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Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing Bill amendments lodged to strengthen tenants’ rights

    Source: Scottish Government

    Providing fairness for tenants.

    Amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill have been lodged by the Scottish Government setting out how rents will be capped in rent control areas.

    The proposed measures will help protect tenants facing cost of living pressures and rising energy prices, whilst providing appropriate protection for the property rights of landlords and supporting investment.

    Rent increases in control areas would be limited to the CPI annual rate of inflation plus 1%, up to a maximum increase of 6%. If approved, the rent cap will apply both to rent increases during the term of a tenancy, and in between tenancies, in areas where rent control is applied.

    Ministers will determine which areas should be subject to rent control in order to protect tenants. The amendments build on a package of renters’ rights already in the Bill including the right to keep pets and to decorate rented properties without having those unreasonably refused.

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “Eradicating child poverty remains this government’s top priority and having a home can make a direct contribution to achieving this.

    “Ensuring families can have secure and affordable homes that meet their needs is part of our approach to tackling the housing emergency. These measures will also help protect tenants against a backdrop of a continuing cost of living crisis and rising energy costs. We are doing what we can with the powers that we have as we know our policies are working to improve the lives of families in Scotland.

    “Scotland already has some of the strongest rights in the UK for tenants, but we want to improve the renting experience even more to create an affordable, high-quality and fair rented sector.

    “We have been working closely with tenants’ organisations to develop provisions in the Housing Bill to improve renters’ rights, including a system of long-term rent controls that is fair for tenants and encourages investment in the sector.

    “Our rented sector is a crucial part of tackling the housing emergency and these measures provide important certainty for tenants.”

    Background

    Housing (Scotland) Bill | Scottish Parliament Website

    Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is a way of measuring monthly changes in the price of goods and services.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MeitY and UNESCO to Host the 3rd AI Readiness consultation in Hyderabad

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 2:33PM by PIB Hyderabad

    The UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Ikigai Law as the implementing partner, will be organizing a stakeholder consultation on the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) in India. This event will take place on April 8, 2025, at 1:30 PM, at T-Works in Hyderabad.

     

    A key segment of the event is a fireside chat on the IndiaAI Mission, featuring Mr. Abhishek Singh, CEO, IndiaAI Mission, and Additional Secretary, MeitY. The event will also include a panel discussion on “Shaping Ethics in AI Governance: Government and Multilateral Perspectives”, with participation from senior officials representing the MeitY, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Amrita University, UNESCO, and the Government of Telangana. Participants will also engage in four thematic breakout groups on governance, workforce readiness, infrastructure, and use cases, facilitating deeper dialogue and input on key dimensions of India’s AI readiness.

     

    About AI RAM initiative

     

    This is the third of five multi-stakeholder consultations under the AI RAM initiative by UNESCO and MeitY, following earlier sessions in New Delhi and Bangalore. Aimed at shaping an India-specific AI policy report, the initiative focuses on mapping strengths and opportunities in the ethical AI ecosystem. Open to policymakers, technologists, academia, and practitioners, this consultation is an opportunity to help shape a responsible, future-ready AI roadmap for the country. Interested participants may register on this link: https://forms.gle/3emuaGpgZuvMghYq9

     

    This initiative comes at a pivotal time as India rolls out its ambitious INDIAai Mission, backed by over ₹10,000 crore in funding. At its core is the Safe and Trusted AI pillar, reinforcing the Government of India’s commitment to ethical, accountable, and secure AI development. By advancing indigenous frameworks, governance tools, and self-assessment guidelines, the mission seeks to empower innovators and make the benefits of AI accessible across sectors.

     

    ******

    Dharmendra Tewari Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2119746) Visitor Counter : 87

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPIRIT OF INDIAN CONSTITUTION IS TO TREAT ALL CITIZENS EQUALLY, PROVIDE THEM WITH EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES, AND INTEGRATE MARGINALIZED AND BACKWARD SECTIONS OF SOCIETY INTO ‘MAINSTREAM OF PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Source: Government of India

    SPIRIT OF INDIAN CONSTITUTION IS TO TREAT ALL CITIZENS EQUALLY, PROVIDE THEM WITH EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES, AND INTEGRATE MARGINALIZED AND BACKWARD SECTIONS OF SOCIETY INTO ‘MAINSTREAM OF PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    IN RECENT YEARS, PARLIAMENT OF INDIA HAS PASSED SEVERAL LEGISLATIONS THAT PROMOTE SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SECURITY AND ENCOURAGE INCLUSION OF ALL SECTIONS OF SOCIETY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA HAS ESTABLISHED PRIMACY OF JUSTICE BY REPLACING ‘INDIAN PENAL CODE’ WITH THE ‘BHARATIYA NYAY SANHITA’: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT 150th ASSEMBLY OF INTER PARLIAMENTARY UNION (IPU) IN TASHKENT

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER WISHES THE GATHERING AT 150TH IPU ON THE OCCASION OF RAM NAVAMI

    Posted On: 06 APR 2025 8:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today highlighted the inclusive and welfarist nature of Constitution of India, mentioning that “the spirit of the Indian Constitution is to treat all citizens equally, provide them with equal opportunities, and integrate the marginalized and backward sections of society into the ‘mainstream of progress.”

    Delivering the Keynote Address on the theme “Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice” at the historic 150th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at Tashkent, Uzbekistan,Shri Birla observed that “In recent years, the Indian Parliament has passed several legislations that promote social justice and security and encourage the inclusion of all sections of society.”On the occasion, he also extended Ram Navami greetings to the gathering at the 150thassembly of IPU.

    Referring to the Parliament’s perennial concern for safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society, he added that “Bills like the ‘Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act-2016’, the ‘Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019’, and the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam-2023’ safeguard the interests of all sections of society.”  in this context, he also referred to new Labor laws and codes passed by Parliament for the welfare and social security of workers in the unorganized sector.

    Stressing that Indian Parliament has taken several measures prioritising justice and rule of law, Shri Birla mentioned that “By replacing the ‘Indian Penal Code’ with the ‘BharatiyaNyay Sanhita’, India has established the primacy of justice”. Referring to functioning of Parliamentary Committees in achieving the goals of development and social justice, Shri Birla noted that the various Parliamentary Committees, often referred to as Mini Parliaments, perform a complimentary function to the efforts of Parliament and the government. He highlighted that the Committees on Social Justice and Empowerment; Committee on Women Empowerment; Committee on Labour and Skill Development, and other diverse committees monitor welfare programmes leading to implementation of schemes with effectiveness and accountability. 

    Shri Birla stressed that Government of India works with a mission to achieve targets set for key human development indicators. In this regard, he specifically mentioned that “Under the world’s largest health insurance scheme, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), free health insurance is being provided to the bottom 40% of India’s population”.

    Praising the strong and visionary leadership of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Birla said “Under Prime Minister Shri Modi’s leadership, India has achieved the distinction of being the world’s fastest-growing major economy with a 105% GDP growth over the past decade and is rapidly progressing towards its goal of Viksit Bharat in 2047.” Noting that India is the fifth-largest economy in the world and is on its way toward becoming the third-largest economy, Shri Birla said that India is playing a leading role in the world in fields like Innovation, AI, Startups, Space and Defense Technology, IT, Fintech, Pharma, and others.

    He hoped that the discussions at the IPU Assembly would provide all delegations with new perspectives and will allow Parliaments around the world to be able to take concrete steps toward building a just, inclusive, and prosperous society.

