NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-Evening Report: Top unis have imposed new restrictions on campus protests. What does this mean for students, staff and democracy?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joo-Cheong Tham, Professor, Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne

    A wave of restrictions on protesting has been rippling through Australia’s top universities.

    Over the past year, all of Australia’s eight top research universities (the Group of Eight) have individually increased restrictions on campus protests.

    The changes include bans on indoor protests and restrictions on banners, posters and student announcements. At some campuses, groups need to give notice or obtain university approval if they are going to protest.

    Why has this happened and what does it mean for protests, free speech and democracy at Australian universities?

    Why are university protests important?

    Over the past 60 years, campus protests have been a defining feature of Australian university life.

    In the 1960s and ‘70s, they were a breeding ground for social protest, including rallies against apartheid and the Vietnam War, and in favour of women’s rights. In more recent years, students have protested on key social, political and environmental issues, from university fees to the invasion of Iraq and climate action.

    This protest history feeds into the broader purposes of universities. Universities act as a modern-day “public square”. This means they are a place where ideas can be freely debated and difficult issues can be explored. In this way, they act as a key component of a free and healthy democracy.

    As Victorian university legislation notes, universities should promote

    critical and free enquiry, informed intellectual discourse and public debate within the University and in the wider society.

    Rally and draft burning by students at the University of Sydney in 1968.
    Image courtesy of the SEARCH Foundation, from the collections of the State Library of New South Wales., CC BY

    Restricting protests for campus safety

    Since early 2024, there have been increasing restrictions on campus protests.

    These come in the wake of the months-long encampments protesting the war in Gaza – and ensuing concerns over antisemitism at universities and campus safety.

    They have also coincided with increased public scrutiny over university governance. This includes accusations vice-chancellors are running a “lawless sector,” pointing to underpayment of staff, high levels of executive pay and criticism of the way some universities managed the protests.

    What have universities done?

    In this heightened context, universities have increased restrictions on campus protests, arguing they are needed for safety.

    Universities have taken various measures. For example, the University of Western Australia has restricted student announcements in class (or “lecture-bashing”).

    To ensure safety and wellbeing, student announcements are not permitted at the commencement of lectures or other teaching and learning activities.

    The University of Adelaide has banned student encampments and indoor protests.

    The changes across the Group of Eight mean students announcing a rally for climate action in class now risk disciplinary action at some universities. Sit-ins calling on universities to divest from weapon companies are no longer permitted at others. At some campuses, union members going to stop-work meetings to protest staff cuts could be engaging in employee misconduct.

    The legal basis of the restrictions

    Australian universities are typically set up under state legislation and through this have broad powers to regulate campus protests.

    They can impose obligations on students through university rules and direct their staff as employers. They can determine who is allowed to enter and remain on campus through their powers to manage land they either own or control.

    Universities in South Australia and Victoria also have powers under state legislation to make university statutes and regulations.

    The protest restrictions have relied on a mix of these powers.

    Could these changes be challenged?

    But these restrictions are also subject to enterprise agreements made under the federal Fair Work Act which protect academic and intellectual freedom. For example, the University of Sydney’s enterprise agreement entitles staff to:

    • express opinions about the operation of the university and higher education policy in general

    • express unpopular or controversial views, provided that in doing so staff must not engage in harassment, vilification or intimidation.

    There is also the implied right of freedom of political communication under the Australian Constitution.

    This means both the Fair Work Act and Constitution may provide grounds for a legal challenge to many of these new restrictions. The High Court has previously ruled restrictions on protest must be proportionate and necessary for preventing harm and damage.

    The protest restrictions also implicate various human rights. Under international law, which Australia has ratified, staff and students have freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly. As workers, staff have freedom of association through trade unions, including the right to organise.

    Many of these measures would seem to restrict activities where there is no or little threat to safety. In some cases, there are arguably excessive and disproportionate means to ensure safety.

    What will happen now?

    Some university students, staff and unions have opposed these protest restrictions.

    But there is a balancing to be struck here. Other students and staff have not felt safe on campus and in class and have called for more safety protections. This has particularly been the case for those from Jewish backgrounds.

    Given the doubts over their legality, court challenges may be on the horizon. It is also possible some groups will actively test these restrictions.

    But we may see a chilling effect on university activism and protests, when individuals would otherwise speak their minds on campus. Some staff may be worried they will lose their jobs. Students may be also worried about academic penalties or expulsion and the impact on their future careers.

    This undermines universities as a place where people talk, debate and test ideas as a key part of the learning and research process – and a vital component of our democracy.

    Joo-Cheong Tham has been an employee of the University of Melbourne for more than two decades. During this time, he has participated in campus protests at the university that would now be banned by the university’s protest restrictions.

    He is the Victorian Division Assistant Secretary (Academic Staff) of the National Tertiary Education Union; a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia; a Director of the Centre for Public Integrity; and an Expert Network Member of Climate Integrity.

    Joo-Cheong has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, European Trade Union Institute, International IDEA, the New South Wales Electoral Commission, the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Victorian Electoral Commission.

    – ref. Top unis have imposed new restrictions on campus protests. What does this mean for students, staff and democracy? – https://theconversation.com/top-unis-have-imposed-new-restrictions-on-campus-protests-what-does-this-mean-for-students-staff-and-democracy-253627

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Enfield — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Paul Joseph Creel

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    East Hants District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 45-Year-Old Paul Joseph Freel, from East Uniacke, who was reported missing on April 13, 2025. He is believed to have been last seen on April 4, 2025.

    Freel is described as 5 foot 11 and approximately 250 lbs. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Paul Freel is asked to contact the East Hants District RCMP at 902-883-7077. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca , or use the P3 tips app.

    Note: Photo of Paul Joseph Freel Westcott is attached.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Post-election tax reform is the key to reversing Australia’s growing wealth divide

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Hodgson, Professor, Curtin Law School and Curtin Business School, Curtin University

    Federal elections always offer the opportunity for a reset. Whoever wins the May 3 election should consider a much needed revamp of the tax system, which is no longer fit for purpose.

    The biggest challenge that should be addressed through tax reform is the level of inequality in Australian society.

    The five-yearly Intergenerational Reports lay bare the intergenerational squeeze. The future burden of supporting the ageing population will increasingly fall on younger Australians who generally don’t enjoy the same financial wellbeing of previous generations.

    But there is also rising inequality within generations. Not all younger Australians can rely on inherited wealth, including the bank of mum and dad. And superannuation balances at retirement vary wildly, given they are tied to work history.

    Proper systemic tax reform would play a crucial role building a fairer society.

    Reform freeze

    But to define what is meant by tax reform, we need to think about some of the big picture concerns that affect our economy.

    Arguably we have not successfully pursued a tax reform agenda since the introduction of the GST in 2000. Various governments have changed the tax rates, but that doesn’t constitute genuine reform.

    The Henry Review, commissioned by the Rudd government, set out the long-term horizon for reform – including resource taxes and road user charges for the transition to a net-zero economy. However, the Henry blueprint has not been adopted by any succeeding government.

    Politicians like to boast of “reform agendas”. Despite the political rhetoric, the tax system has not yet adapted to the 21st century.

    Wealth inequality

    The biggest gap in our tax base relates to the concessional taxation of wealth and assets, which is an area ripe for reform.

    According to the Treasury, the top six revenue losers all relate to superannuation, capital gains and negative gearing. In 2024–25, the estimated revenue foregone for these concessions are:

    • $29 billion for the concessional taxation of employer superannuation contributions

    • $27 billion for the main residence Capital Gains Tax exemption (discount component)

    • $26 billion for rental deductions (this is partly offset by rental income)

    • $24.5 billion for main residence Capital Gains Tax exemption

    • $22.73 billion for CGT discount for individuals and trusts

    • $22.2 billion for the concessional taxation of superannuation earnings

    The distributional analysis for superannuation and the Capital Gains Tax discount shows the greatest benefit goes to older taxpayers in the higher earnings brackets. So wealth inequality is perpetuated.

    Addressing these overgenerous concessions to broaden the tax base should be the starting point for any meaningful reform in this country.

    Taking another look at death duties, which were abolished from the late 1970s, should also be considered.

    Death duties were applied to assets transferred to beneficiaries on death. If they were reimposed with a starting threshold set at an appropriate level, they would limit the intergenerational transfer of wealth, which is generating much of the inequity.

    Wealth creation tools

    The Capital Gains Tax discount was introduced following the 1999 Ralph Review to direct productive capital into Australian businesses.

    The 50% discount sparked the boom in residential investment, which combined with negative gearing, has supercharged the inefficiencies in our housing market.

    Superannuation is another wealth-creation tool. Again, the design of superannuation, whereby tax was paid at 15% on the three stages of contributions – investment, earnings and withdrawal – was subverted in search of simplicity in 2007 when the Howard government exempted superannuation withdrawals from tax.

    Case study

    By comparison, the age pension is taxable, if the recipient earns other income. So too are earnings from work allowed under Centrelink rules. This not only allows estate planning advantages, but creates an unfair outcome for retirees who have not had the opportunity to accumulate substantial balances.

    Consider the cases of “Jean” and “Kim”, who are both single homeowners aged 68.

