIL Security OSI –