    Speaking on the role of IPU in the present world order, Shri Birla mentioned that the IPU continues to add new dimensions to global parliamentary cooperation. He underlined that the theme chosen for the 150th IPU Assembly reflects the expansion of the spirit of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam,’ which is deeply rooted in Indian culture, tradition, and philosophy.

    INDIA AND VIETNAM ARE PROGRESSING TOWARD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, DRIVEN BY THEIR RESPECTIVE VISIONS AND SHARED GOALS OF DEVELOPMENT

    On the sidelines of the 150th IPU Summit, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met HE. Mr. Tran Thanh Man, President, the National Assembly of Vietnam. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Birla fondly recalled his visit to Vietnam in April 2022, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam. He also emphasized the close cultural and historical ties between the two countries, which have strengthened through high-level discussions in recent years. Shri Birla expressed satisfaction that both countries are progressing toward sustainable development, driven by their respective visions for 2047 (India) and 2045 (Vietnam).

    Shri Birla emphasized that cooperation in various sectors such as defense, technology, infrastructure, and nuclear energy has helped shape their future frameworks. Shri Birla noted that both countries’ parliamentary institutions play a key role in meeting people’s expectations and promoting public welfare, with India utilizing emerging technologies to enhance parliamentary processes and citizen participation. He also informed that the “Digital Parliament” initiative in India has improved efficiency, transparency, and productivity in parliamentary operations. He also highlighted the significant number of Vietnamese students benefiting from educational and training scholarships in India.

    President of the National Assembly of Vietnam emphasized the cultural ties between the two countries. The President also underlined the need for strengthening the close defence and technology ties between India and Vietnam. He extended an invitation to Shri Birla to visit Vietnam. Formation of friendship group between India and Vietnam were also discussed.

    ***

    AM

     

    (Release ID: 2119611) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press conference following Council of Ministers meeting no. 122

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    Vai al Contenuto Raggiungi il piè di pagina

    4 Aprile 2025

    Council of Ministers meeting no. 122 was held at Palazzo Chigi today.
    Following the meeting, Minister of Justice Carlo Nordio and Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi held a press conference to illustrate the measures approved.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government will allocate over 11.4 billion rubles to the regions for the modernization of emergency departments of medical institutions

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    More than 20 regions will receive funds in 2025 to upgrade emergency departments of medical institutions. The order to distribute over 11.4 billion rubles for these purposes was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    Federal funding will be directed to 21 regions that have expressed such a need. Among them are the Altai Republic, Dagestan, the Donetsk People’s Republic, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, Crimea, Stavropol Krai, as well as Belgorod, Kursk, Orenburg, Rostov, Smolensk, Tambov and Tula regions.

    The allocated funds will be used to install modular structures in the emergency departments of some hospitals to provide emergency medical care to patients whose lives are in danger. In addition, funds from the federal budget are planned to be used to equip and re-equip emergency departments of medical institutions with various medical equipment.

    The work is being carried out within the framework of the federal project “Improving emergency medical care”, which is part of the national project “Long and active life”.

    The document will be published.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Domestic Animal Services long-termer finds his fairytale

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Obi’s new family members, Kate and Evie, couldn’t be happier with their decision to adopt from Domestic Animal Services.

    Things are looking a little different for Rocky, who held the record as the dog with the longest stay at Domestic Animal Services (DAS).

    The three-year-old was at the shelter for over 300 days. This left volunteers scratching their heads as to why the friendly mixed-breed hadn’t found his forever home.

    Today, Rocky’s living in a whole new world. For a start, he’s now Oberon, or Obi for short.

    While his new family fell in love with him instantly, they weren’t so keen on his name.

    He now bears the title of the fairy king in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which the family felt was a much better fit.

    “Well, he’s just so gentle. When we picked him up, he was wearing a big studded collar and I felt that it was too much of a stereotype. A tough-sounding name (Rocky) and a tough collar for a tough-looking dog,” his new mum, Kate, said.

    She and her family are keen to do away with some other misconceptions too.

    “One of the best things about Oberon is how chilled out he is,” Kate said.

    “But some people have definitely been nervous … not wanting to come too close. A number of times we’ve come across people with small dogs who have picked them up as we passed.

    “On the other hand, plenty of people are happy for Obi to approach their young children. A 12-year-old told me he ‘knows not to judge a dog by the way it looks,’ which was great to hear,” she said.

    Adopting from Domestic Animal Services helps people like Kate give a dog a second chance, regardless of their breed, looks or age.

    “Working at DAS has really opened my eyes to how many dogs are actually already out there in desperate need of love and a home,” DAS kennel hand Amity said.

    “Working with these desperate animals, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience the selfless nature of a shelter animal, as well as their beautiful personalities. These incredible dogs are just searching for a sense of security and compassion, and once it is given to them, they never cease to please!”

    While many people look for puppies when deciding to add a dog to their family, Amity urges Canberrans to look beyond years.

    “Most people won’t adopt as they wouldn’t have been able to raise the dog from a very young age. However, what most people don’t understand is that disadvantaged dogs can have a higher sense of gratitude and appreciation to the family that takes them home.

    “Gaining trust is so much more important to these shelter dogs, so they are willing to go so much further to show their new owners just how appreciative they are,” she said.

    “Not only is adopting a dog from DAS rewarding, it is also an extremely easy and inexpensive way to find the one you’ve been looking for.”

    There are many dogs currently looking for their forever home at DAS.

    View dogs up for adoption or visit DAS in Symonston to meet them in person.

    DAS is open from 10am to 2pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 3pm on Saturdays.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Official naming and opening ceremony for Shirley Smith High School

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Ngunnawal elder Aunty Tina Brown, a distant relative of Shirley Smith’s, welcomed everyone to the site.

    Shirley Smith High School has been officially named, with a plaque unveiled at a naming ceremony to mark the occasion.

    The school opened this year in Kenny, welcoming its first cohort of year 7 students.

    It will, in time, cater to up to 800 students from across east Gungahlin, providing high-quality public high school education.

    The school was named after prominent activist and Wiradjuri woman Shirley Smith.

    She was a founding member of many important community services in Redfern, Sydney, including the Aboriginal Medical Service, Aboriginal Legal Service, the Aboriginal Housing Company, and the Aboriginal Children’s Service. 

    Shirley Smith’s advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people influenced other communities to establish similar services.

    The school has been designed with flexible learning in mind, and also has spaces available for use by both students and the community, including a double gymnasium, covered hard court, an oval and a multipurpose hall.

    In addition to the plaque unveiling, a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony were provided by Ngunnawal elder Aunty Tina Brown – who is a distant relative of Shirley Smith’s – to officially welcome everyone to the site. 

    Find out more on the Shirley Smith High School website or enrol for 2025.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Meet the team keeping Canberra’s memorial parks beautiful

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Heather and Michael manage the gardens of the places Canberrans go to honour and remember the lives of their loved ones.

    If you’ve experienced loss, it’s likely there are strangers who made an impact on this period of your life.

    Kind emergency services staff, compassionate healthcare workers and caring funeral directors can make a big difference.

    But something you might not have considered are the people who take care of the spaces where loved ones rest. The workers who carefully and respectfully plan and maintain the places that Canberrans go to grieve and remember.

    Michael and Heather are horticulturalists who maintain Canberra Memorial Parks, including Gungahlin Cemetery and Crematorium and Woden Cemetery.

    “We’re creating an environment that is part of a sacred place that people go,” Heather said.

    “Potentially for some people it’s one of their worst days or times, so there’s an opportunity for us to in some tiny way try and make that better.”

    From a horticultural point of view, working on the Memorial Parks is multifaceted.

    “We manage a lot of plantings. We’ve got a lot of high-care gardens, which have a lot of input,” Heather said.