    Jean has no financial assets and receives the full pension of $1,194 per fortnight plus $512 per fortnight from part-time work. She has a taxable income of $43,816 per annum and, after tax offsets, pays $2,595 in tax including $209.70 medicare levy.

    Kim has a superannuation balance of $880,000 and draws a super pension of $44,000. Kim is not eligible for the pension, but pays no tax and no medicare levy.

    Is our tax system really delivering a fair go for all Australians?

    Tax relief is not reform

    Ahead of election day, both the government and opposition are promising tax handouts. Labor is offering top-up tax cuts starting July 1 2026. The coalition says it will temporarily halve the fuel excise.

    But meaningful reform will not be achieved by politicians trading off various interest groups to win votes.

    Nor do we need yet another review: many of the solutions to Australia’s tax problem were identified by the Henry Review 15 years ago.

    And we must avoid cherry-picking incentives that lead to perverse outcomes. For example, cutting fuel excise will slow down the transition to a net zero economy.

    Consensus needed

    Whoever forms government after the election could build a coalition of business and community sector leaders to seek consensus and pursue holistic reform. The focus must be on addressing the inequality that is emerging as a challenge to the economy and our way of life.

    As Ken Henry recently stated, successive governments have fuelled inequality by failing to do three things

    one, manage financial risks arising from the erosion of the tax base; two, maintain the integrity of the tax system; and three, have regard to intergenerational equity.

    Without significant tax reform, Australia’s wealth divide will continue to deepen with young people and future generations left to suffer the brunt.

    This is the sixth article in our special series, Australia’s Policy Challenges. You can read the other articles here

    Helen Hodgson has received funding from the ARC, AHURI and CPA Australia. Helen is the Chair of the Social Policy Committee and a Director of the National Foundation for Australian Women (NFAW). Helen was a Member of the WA Legislative Council in WA from 1997 to 2001, elected as an Australian Democrat. She is not a current member of any political party. She is a Registered Tax Agent and a member of the SMSF Association, CPA Australia and The Tax Institute. Helen has superannuation with Unisuper and jointly owns positively geared rental properties.

    – ref. Post-election tax reform is the key to reversing Australia’s growing wealth divide – https://theconversation.com/post-election-tax-reform-is-the-key-to-reversing-australias-growing-wealth-divide-252177

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: U.S. tariffs are about to trigger the greatest trade diversion the world has ever seen

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Wolfgang Alschner, Hyman Soloway Chair in Business and Trade Law, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    United States President Donald Trump’s tariffs have shaken the global trading system. Canadians have rightly been preoccupied by the tariff’s devastating impact on U.S.-Canada relations, but the wider ripple effects could prove just as damaging.

    The tariffs have redirected billions of dollars in exports originally bound for the U.S., which are now poised to flood global markets — including Canada’s. This will trigger a historic trade diversion that will put even the most free trade-minded nations to the test.

    Around 15 per cent of global imports went to the U.S. in 2024. The country has long been the world’s biggest consumer market, in part, due to its low average tariffs of just 3.3 per cent.

    These days are now over. On April 2, the U.S. increased its average tariff rate seven-fold to a staggering 22 per cent — by far the highest among countries with a major economy.



    Read more:
    Canada was mostly spared from Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, but it must not grow complacent

    Even though the U.S.’s “reciprocal” tariffs have since been suspended for all countries except China and Trump has now exempted smartphones, computers and microchips, a 10 per cent baseline rate and several sectoral duties remain in place.

    Together, they form a tariff wall around the U.S. unlike anything seen in generations.

    The Great Trade Diversion

    Much of the trade disruption stems from China. In 2024, China exported US$438.9 billion worth of goods to the U.S. Millions of parcels, sent via e-commerce platforms like Shein, entered the U.S. duty-free because they fell below the US$800 “de minimis” threshold.

    On April 2, Trump eliminated this exemption for low-value Chinese exports and imposed a reciprocal tariff on all Chinese imports of 34 per cent.

    This rate was increased further after China vowed to retaliate on April 4, and is now stacked on top of a 20 per cent fentanyl-related tariff. The result is an effective tariff rate exceeding 100 per cent, making it prohibitively costly for China to export to the U.S.

    Last time U.S.-China trade tensions escalated, China rerouted many of its exports through Southeast Asia. This time, however, Southeast Asian countries were hit hard, too.

    Vietnam, a major destination of Chinese export-oriented foreign investment, exported US$137 billion in goods to the U.S. in 2024. While the 46 per cent reciprocal tariff against Vietnam has since been suspended, the U.S. is unlikely to tolerate such circumvention this time around.

    The U.S. has also imposed a 25 per cent tariff on all imported automobiles. South Korea, Japan and Germany all export cars to the U.S. market. While some of these exports may continue as tariff costs are absorbed or passed on to customers, others will divert their vehicles to alternative markets.

    All told, billions of dollars in trade are being rerouted, with a tidal wave of diverted goods now headed for markets around the world.

    A repeat of the Great Depression

    The world has been here before. In the 1930s, the U.S. enacted the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, which raised tariffs on thousands of imported goods in an effort to shield American industries during the Great Depression. The result was a rapid contraction of global trade.

    What ultimately tipped the world over the edge wasn’t direct retaliation against the U.S. Instead, global trade collapsed as U.S. trading partners turned on each other. Faced with a flood of diverted goods, they rushed to protect their own manufacturing by enacting trade restrictions of their own.

    Similarly, today, we face a similar risk. The greater concern is not Trump’s tariffs themselves or even the retaliation they provoke, but rather the resulting trade diversion and wave of protectionism it can trigger.

    Old fears, new pressures

    In some respects, the world may be in a more precarious position today than it was in the early 1930s.

    For close to a decade, western policymakers, including G7 members, have sounded alarm bells over “Chinese overcapacity.” China consumes too little at home and exports too much abroad, often using unfair non-market practices such as covert subsidization to undercut local prices.

    Fears of deindustrialization have already led some governments to put new trade barriers in place. Canada, for example, placed a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles to protect its own nascent industry in 2024. A flood of diverted Chinese imports will only heighten these pre-existing concerns.

    At the same time, global trade rules meant to safeguard against protectionism have become brittle. The U.S. has blocked the appointment of judges to the World Trade Organization’s highest court, which is tasked with enforcing trade rules.

    The resulting impunity has emboldened countries beyond the U.S. to openly flout WTO rules. Indonesia, for example, continues to maintain a WTO-inconsistent export ban on nickel. Canada’s electric vehicle tariff will likely be judged illegal under trade rules as well.

    Global trade system at a crossroads

    The Great Trade Diversion is set to put an already strained system to the test. There is still time for countries to reaffirm their commitment to international trade rules. Those same rules also allow countries to temporarily restrict trade when faced with a flood of imports.

    The Canadian government can proactively identify sectors at risk of disruption and call on the Canada Border Services Agency to self-initiate investigations into vulnerable sectors to swiftly clear the procedural hurdles for imposing temporary import restrictions.

    If countries stick to these rules, the global trading system can weather the storm. Just as possible, though, is a slide toward protectionism. Faced with a deluge of goods coming from China, the temptation to erect illegal trade barriers like the U.S. already has will be high.

    The global economy stands at a crossroads: one path leads to a reassertion of international co-operation and global rules; the other to a cascade of protectionist measures and a weakening of the very system that has enabled decades of economic growth and stability.

    Wolfgang Alschner receives funding from the SSHRC.

    – ref. U.S. tariffs are about to trigger the greatest trade diversion the world has ever seen – https://theconversation.com/u-s-tariffs-are-about-to-trigger-the-greatest-trade-diversion-the-world-has-ever-seen-254049

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How I’m teaching Holocaust literature in light of Canadian recommendations around combatting antisemitism

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Regan Lipes, Extended Sessional Instructor, English and Comparative Literature, MacEwan University

    As university students encounter hate speech, like statements perpetrated by music industry personalities they may have once enjoyed, they have questions about antisemitism — and what it really is.

    I research and teach Jewish literature with a focus on Holocaust narratives. With rising tensions on both sides of the Israel-Hamas War, and 24 hostages still in captivity, Canadian communities feel the continued conflict domestically.

    In December 2024, the House of Commons’s Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights released a comprehensive document: Heightened Anisemitism in Canada and How to Combat It.

    Since Oct. 7, 2023, societal tolerance for blatant acts of antisemitism has risen. This makes this document all the more timely, especially as it reports: “Many witnesses noted that the rise in antisemitism has been particularly acute on university campuses.”

    Among the document’s 19 recommendations is guidance around Holocaust education and remembrance. While there is longstanding scholarly discussion around best practices and ethics pertaining to teaching the Holocaust and remembrance, educators must also be responsive to our current — and evolving — contexts.

    Here, I share ways I have sought to adapt my own approach to teaching Holocaust literature. For educators wondering how to begin approaching the integration of Holocaust topics, a 2020 collection of articles on the subject, Understanding and Teaching the Holocaust, edited by Laura Hilton (professor of history) and Avinoam Patt (professor of Holocaust studies), could be a launching point.

    Modern-day antisemitism, trajectories

    The committee’s sixth recommendation is that the government of Canada work with provinces and territories to “ensure that Holocaust education in public schools and other institutions includes explanations of modern-day antisemitism and integrates a Jewish community-centered lens.”