    This can include:

    • pest and disease management
    • formative pruning
    • weed management
    • planning.

    “We take things into account like being culturally aware,” Michael said.

    “There’s lots of different plants and there are plants that aren’t native to Australia. But they’re still beautiful and very significant to many people. When someone sees those plants that may make them think of home and that may make them feel a bit more comfortable.”

    Creating and maintaining a space that provides comfort is key for both Michael and Heather. As Canberra locals, they are keenly aware of the impact that the Memorial Parks have on their community.

    “You drive through the gate and you just have that inbuilt job satisfaction,” Heather said.

    “You know that you’re part of something that is important to the local community and their family members, as well as local residents that spend time here and cherish the area.”

    “I don’t just come to work for the money,” Michael said.

    “I come to work because I love what I do. I love the people I work with. I love maintaining and creating an environment that helps families and loved ones when they want to come to the cemetery. They feel comfortable. They see it’s well maintained.”

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Renewed commitment to LGBTIQA+ community

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The new strategy affirms the ACT Government’s commitment to positive change for LGBTIQA+ individuals, their families and their communities.

    Key actions to improve health, wellbeing and equality for LGBTIQA+ Canberrans will be implemented as part of the Capital of Equality Strategy for 2024–29, released today.

    The new strategy affirms the ACT Government’s commitment to positive change and improved wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ individuals, their families and their communities.

    The strategy acknowledges persistent challenges for the LGBTIQA+ community.

    Key actions

    The Capital of Equality Strategy for 2024–29 will be implemented through action plans. Some of the key actions announced with the strategy include:

    • continued support for the Capital of Equality Grants Program, recognising its positive outcomes for LGBTIQA+ communities and the continuing demand for these funds
    • working together with LGBTIQA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to scope their needs and design the solutions
    • actions to improve health outcomes, including mental health, gender-affirming care, fertility access and abortion access
    • implementing a range of policy forms for LGBTIQA+ equality, such as improving LGBTIQA+ related data collection in housing policies and continuing the work on protections for people born with variations in sex characteristics from deferrable medical interventions
    • building an information hub for LGBTIQA+ communities to know where to seek support
    • continuing support for LGBTIQA+ work and events, recognising their vital role in creating community connections and spaces of belonging.

    As Canberra’s population grows, the new strategy marks an important step in ensuring the city remains one of the world’s most welcoming and inclusive.

    A changed acronym

    The ACT Government now adopts the LGBTIQA+ acronym.

    The addition of ‘A’ explicitly acknowledges and affirms the identities of asexual, aromantic and agender individuals within the broader LGBTIQA+ community.

    This modest but important change gives the asexual, aromantic and agender communities confidence that they are welcome and wanted.

    “The biggest barrier in coming out as asexual is education. The more awareness there is of asexuality, the easier it will be for people to be open with their identities. Recognition is incredibly important in this regard,” Canberran Phil said.

    More information

    More information on the Capital of Equality Strategy for 2024–29 and the First Action Plan is available at The Office of LGBTIQ Affairs webpage .

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Garran Primary School modernisation kicks off

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Students were present at the Garran Primary School sod-turning event.

    The first sod has been turned at Garran Primary, kicking off work on the project to modernise and expand the school.

    This key milestone marks the beginning of work to establish the site and begin construction.

    The complete modernisation and expansion of the school will deliver new learning and administration facilities, car parking and improvements to school access.

    The school’s capacity will be increased to up to 975 students.

    The works will also include a new gymnasium, hard courts and green spaces, providing more sporting facilities for the Woden community.

    The new learning spaces will provide students with an environment that fosters creativity, innovation and personal growth.

    The redevelopment will also support the community by developing modern facilities. It is hoped these become a meeting hub for local clubs and groups in the Garran area.

    Some preliminary works have already taken place during the school holidays, including providing new alternative play spaces and facilities. These will help ensure the continued delivery of a well-rounded curriculum for all students throughout the construction period at Garran Primary School.

    The project’s staged construction approach will allow learning to continue onsite in the existing school as work takes place.

    It will also reduce the impact on parking and ensure the site’s surrounding area is safe for students, families and members of the public.

    The first stage of the Garran Primary School modernisation project – the construction of the new school campus – is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.

    For more information about these works, or to follow along with the construction progress,  visit www.builtforcbr.act.gov.au/projects/education/garran-primary-school-expansion-and-modernisation

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Empowering women to drive change in electrical trades

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Two of the scholarship recipients: Daisy Goodwin and Rachel Waterworth.

    Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) and Brighte have announced three recipients of their Brighte Pathways: Women in Sustainable Energy scholarships.

    The scholarships aim to support the growth of the ACT’s sustainable energy sector, address skills shortages and give young women pathways to success in what can be a heavily male-dominated industry.

    Each scholarship is for a woman who has demonstrated commitment to the industry and is valued at $2250.

    They are available to women studying full- or part-time, enrolling or intending to enrol in any of the following courses:

    • Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology
    • Certificate III in Electro-technology Electrician · Battery Storage Systems · Grid Connected Photovoltaic Power Systems
    • Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
    • Certificate III in Electronics and Communications
    • Training in Insulation Installation.

    Christine Robertson, Interim Chief Executive Officer of CIT, said the program underpins the Institute’s commitment to fostering gender diversity and sustainability in the renewable energy sector.

    “Through this partnership, we are empowering women to pursue careers in renewable energy and contributing to the growth and innovation of the industry. We are also addressing the skills shortages prevalent in electrification industries,” she said.

    Barriers to becoming a trade professional include lack of exposure and experience to trade vocations and previous stereotypes of gender-associated work.

    “The scholarship funds can be used to cover student fees and purchase recommended equipment for their studies. Additionally, Brighte will cover the Solar Accreditation Australia costs for eligible female CIT students awarded financial scholarships,” Christine said.

    Brighte Founder and CEO Katherine McConnell said we are facing an industry shortage of tradespeople needed to help Australia hit its renewable energy targets.

    “Through our partnership with CIT, we are proud to support the development of our apprentices and create opportunities for these women to thrive in this dynamic and rapidly growing industry.

    “It is so important for us to do our part to ensure that the training pathways are there for young women to enter the industry and help us achieve the growth needed to ensure Australia’s sustainable future,” she said.

    Brighte is the exclusive administrator for the ACT Government’s Sustainable Household Scheme (SHS) as well as the accompanying Solar for Apartments scheme.

    Over the past two years, more than 18,500 installations have been completed with the scheme generating more than 300 GWh of energy.

    CIT will offer more renewable energy scholarships in 2024 to encourage the uptake of renewable energy training.

    Find out more on the CIT website.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra Hospital welcome hall unveiled

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The hospital’s new entry and main reception will open on 3 June.

    Canberra Hospital’s brand-new welcome hall will open on Monday, 3 June.

    The hall is the new entry and main reception for the hospital and replaces the existing reception in Building 2 from this date.

    Welcome hall location and features

    The welcome hall is close to arrival points such as:

    • the multi-storey car park
    • taxis and public transport
    • a covered waiting area and drop-off zone at the entrance, which also services the new Emergency Department.

    It is a convenient meeting point in a modern, inclusive and comfortable environment.

    Visitors can enquire at the main reception area to find their way to locations around the hospital and gather in the seating hubs.

    Community input was essential to the hall’s design and construction. This feedback has helped shape the building to be welcoming and easy to navigate. It also reflects the diverse nature of the Canberra community.

    The new space will improve the experience for both staff and visitors.

    Design features:

    • a striking wooden-panelled main reception to provide customer service and welcome community to the hospital
    • a new café and retail space (to be opened at a later date)
    • seating hubs and green outdoor spaces for visitors and patients to relax in
    • floor-to-ceiling, double-glazed windows providing a strong connection to the surrounding landscape
    • a transparent, above-ground clinical link that connects the existing hospital with the new building and provides patients with privacy as they move through the hospital
    • striking art installations from local artists that create a welcoming and inclusive space.

    The Critical Services Building

    The welcome hall will connect the new Critical Services Building with the rest of the campus.

    The Critical Services Building is in the final stages of construction and is expected to open to the community in August. It will then be known as Building 5 on the hospital campus.

    The welcome hall is the first part of the new building to open.

    For more information on the Critical Services Building and the Canberra Hospital Expansion project, visit www.builtforcbr.act.gov.au.

    Inside the new welcome hall featuring Bradley Mapiva Brown’s ‘Ngala Dhawura – Country of Many Trees’ artwork.

    The main corridor of the Critical Services Building featuring Hannah Quinlivan’s ‘Life Force’ artwork.

    The main entry to the new welcome hall, alongside ‘Lynnice Church’s ‘Journey of Healing’ artwork.

    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: CBASS helps Belconnen store transition online

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Dejan started Bruce Super Convenience in 2017.

    Dejan Andrevski is well known for running a convenience store with a difference.

    Stocking an array of imported foods from the US and Europe, he started Bruce Super Convenience in 2017.

    He is now looking to move from a bricks and mortar business to a full e-commerce model.

    But how did someone who had three degrees, a foray in investment banking and years of tech start-up work decide he wanted to start a convenience store?

    “My last tech start-up had wrapped up, my wife was pregnant and was like ‘please don’t do another tech start-up, we need consistent pay for the next few years’,” he laughed.

    “I applied for a bunch of accounting jobs, and went to some interviews, but it just didn’t feel right.

    “I saw an ad for this shop that was being sold and I joked with my wife that maybe I could start a shop.

    “Later than night, the spreadsheets were out, and I started thinking, maybe this could actually work,” he said. “I wanted to go out on my own and prove to myself I could do this, without financial backers, and that if it was a success, it was me and if it failed, it was me.”

    It was a success. Dejan’s shop has become well known across Canberra. It even made the Daily Mail this year for stocking imported Biscoff Easter eggs.

    But Dejan’s business reached a tipping point.

    “A new development across the street from our store broke ground three years ago. It was going to include a big supermarket, so we started looking at how we could continue to stay on the front foot, and to be honest, stay in business,” he said.

    Dejan had an investment partner on board. He made an offer to operate the supermarket and began looking at floor plans and fit outs for the new premises.

    However, things took a turn, and the space was bought out by another buyer. It went for almost double the price, which meant Dejan was no longer able to open in the new development.

    “This was only six months ago,” Dejan said. “It was difficult, but we’ve had to adjust and look at how to move forward.”

    That’s when he reached out to the Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS).

    He wanted to look at how they might further expand their online following and move their store to a full e-commerce offering.

    “Candice and Anna from CBASS have such a great perspective on business. They’ve been in the game a long time and are very practical. They get you to look at hard business targets, but also offer a different, new and measured perspective,” he said.

    “It’s made me ask questions of my business and myself, that I wouldn’t normally, and they’ve been a great support as we transition the business.”

    The ACT Government funds the CBASS program. It offers emerging, new and established businesses in Canberra up to four hours of free business advice.

    With years of industry experience, Anna and Candice are a well of business knowledge.

    “I think a lot of business owners in Canberra can benefit from their support,” Dejan said. “Especially new business owners who don’t know where to start.”

    On Sunday 19 May, Dejan officially closed the Bruce shopfront. People lined up for up to three hours to buy their speciality snacks and imported goodies.

    “Our next goal is to focus on recreating the revenue we created in store, online,” Dejan said.

    “We’re also looking at how we can diversify and move into the wholesale market for the imported products we’re bringing in.”

    You can visit Dejan’s online store to view the selection of speciality and imported snacks and goodies.

    If you’re looking for business support – whether you’re new to business or just starting out – contact CBASS to find out more.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Climate Choices Business Award winners announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Businesses from across the Canberra region have been recognised for their sustainability achievements.

    Today, businesses from across the Canberra region were recognised for their sustainability achievements at the annual Climate Choices Business Awards.

    The awards recognise some of Canberra’s most innovative businesses as the city works towards net-zero emissions.

    The awards received high-quality nominations from a diverse range of organisations.

    This demonstrates a strong commitment to climate action and emissions reduction from the Canberra business community.

    Sustainable choices can sometimes come with an upfront cost, such as those associated with appliance upgrades or installation of EV chargers. The success of businesses such as the award recipients shows that such investments will pay off – for businesses and the community.

    Many of the award-winning businesses benefitted from financial assistance and expert advice from the ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program.

    Through the program, businesses can receive support to improve sustainability and demonstrate climate leadership in their operations.

    2024 Climate Choices Business Award winners

    Category Business/event
    Zero Emissions Early Movers Goodwin Aged Care Services
    Energy Star Canberra Services Club
    Waste Minimisation Les Bistronomes
    Sustainable Event National Folk Festival
    Sustainable Small Business of the Year Embassy of Belgium
    Corporate Climate Leader Waves Carwash
    Innovation Excellence GREN
    Minister’s Award for Leadership Steven Blakemore
    The Canberra Tradesmen’s Union Club (Dickson Tradies)

    Find out more about the Sustainable Business Program.

    For more information visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: What it’s really like to volunteer in Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Dr Stephen Utick is a volunteer with Rotary through Urban Parks and Places.

    Volunteers make a significant, meaningful and positive impact on Canberra and the people who live here. National Volunteer Week in the ACT runs from 20-26 May. It’s a time to acknowledge and celebrate volunteers in your community.

    Whether you like working with community members, plants or animals, there really is something for every interest and passion.

    Chris, volunteer in the Emergency Department at Canberra Hospital

    Before coming to Canberra, Chris had volunteered at hospitals in Adelaide and Sydney. He worked in the North Canberra Hospital before he started his current volunteer position at The Canberra Hospital.

    “It’s amazing to be there and it’s inspiring being around the doctors and nurses who are just outstanding with their compassion, empathy and kindness,’ Chris said.

    “Just last weekend an elderly gentleman and his wife came into the ED, he wasn’t great. I had a chat with them both and just seeing how she held his hand and after finding out they had been married for 65 years, you could see how fantastic they were together. I got to see that as a volunteer and it doesn’t get much better than that,” Chris said.

    Peter, ParkCare volunteer at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

    Accessibility upgrades at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve mean that Peter can continue to volunteer and enjoy sharing the parks beautiful bushland with visitors.

    “Since I’ve got the scooter, I can now do a whole day’s shift and the upgrades have certainly helped make me feel much more comfortable riding around and talking to people.”

    Peter, volunteer at Taylor Bike Library

    Meanwhile at the Taylor Bike Library, volunteers have found a way for them to combine their love of sustainability, active travel and community.

    Peter is a retiree who came across the Taylor Bike Library when he recently moved to Canberra.

    “The library is a non-profit organisation that provides bikes to families and communities who may not have access to them,” he said.

    Peter describes his time at the library as “an incredibly rewarding experience.”

    “I have learned new skills, met new people, and contributed to a worthy cause. The library provides an excellent opportunity for people like me to stay active and engaged with others in the community.”

    Dr Stephen Utick, volunteer with Rotary through Urban Parks and Places.

    There are over 80 volunteer groups registered with Urban Parks and Places, and activities range from litter collection to habitat enhancement, conservation, training workshops and more.