    For a course teaching film adaptations of the Holocaust, I solicited the assistance of a colleague, historian Carson Phillips, at the Azrieli Foundation, a charity whose eight funding areas include Holocaust education and legacy, to tackle this recommendation.

    Working with Phillips brought an additional voice to the discussion of how Holocaust denial and Holocaust distortion are connected to antisemitism. Holocaust denial is a form of antisemitism with all its malignant intentions.



    Read more:
    How Hitler conspiracies and other Holocaust disinformation undermine democratic institutions

    Phillips suggested I try to additionally focus on survivor memoirs that explore life prior to the Holocaust to illustrate the trajectory of antisemitic agendas. He noted I should concentrate on memoirs with a connection to Canada so this message would be more relevant for my students.

    He provided me with A Cry in Unison by Judy Cohen,
    Flights of Spirit by Elly Gotz and Memories in Focus by Pinchas Gutter. I also applied his advice in the fiction I taught and incorporated the 1970 novel, Crackpot, by Adele Wiseman, to show that between the First and Second World Wars in Canada, there was societal antisemitism and social isolation of Jews.

    To further connect this to a Canadian context, and to consider trajectories of hate, in the future I may include content around how there were plans to export the “final solution” from Europe to North America. This illustrates that tolerance of antisemitism can quickly threaten societal stability.

    Antisemitism far predates Nazism

    I wanted my students to see that although the Holocaust was caused by antisemitism, antisemitism long predated the rise of Nazism and survives today because of a lack of shared awareness.

    The Art Gallery of Alberta recently hosted an exhibit Here to Tell of photograph portraits of Holocaust survivors and their recorded testimonies.



    Read more:
    Holocaust survivor stories are reminders of why we need to educate against antisemitism

    In three of my courses, I gave the extra credit option to visit the exhibition and reflect on ideas, themes and concepts that resonated. Similar engagement is being implemented in high school classes to address Alberta’s curricular requirements.

    This has the aim of better informing learners about what can occur when xenophobia and hate are allowed to proliferate.

    The documentary connected to the exhibit vividly illustrates why antisemitism is dangerous when left to fester and breed, or if misinformation masquerades as fact.

    ‘Here to Tell: Faces of Holocaust Survivors’ project.

    As recent events in a suburb of Edmonton suggest, not combating antisemitism allows the tentacles of white supremacy and xenophobia to affect other communities too. There, masked demonstrators stood with an apparent anti-immigration sign while one gave a Nazi salute.

    Addressing Holocaust remembrance

    The eighth recommendation of Heightened Antisemitism calls for the government of Canada, “in line with its commitment to build strong communities and celebrate multiculturalism,” to “provide funding to develop a five-year program to enhance the literacy of post-secondary students regarding the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism.”

    For me as an educator, this made the marking of International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD) especially meaningful in the context of classroom learning in Alberta.

    After all, Alberta was the province where James Keegstra first began teaching Holocaust denial to high school students in the 1980s. After Prof. Anthony Hall of the University of Lethbridge finally retired in 2018, it seemed like Holocaust denial and baseless vilification of Zionism was on the decline in Alberta. As reported by CBC, in 2016 Hall was suspended without pay for “allegedly promoting conspiracy theories and denying the Holocaust in online articles and videos.”

    This year was the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and to to mark IHRD, I organized two guest speakers to present their research to students. Speakers helped contextualize the immediate legacy of the Holocaust and how this contributes to contemporary antisemitism.

    With Yom HaShoah (Jewish Holocaust Remembrance Day) soon approaching, these discussions should be at the forefront of Canadian human rights awareness.



    Read more:
    How Jan. 27 came to be International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust

    Wider implications

    Although my students are likely not familiar with the report’s broader recommendations for how to combat antisemitism, a sizeable portion of the report’s advice does focus on university campuses. There are implications far beyond teaching the Holocaust or Jewish subject matters which may potentially impact students.

    Recommendations include:

    • Calls for more robust and effective strategies to combat antisemitism and safeguard Jewish communities across Canada;

    • For action to address antisemitic incidents;

    • That the “full diversity of the Jewish identity be acknowledged within Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) frameworks, including Jewish peoplehood, ethnicity, nationality, multi-denominational religion, cultural diversity, and language, as well as Zionist and Indigenous aspects of Jewish identity.” This point notes that “this includes the recognition of Zionism as the self-determination of Jewish people in their ancestral homeland of Israel.”

    It has yet to be seen how a change in federal Canadian leadership will uphold the values articulated in this important committee report, but the document does provide hope for Holocaust educators and broader Canadian communities isolated by a rise in hate.

    Regan Lipes does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How I’m teaching Holocaust literature in light of Canadian recommendations around combatting antisemitism – https://theconversation.com/how-im-teaching-holocaust-literature-in-light-of-canadian-recommendations-around-combatting-antisemitism-247747

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man arrested following murder in Lewisham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman in her 40s in Lewisham.

    At 06:41hrs on Sunday, 13 April London Ambulance Service alerted police to a seriously injured woman in Hatfield Close, SE14.

    First responding officers were immediately deployed along with London’s Air Ambulance. Despite the emergency services best efforts, she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

    Shortly after, at 06:52hrs, a 44-year-old man self-presented at Lewisham Police Station in connection to the incident. He was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

    It is believed the two parties are known to each other. Her next-of-kin have been informed and will be supported by specialist officers.

    A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents

    ANALYSIS: By Jane McAdam, UNSW Sydney

    The details of a new visa enabling Tuvaluan citizens to permanently migrate to Australia were released this week.

    The visa was created as part of a bilateral treaty Australia and Tuvalu signed in late 2023, which aims to protect the two countries’ shared interests in security, prosperity and stability, especially given the “existential threat posed by climate change”.

    The Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union, as it is known, is the world’s first bilateral agreement to create a special visa like this in the context of climate change.

    Here’s what we know so far about why this special visa exists and how it will work.

    Why is this migration avenue important?
     The impacts of climate change are already contributing to displacement and migration around the world.

    As a low-lying atoll nation, Tuvalu is particularly exposed to rising sea levels, storm surges and coastal erosion.

    As Pacific leaders declared in a world-first regional framework on climate mobility in 2023, rights-based migration can “help people to move safely and on their own terms in the context of climate change.”

    And enhanced migration opportunities have clearly made a huge difference to development challenges in the Pacific, allowing people to access education and work and send money back home.

    As international development expert Professor Stephen Howes put it,

    Countries with greater migration opportunities in the Pacific generally do better.

    While Australia has a history of labour mobility schemes for Pacific peoples, this will not provide opportunities for everyone.

    Despite perennial calls for migration or relocation opportunities in the face of climate change, this is the first Australian visa to respond.

    How does the new visa work?
     The visa will enable up to 280 people from Tuvalu to move to Australia each year.

    On arrival in Australia, visa holders will receive, among other things, immediate access to:

    • education (at the same subsidisation as Australian citizens)
    • Medicare
    • the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
    • family tax benefit
    • childcare subsidy
    • youth allowance.

    They will also have “freedom for unlimited travel” to and from Australia.

    This is rare. Normally, unlimited travel is capped at five years.

    According to some experts, these arrangements now mean Tuvalu has the “second closest migration relationship with Australia after New Zealand”.

    Reading the fine print
     The technical name of the visa is Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement).

    The details of the visa, released this week, reveal some curiosities.

    First, it has been incorporated into the existing Pacific Engagement Visa category (subclass 192) rather than designed as a standalone visa.

    Presumably, this was a pragmatic decision to expedite its creation and overcome the significant costs of establishing a wholly new visa category.

    But unlike the Pacific Engagement Visa — a different, earlier visa, which is contingent on applicants having a job offer in Australia — this new visa is not employment-dependent.

    Secondly, the new visa does not specifically mention Tuvalu.

    This would make it simpler to extend it to other Pacific countries in the future.

    Who can apply, and how?

    To apply, eligible people must first register their interest for the visa online. Then, they must be selected through a random computer ballot to apply.

    The primary applicant must:

    • be at least 18 years of age
    • hold a Tuvaluan passport, and
    • have been born in Tuvalu — or had a parent or a grandparent born there.

    People with New Zealand citizenship cannot apply. Nor can anyone whose Tuvaluan citizenship was obtained through investment in the country.

    This indicates the underlying humanitarian nature of the visa; people with comparable opportunities in New Zealand or elsewhere are ineligible to apply for it.

    Applicants must also satisfy certain health and character requirements.

    Strikingly, the visa is open to those “with disabilities, special needs and chronic health conditions”. This is often a bar to acquiring an Australian visa.

    And the new visa isn’t contingent on people showing they face risks from the adverse impacts of climate change and disasters, even though climate change formed the backdrop to the scheme’s creation.

    Settlement support is crucial
     With the first visa holders expected to arrive later this year, questions remain about how well supported they will be.

    The Explanatory Memorandum to the treaty says:

    Australia would provide support for applicants to find work and to the growing Tuvaluan diaspora in Australia to maintain connection to culture and improve settlement outcomes.

    That’s promising, but it’s not yet clear how this will be done.

    A heavy burden often falls on diaspora communities to assist newcomers.

    For this scheme to work, there must be government investment over the immediate and longer-term to give people the best prospects of thriving.

    Drawing on experiences from refugee settlement, and from comparative experiences in New Zealand with respect to Pacific communities, will be instructive.

    Extensive and ongoing community consultation is also needed with Tuvalu and with the Tuvalu diaspora in Australia. This includes involving these communities in reviewing the scheme over time.

    Dr Jane McAdam is Scientia professor and ARC laureate fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Waihi

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a single-vehicle crash at the intersection of Rosemont Road and Consols Street, Waihi. 

    Police were called about 8.20pm.

    The road is closed, with diversions in place.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Lower Hutt

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash on Dowse Drive, Maungaraki, involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. 

    Police were called about 7.15pm. 

    The pedestrian is reportedly in serious condition. 

    The road is closed, with diversions in place. 

    Motorists should avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Members of public come to officer’s assistance, Feilding

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A road policing officer was a couple of hours into her shift yesterday Saturday 13 April, when she responded to a report received shortly after 2pm of a group of people fighting on the side of the Lethbridge Street in Feilding.

    She intervened and the situation began to calm down. However, the arrival of another aggressive person saw the incident flare up again, putting the officer in a potentially dangerous position.

    Other Police staff were travelling to the incident but were still several minutes away. Fortunately, several members of the public saw what was happening, and came to the officer’s aid while she worked to resolve the situation.

    Manawatu Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham says, “What started out as a fairly typical callout involving a handful of people quickly escalated with the arrival of an aggressive person. I appreciate that members of the Feilding community stepped in to provide assistance until this officer’s colleagues arrived.

    “We work hard to be there for the community and we’re always grateful when they’re there for us.”

    One person is reported to have received minor injuries as a result of the incident. No Police staff were injured.

    Two people were arrested and have been charged with assault. A 35-year-old woman and an 18-year-old woman are due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on Thursday 17 April.

    An 18-year-old man was also charged with driving while disqualified, and the vehicle he was driving has been seized and impounded. He is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on 24 April.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: MyWay+ ready to roll with Fare Free Fridays

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The new ticketing system will go live on buses and light rail from Wednesday 27 November 2024.

    In brief:

    • The new public transport ticketing system, MyWay+ is now live.
    • The new MyWay+ phone app and website are available now. Canberrans can also purchase a MyWay+ card now.
    • Canberrans can also travel for free on public transport every Friday.
    • If you need support or have questions about the new ticketing system, please visit transport.act.gov.au or call 13 17 10.

    The ACT Government’s new public transport ticketing system, MyWay+, is now live.

    MyWay+ allows you to simply tap on and off public transport with your bank card or payment method on a mobile phone.

    Old MyWay cards will no longer be accepted but Canberrans can purchase or order a new MyWay+ card if they wish.

    The new MyWay+ mobile phone app and online portal are also available.

    The app lets you plan and pay for your journey across different modes of transport, check accessibility options and receive personalised messages for your favourite bus and light rail services.

    A MyWay+ account allows you to:

    • access personalised and convenient travel management
    • transfer any travel credit from old MyWay cards
    • make contactless payments
    • register concessions
    • order a new MyWay+ travel card
    • view travel and transaction history
    • customise your real time journey notifications in the MyWay+ app.

    The MyWay+ app can be downloaded for free from:

    The app lets you plan and pay for your journey across different modes of transport, check accessibility options and receive personalised messages for your favourite bus and light rail services.

    No account, no problem

    For Canberrans who do not want to use the new digital features as part of the MyWay+ system, there is still a physical MyWay+ travel card available from retail outlets (including concession travel cards).

    Passengers can also use a credit card, debit card, Apple or Google Pay on their mobile phone to tap on and off.

    Fare Free Fridays

    Starting from Friday 6 December, Canberrans can use public transport for free every Friday.

    Canberrans will still be required to tap on and off each service to support data collection, but will not be charged for the fare.

    Ongoing improvements

    There will be several system improvements to the MyWay+ system over the coming weeks.

    These improvements will be based on user feedback as well as planned future software and system updates designed to enhance the user experience and meet the needs of Canberrans. Transport Canberra provides a regular update on its website to the improvements that are being made.

    Please be kind to our bus and light rail drivers as the new system rolls out, and they get you from A to B.

    Help is available 

    Customer service representatives will be located at major bus and light rail stops and interchanges over the coming weeks.

    For further information, including access to the MyWay+ account, real-time journey planner and MyWay+ app along with a list of retail agents, visit www.transport.act.gov.au

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Strong Foundations literacy and numeracy resources grants launch

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The teaching materials will include decodable readers.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government’s Strong Foundations program is in Phase 1 of implementation.
    • There is extra funding for early years classroom resources in all ACT P-2 classrooms.
    • Resources will support evidence-informed literacy and numeracy education.

    The ACT Government’s new Strong Foundations program is in Phase 1 of implementation.

    This week all ACT public schools with preschool to year 2 students will receive a grant.

    This extra funding will support them to buy additional evidence-informed literacy and numeracy resources for early years students.

    These resources will be in place for preschool to year 2 classrooms for the start of the 2025 school year.

    System-approved resources

    The teaching materials and equipment will include decodable readers and maths resources.

    Resources will support both students and teachers.

    Teachers will be trained on how to use these resources in the classroom.

    Setting kids up for success

    High-quality teaching in the early years helps prepare students for long-term success at school.

    These additional resources will enhance and improve early years education in ACT public schools.

    It will also give parents more confidence their school is sufficiently resourced to provide evidence-informed literacy and numeracy education.

    These resources come in addition to the rollout of the Year 1 Phonics Check across ACT public schools in 2025.

    Read the Strong Foundations Phase 1 Implementation Plan.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Introducing the 2025 ACT Australian of the Year winners

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    From left: Daniel Bartholomaeus, Hannah Costello, Vanessa Brettell, Megan Gilmour, Marilyn Ralston, Peter Ralston OAM.

    In brief:

    • The winners of the 2025 ACT Australian of the Year Awards have been announced.
    • The four categories recognise people who go above and beyond for their communities.
    • They are now finalists in the national awards, to be announced on 25 January 2025.

    The winners of the 2025 ACT Australian of the Year Awards have been announced.

    They will join the other state and territory recipients as finalists for the national awards announcement on 25 January 2025.

    Read on to find out more about the winners.

    2025 ACT Australian of the Year recipient – Megan Gilmour

    Social innovator Megan Gilmour wants to create a world where all children are seen and heard.

    In Australia, 1.2 million children are at risk of missing school due to complex medical and mental health challenges.

    Megan advocates for change in education systems for these vulnerable children.

    She drew on her lived experience to co-found MissingSchool. The organisation develops school solutions that help students continue learning alongside their peers.

    MissingSchool launched the world’s first national telepresence service, allowing children in hospital or at home to join lessons in real time.

    It has restored school connections for some 6,900 students since 2018.

    2025 ACT Senior Australian of The Year recipients – Marilyn and Peter Ralston OAM

    Peter and Marilyn Ralston support people with vision impairment or other disabilities to run, walk and be active.

    They began Achilles Running Club Canberra in 2013. Peter is President of the club.

    Through Achilles Canberra, volunteer guides team up with people with disability. Together, they join fun runs, club training and the weekly Parkrun.

    In the past three years, Peter has guided blind athletes 120 times at Parkrun. Achilles Canberra has enabled several blind members to each achieve hundreds of Parkruns.

    Peter and Marilyn also serve the community through other charity work.

    2025 ACT Young Australian of the Year recipient – Daniel Bartholomaeus

    Daniel Bartholomaeus is an artist and neurodiversity advocate.

    Daniel, who has autism and ADHD, inspires and motivates others. This is especially the case within the neurodiverse community.

    He not only uses his art to express himself, but also to forge common pathways for people with mental ill-health and those of different abilities.

    His art and lived experience help bridge the gap between neurotypical and neurodiverse people.

    Daniel is a mentor with The With Friends Initiative, a social group for neurodivergent young people.

    2025 ACT Local Hero recipients – Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello

    Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello use hospitality to empower vulnerable women.

    Their business, Cafe Stepping Stone, operates as a social enterprise. It employs women who experience significant barriers to employment. These women are mostly from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

    The café’s two locations offer culturally and linguistically diverse women employment pathways, on-the-job training and qualifications. These help them enter or return to the workforce.

    Hannah and Vanessa’s inclusive employment practices assist female workers who:

    • are the sole income earners in their household
    • are new arrivals to Australia
    • have limited English or minimal employment history
    • are experiencing homelessness.

    Find out more about the awards and other ACT nominees on the Australian of the Year website.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The human side of Triple Zero

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Connor is an emergency communications officer in the ACT Ambulance Service communication centre.

    If you ever have to call an ambulance, chances are you’ve found yourself in a bit of a stressful situation. Your head is probably racing with thoughts, your heart pumping, and possibly your body is shaking. When someone answers the phone, your words may spill out in a tangle, as you desperately try and get someone to help.

    For the person on the other end of the phone, each call is also a pressured step into the unknown.

    Connor is an emergency communications officer in the ACT Ambulance Service communication centre. Straight out of school, he started his career in the communication centre for the ACT Police, and worked there for five years. For the last three years, he’s worked in the ambulance call centre – his role including everything from taking emergency triple zero calls to ambulance enquiries and patients’ transport bookings.