    One such group is the Weston Park Nursery Heritage Project led by Dr Stephen Utick. This team of volunteers work to remove invasive plants and revegetate the gardens.

    Dr Utick, who is currently a visiting curator at the Sydney Botanic Gardens, was led to volunteering through his professional network.

    “I was initially invited to join Rotary about five years ago by a member who had a background in the navy, after I gave a talk in my (then) capacity as Convenor of Canberra Friends of Dili at the Department of Defence,” he said.

    “First, I had been invited by ACT Urban Parks and Places to identify the camelia collection at this site after I joined Rotary. I was pleased to then showcase a tour of the site to interested members of my Club.”

    There are many different ways to volunteer. Some people like formal roles coordinated through an organisation. Others prefer informal roles where they just help someone in our community. Some people volunteer regularly while others commit to one off activities like volunteering to support a big event.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: How to explore Belconnen with your dog

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Belconnen locals love exploring the bushland in their neighbourhood.

    How dog friendly your community is can have a large impact on how connected you feel to where you live.

    Luckily for residents of Belconnen, there are plenty of on-leash and off-leash areas that are perfect for families with dogs.

    Here are some of our favourites:

    Dog park

    Belconnen Dog Park – Diddams Close, Lake Ginninderra

    This dog park is located on the shores of Lake Ginninderra.

    It’s a fenced dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs.

    There are both grassy and dirt areas, providing plenty of interesting terrain for your pooch.

    There are also shady areas as well as benches. You can take a seat while you watch your dog play with their friends.

    Once your dog has had enough of the park, there’s a nearby dog beach as well as a nearby on-leash walking track.

    Off-leash areas

    There are over 30 areas that are dog off-leash in the Belconnen region.

    Mount Rogers Reserve

    This stunning spot of bushland in Fraser has a lot to offer.

    If you and your dog are active, you’ll love the range of walking tracks. They connect from Evatt, Melba and Spence. The tracks cater to different ability and fitness levels, with varying lengths and degrees of incline.

    The reserve offers breathtaking views of the Belconnen region. There are seated and shaded areas, so you can take a break and soak it all in.

    Melba Oval

    Ovals aren’t just places for people to play sport and work on their fitness, they can be great for dogs too.

    While your dog is free to roam and play on the oval while it’s not in use, if it’s booked for formal sport (including training sessions), you’ll need to return another time.

    Check when the sportsground is booked for use.

    On-leash areas

    Umbagong District Park

    The new Umbagong bridge walk over the native grasslands is a pleasure for everyone in the family, canines included.

    There are various walking tracks including:

    • the Heritage Trail
    • the Creek and Catchment Trail
    • Nature Trail.

    There’s also a playground for growing families. However, remember that when in use, all playgrounds, sportsgrounds, picnic areas and barbecue areas become dog prohibited areas. When they’re not in use, you can enter these areas as long as your dog is on their leash.

    Lake Ginninderra

    Lake Ginninderra is the perfect spot for a scenic stroll, and outside of the dog park, it is a dog on-leash area, as are all lakes in Canberra (unless otherwise signposted).

    Other on-leash areas include all streets, verges, footpaths and cycle paths. You’ll also need to keep your dog on their leash if you’re within 10 metres either side of the path.

    No matter where in Belconnen your adventures take you, you need to pick up after your dog. Failing to pick up your dog droppings is an offence that carries of a fine of $150. Failing to carry the correct equipment to collect your dog droppings carries a $75 fine. For easy poop collection, why not treat yourself to a Puppoon? The clever invention attaches to your lead and is air-tight to reduce odour. It’s also invented by a Canberran.

    Read more about the Puppoon.

    Learn more about local spots to take your dog or view on-leash, off-leash, conditional off-leash and dog prohibited areas on ACTmapi’s dog exercise area map.

    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra in focus on Gardening Australia

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Volunteer Carol can spot a caterpillar at ten paces, even if it is hidden under the husk of a corn cob.

    The popular Gardening Australia program will have a distinctly Canberra flavour on Friday 17 May.

    ABC TV’s gardening flagship will air a story featuring two ACT schools, several students and much-loved volunteer Carol Quashie-Williams, scientist in residence at both Farrer Primary and Namadgi School.

    As a CSIRO STEM Professional in Schools, Carol has enriched the lives of thousands of young people during two decades of volunteering.

    She teaches life skills in gardening, nutrition, cooking and teamwork, with lessons in biology, chemistry, earth and environmental science, physics, maths, literacy and art sprouting here and there.

    An agricultural and environmental scientist and entomologist, Carol can spot a caterpillar at ten paces, even if it is hidden under the husk of a corn cob.

    Namadgi School Principal Gareth Richards says Carol’s way of engaging the kids means her presence is felt whether she is on site or not.

    “Even when she’s not at school, the kids are still carrying on with activities she’s taught them,” he said.

    “We’ll see them walking around the garden with magnifying glasses in hand, inspecting bugs they find along the way. She has a lasting impact on our students’ lives.”

    Another legacy of Carol’s involvement is professional growth and development.

    “She builds the capacity of our staff. Working shoulder to shoulder with Carol they have picked up expertise they’ve been able to go on to share with our students,” Gareth said.

    Named Volunteer of the Year at the 2019 ACT Public Education Awards, Carol started volunteering when her own children were at school and found it so rewarding she continued after they had left.

    With a day job in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, she says her involvement in the schools program enables her to maintain her pest surveillance and diagnostic and science communication skills.

    “I enjoy inspiring the next generation of scientists and gardeners and love the enthusiasm of the students when working outside and in the environment centres,” she said.

    ‘My Garden Path – Carol STEM’ airs on Gardening Australia this Friday 17 May at 7:30pm (repeated Sunday 1:30pm, or catch up via iView or the Gardening Australia website).

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Services announced for new South Tuggeranong Health Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The health centre will be located near Lanyon Marketplace in Conder.

    The new South Tuggeranong Health Centre will provide residents with access to a range of free public health services.

    These will include paediatrics, pathology, dementia care and chronic disease programs.

    The centre’s clinical services and design have been guided by feedback from clinicians, consumers and the local community through consultation carried out in late 2023.

    The feedback revealed residents wanted easier access to preventative health services and treatment for chronic disease.

    The new centre will offer a range of community-based services that reflect the changing health needs of the Tuggeranong community.

    The services available at the new health centre will include:

    • paediatrics
    • pathology collection
    • diabetes clinics
    • falls and falls injury prevention
    • dementia care
    • chronic disease programs
    • community nursing
    • a virtual care interview room.

    The South Tuggeranong Health Centre, located in Conder, is one of five new health centres being delivered across the ACT.

    Other centres will be located in the Inner South, North Gungahlin and West Belconnen.

    The health centre in Molonglo opened in 2022 to provide women’s and family health care to the region.

    The centres will provide integrated multi-disciplinary care with a focus on preventive care and advice, early intervention and the management of chronic illness.

    They will complement Canberra’s existing network of nurse-led Walk-in Centres and community health centres.

    The ACT Government will continue to invest in health services and infrastructure across the ACT to provide Canberrans with access to the right health care, at the right time and in the right place.

    This includes more investment in our health workforce, including recruiting and upskilling our teams and committing to nurse and midwife-to-patient ratios.

    The government will soon consult with Inner South and North Gungahlin residents about the services and design of the new health centres coming to those areas.

    A development application for the South Tuggeranong Health Centre will be submitted and a head contractor engaged for construction in the coming months.

    Construction is expected to begin in the second half of 2024 and be completed by the end of 2025.