    He says working in the emergency call centre is, “like what you see on TV”, but despite almost a decade working in the field, “you can’t prepare yourself for the intensity or the unknown when you answer the phone”.

    Emergency call takers manage emergency calls from start to finish, following a script of questions that help triage the resources required for a job. Call takers are supported by the ambulance dispatchers and paramedic clinicians, who also sit in the call centre, and the three work together to provide the relevant advice or send the appropriate care.

    “We have a series of questions that we need to ask to arrange the best help for you. But some people don’t like the questions. [They ask] ‘where’s my ambulance? Why are you taking so long? Why are you asking me all these stupid questions? Why aren’t you focusing everything on me and helping me’?” says Connor.

    “We reassure people our questions aren’t going to delay any help we’re going to organise for them, but they don’t like it sometimes.”

    That can sometimes lead to verbal abuse, with the callers taking their stress and frustrations out on the call taker. Connor has had callers get so irate they not only threaten him, but threaten to also track down and harm his family.

    “It’s tough. It’s not the standard that you want to listen to. It’s not nice being yelled and screamed at,” he says.

    “[For the caller], it’s the worst point in their life at that time, hence why they call an ambulance, but at the same time, I don’t deserve to cop that.”

    After difficult calls, staff are encouraged to step away from the phone and take some time either by themselves or with a team member to debrief. They also have a peer support network who are available to support staff after difficult phone calls, plus an Employee Assistance Program.

    Despite the occasional abusive call, Connor loves his job. He loves knowing he’s helping people, and he finds the shift work suits his family – he and his wife have three kids – plus he loves the camaraderie of the team.

    “You get close with your team, and they’re like your second family,” he says.

    He said it’s a role that could suit anyone – they have staff ranging from those straight out of school to people from other industries including childcare and hospitality. And by the time you’re working independently in the role, you feel fully confident. Everyone gets a full six weeks of training, followed by eight weeks working on the phones where you’re supported one-on-one by a mentor – Connor is currently mentoring a new staff member – before you’re signed off as an independent call taker.

    If you feel you’re in urgent need of medical attention, Connor always encourages people to call for an ambulance. But also remember that the service is there to help people in genuine emergencies. If you’re experiencing a non-urgent medical situation, there are other medical services that can help, such as your GP, or Canberra’s walk-in centres. If you do need to go to the hospital but have someone who can safely transport you there, that can also be a good option.

    “We treat everyone, no matter who you are. We’ll give you the best advice that we can at the time,” says Connor.

    “There is a misconception that if you go in an ambulance you get seen quicker, but you don’t. Whether you go to hospital yourself or via an ambulance, the triage system once you get to hospital is exactly the same.”

    And if you find yourself in a position where you are calling an ambulance, don’t forget that the person on the other end is trying to help you.

    “They don’t understand that we might have just got off a CPR call, or we might have just dealt with a child having a seizure or febrile convulsions, and we’ve just hung up that phone,” he says.

    “We’re humans on the other side of the phone.”

    * For personal privacy, surnames of interviewees have been removed.

    Find out more about how you can help make ACT Government workplaces safe for everyone.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s most common recycling mistakes

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    From coffee cups to clothing, there are some items that do not belong in your recycling bin.

    Canberrans are great recyclers, but sometimes people mistake items as recyclable when they’re not.

    Things you can put in your recycling (yellow) bin include:

    • aluminium and steel cans
    • glass bottles and jars
    • paper and cardboard
    • plastic bottles and containers.

    However, plenty of other items turn up in yellow bins across the ACT every day. These include everything from coffee cups to clothing and computers to cat poo.

    While some of these things can be recycled, your yellow bin is not the place for them. Visit the A to Z guide of waste and recycling to find out what to do with them.

    Here are some items Canberrans commonly try to recycle through their yellow bin.

    Bagged recycling

    Plastic bags cannot go in your recycling bin. If you put items in your yellow bin inside a plastic bag, the whole bag will go to landfill. Waste sorting facilities will not open the bag as there may be other contamination inside.

    Don’t let the bag cancel out what’s inside. Simply place recyclable items – loose and empty – into your recycling bin and reuse your bags another way.

    Soft plastics

    Soft plastics include things like chip and lolly packets and bread bags. Like plastic bags, these can’t go in your recycling bin.

    The general rule is that if you can scrunch it up, it can’t go in your recycling bin. Put it in your landfill (red) bin instead.

    Even though items like milk bottles and berry punnets may feel a bit soft, these are still considered hard plastics and can go in your household recycling.

    Takeaway coffee cups

    There is a lot of confusion around these. While many takeaway coffee cups are made from cardboard, they cannot go in recycling bins. This is due to the type of materials they’re made from, including the plastic coating often found on the inside.

    You should also put the disposable lids in your landfill bin as they cannot be recycled either.

    Timber

    Timber can be reused but not via your household recycling bin.

    You can dispose of reusable timber by dropping it off for free at second-hand locations like Goodies Junction. If the timber is valuable, you could try a local ‘buy nothing’ group or consider contacting places like Thor’s Hammer or ACT Recycling.

    Textiles

    These include clothing, blankets, sheets, towels and fabrics.

    These items can also be recycled but your recycling bin is not the place for them.

    You can try giving them another home by:

    • passing them on to a friend
    • selling or giving them away online
    • donating them to a charity
    • dropping them off for free at Goodies Junction at either Mitchell or Mugga Lane.

    Batteries and eWaste

    It’s imperative batteries and eWaste are disposed of correctly. These items can cause fires and should not go in any of your household bins.

    You can drop off batteries for free at over 50 locations across Canberra. These include most supermarkets and hardware stores.

    Both eWaste and batteries can be disposed of for free at a resource management centre – either at Mitchell or Mugga Lane.

    Animal waste

    While this one may seem obvious, animal waste is not recyclable and must not go in household recycling bins. Animal waste should only be placed in landfill bins.

    If you’re ever unsure about what can and cannot be recycled, check out the A to Z guide to waste and recycling.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 35 (more) new places to eat in 2024

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Carlotta is the first restaurant by Chris Lucas in Canberra. Image: VisitCanberra

    In brief:

    • Many new restaurants, cafés and bars have opened in Canberra in the second half of 2024.
    • This story includes a list of new eateries to try.

    We hope you’re hungry, because there are plenty of new places to check out:

    Ballyhoo has seriously good food, with a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The food is a blend of Mediterranean and South American cuisine.

    Expect Australian-influenced Mediterranean food designed for shared feasting. Savour antipasto, handmade pasta, and meat and seafood cooked in a wood oven from Naples.

    The iconic building at the top of Red Hill has reopened with two Italian restaurants: Lunetta and Lunetta Trattoria. The latter is on the ground floor with a more relaxed vibe. Upstairs, Lunetta offers elevated dining with beautiful views.

    Wildflour are famous for their seasonal pastries, and Macquarie residents can soon get their fix. Their new shopfront is set to open in mid-November.

    This Korean barbecue spot joined Capital Food Market in September. Wagyu beef is a star on the menu, but there are also salads, seafood, soups and more.

    Hao Chi is another new addition to Belconnen’s Capital Food Market. The menu includes a range of dumplings and buns, as well as noodles, fried rice, and snacks.

    Southsiders can now easily get their hands on NYC-style donuts. Brooklyn Donut and Coffee have a large menu with traditional and filled donuts. Enjoy flavours like red velvet, New York cheesecake, and dark choc peanut butter.

    Looking for a cozy coffee spot in Tuggeranong? Look no further. Mocha Mystic also have a varied breakfast and lunch menu. Fritters, momo (Nepalese dumpling), salads, toasties and more are on offer.

    Bombay Duck, Greenway

    Authentic Indian is now available at South.Point in Tuggeranong.  Curries, chat, rice, biryani, and naan all feature on the menu.

    Espresso Room has opened near Coles in the Canberra Centre. The coffee is a focus but you’ll also find pastries, donuts and takeaway lunch items.

    This isn’t a new opening, but it is a long-awaited reopening. This award-winning Turkish restaurant is known as an ideal spot for a special occasion meal.

    The former chef of the now-closed XO in Narrabundah is bringing southeast Asian street eats to New Acton. Grab takeaway lunch from Monday to Friday in the form of fragrant curries.

    Flui is a casual fine dining restaurant. The cuisine is modern Australian with influences from the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia.

    This bar and restaurant offers authentic Mexican. The menu includes tacos, burritos, chimichangas, paella and much more.

    This deli-style café is on the edge of Yerrabi Pond. They make their sandwiches with golden schiacciata bread. The fillings showcase Italian deli meats and fresh cheeses.

    This sushi train restaurant has recently opened on the Kingston Foreshore. Enjoy fresh sushi, sashimi, udon, rice bowls and hot dishes while overlooking Lake Burley Griffin.

    Fans of K-Pop will love this new Korean eatery. Extra hungry? Go all out and dig into a platter. They include black pink fried chicken, house-made pickle radish, coleslaw and dinner rolls.

    Mawson shops have established themselves as a suburban foodie haven. The newest addition is Mawson Kebab and Grill, where you’ll find an extensive menu with Turkish classics.

    This soon-to-be-opened Italian restaurant in Gungahlin has a build your own model. Select from five different pasta types, choose a sauce and then add your extras.

    Anketell Street’s newest café has something for everyone. Classic breakfast dishes, healthy bowls, pastas, burgers and more are all available.

    This Parisian-style pastry shop is proving popular among locals. Expect to queue for croissants, eclairs, escargot, tarts, savoury pastries and more.

    Salted butter rolls, cookies, buns, sticky rice balls and sweet cakes. These are some of the goods available at this Korean bakery. Arrive hungry, as the pastry cases are bursting with creative, decadent creations.

    Seoul Sistaz blends Korean cuisine with soul food. The result is delicious dishes like bulgogi toasties, iced black sesame lattes, and triangle spicy bulgogi. kimbap,

    The newest location on Mort Street offers the same healthy food Eighty/Twenty customers have come to know and love. Acai bowls, salads and smoothies are fan favourites.

    This Indian restaurant in the historic Melbourne Building offers authentic Indian cuisine. A host of curries feature on the menu alongside dosa, Jalfrezi, samosa and more. There are plenty of vegetarian dishes on the menu.

    This bar on Dairy Road in Fyshwick specialises in heavenly cocktails. The food menu includes bar snacks, pita pizza, cheese and charcuterie plates and sliders.

    Verity Lane’s newest addition includes new and traditional flavours of Vietnam. Phở, bánh mì and rice paper rolls are some of the fresh, tasty options available.

    This Italian micro bakery is one of the newest stallholders at the Old Bus Depot Markets. Apple crumble brioche, Biscoff and roasted hazelnut snails, and crème brûlée bombolini are some of their featured menu items.

    This family-owned business has a large menu full of Vietnamese favourites. Their banh mi menu includes vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian options.

    Crispy, golden focaccia baked fresh by a local home baker. Bink By B’s focaccias are available in three flavours: garlic butter, rosemary and sea salt, and olive, tomato and rosemary.

    The much-loved mobile pizza fan has taken up residence at The Jetty. Chef Hem has been named one of the world’s best pizza chefs. One bite and you’ll understand why.

    XinFuTang Canberra, Canberra City

    Taste Taiwanese bubble tea at the Canberra Centre. Flavours include brown sugar boba milk with Biscoff sauce, matcha boba milk tea, and lychee green tea.

    Banana Blossom opened its first Canberra store in June and has fast become a favourite among city workers. Fresh salads, rice bowls and noodles feature on the menu.

    If you were a bit fan of Lim Peh’s when they were at Verity Lane Market, you can breathe a sigh of relief: they’re coming back. This time, their Singaporean-inspired hawker bowls will be available at Westfield Woden. You can expect them to open very soon.

    Who knew that specialty coffee and Korean-inspired sandos paired so well? The sandos are made with cloud-like shokupan bread with locally sourced ingredients.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: How to find a Justice of the Peace

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A Justice of the Peace may witness signatures and perform other duties.

    In brief:

    • A Justice of the Peace (JP) certifies documents for members of the public.
    • Damiano Costa has been a JP for more than 50 years.
    • This article shares some of Damiano’s experience as JP and provides more information about finding a JP.

    Most Canberrans will seek the services of a JP, or Justice of the Peace, when they need a document certified. But what is actually involved in being a JP?

    A JP is authorised to:

    • administer oaths and affirmations
    • witness statutory declarations and affidavits
    • witness signatures
    • attest and certify documents.

    They’re the people who can certify your passport documents or witness your signature. They might do this in their home, on a weekend or after hours, but they’re not paid for this.

    An office of the JP is an honorary role. This means they can’t charge fees or accept payment for their services . Before providing JP services to the ACT community, an individual must:

    • complete the required training
    • make a successful application to the Attorney-General
    • attend a swearing-in ceremony.

    Damiano’s story

    Damiano Costa has been a JP since 1967. At the time, he was working for the Department of Immigration, who were then responsible for issuing passports.

    “Five hundred people were employed in the public service in Immigration at the time and I was the only person speaking Italian,” Damiano said.

    For the Italians who migrated to Australia after the war, the services of someone like Damiano were critical.

    “Also, when we created the Italian Club in Forrest, people needed documents certified for various reasons, and they also needed interpreting and translation,” he said.

    “I decided to become a JP to make it easier for myself, because we were limited to where JPs were available and there were not very many at that time.”

    Becoming a Justice of the Peace meant Damiano was able to help other members of the Italian community in Canberra. He recalls people from Cooma and Goulburn coming to Canberra to have documents translated and certified.

    Over the years, he has helped many Italians with passport applications, bank loans, and speeding fines. He’s also helped them transfer their Italian pensions to Australia, an important responsibility that has since been transferred to the Italian Embassy.

    How JPs work

    Part of the responsibility is being available to perform the role at all reasonable times, including after hours and on weekends.

    Some JPs perform their duties from their homes, but others meet people in mutually convenient locations. JP services are also available at public locations such as:

    * shopping centres

    * public libraries

    * police stations.

    Damiano has made visits to nursing homes to perform duties for older people who are unable to travel to him.

    Looking for a JP?

    JPs are available at a range of public locations. Often no appointments are necessary, however you may have to wait. You can also search the online JP Register to find a JP near you.

    Find a Justice of the Peace.

    Learn more about what a Justice of the Peace does.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Five great Canberra bike rides

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    • There is an option for families, mountain biking, road biking, people new to cycling, and nature lovers.

    Canberra is an excellent city for cyclists. Across the capital, you’ll find a network of shared use paths, on-road cycling lanes and free bicycle parking facilities. There are also plenty of bike trails that showcase our beautiful bushland.

    Here are a few bike rides to check out.

    For families: Lake Tuggeranong District Park

    Lake Tuggeranong District Park was designed for lakeside recreation. About 6.77kms of shared use path encircles the lake. Most of the route is flat, making for a fun ride for families. Several sections have recently been upgraded, including path widening and line marking.

    There is plenty of parking, plus public toilets and drinking water.

    If the kids need to stop and rest, there are plenty of picnic tables, including some with shade. There are also a number of playgrounds around the lake. This includes the recently upgraded Tuggeranong Town Park Playground.

    A big drawcard for families with young children is the learn to ride centre. It is designed to teach children from preschool to year 4 how to safely ride a bicycle or scooter.

    Feeling adventurous? Tuggeranong Skate Park is near the western boundary of the park and has a section for beginners.

    For mountain biking: University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park

    UC Stromlo Forest Park has more than 50km of mountain bike trails. They are professionally built and maintained, and suitable for all levels.

    If 50km sounds a bit overwhelming, there are six suggested loops designed for different levels of ability.

    There are almost 500 parking spaces at UC Stromlo Forest Park. Next to the main car park, you’ll find Handlebar. This undercover bar and café is a great spot to refuel and soak up the amazing views. Public barbecues and picnic tables are also available.

    Before you visit, make sure you’re familiar with the rules and guidelines for the park. This is especially important if it’s your first visit or you’re new to mountain biking. Read the Park Rules and Guidelines.

    For road biking: Lake Burley Griffin Eastern loop

    This 9km route around the eastern portion of Lake Burley Griffin. It includes the Kingston Foreshore, Bowen Park, the Jerrabomberra Wetlands, the Molonglo River and Grevillea Park.

    You’ll be treated to a nice mix of restaurants and cafes, parks and bushland. The Jerrabomberra Wetland is a waterbird wonderland with more than 170 different bird species.

    From there, you can pop into Dairy Road where you’ll find a collection of places to eat and drink.

    The shared paths of Eastern Loop are flat, making for a leisurely ride. There are beautiful views of the city, the lake and the surrounding bushland. There are also public toilets scattered along the loop.

    For newbies: Lake Burley Griffin Central loop

    The 5km ‘bridge to bridge’ loop is one of Canberra’s most well-known walking and cycling routes. If you’re new to bike riding, it’s an excellent route because it’s so familiar. It’s also quite flat with a short climb up to both Commonwealth Avenue and Kings Avenue bridges.

    The loop will take you past some iconic Canberra destinations. You’ll pass the National Gallery of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Carillon and the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre. You’ll also ride along the Australians of the Year Walk and catch views of the Captain Cook Memorial jet and Black Mountain Tower.

    There are plenty of spots to grab a coffee or something to eat on either side of the lake.

    For nature lovers: the Canberra Centenary Trail

    This trail is 145 kilometres long and is divided into seven sections. The entire trail is a 3-day ride, averaging just over 45 kilometres per day. You can also explore each section individually.

    The trail is a blend of urban and rural settings and includes nature forests, nature reserves and bushland hills.

    You’ll see plenty of native flora and fauna along the way, including birds.

    The trail is mostly flat, with some hilly sections which may require you to dismount. It’s designed to be accessible for cyclists with moderate ability.

    • A journey planner for cycling and walking routes
    • A guide to cycling in Canberra
    • A map of all cycling routes across Canberra
    • Regional walking and cycling guides.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: 30 Canberra cafes with views

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – homicide investigation, Waiuku

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Karen Bright:

    Police have filed an assault charge in relation to the homicide of a woman found in a car in Waiuku on Friday.

    A post-mortem has been conducted today.

    A 50-year-old man Police have been speaking with is due to appear in Pukekohe District Court on Monday, charged with male assaults female.

    Police cannot rule out further charges.