    Find more information on builtforcbr.act.gov.au

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New podcast series tells Raiders’ story

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Raiders have countless loyal fans of all ages.

    Canberra Raiders fans are in for a treat with a new series of themed podcasts now available.

    Supported by funding from an ACT Heritage Grant, the Bleeding Green Interviews share the Raiders’ unique story as part of the Territory’s DNA.

    The Raiders have produced a podcast series of oral histories recorded by club historian David Headon.

    From players to CEOs, those interviewed offer remarkable insight into both their own histories and the club’s.

    There’s coach and legend Ricky Stuart, Hall of Fame Immortal Mal Meninga and Patron John McIntyre, to name a few.

    The series been created in a partnership between the Raiders and the ACT Heritage Library.

    “The Canberra Raiders plays a fundamental role in our unique ACT identity. The ACT Heritage Library is both honoured and delighted to partner with the Raiders to preserve and provide ongoing access to these oral histories with key people in the foundation and development of the Club,” Antoinette Buchanan of the ACT Heritage Library said.

    “They are a rich resource as documents of our sporting, social and regional history.”

    The club has generated loyal fans of all ages since its inception in 1982.

    The Raiders were the first non-Sydney team to enter the New South Wales Rugby Football League, later the NRL.

    The club proudly supports and develops rugby league at all levels and age groups – from grassroots to elite teams.

    Six of the interviews are now available through the Raiders website and Spotify.

    Those tuning in via the website can also watch the interviews.

    The remaining four episodes will be released throughout the current season and all will be available through the Libraries ACT online catalogue.

    Episodes available now:

    • Episode 1: Glenn Lazarus
    • Episode 2: Marian Furner and Don Furner (Junior)
    • Episode 3: John McIntyre
    • Episode 4: Alan Tongue
    • Episode 5: Mal Meninga
    • Episode 6: Ricky Stuart.

    “The Bleeding Green Interviews project is the perfect follow-up to my Absolutely Bleeding Green history of the Raiders that was published several years ago,” David said.

    “We learn so much from those interviewed – fascinating details of the club’s unique history, at once exciting, personal, often humorous and always engaging. Go online and treat yourself!”

    Each episode is introduced by recently retired Raiders great Jarrod Croker.

    The project was supported with funding made available by the ACT Government under the ACT Heritage Grants Program.

    Find the interviews on the Raiders website or Spotify.

    Mal Meninga presents the premiership trophy to the crowds in Civic Square in 1989. ACT Heritage Library collection.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Aircraft crash, Hastings

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now name the man who died following an aircraft crash in Hastings on Sunday 6 April.

    He was 71-year-old Grant Bruce Jarden, of Hastings.

    Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

    The incident has been referred to the Civil Aviation Authority.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two teenagers charged with murder following fatal stabbing in Shepherd’s Bush

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two teenage boys have been charged following the murder of 17-year-old Keiron Charles

    Two 16-year-old boys – who cannot be named for legal reasons – have been charged with murder.

    The pair were charged on Monday, 7 April following an investigation by Met detectives.

    They have been remanded and are due to appear at Highbury Corner Youth Court on Monday, 7 April from 9:45hrs.

    Around 13:10hrs on Saturday, 5 April, police were called to reports of a stabbing in Erconwald Street, Shepherd’s Bush. Officers and paramedics attended, but very sadly and despite their best efforts, 17-year-old Keiron Charles, from East Acton, was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Keiron’s family continue to receive support from specially trained officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two teenagers charged with murder following fatal stabbing in Shepard’s Bush

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two teenage boys have been charged following the murder of 17-year-old Keiron Charles

    Two 16-year-old boys – who cannot be named for legal reasons – have been charged with murder.

    The pair were charged on Monday, 7 April following an investigation by Met detectives.

    They have been remanded and are due to appear at Highbury Corner Youth Court on Monday, 7 April from 9:45hrs.

    Around 13:10hrs on Saturday, 5 April, police were called to reports of a stabbing in Erconwald Street, Shepherd’s Bush. Officers and paramedics attended, but very sadly and despite their best efforts, 17-year-old Keiron Charles, from East Acton, was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Keiron’s family continue to receive support from specially trained officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trauma-informed training to support young Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Skip to content

    Released 04/04/2025

    The ACT Government is delivering on its election commitment to support children and young people needing trauma-informed care and support.

    Trauma affects many children and young people in the ACT, and health practitioners across our health sector are often the first in a position to help and offer support.

    Almost 50 staff across the ACT Government and the health sector have this week undertaken training as part of the latest cohort for a 16-week program delivered by training provider Emerging Minds.

    The training, delivered as part of the Youth At Risk Project, supports staff working with young people to understand how to identify and respond to young people who have experienced trauma, and work collaboratively across services to ensure a coordinated approach to care.

    Minister for Mental Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the ACT Government is committed to upskilling health workers to provide mental health support and understand the impact of trauma on people’s lives.

    ‘The ACT Government is continuing to build on our commitments to supporting children and young people who need specialised trauma support and care,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

    ‘The Trauma-Informed Practice Training Program will build a resilient and responsive health sector capable of addressing the complex needs of children and young people who have experienced trauma.

    ‘By investing in this training, we are empowering our health workforce with the knowledge and confidence to provide the compassionate care children and young people deserve.’

    The ACT Government has invested $200,000 into the Trauma-Informed Practice Training Program as part of its commitment to supporting children and young people.

    An evaluation report into the effectiveness of the training from the program’s first cohort, which ran from August to October 2024, showed positive results, with participants reporting improvements in their ability to apply trauma-informed approaches in their work with children, young people, and families.

    The Youth at Risk Project is jointly funded by the Australian and ACT Governments to improve the ACT sector response to young people presenting with complex needs and trauma.

    – Statement ends –

    Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra public holiday hours – Easter long weekend and Anzac Day

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Skip to content

    Released 07/04/2025

    Access Canberra will offer reduced services over the Easter long weekend and Anzac Day public holiday.

    Service Centres and Specialised Centres will be closed on:

    • Good Friday – Friday 18 April
    • Easter Monday – Monday 21 April
    • Anzac Day – Friday 25 April

    On public holidays, the Access Canberra Contact Centre (13 22 81) will be open from 9am to 5pm. Limited services will be available on Good Friday.

    Outside these times the Access Canberra Contact Centre will be still open to report urgent public safety issues like fallen trees and faulty traffic lights 24/7.

    Access Canberra Executive Branch Manager Emily Springett said most Access Canberra transactions can be completed online – 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

    “There are only a few transactions that have to be completed at a Service Centre, including applying for a new driver’s licence, establishing proof of identity and collecting new number plates,” Ms Springett said.

    As Canberrans prepare for holidays, they are reminded to ensure their life admin is up to date, including renewing their car and caravan registration.

    “Service Centres will be very busy in the lead up to the public holidays, so please make sure you plan ahead and don’t leave your visit too late,” Ms Springett said.

    To avoid the queues, you can visit the Access Canberra website to book an appointment at any Service Centre or check the current wait times before you visit.

    “As we enter one of our busiest periods of the year, we ask the Canberra community for patience and kindness as our teams work to assist you,” Ms Springett said.

    For more information on opening hours, visit the Access Canberra website.

    – Statement ends –

    Access Canberra | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence Secretary meets family of the late Agnes Wanjiru in Kenya

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Defence Secretary meets family of the late Agnes Wanjiru in Kenya

    The UK Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, met family members of the late Agnes Wanjiru,to express his condolences.

    The Defence Secretary meets the family of the late Agnes Wanjiru in Kenya.

    The UK Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, today met family members of the late Agnes Wanjiru, who was killed in Nanyuki, Kenya in 2012 to express his condolences. Fulfilling the commitment he made soon after entering office. 

    This is the first time a UK Government Minister has met with Agnes Wanjiru’s family.  

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: 

    It was deeply humbling to meet the family of Agnes Wanjiru today. In the 13 years since her death, they have shown such strength in their long fight for justice. I reiterated my determination to see a resolution to the still unresolved case.  

    We will continue to offer our full support to the Kenyan investigatory authorities, which has included visits by Kenyan investigators to the UK to interview witnesses and of the Provost Marshal (Serious Crime) to Kenya. In my meeting with President Ruto later today, I will emphasise the need to accelerate progress in this case. Our Government will continue to do everything we can to help the family secure the justice they deserve.

    The family of Agnes Wanjiru also made a statement after the meeting with the Defence Secretary. They said: 

    The death of our beloved Agnes has had a profound and devastating impact on our family. It was not only the shock of losing Agnes at such a young age, but also the horrific circumstances in which her body was found and all the trauma and struggle our family has been put through in trying to seek justice and accountability for her death that has taken a very heavy toll on all of us. 

    It is now more than 13 years since Agnes was killed and almost 6 years since a Kenyan inquest found that she had been murdered by British soldiers, yet so little progress appears to have been made since then. 

    We are grateful to the Secretary of State for Defence agreeing to meet with us, but we have waited for too many years and been offered too many empty promises. We hope that our meeting with the Secretary of State marks the beginning of the UK government and Ministry of Defence taking decision action to ensure that what happened to Agnes is properly investigated in Kenya and in the UK and to make sure that what happened to Agnes never happens again. We expect the UK and Kenyan governments to act and bring closure to this matter.

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    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Gardening tips from Canberra’s greenest thumb

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Andrew Forster was head gardener at Floriade for over 20 years.

    As a garden city, Canberra has its fair share of green thumbs. If anyone has a claim to being Canberra’s best gardener, it’s Andrew Forster.

    As the head gardener at Floriade for over 20 years, and now Northside Operations manager for City Services, Andrew knows a thing or two about gardening.

    Here, Andrew shares his best tips for Canberra gardeners over autumn and winter.

    Plan and prepare

    Andrew says that the cooler months are the ideal time to plan your garden.

    “Get yourself an A3 piece of paper and do a mud map of your yard, adding in north, south, east and west,” he said.

    Think about what you’d like to grow and consider where in the garden it would be best to plant.

    “Veggie gardens need a good sunny location,” he said.

    “Autumn is a good time to have a look around our streets at the deciduous trees.”

    Assessing what is growing well in your neighbourhood will give you an idea of what will thrive in your yard.

    “Winter is a good time of the year to tidy up the garden and prepare garden beds for spring plantings.”

    Look for inspiration

    Beyond your suburb, Andrew says it’s a good idea to check out other gardens. Some of his favourite spots for garden inspiration include:

    • local gardening centres
    • Floriade
    • the Australian National Botanic Gardens
    • open days at CIT Bruce
    • open gardens when they are advertised
    • the National Arboretum Canberra to see the bonsai display and the different forests that are growing.

    Do your research

    Before investing in plants, it pays to do a little research.

    “Your local garden centre is a good spot to go to if you’re a novice or if, like me, you’re a visual person and need to see something in the flesh,” he said.

    He also suggests tuning into the Canberra Saturday Breakfast show on ABC radio from 8:30am.

    “If you haven’t been to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, have a look at the website,” he said.

    “The bulb suppliers are there, there are some ideas for landscaping and lots of other horticultural talks.”

    Consider bulbs

    Andrew says bulbs are his favourite thing to grow in Canberra.

    “You can mostly plant and leave them,” he said.

    “If you haven’t seen miniature cyclamens before and have a deciduous tree, have a look at the different species (such a cyclamen persicum or cyclamen coum) and you can create a fairy garden.

    “Another good tip is mixing small bulbs grape hyacinths with tritelia (star flower) under a tree and letting them naturalise. They can escape into other areas so if you don’t want that, don’t plant them.”

    Rather than simply browsing catalogues and garden centres for bulbs, Andrew suggests considering local garden clubs, buy, swap and sell groups or asking family, friends and neighbours.

    Think about your soil

    According to Andrew, the type of soil that you have will largely depend on where you live in Canberra.

    He suggests testing the pH of your soil to see if it is acid or alkaline. Some plants like acid soils, others like alkaline but most thrive with a pH of around 5.5 to 6.5, he says.

    If you’re looking to take your home garden up a notch, there are a few things Andrew say make all the difference:

    • time in the garden (additional watering or watering systems when required)
    • maintenance, including weeding, pruning, and integrated pest control
    • having a good understanding of planting locations and the types of plants suitable for a cool climate.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Dog poop business gets off the ground

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Rachel Hawes with Milo, a Schnauzer and Angus, a West Highland Terrier

    Rachel Hawes, founder of innovative dog poop waste collection product Pupoon, didn’t think her dog poop problem was the kind of product an Innovation Connect (ICON) grant would fund.

    But in 2022, Rachel received an ICON grant for $25,000 in matched funding from the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN).

    “I couldn’t have created the Pupoon without the funding. As a working mother of three, I didn’t have that kind of money to invest in a product to scoop up dog poop,” she said.

    Even though Rachel says she’s never had so much fun talking about dog poop, dog waste in Australia is an issue.

    “Australia is home to more than 6 million dogs, and they all need to poop 1–5 times a day. That’s a whopping 744,000 tonnes of dog poop in Australia every year,” she said.

    “Dog poop is full of bacteria, and studies show that only around 40 per cent of dog walkers pick up their dog poop. That leaves around 300,000 tonnes of poop lying on footpaths, streets, parks and to be washed away into our waterways, beaches, rivers or left to decompose.

    “A lot of people think the answer is to provide more public bins, but bins need to be serviced, and then you have the problem of bins accumulating a lot of dog poop, and becoming awfully smelly.

    “I think the solution is in providing a product that makes it easier for dog owners to collect their dog poop and take it home with them.”

    This innovative solution came to Rachel when she was walking her beloved dogs, Milo, Baxter and Angus, in Isaacs Ridge.

    “I love walking, it’s my thing,” she said. “It’s the only time I get for myself as a busy working mum. But the joy was getting sucked out of it when I would be collecting up to five bags of dog poop each walk.

    “I kept thinking there has to be a better way, this is so gross!” she said. “I had tried multiple products from pet stores and a bunch that I bought online, but nothing really worked.

    “That’s when I had my idea. I saw a cocoon in the forest, and it sort of snowballed from there with the design and the name.

    “I wondered if I could use that design and shape to hold all the poop in a way where doggy waste didn’t get tangled in the lead, it didn’t stink, you could dispense your dog poop bags, and you didn’t have to hold bags of dog poop the entire walk.”

    In the making for the past four years, Rachel has worked with industrial designers from Canberra’s Formswell over the last 18 months to bring Pupoon to market.

    The Pupoon:

    • can hold up to five dog poops
    • is air-tight to reduce odour
    • is light weight and attaches to the lead
    • won’t split and spill if you drop it
    • is made from medical-grade polypropylene to resist odour.

    Pupoon’s first shipment has arrived and is available on Rachel’s website.

    The ICON grants are delivered by CBRIN, which receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups, like Rachel.

    A common misconception about the ICON grants and working with CBRIN, is that you need to be in a high-tech industry, like AI, medical services or tech. However, ICON grants have been provided to Canberra business owners who have created innovative products in a range of fields, from puppy waste to vegan oat milk soft serve.

    Check out CBRIN’s latest events, including Female Founders on Tuesday 7 May 2024 and the next First Wednesday Connect on 5 June 2024 and to get a taste of what CBRIN has to offer.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Instrumental Music Program welcomes new principal

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    New IMP Principal Joel Copeland with University of Canberra High School Kaleen students Matilda (trumpet), Yohaan (saxaphone), Isabel (trombone), and Sofia (percussion).

    The ACT Instrumental Music Program has long focused on teaching year 5 and 6 students woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments in a group setting.

    Its new principal, however, is also a fan of making music without a physical instrument. Or, at least, without a tangible one.

    “Singing is a beautiful thing and a powerful tool in education,” Joel Copeland said.

    “Everybody has a voice.”

    The respected educator has shown before how powerful singing can be in building community. He founded a hugely successful choir at his last school, Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS), which welcomed singers regardless of ability.

    As with the IMP, it was an experiential program that fostered the joy of making music together.

    Joel took on the role of Principal in January and has seen such joy in the faces of IMP students during school visits across Canberra.

    “Within a few lessons in the IMP, our students are making a great sound together,” he said.

    “That’s the beauty of the way the system is set up … group tuition is more time efficient and staff efficient, but it’s also more fun.”

    The Instrumental Music Program operates instrumental music classes in 57 public primary schools and 8 public secondary schools across the ACT.

    There are also performance opportunities via Step into the Limelight, the ACT’s creative and performing arts showcase event for public schools.

    Once fully settled into the new role, Joel will consult widely and with experts on the IMP’s strategic direction, considering ways to build on the quality music learning children have experienced through the IMP’s first 50 years.

    His dream is for every child to have access to high-quality music education.

    Joel was motivated to apply for the role when he heard Naida Blackley was retiring as IMP Principal after an incredible 17 years in the role.

    “Naida had always been a bit of a hero of mine,” Joel said.

    “She is exceptional, and I guess I thought she would be here forever … when I learnt she was retiring, that was the catalyst.”

    Part of what attracted him to the role was the opportunity to work with the IMP’s teachers, who he calls “a brilliant team of music educators”.

    But most of all, he is passionate about ensuring children who are keen to learn and be part of something get the most out of their IMP experience.

    “Music can make a significant difference in these students’ lives,” he said.

    The IMP at a glance:

    • Over 2300 ACT public students are in IMP programs
    • 57 primary schools and 8 high schools are in IMP programs
    • there are 12 teaching staff, 1 admin officer, 2 Executive Teachers and 1 Principal
    • the System bands include 3 concert bands, percussion ensemble, string ensemble, primary and senior choir and jazz band
    • non-band programs include ukelele (4) and strings (2)
    • over 3000 instruments
    • over 2600 music scores.

    Find out more about the Instrumental Music Program at imp.act.edu.au

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More than a thousand new homes for north Curtin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The site has the potential to supply up to 1300 townhouses and multi-unit dwellings.

    The ACT Government is progressing work to deliver more than 1300 homes in north Curtin.

    Canberrans are invited to have their say on the design of the site, which is located directly adjacent to Yarra Glen Drive.

    The existing north Curtin horse paddocks will welcome the new homes, close to transport, local services and places of employment.

    The site has the potential to supply up to 1300 townhouses and multi-unit dwellings.

    The future residential neighbourhood is envisioned as high-quality, sustainable and vibrant with quality public streets and spaces.

    Canberrans are being asked to share their thoughts on what they feel is important in terms of urban design, landscape design, built form, access and design quality on the site.

    This community feedback will be used to help develop the draft Planning Conditions for the North Curtin Residential Area.

    This will be used to assess future development applications for the site.

    Canberra’s population is set to grow to 500,000 by 2027.

    The ACT Government is supporting the supply of new homes, particularly focused on areas close to transport and services, as well as investing in the infrastructure to support them. 

    The north Curtin consultation will also feed into further consultation on a broader ‘Draft Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework’ over the next two years.

    This will guide future development along Canberra’s southern transport corridor from Woden to the City.

    The Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework

    The government will engage with the community on the principles of growth and development of more housing, public spaces and infrastructure along the light rail 2B corridor, including Adelaide Avenue and Yarra Glen Drive. 

    This follows the City and Gateway Design Framework established in 2018 in Canberra’s north, ahead of the completion of light rail stage 1.

    The Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework will be developed in consultation with the National Capital Authority (NCA).

    The feedback from the north Curtin engagement will be lodged with the NCA towards the end of the financial year, before determining final planning controls.

    This will build on the principles laid out in the Woden District Strategy released in November 2023.

    A referral is also in progress with the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), to assess potential environmental impacts.

    YourSay survey

    Canberrans can have their say on the North Curtin Residential Area via the YourSay survey.

    The survey is open until 11 June 2024.

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New ICU to improve patient experience

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Dr Tina Xu, Deputy Director of the Intensive Care Unit at Canberra Hospital

    Intensive care patients at Canberra Hospital will be cared for in a new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from late August this year.

    The ICU will be located on level 5 of the new Critical Services Building. Bed capacity will increase to 48, including four specially designed paediatric spaces.

    The ICU’s clinical and patient spaces have been carefully designed with input from clinicians and consumers, to improve the patient experience and support families and carers during what is a very challenging time.

    The modern, fit-for-purpose space will enable the hospital’s highly skilled teams to implement innovative models of care.

    This includes a multi-purpose therapy space and the ability to isolate a wing should there be an infectious diseases outbreak.

    “One of the major changes to the new ICU is that will have much more space, not only the bed spaces but also storage spaces. It will make a big difference in our day-to-day management and care we provide, Deputy Director of the Intensive Care Unit Dr Tina Xu said.

    “The new bed spaces are much larger and modern, with most of them fitted with ceiling to floor windows. This lets in a lot of natural light across the whole unit and will help our patients maintain a day-night routine, which is important to their recovery.”

    Features of the new ICU include:

    • four paediatric beds with an adjoining family zone to give families who have children in the ICU a support area including a lounge and play area
    • a multi-purpose therapy space to accelerate patient care with early integrated rehabilitation
    • a pod of 12 beds that can be isolated in the event of an infectious disease threat
    • dedicated outdoor spaces for patients and visitors
    • bariatric rooms with weight-rated equipment
    • a procedure room to carry out minor procedures not requiring general anaesthesia
    • ability to expand ICU to 60 beds as demand grows in the future.

    Children needing a high level of medical care can be cared for in one of the four paediatric beds. These beds will also be able to support care for adult patients if necessary and when not being used for paediatric patients.

    A gymnasium has also been integrated into the ICU. Physiotherapists who specialise in care for critically unwell patients will provide the physical therapy needed as part of rehabilitation.

    “The new ICU will also improve our patient and family experiences, with a large and comfortable family and visitor waiting area and two outdoor terraces. The terraces have sheltered bays that are fully equipped to support medical equipment, so our patients and their families can spend some time outside,” Dr Xu said.

    Level 5 of the Critical Services Building also includes a clinical training facility. This will provide Canberra Health Services teams with a dedicated clinical environment to practice simulations and training.

    The ACT Government is investing in new health and updated health infrastructure for Canberra.

    In addition to the new Critical Services Building, this includes modernising the Canberra Hospital campus, planning for the new northside hospital and building more health centres.

    There is also increased investment in the ACT’s health workforce to attract, retain and recruit staff from across the public health system.

    For more information on the Critical Services Building, visit Canberra Hospital Expansion – Built for CBR (act.gov.au)

    Inside the new ICU

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    MIL OSI News –

    April 7, 2025
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