    Scene examinations at two locations in the area are ongoing as part of our enquiries.

    Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the woman’s death.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping volunteers protect our green spaces

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Friends of Light Street is a registered community group supported by Adopt-A-Park.

    In brief:

    • The Adopt-A-Park community grants program supports registered community groups who volunteer to improve Canberra’s local parks and spaces.
    • The program is now open to applications for grants of up to $40,000.
    • This story describes the Adopt-A-Park program and the work of one of the community groups that it supports.

    Caring for Canberra’s green spaces is a joint effort between the ACT Government and community members.

    One of the ways this happens is through the Adopt-A-Park community grants program. Adopt-A-Park supports more than 95 registered volunteer community groups who give their time to improving Canberra’s local parks and spaces.

    Under the program, the ACT Government provides grants of up to $40,000 to improve neighbourhood spaces.

    This year’s focus is on controlling or removing declared pest plants.

    Friends of Light Street Park

    Friends of Light Street Park is a registered community group in Griffith. It was set up one year ago by local residents with an interest in preserving their local park. They used their grant to remove harmful cotoneaster plants. This invasive species threatens local wildlife due its dense thickets.

    “The cotoneasters have been removed and we have also completed a website and asked residents to become members and volunteers to support our efforts to revitalise our park as an important community green space,” a member of Friends of Light Street said.

    “When the community takes a real interest in our green spaces, we gain pride in our shared spaces.

    “Community-led ideas creates shared ownership, and in our experience, more heads are better than one.”

    How to apply for a grant

    The Adopt-A-Park community grants program is now open for applications and will close on Monday 23 September 2024.

    Anyone wanting to volunteer can join a registered group and those that are already a registered volunteer group are encouraged to apply.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Supporting local social enterprises to scale up

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Base Soaps co-founder Mick Cronin wanted the company to have a social purpose.

    In brief:

    • A local social enterprise has turned a gift-giving experiment into a flourishing business.
    • The owners received support from the Mill House Ventures.
    • A new program is now open to help social enterprise businesses scale up.

    Many of us may have tried some DIY soap-making in the past. But chances are, few of us are like Mick Cronin and Lianne Brink. These two founded Base Soaps from their home just outside of Canberra.

    Base Soaps started as a gift-giving experiment in 2017. With a little help along the way, it is now a fully-fledged business. It sells tens of thousands of bars and liquid soaps across the country.

    Co-founder Mick has a PhD in Chemistry. He wanted Base Soaps to have a social purpose – to help to address preventable diseases in Australia’s rural and remote communities.

    He wants people to know that their for-profit, for-purpose business is a social enterprise. This means giving back is embedded into the company’s constitution.

    “You can, simultaneously, have environmentally thoughtful, high-quality hygiene products, and contribute positive impact to rural and remote Australian communities,” he said.

    “Some Australian communities suffer incredibly high rates of preventable diseases.

    “We assist by contributing to existing programs that address preventable diseases in Australia’s rural and remote communities.”

    One is Otitis Media – better known as middle ear infection. Both co-founders were concerned with the high rates of this in children in Indigenous communities.

    They set up the constitution of Base Soaps to require them to donate at least 50 per cent of profits to causes that address these kinds of issues.

    Asking for support along the way

    A number of mentors have helped Mick and Lianne along the way. Many of these were found via Base Soaps’ connection to Canberra’s social enterprise intermediary, The Mill House Ventures.

    The Mill House Ventures provides a comprehensive suite of through-life support for local social enterprises and their founders. These range from short workshops to mentoring programs.

    Their latest program, Scale for Impact, is now open for applications. It aims to help established social enterprises, like Base Soaps, to identify future growth opportunities.

    Scale for Impact is an initiative developed by The Mill House Ventures through funding from the ACT Government.

    “The Scale for Impact program offers established social enterprises in Canberra tailored business support to help identify potential growth opportunities and pathways to philanthropic, sponsorship and/or investment funding,” CEO of The Mill House Ventures, Craig Fairweather, said.

    Mick from Base Soaps encourages other entrepreneurs keen to make a difference to connect with The Mill House Ventures.

    “It doesn’t matter if you’re already established, or simply have an idea. Go in with an open mind and you’ll quickly find out if this is the best way to make change, and enjoy yourself in the process,” said Mick.

    To find out more about the Scale for Impact program go to: millhouseventures.com.au/scale

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New EVs join government fleet

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Electric vehicles take advantage of the ACT’s 100 per cent renewable electricity supply to help reduce emissions from transport.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government has added 10 more electric vehicles to its fleet.
    • Electric vehicles are better for the environment and cheaper to run.
    • Making your next car electric could save you money.

    Canberra continues to lead the nation in supporting the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs).

    About 10 new electric vehicles are coming onto ACT roads every day. In fact, you might spot a few new ACT Government EVs out and about this spring, including:

    • a ute
    • two tipper trucks
    • a litter picking truck
    • a delivery van.

    These vehicles will join the City Services fleet as a trial to see how the ACT Government can continue to provide essential services in a more environmentally friendly way. An additional four electric passenger vehicles have also joined the fleet in the past month. These vehicles join more than 400 electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles already in the ACT Government fleet.

    The trial will showcase the variety and availability of EVs for commercial use and promote their benefits to local industry and community. The new vehicles have been funded through the ACT Government’s Social Cost of Carbon Fund and Zero Emission Government Fund. These funds aim to reduce emissions produced by government activity.

    Making the switch

    Zero emission vehicles, like EVs, are better for the environment and quieter than petrol and diesel vehicles. They’re also much more affordable to run.

    Making your next car electric could save you around $18,000 in running costs over 10 years. It could also reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by around 3 tonnes per year.

    The ACT Government offers multiple incentives for people and businesses when they purchase an EV. And with new public chargers being installed all over the city, charging your EV is quick and easy.

    Canberran’s are embracing EVs at a rapid pace, with over 9,100 EVs currently registered. If you’re thinking about making your next car electric, but not sure where to start, check out this handy guide on EVs for beginners.

    Transport contributes over 60 per cent of the ACT’s emissions. This means electric vehicles have the potential to make a big difference as the ACT continues towards our goals of net zero emissions by 2045.

    For more information about zero emissions vehicles in the ACT, visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s best pastries, as voted by you

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Almond, chocolate or plain? Canberrans have plenty of options when it comes to croissants and other pastries. Image: VisitCanberra

    In Brief:

    • We asked Canberrans on the @weareCBR Instagram account to name their favourite local pastry spot.
    • This list includes cafés, pâtisseries and bakeries around Canberra.

    Whether it’s a croissant for breakfast, a box of Danishes for the office morning tea or a mid-afternoon sweet treat, Canberran’s can’t get enough pastries.

    Here are the results:

    The scent of baked bread will lure you into this bakery tucked away at Fyshwick Markets. Inside, you’ll find a pastry counter heaving with fruit Danishes, croissants, Italian cream-filled donuts, Portuguese tarts and more.

    Wildflour sell a range of different pastries, but they’re most well-known for their croissants. Ube, matcha, pistachio, salted caramel, Biscoff, black tea and mango are just some of the flavours that they’ve featured on their ever-changing menu.

    Knead has the feel of a traditional bakery, offering all of the classic pastries. There are croissants, seasonal frangipanes, Portuguese tarts and fruit Danishes. But you’ll also find surprises, like brookies (a brownie cookie hybrid) and a cracking crème brulee tart.

    This small but mighty bakery at Curtin shops has the feel of a traditional suburban bakery. Their hearty, flavourful savoury pies are a favourite among Woden residents.

    This is not your traditional bakery – unless you’ve recently arrived from the Mediterranean. You’ll find traditional, chocolate and almond croissants alongside Turkish sweet pastries and Borek.

    French-influenced pastries are the star at this bakery. You’ll find croissants, cinnamon buns, Danishes, escargot and more.

    Le Bon Mélange make just about every baked good under the sun – and pastries are no exception. You’ll find a huge variety of both sweet and savoury options.

    Locals queue at this suburb gem to stock up on pastries. There’s cardamon buns, greens and cheese escargots, kouign-amanns, croissants, seasonal pastries and more.

    Danishes, scrolls, cruffins, croissants – this family-run bakery offers an impressive lineup of pastries. With a Lyneham location opening soon, more Inner North residents will be able to get their Bakehouse fix.

    Located on Beltana Road, this bakery offers a range of fresh pastries to fuel your Pialligo adventures. Choose from croissants, pain au chocolat, escargot, cinnamon buns, Danishes, cruffins and more.

    It’s hard to walk by the pastry counter at Tinker Tailor without treating yourself to a golden, flaky pastry. Danishes, croissants and scrolls are some of the delights regularly on offer.

    Three Mills not only have five locations across the city, but you can purchase their goods at shops and cafés around town. One taste of their delicious pastries and it’s easy to see why. There’s a big selection of fresh pastries and even bake at home packs.

    L’epi Artisan Bakery, Chisholm and Kambah

    This French-inspired artisan bakery has a large selection of classic and unique freshly baked pastries. Try a Moorish custard Danish or indulge in a crookie (that’s a croissant with cookie dough, for the uninitiated).

    From their cultured butter croissant to their flaky morning buns, locals love pastries from Sonoma. You’ll often have to queue to secure a sweet treat, but rest assured that every moment is worth it.

    Sometimes, only a classic will do. Dobinsons has been serving Canberra since 1994 and have earned a reputation for delicious sweet and savoury pastries. Crispy spinach and feta triangles, fruit tarts heaving with shiny fruit and the decadent Nutella Danish are some of the crowd favourites.

    It’s little surprise that this bakery, run by French bakers, make an excellent croissant. They also infuse their baked goods with seasonal flair, offering specials like peanut butter, fresh apple and coconut pastries or mandarin and chocolate croissants.

    Located inside Manuka Court, this little pâtisserie offers a taste of Europe to the inner south. Chef Wim is Dutch, but trained in France, so you’ll find Dutch boterkoek (butter cake with fruit and nuts) alongside croissants and Belgian chocolate custard twists.

    Over the years, Silo has earnt a cult following in the Canberra community. As a result, you may need to jostle your way to the front of the cue for a pastry, but it’s all part of the charm. You’ll find the counter stocked with a stunning lineup of sweet and savoury pastries that will keep you coming back for more.

    This bakery is worth the trip to Fyshwick for fresh pastries. If you’d rather not make the journey, the Cedar Husk truck makes its way around Canberra delivering to baked goods to people’s homes. Follow them on Facebook to see when they’re coming to your area.

    Prefer your morning pastry with a side of spectacular views? The Café at the Arboretum is in the Village Centre. Take a seat and soak up the views or order takeaway and enjoy a picnic among the trees.

    Good Neighbour is one of the newest additions to Kingston’s café scene. Alongside their basque cheesecake and New York style chunky cookies, you’ll find a selection of fresh pastries available at the front counter.

    Lilette, Dickson

    This artisanal French pâtisserie made the move from Melbourne to Dickson earlier in the year. Chef Lilette bakes all your French favourites, from eclairs to croissants and tarts.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New initiatives provide more support for Canberra parents

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    ACT Health has launched three new initiatives to support pregnant people and new parents.

    In brief:

    ACT Health has launched three new initiatives to support pregnant people and new parents. These are:

    • Maternity in Focus survey – gathering feedback on ACT public maternity care
    • INFANT program – offering first-time parents free support with feeding and playing with their babies.
    • My Pregnancy Options website – covering everything from pregnancy options and decision making to abortion and contraception options in Canberra.

    Maternity in Focus survey

    The new Maternity in Focus: ACT Maternity Survey is now underway.

    The survey will help gather insights into the experiences of women and birthing people in the ACT.

    It invites people to share feedback about their pregnancy, birth and postnatal care, particularly in terms of what is being done well and how maternity care in the ACT public health system can continue to be improved.

    “This survey is open to any woman or person who gives birth in the ACT through public maternity care and whose baby is in their care. This includes non-ACT residents who give birth in the ACT,” Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Marina Buchanan-Grey said.

    Anyone who gives birth in the ACT after 1 September 2024 through public maternity care can complete the survey. It will remain ongoing.

    Parents can find the survey postcard inside their ‘blue book’.

    Alternatively, it is available online.

    Free sessions for new parents about feeding and play for babies

    The new INFANT program will support first-time parents with feeding and playing with their babies.

    INFANT stands for INfant Feeding, Active play and NuTrition.

    The program supports parents and babies with:

    • introducing solids
    • food refusal and fussy eating
    • tummy time
    • active play ideas, and
    • strategies for limiting screen time.

    You can also share experiences and ideas with other Canberra parents and carers.

    How the program works

    INFANT consists of 4 group sessions when your baby is approximately 3, 6, 9 and 12 months old.

    These face-to-face sessions run for around 90 minutes.

    The sessions are in:

    • Belconnen
    • Gungahlin
    • Molonglo Valley
    • Tuggeranong.

    The free sessions are run by community partner Capital Region Community Services.

    Register to attend a session

    You can register into the program if your baby is less than 4 months old.

    My Pregnancy Options website

    The new My Pregnancy Options website is now live.

    It features information on reproductive health services in the ACT, all in one place.

    The content covers pregnancy, contraceptive and abortion options and is:

    • accurate
    • reliable
    • pro-choice
    • accessible.

    Community health organisation Women’s Health Matters developed the website with ACT Government funding.

    “You can use the website to help you make a choice, to understand your choices, or to help someone you know,” Women’s Health Matters CEO Lauren Anthes said.

    The website contains a list of GPs and clinics that provide no-cost abortion services.

    It was developed in collaboration with a Consumer Advisory Group of women and gender diverse people. These people have lived experience of having an abortion or experiencing barriers accessing healthcare in the ACT.

    Visit the My Pregnancy Options website.

    The Maternity in Focus: ACT Maternity Survey survey will help ACT Health gather insights into the experiences of women and birthing people in Canberra.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Companion Animal Care recipients announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Companion animals help people with their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government has awarded $200,000 in funding through the Companion Animal Care Grants Program.
    • The funding will support community groups in Canberra who improve animal welfare.
    • This story lists the groups who have recieved grants, and what the funding will be used for.

    The ACT Government has awarded $200,000 in funding through the Companion Animal Care Grants Program. This funding will support community groups to improve animal welfare across Canberra.

    Most of the groups receiving funding through the program rely on volunteers and community support. They rescue, rehome, advocate and care for companion animals such as cats and dogs.

    Groups to receive funding include:

    • ACT Pet Crisis Support
    • ACT Rescue and Foster
    • Canberra Pet Rescue
    • Canberra Street Cat Alliance
    • Completely Rescued
    • Labrador Rescue
    • Pets and Positive Ageing
    • Pets in the Park
    • The Rabbit Sanctuary.

    These groups will use the grants for a wide variety of activities including to support:

    • volunteer-run vet clinics to help pet owners with a Healthcare Card to care for their pets
    • services for older pet owners to help them keep their pets as their health declines
    • homeless people with companion animals by providing access to medications to treat the chronic health conditions of their pets
    • purchasing food and litter for foster carers to assist with rehoming cats in need
    • training for rescue dogs to increase the chances of rehoming them
    • desexing of rescue dogs to reduce the number of unplanned and unwanted litters
    • upgrading animal care facilities including a cattery and small animal enclosure
    • the rescue and rehoming of domestic rabbits.

    Companion animals help many people in Canberra with their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

    With the cost of living crisis, there has been an increase in abandoned and surrendered animals. This has led to more demand for the important work of these support groups.

    This funding will provide support for and recognise the efforts of volunteer groups that care for Canberra’s companion animals.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unexplained death, Kawakawa

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Rhys Johnston:

    Northland Police are making inquiries following the discovery of a deceased man in Kawakawa this morning.

    Police were called to Station Road around 7:45am and found the man’s body in a vehicle in a carpark near the Caltex service station.

    A scene examination of the area is ongoing, and Police are speaking with a man in relation to the death, which is unexplained at this stage.

    A post-mortem is expected to be conducted tomorrow.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kelly Lake — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Kayla (Kayda) Westcott

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Halifax Regional Detachment RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 14-year-old Kayla (Kadey) Westcott, from Truro, who was reported missing on April 11, 2025. She is believed to have been last seen on Highway 102, near exit 5A (Kelly Lake scale house).

    Westcott is described as 5-foot-7, approximately 140 pounds. She has red hair and hazel eyes.

    It is believed that Westcott is travelling towards Dartmouth (Shubie Trail).

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kayla (Kayda) Westcott is asked to contact the Halifax Regional Detachment RCMP at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Swift response leads to arrests, following incidents in Palmerston North and Foxton

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Inspector Ross Grantham, Manawatū Area Commander:

    Central District Police officers acted swiftly to deal with incidents involving youth offenders last night and in the early hours of this morning.

    At around 8.15pm yesterday Police received a report of an aggravated robbery in the Square, Palmerston North. One person received minor injuries and the group of offenders fled on foot with stolen items.

    Police conducting area enquiries located the group on Featherston Street but they evaded police. A police dog team responded quickly and tracked the offenders to Mersey Terrace where they were arrested while attempting to leave the area. Four youths aged between 11 and 15-years-old are due to appear in Palmerston North Youth Court on Tuesday 15 April, charged with Aggravated Robbery.

    Then, in a seperate incident at around 1.30am today, a commercial premises in Foxton was burgled after a vehicle was used to gain entry to the premises. The offenders fled in a vehicle that was subsequently observed travelling at speed into Palmerston North.

    Police deployed road spikes near Karere Road which were successful at bringing the vehicle to a stop on Pioneer Highway, where two youths aged 14 and 15-years old, and one 24-year-old man were arrested. The 15-year-old is due to appear in Palmerston North Youth Court on Tuesday 15 April, and the 24-year-old is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on Tuesday 15 April, facing charges in relation to the matter.

    I’m proud of the work that Police staff do all day, every day, and I hope these arrests give victims of crime some reassurance that Police will respond quickly to incidents and hold offenders to account.

    We understand the frustration and fear that offending causes in our communities and we will continue to respond with focus and professionalism to keep our communities safe.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closure, SH6 Blenheim – Nelson

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 6 between Blenheim and Nelson is closed while emergency services attend a crash near Canvastown, reported at around 6.20am.

    A large vehicle has rolled and is obstructing the roadway. No injuries are reported.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes while the crash is cleared.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –