Category: Justice

MIL-OSI Australia: Applications open for ACT sustainability grants
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The grant programs support local climate change, environmental and sustainability projects.
Applications are now open for three grant programs that support local climate change, environmental and sustainability projects.

Canberrans can apply for grants of up to $75,000 per project to help turn their ideas into reality.

The grants assist community groups, schools, organisations and individuals to deliver projects that:
- promote sustainable living and emissions reduction
- help make Canberra climate-ready
- promote biodiversity and community participation in conservation projects.
The ACT Food Co-op is a community owned-and-run bulk grocery store and cafe, events venue and community hub.

Receiving a grant helped the Co-op reduce emissions and cut operating costs.

“Grants funding from the ACT Government has enabled us to convert from an expensive high-emissions gas kitchen to a cheaper zero-emissions electric kitchen. Our army of kitchen helpers are now safer, our bills are cheaper and our environmental footprint is smaller – a real win,” Chairperson Lucaya Rich said.

2024 ACT Environmental Grants Program

This program offers up to $350,000 in total funding.

Grant recipients have the opportunity to:
- address environmental issues that concern them
- restore and conserve natural places that are special to them
- engage other community members to do the same.
For more information and to start your application, visit the ACT Environment website.

To hear from previous recipients, watch the ACT Environmental Grants recipient stories.

Nature in the City: Cooling Your Suburb Grants Program

Additional grants are available through the Nature in the City: Cooling your Suburb Grants Program.

Offering upto $150,000 in 2024 project funding, these grants support projects that help keep Canberra cool in a changing climate.

Project ideas could include:
- installing a shady garden in a hot urban area
- replacing a solid concrete pathway with water-permeable pavers to reduce rainwater run-off.
For more information and to start your application, visit Everyday Climate Choices.

Community Zero Emissions Grants Program

This program offers up to $75,000 in funding per project in 2024.

Funding will support community projects that:
- reduce emissions
- increase community resilience to climate impacts and inspire change.
For more information and to start your application, visit Everyday Climate Choices.

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Commissioner puts children’s rights in the spotlight

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Jodie Griffiths-Cook wants to help children and young people access information they can trust and understand.

ACT Children and Young People Commissioner Jodie Griffiths-Cook is on a mission to help Canberra’s children and young people understand their rights.

In her role – which is independent from government and part of the ACT Human Rights Commission – she consults and speaks with kids every day.

“My role principally involves being able to engage directly with children and young people and find out what is important to them, then using that to try to influence public policy and create change that will hopefully make Canberra a better place for children and young people generally,” Jodie said.

She does this in a variety of ways, including creating simply written resources that can be used in schools and more broadly.

She regularly updates a dedicated section of the commission’s website with targeted, trustworthy information for kids, teens and young people.

Jodie also distributes the monthly Rights in ACTion newsletter to further inform ACT children and young people about their rights and wellbeing.

From school visits to Instagram posts, finding ways to tailor sometimes complex information for different age groups is important.

“Children and young people have a right to access information they can trust and understand,” she said.

“It really humanises things when you’re able to speak in a language that is clearly understood by kids.”

The Covid lockdowns in 2020 and 2021 highlighted a particular need for this.

“We saw a lot of communications going out to adults but very little being targeted to children and young people. For us, that really started the process of thinking mindfully about what we can do to shift that, both in terms of direct communications and modelling – trying to encourage others to do the same,” she said.

“If we actually think about some of the decision-making that happens – so many of our decisions impact young people in ways that we perhaps don’t consider,” she said.

Having been Commissioner for eight years now, Jodie says the discussions she has with children and young people are most rewarding.

“Some of those conversations are just absolute gold when it comes to what young people already intrinsically understand about their rights and about those sometimes competing rights that we all grapple with,” she said.

“I can almost take off my own commissioner hat and give it to some of them!”

Particularly engaged young people can also get directly involved with the commission. This in turn provides important feedback.

“We started a new youth advisor role, pitched for young people aged 16–25 years who have left school. We bring young people in for six months where they are looking for opportunities that will help them decide and pursue their career direction. From them we get a lot of intel about the kind of language to use, and the kind of things that are of interest to young people. We also take in work experience students in years 9-12,” she said.

A range of child-friendly resources to help children and young people understand the Human Rights Act will be launched in March this year – on the Act’s 20^th anniversary.

Visit actkids.act.gov.au for more information.

Jodie wants all Canberra children and young people to know her door is always open – whatever they have to say.

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New graduate health professionals ready to help Canberrans
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

New nurses Ainslie and Shreejana are excited to get started on their clinical placements at Canberra Hospital.
Canberrans can expect to see many new faces in healthcare settings around the city.

A new cohort of over 360 graduate health professionals have joined Canberra Health Services (CHS) in recent weeks.

There are over 200 nurses and midwives, 96 junior medical officer interns and 59 allied health graduates starting their first year of supported practice in Canberra’s public health system.

These graduate programs help build and develop the city’s public health workforce.

Graduates will experience a broad range of specialities across their rotations which span Canberra Health Services.

Placements include:
- Canberra Hospital
- North Canberra Hospital
- University of Canberra Hospital
- justice health
- outpatient clinics
- community health care centres
- Hospital in the Home
- locations in south-east NSW.
Shreejana and Ainslie are two of the new graduates starting at Canberra Hospital this week.

Between them they will be rotating through the geriatrics, oncology, cardiology and orthopaedic wards.

For registered nurse Shreejana, this career was a childhood dream.

“I’m feeling very nervous, as well as excited,” she said.

“Seeing all the support and the guidance that I will be receiving from the CHS team, I’m very, very much looking forward to this journey.”

Enrolled nurse Ainslie completed her 18-month certification at CIT.

“I wanted to care for people and give back to my community,” she said.

“Honestly, it’s the little things. It’s when you ask someone “how can I help you?” It’s giving them a cup of tea, giving them coffee, giving them warm blanket. The little things that put a smile on someone’s face and just knowing that you’ve made them happy.”

In a Canberra Health Services first, three cohorts of graduate nurses are undergoing orientation at the same time.

This includes:
- the graduate Transition to Practice Program
- North Canberra Hospital’s existing graduate program
- the Novice Nurse Consolidation Program, which offers an alternative pathway to join the nursing workforce for those who may only be able to work part-time or hold a working visa.
“The new starters bring a great amount of enthusiasm and energy into our services and teams, and it is hugely fulfilling for all our staff to support and guide these new health professionals at a critical time in their career,” Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery at North Canberra Hospital Judy Ryall said.

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Another milestone for new Whitlam school

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The new school is expected to open for the 2026 school year.

The development application for the new public school in Whitlam has been lodged, marking a key milestone in the project.

The ACT Government has committed $76.8 million to deliver a new school, which is expected to open for the 2026 school year.

Once open, the school will span preschool to year 6 and include an early childhood education and care centre.

It will accommodate up to 780 students with 130 childhood education and care places.

The new school will help cater to the growing population in Whitlam and will be in the heart of the new residential suburb and community.

It will be built adjacent to John Gorton Drive on the corner of Hazel Hawke Avenue and Alice Moyle Way, alongside local shops.

This location provides convenient access to the local neighbourhood via nearby public transport stops, bike paths and footpaths.

View a flythrough of how the new school will look.

[embedded content]

Information about the new school is available at builtforcbr.act.gov.au

Regular updates are also available on the Whitlam School web page: education.act.gov.au/Whitlam_School

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Keeping Canberra’s playgrounds safe

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Playground Safety Inspector Lawrence and the safety inspection team

Canberra has more playgrounds than any other state or local council in Australia.

And each day, plenty of work goes into ensuring they are safe and ready for play.

Playground Safety Inspector Lawrence is part of a City Services team working to assess Canberra’s 500+ playgrounds.

Lawrence’s team of six inspects district parks twice a week, community play spaces weekly and smaller neighbourhood parks every fortnight.

Lawrence and his team use three main assessment methods.

Level 1 – visual inspection

In this initial inspection, workers check the area for sharps, vandalism and major equipment faults.

They collect any litter and rake bark into heavy-use areas to keep the playground clean and ready to use.

Level 1 inspections occur bi-weekly to fortnightly, depending on the size and use of the playground.

Lawrence assesses a timber post for repair

Level 2 – detailed inspection

A Level 2 inspection occurs monthly or bi-monthly.

The team tests all playground equipment for wear and tear, operational defects, deterioration and any other faults.

They also test for hazards, including potential for head, torso and finger entrapment.

They check timber posts, look for swing chain entrapment and measure the height of swing sets to ensure a safe distance between the bottom of the seat and the ground.

Depending on the risk associated with the fault or hazard, the playground may need to be fenced off or temporarily closed for repairs.

Finger entrapment testing

Level 3 – independent assessor inspection

Qualified external assessors carry out Level 3 inspections annually.

These assessors are independent from the ACT Government and have an engineering background.

The assessor compares each playground to the Australian Playground Standards.

This ensures equipment is safe and the existing process of ongoing safety inspections is compliant.

External assessor Grant from Playtest conducting surface impact testing

Get involved

The community is the most important playground safety inspector, so if you see a potential safety hazard, please complete a job request via the Fix My Street online tool.

Provide as much detail as possible on the location and issue when completing the request.

Head entrapment testing

Find out more about Canberra’s playgrounds.

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: See inside Canberra Hospital’s new building
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Critical Services Building building provides a major upgrade and expansion to the Canberra Hospital.
Construction of the new Critical Services Building at Canberra Hospital is progressing well towards the planned opening later in 2024.

The 44,000 square metre building provides a major upgrade and expansion to the Canberra Hospital.

It will include:
a larger Emergency Department, including a dedicated children’s emergency area

more operating rooms

more treatment spaces

more intensive care beds.
The building’s public facilities and amenities have been designed to make the hospital experience more comfortable for staff, patients, their carers, and families.

New facilities and amenities include:
two new cafes

a family respite lounge with kitchenette, meeting room and showers

breakout spaces and waiting lounges for patients, families, carers and visitors

parent rooms

a kid’s play zone and sensory room

a Changing Places facility with accessible toilet facilities

outdoor gardens, courtyards and terraces for patients.
Take a peek at the construction work happening inside the building:

Main reception area and view of patient transfer link bridge.

Medical imaging in the Emergency Department.

Nurses’ station in inpatient unit.

Family lounge area in inpatient unit.

Operating theatre.

Surgical recovery area.

Helipad.

Acute care treatment space in the new Emergency Department.

Ambulance triage area in the new Emergency Department.

Treatment spaces in the new Emergency Department.

Find more information on the Canberra Hospital Master Plan.

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Preserving Canberra’s past

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The heritage home offers a unique glimpse into Canberra’s past.

Lanyon Homestead offers a unique glimpse into Canberra’s past.

The restored 1850s property is open for the community to enjoy, with some special events ahead to allow Canberrans to embrace all it has to offer.

A rich, multifaceted history

You can’t speak about Canberra’s history without appreciating the thousands of years of Aboriginal history preceding our 190 years of European settlement.

And you can’t speak about the last 190 years of Canberra’s history without mentioning historic places like Lanyon Homestead.

Each of the homestead’s residents left their distinctive mark over the years, and each area is meticulously honoured as part of the heritage site’s preservation.

New life for a historic walnut tree

Attention to detail in the property’s restoration and maintenance filters down to individual plants and trees.

Recently, Lanyon Homestead and Yarralumla Nursery partnered to preserve a historically significant walnut tree, first planted between 1835 and 1840.

Along with his team, the head gardener at ACT Historic Places, Neil Wright, tried to propagate the tree for eight years with limited success.

“We just couldn’t get it, so we called Yarralumla Nursery in,” Neil said.

“They’ve got better facilities than us. They’ve got 200 cuttings and of those, only 11 were successful.”

The trees were grown under the careful watch of the team at Yarralumla Nursery.

Eventually, seven were planted along the river corridor to replace the stumps where the original trees once stood.

While Neil has a deep appreciation of the garden, he says Lanyon Homestead has something to offer everyone.

“You come and do a tour of the house but then you realise it’s nice to just sit here, to have a cup of coffee at the cafe. The kids can run around, you can have a picnic, and then you come back again and appreciate something new.”

The team at Lanyon Homestead meticulously manage the house according to seasonal needs. In summer, the muslin curtains billow in the breeze, while in winter the fires are lit and candles glow.

Outside, the gardening team work to update the garden in line with the seasons.

“I try and do something different in the garden every year to bring people back. This year we’ve got a big pumpkin display, and the Harvest Day Out is coming up,” Neil said.

Harvest Day Out: Saturday, 2 March

Harvest Day Out is a celebration of Lanyon Homestead’s autumn kitchen garden. There’s a focus on sustainable food and growing practices under the theme of “grow – preserve – sustain”.

The event will include workshops, demonstrations, and tours. Guests can learn about practices like preserving, pickling, seed saving and gardening practices as valuable today as they were in the homesteads early days.

From 10am to 2pm there will be face painting on offer, and from 10am to 4pm there will be market stalls selling coffee, food, wine, jewellery, arts and more.

Find out more about Harvest Day Out.

Dinner and stargazing events: various Fridays

See Lanyon Homestead in another light and attend a Dinner with the Stars – dinner and stargazing event.

Enjoy a two-course meal at Barrack’s Café, featuring produce grown in the gardens.

Find out what to look for in the night sky, before venturing out to stargaze with telescopes.

Find out more about Dinner with the Stars.

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Advice under development – superannuation issues
Source:

[4166] Advice fees paid by superannuation funds

Title

Final Practical Compliance Guideline

Fees for personal financial advice paid from member accounts by superannuation funds – apportioning the deduction and pay as you go withholding obligations

Purpose

This Guideline sets out a methodology that superannuation funds (other than self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs)) can use to determine the extent to which payments of financial advice fees satisfy paragraph (d) of table item 5 of subsection 295-490(1) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

It also outlines our compliance approach in relation to a superannuation fund’s obligation to withhold from payments for personal financial advice fees in the income years prior to 1 July 2019, including SMSFs.

Expected completion

To be advised

Comments

Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D1 Fees for personal financial advice paid from member accounts by superannuation funds – apportioning the deduction and pay as you go withholding obligations published on 15 January 2025. Comments period closed on 14 February 2025.

Contact

Jay Gao, Public Groups

Phone: (02) 9374 5168

Jay.Gao@ato.gov.au

For more information, see Consultation matter [202421].

[4182] Expenditure incurred under a non-arm’s length arrangement and superannuation contributions [updated]

Title

Addendum to Law Companion Ruling

Law Companion Ruling LCR 2021/2 Non-arm’s length income – expenditure incurred under a non-arm’s length arrangement

Purpose

LCR 2021/2 is being updated to include the Commissioner’s view as to how the amendments in explanations of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Support for Small Business and Charities and Other Measures) Act 2024 apply in respect of the non-arm’s length expenditure and non-arm’s length component provisions.

Expected completion

Mid 2025Comments

Draft update LCR 2021/2DC1 published on 27 November 2024. Comments period closed on 24 January 2025. We are currently reviewing submissions.

Contact

Bonita Tsang, SEO

PAGSPR@ato.gov.au

Title

Addendum to Taxation Ruling

Taxation Ruling TR 2010/1DC Income tax: superannuation contributions

Purpose

TR 2010/1DC is being updated to include the Commissioner’s view about the amendments in explanations of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Support for Small Business and Charities and Other Measures) Act 2024. In addition to updates for the non-arm’s length expenditure amendments, TR 2010/1DC (which was previously issued for consultation on 28 July 2021) will also be updated with regard to issues such as in specie contributions, the maximum earnings test and the deductibility of contributions.

Expected completion

Mid 2025Comments

The draft update to TR 2010/1DC2 published on 27 November 2024. Comments period closed on 24 January 2025.

TR 2010/1DC was withdrawn on 27 November 2024.

Contact

Bonita Tsang, SEO

PAGSPR@ato.gov.au

[4200] Administration of penalties that apply where employers or superannuation funds fail to comply with event-based reporting obligations [updated]
Title

Draft Law Administration Practice Statement

Administration of penalties that apply to employers who fail to comply with their Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting obligations

Purpose

Event-based reporting regimes were introduced in 2018 for employers (STP) and for superannuation funds (member account transactions and attributes). The information reported through these reporting regimes has a range of applications across the tax and super systems, and their effectiveness can be reduced as a result of:
- incorrect and incomplete reporting
- reporting in an incorrect format (such as reporting in the original STP format rather than the STP Phase 2 format used since 2022)
- failure to report at all.
There is a need to provide guidance for ATO staff on the administration of penalties that may apply to employers or superannuation funds that fail to meet their reporting obligations.

Expected completion

April 2025

Contact
PAGSPR@ato.gov.au

Title

Draft Law Administration Practice Statement

Administration of the false and misleading statement penalties on superannuation funds that do not report superannuation contribution information to the Commissioner accurately

Purpose

Event-based reporting regimes were introduced in 2018 for employers (STP) and for superannuation funds (member account transactions and attributes). The information reported through these reporting regimes has a range of applications across the tax and super systems, and their effectiveness can be reduced as a result of:
- incorrect and incomplete reporting
- reporting in an incorrect format (such as reporting in the original STP format rather than the STP Phase 2 format used since 2022)
- failure to report at all.
There is a need to provide guidance for ATO staff on the administration of penalties that may apply to employers or superannuation funds that fail to meet their reporting obligations.

Expected completion

April 2025

Contact

PAGSPR@ato.gov.au

MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 2, Waikino closed following crash

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

State Highway 2, Waikino is curerntly closed while emergency services respond to a crash.

The two-vehicle crash happened near School Road, and was reported just before 1pm.

Initial indicications are that there are serious injuries.

Detours are in place and motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Advice under development – GST issues

Source:

[4095] Cross-border supplies [updated]

Title

Finalisation of Goods and Services Tax Ruling GSTR 2005/6 Goods and services tax: the scope of subsection 38-190(3) and its application to supplies of things (other than goods or real property) made to non-residents that are GST-free under item 2 of the table in subsection 38-190(1) of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999

Purpose

This Ruling is being updated and modernised to reflect changes to subsection 38-190(3) of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 made by the Tax and Superannuation Laws Amendment (2016 Measures No. 1) Act 2016 (SLA Act). The changes impact how goods and services tax (GST) applies to cross-border supplies. Schedule 2 of the SLA Act (generally about business-to-business supplies) applies from 1 October 2016.

Expected completion

To be advised

Comments

The draft update to GSTR 2005/6 published on 26 March 2025. Comments period closes on 9 May 2025.

Contact

Katrina Bond, International, Support and Programs

Phone: (03) 8792 1539

Katrina.Bond@ato.gov.au

Title

Finalisation of Goods and Services Tax Ruling GSTR 2007/2 Goods and services tax: in the application of paragraph (b) of item 3 in the table in subsection 38-190(1) of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 to a supply, when does ‘effective use or enjoyment’ of the supply ‘take place outside Australia’?

Purpose

This Ruling is being updated and modernised to incorporate amendments made by the SLA Act. The changes impact how GST applies to cross-border supplies. Schedule 1 of the SLA Act (about business to consumers supplies) applies from 1 July 2017 and Schedule 2 of the SLA Act (generally about business-to-business supplies) applies from 1 October 2016.

Expected completion

To be advised

Comments

The draft update to GSTR 2007/2 published on 26 March 2025. Comments period closes on 9 May 2025.

Contact

Katrina Bond, International, Support and Programs

Phone: (03) 8792 1539

Katrina.Bond@ato.gov.au

[4125] Food of a kind marketed as prepared meals

Title

Final Goods and Services Tax Determination

Food of a kind marketed as a prepared meal

Purpose

This Determination will outline the Commissioner’s view on the meaning of ‘food of a kind marketed as a prepared meal’ by reference to key concepts referred to in the Federal Court decision in Simplot Australia Pty Limited v Commissioner of Taxation [2023] FCA 1115.

Comments

Revised Draft Goods and Services Tax Determination GSTD 2024/D3 Goods and services tax: supplies of food of a kind marketed as a prepared meal published on 16 October 2024. Comments period closed 15 November 2024.

Draft Goods and Services Tax Determination GSTD 2024/D1 Goods and services tax: supplies of food of a kind marketed as a prepared meal, which published on 27 March 2024, has been withdrawn.

Expected completion

To be advised

Contact

Jo Drum, International, Support and Programs

Phone: (03) 8792 1469

Jo.Drum@ato.gov.au

[4130] Supplies of sunscreen

Title

Final Goods and Services Tax Determination

Supplies of sunscreen

Purpose

This Determination sets out the Commissioner’s preliminary view on when a supply of a sunscreen preparation is GST-free under subsection 38-47(1) of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999. Draft Goods and Services Tax Determination GSTD 2024/D2 Goods and services tax: supplies of sunscreen published on 14 August 2024. Comments period closed 13 September 2024.

Expected completion

To be advised

Contact

Sharon Iselin, International, Support and Programs

Phone: (07) 3121 7318

Sharon.Iselin@ato.gov.au

[4186] Toddler formula products

Title

Draft Goods and Services Tax Determination

Supplies of toddler formula products

Purpose

This Determination will outline the Commissioner’s view of the term ‘infant’ in the context of table item 13 of Schedule 2 to the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999, which provides that ‘beverages, and ingredients for beverages, of a kind marketed principally as food for infants or invalids’ are GST-free. This issue is currently considered in Issue 14 – Beverage for infants of the food industry register. Since this was published, there have been significant developments in the industry and we have received feedback asking us to review if an infant can be a person beyond the age of 12 months.

Expected completion

To be advised

Comments

We are further considering the scope of the draft Determination.

Contact

Jo Drum, International, Support and Programs

Phone: (03) 8792 1469

Jo.Drum@ato.gov.au

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New ESA Commissioner appointed

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Mr Phillips has been in the Interim Commissioner position since 30 September 2023.

The ACT Government has appointed Mr Wayne Phillips as the new Commissioner for the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA).

Mr Phillips has been in the Interim Commissioner position since 30 September 2023.

Commissioner Phillips is the sixth Commissioner to lead the ESA.

He brings a significant amount of operational and leadership experience to the Commissioner role.

Prior to joining ESA in 2022, he had a long and distinguished career with Fire and Rescue NSW.

Commissioner Phillips is focused on the ESA’s workplace environment. He is known as a consultative leader who engages with employees, volunteers and the community to better understand their needs.

Commissioner Phillips advocates for building partnerships and working with First Nations employees and community members to embed cultural practices and respect into the Agency.

Mr Phillips’ appointment is intended to provide the Canberra community with strong and effective emergency services leadership.

“I am honoured to be appointed to lead the ESA through the next five years and am committed to working alongside our very capable emergency services leaders in our shared mission to keep Canberra safe,” Commissioner Phillips said.

“The ESA is a fantastic organisation, full of talented and hard-working experts who have a collective goal – to make Canberra the safest place to live and work.”

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Learn how to grow veggies at home in Canberra
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The gardening workshops in Whitlam are open to all Canberra residents.
The Suburban Land Agency, in partnership with Fiona Buining of Ainslie Urban Farm, is delivering a series of gardening workshops called Growing Food Through the Seasons.

The workshops cover range of gardening basics and focuses on getting the best from Canberra’s unique growing climate. They will teach participants when and what to plant for a bountiful supply of backyard produce year-round.

You might think that you could pop out to a nursery, buy whatever vegetable is in season, plant them and enjoy your homegrown veggies soon.

As it turns out, you’d be mistaken.

“A big misconception is around when you plant things,” Fiona said.

“And then the other misconception is how long things take to grow. Most things take a long time. If you’re planting a savoy cabbage in Canberra, you need to plant it in December to harvest it in winter.”

These common misunderstandings about growing your own vegetables is one of the reasons that Fiona and the Suburban Land Agency are delivering these workshops at the Innovation Precinct at the Suburban Land Agency’s Display Village in Whitlam.

In the meantime, here are some of Fiona’s top tips for beginner gardeners:

Start with greens

“The reason leafy greens are good is that they grow more or less year round,” Fiona said.

Some of the leafy green vegetables that Fiona suggests for first time growers include:
lettuce

rocket

mizuna

mustard greens

kale (baby and regular)

English spinach

rainbow chard.
If you’re looking for something nutritious that also looks nice in your garden, tat soi is a good option.

“It’s a pretty Asian green that you can get in purple and green,” Fiona said.

“It grows into this beautiful rosette that almost looks too good to pick.”

Use your balcony

Canberrans living in apartments and townhouses can also grow their own food. Instead of a backyard, Fiona suggests using the space on your balcony.

“Grow bags are great for apartments and people with balconies. They’re absorbent, so when you water, the bag itself absorbs some of the water. You get a lot less of that dripping and running over that you would get with pots,” Fiona said.

A budget-friendly alternative is a polystyrene box. Fiona says they’re an ideal depth for growing greens and tend to keep plants cooler than black plastic pots.

“My tip for people with no balcony or outdoor growing space is to have a go at growing sprouts on your benchtop,” Fiona said.

“Sprouts are great because they’re fresh, they’re full of minerals and vitamins and enzymes, and you can grow them in the dark.”

Start today

“People love starting a veggie garden in spring and summer,” Fiona said.

“There’s something about the energy of spring and summer but actually, any time is ideal.”

According to Fiona, there are things that you can plant in every month of the year in Canberra. Leafy greens, in particular, can be planted in any month.

“Any time is good. When you’re inspired is the right time to do it. Don’t put it off,” Fiona said.

Consider a verge garden

If you have a verge (also known as a nature strip) out the front of your home, you could use it to plant vegetables. There are specific rules around what you can and can’t do with nature strips, so be sure to check out the City Services guide.

“You can start a verge garden that can be a one-to-two-hour project,” Fiona said.

“You don’t even have to dig. You can mow or cut the grass by hand, lay down newspaper, make sure it’s overlapping, put some compost or potting mix on top, plant the seedlings into the mounds, cover it with mulch, bingo.”

The next Growing Food Through the Seasons Workshop is on Saturday 2 March. Workshops will be held on the first Saturday of every month (except for July) in 2024.

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: ICON grant helps launch fashion website
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Teresa Wojcik has created an Australian-first website, Your Season.
An ICON grant from the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) helped Teresa Wojcik create an Australian-first website.

The point of difference for her fashion site, Your Season, is its organisation by seasonal colour palettes.

After having her colours done professionally, Teresa quickly identified a huge gap in the market.

“Shopping by colour palette wasn’t accessible in real life,” she said.

“The majority of stores were off limits because clothes weren’t in my colours.

“I’d go online but would spend hours and have hundreds of tabs open trying to find clothes I liked, and were in my palette,” Teresa said.

Her partner told her about CBRIN’s Innovation Connect (ICON) grants, and that’s when Teresa’s idea for Your Season came to life.

ICON grants are currently open and close 16 April 2024.

CBRIN receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups – like Your Season – in Canberra.

It offers business support, programs, grants and access to networks of other entrepreneurs.

“I got matched funding from the ICON grant for $30,000. It helped me build the Your Season website and work on the complex algorithm that feeds it.”

Teresa has already secured birdsnest.com.au, petalandpup.com.au, stfrock.com.au and Amazon Australia to list their clothes on her site.

She has ASOS and The Iconic in her sights for 2024. She’s also working on improving website functionality and getting other well-known brands on board.

“And there will always be work to do on the algorithm, it’s extremely complex and I want it to be the best it can be, even if my eyes are bleeding colours,” she said.

When asked what advice she had for anyone wanting to start a business in Canberra, she gave three tips:
1. Lean into it – Go with your idea and seek out support, it’s there. The Canberra business community is very generous and you don’t have to do it by yourself.
2. Understand things take longer than you expect – There can be pressure on you to go fast, to be first to market, but use the resources and support there are in Canberra to get you going.
3. It’ll cost more than you expect – I’m not paying myself so I can build what I believe is a good product. But in the 10 years of working as a musician, I’ve received about $10,000 in funding, in one year in business I’ve received $75,000 in total. Look for funding to support your dreams.
Previous ICON grant recipients include Future Swirl and Aurabox.

For more on ICON grants, visit the CBRIN website.

Be the first to know about grants and funding to support Canberra businesses – subscribe to the CBR Business update e-newsletter.

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Collection selection at Libraries ACT

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Mel Couper is part of the team managing the Libraries ACT collection.

The Libraries ACT collection offers hundreds of thousands of items for Canberrans to borrow. But have you ever wondered how new items are added to it?

Libraries ACT collects a wide range of quality resources in both existing and emerging formats.

This ensures their collection has broad appeal while enhancing learning opportunities and informing, entertaining and connecting people, groups and communities.

There are over 350,000 physical items available. And that’s not even counting the ebooks and eaudiobooks that can be downloaded, or movies and music that can be streamed for free!

The Libraries ACT collections team has overall responsibility for selecting new library materials and resources. The team is always guided by community needs, analysis of collection use and customer and staff suggestions.

“Suggestions from library customers for materials not already in the collection are a valuable way for the libraries team to connect with the community and acquire materials users want and need,” collection librarian Mel Couper said.

The team also liaises with key ACT community groups and cultural organisations to develop collections of relevance and interest to these communities.

“Standing orders with suppliers are also used to ensure rapid acquisition of known popular authors or series that are usually in high demand, with standing order plans reviewed each year,” Mel said.

Libraries ACT aims to have a current, vibrant and attractive collection, with approximately half the collection less than five years old.

The team actively removes items from the collection by reviewing the use and physical condition of items and taking into account storage capacity at libraries across the ACT and the currency and accuracy of the information.

You can check out the full list of items available to borrow online as well as the standing orders for new publications.

If an item you’d like to access isn’t in the collection (or on order) you can submit a suggestion to add it to the collection.

Libraries ACT just ask that you read the guidelines for suggestions and limit your suggestions to two items per week.

Libraries ACT aims to meet the needs and expectations of Canberra’s library users.

Careful selection and management of material by professional, experienced staff, along with the input from the community, ensures the wide-ranging educational, cultural, recreational and information needs of library users are met.

To search the collection, view the standing orders or suggest an item to add to the collection visit the Libraries ACT website.

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MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Work underway at Gordon and Chisholm play spaces
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Staged work has started at the junior play area at Point Hut Pond playground and will next move to the Maliyan nest.
Construction is underway on upgrades to Gordon’s Point Hut Pond playground and Chisholm’s Alston Street playground.

Both upgrades follow community consultation and will provide Canberrans with better places to play.

Work is taking place between the hours of 7 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday. If required, work may be undertaken on weekends between 8 am and 4 pm.

Both play spaces will feature First Nations artwork by Bradley Mapiva Brown.

Point Hut Pond playground, Gordon

Staged work has started at the junior play area and will move to the Maliyan nest.

Point Hut Pond District Park – including the toilets, picnic facilities and barbecues – will still be open during the construction period.

The basketball court will remain accessible with partial closures only.

Junior play area key features:
- nature play including stone and timber steppers with artwork and timber balancing stilts
- play opportunities including a vortex climber and a rocker
- new softfall throughout the play area
- retaining all existing equipment from the playground.
Maliyan nest area key features:
- Maliyan nest climber with slide, suitable for junior, pre-teen and teen play
- slide and scramble slope
- nature play elements including timber and boulder steppers
- informal seating opportunities with sandstone blocks.
There will also be more seating added at the basketball court, interpretive signage, cultural design elements and landscaping.

Find out more and view designs

Alston Street playground, Chisholm

Exciting additions are coming to Alston Street playground.

Key features:
- nature play with balancing and climbing elements including stone and timber steppers and recycled fallen tree trunks
- all ages and abilities accessible spinner and nest swing with softfall beneath both items
- play opportunities including climbing poles, a pommel walk and vortex as well as a brown snake sculpture to climb on
- retaining existing equipment from the playground including the combination unit, swings and rockers
- picnic tables, shelter and seating
- existing shade sail retained and improved with cultural artwork on its posts as well as on the upgraded basketball hoop and backboard
- concrete path with animal imprints
- nine new trees and landscaping including groundcover, native grasses and shrubs
- improved drainage throughout the playground and improvements to the carpark surface.
Alston Street playground will be closed while upgrades are underway.

The closest alternative playgrounds are the Caroline Chisholm playground and the Chisholm shops playground.

Find out more and view designs

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MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig memorial unveiling

Source: New South Wales – News

A tight-knit country community will honour and remember a local police officer during a special memorial unveiling event this Sunday.

A life-size silhouette of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig and accompanying plaque will be unveiled by SA Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC and Doig family members at Lucindale’s Centenary Park from 2pm Sunday.

On 17 November 2023, Brevet Sergeant Doig, 53, was killed in the line of duty on a property at Senior in South Australia’s upper south-east.

He joined South Australia Police in 1989 and served the Limestone Coast community for more than a decade, taking up the Lucindale post in 2011.

SA Police Legacy, Police Association of South Australia, Wall to Wall and Cops 4 Kids have worked with SAPOL to organise the memorial following an outpouring of donations and support after Brevet Sergeant Doig’s death.

He was posthumously awarded the South Australia Police Bravery Medal for saving the lives of two police colleagues.

The memorial silhouette is based on a 2013 photo (pictured) taken during Brevet Sergeant Doig’s Lucindale posting, where he stands proudly next to a patrol vehicle.

Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens will join fellow SAPOL members, the Doig family and other dignitaries and guests to celebrate Brevet Sergeant Doig’s life and career.

“The Lucindale community has been extremely generous, which is a testament to the impact Brevet Sergeant Doig had during his career,” Commissioner Stevens said.

“He leaves behind a legacy of community service and will forever be remembered for his courage and sacrifice.”

Along with being the officer-in-charge at the Lucindale police station, Brevet Sergeant Doig was well known around town for volunteering at several sporting clubs and participating in crime prevention activities.

SA Police Legacy Board President Kellie Watkins will emcee this Sunday’s event, which will include a Commissioner’s address, memorial unveiling, prayer and blessing, minute’s silence, speech by brother Brett Doig and a SAPOL course mate, and conclude with the laying of tributes.

The Band of the South Australia Police will also perform The Requiescant – played at funerals and memorial ceremonies for Australian police officers killed on duty.

Coinciding with the unveiling, Lucindale Lions Club has renamed a structure in the local park to be the ‘Jason Doig PBM LEM Memorial Shelter’.

Members of the public are invited to attend the memorial event on Sunday, April 6 at Lucindale Centenary Park, Musgrave Avenue, 1.45pm for a 2pm start.

A life-size silhouette and plaque will be unveiled at Lucindale this Sunday in honour of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig.

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Bushfire and storm season ends in the ACT
Source: Australian National Party

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.
Released 31/03/2025

Today, 31 March 2025, marks the official end of the 2024-25 bushfire and storm season in the ACT.

Throughout the season ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) and ACT Parks & Conservation Service (ACTPCS) staff and volunteers responded to 42 grass fires and 1,030 requests for storm or flood assistance across the territory.

This year, the ACT provided support across our nation. Over 250 staff and volunteers deployed interstate to help others during their times of need. Some of the notable emergencies that ESA and ACTPCS personnel assisted with include:
- Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred
- Northern Territory Fires
- Townsville Floods
- Grampians Bushfires, Victoria
- Tasmania Bushfires
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, says it was gratifying to see members of the ACT working across Australia this bushfire and storm season.

“Over the past few months, staff and volunteers from the ESA have stepped up without hesitation to support not just our local community, but people across Australia during challenging and uncertain times. After one of the ESA’s largest deployment seasons to date, I am proud to see how well our services have been represented nationwide.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to every member who has given up their time to assist during storms, floods, bushfires, and other emergency events. Their unwavering commitment and hard work demonstrate that we truly have the best people safeguarding our community.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) Chief Officer, Rohan Scott

“As the bushfire season ends in the ACT fire permits are no longer required, and the daily fire danger rating will not be displayed as the risk of bushfire is now lowered.

“However, it is important that we don’t become complacent. Bush and grass fires can occur at anytime, anywhere. Although the ACTRFS is taking steps to ensure we are prepared, this can only be done with the help of our community. I encourage our community to visit the ESA website for advice on staying prepared.

“With more volunteers due to join our service soon, our capability is only growing, allowing us to better serve the needs of the growing ACT community during emergencies.”

Quotes attributable to ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) Interim Chief Officer, Steve Forbes

“This season has been a big one for our ACTSES volunteers. When not assisting with storm and flood responses here in the ACT, they have been busy across borders helping with the response and aftermath of high-risk weather events across the country.

“It’s always great to help out our own community, but these interstate deployments have given our members opportunities to refine their skills and learn from interstate colleagues. I know that many of our volunteers will be taking these skills and applying them here in the ACT.

“Although storm season is coming to an end, I would like to remind the community that a storm or flood can happen anytime of year. That is why it is important that all year round residents are taking steps to maintain their home to ensure it is ready for a storm. We are prepared when Canberra prepares together.”

– Statement ends –

Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases
MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK hosts first major international summit to tackle illegal migration
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

UK hosts first major international summit to tackle illegal migration

The UK has mobilised over 40 countries and organisations to launch an unprecedented global fight against ruthless people smuggling gangs.
The UK is spearheading the toughest ever international crackdown on organised immigration crime as the Prime Minister and Home Secretary host a landmark summit today (31 March).

The Organised Immigration Crime (OIC) Summit brings together over 40 countries, including the United States, Vietnam, Iraq, and France, to unite behind a new approach to dismantle people smuggling gangs and deliver on working people’s priorities for secure borders.

This is the first time the full range of factors driving illegal migration, from the supply chain in small boats to anti-trafficking measures, illicit finance and social media advertising, have been explored at a global summit of this scale.

The summit will also see representatives from Meta, X and TikTok discuss how to jointly tackle the online promotion of irregular migration.

Through the summit, the government will use all available levers at its disposal to push forward progress in bringing gangs to justice, tackle the global threat of organised immigration crime and protect vulnerable people from exploitation.

To back this drive, the Home Secretary has today announced £30 million of funding going directly to high impact operations from the Border Security Command to tackle supply chains, illicit finances and trafficking routes across Europe, the Western Balkans, Asia, and Africa.

An additional £3 million will enable the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to increase its capacity to prosecute organised international smugglers and expand its international footprint to support the Border Security Command to pursue, disrupt and arrest those responsible for dangerous people smuggling operations.

This reflects the Prime Minister’s long-held view, informed by his work as Chief Prosecutor, that cross border cooperation is the foundation of tackling international gangs and securing Britain’s borders.

In remarks delivered later today, the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is expected to say:

This vile trade exploits the cracks between our institutions, pits nations against one another and profits from our inability at the political level to come together.

When I was the Director of Public Prosecutions, we worked across borders throughout Europe and beyond to foil numerous plots, saving thousands of lives in the process. We prevented planes from being blown up over the Atlantic and brought the perpetrators to justice.

I believe we should treat organised immigration crime in the same way.

I simply do not believe organised immigration crime cannot be tackled. We’ve got to combine our resources, share intelligence and tactics, and tackle the problem upstream at every step of the people smuggling routes.

The summit will deliver concrete outcomes across Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and North America by strengthening international partnerships, enhancing intelligence sharing, and implementing targeted disruptions to Organised Immigration Crime networks.

As a direct result, we will be able to strengthen UK borders and security and create a more efficient and manageable asylum system, taking the burden away from housing, the NHS and schools, and giving hotels back to the local economy.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

Smuggler and trafficking gangs make their money crossing borders so law enforcement needs to work together across borders to bring them down. Only a coordinated international response, across the whole irregular migration route, can effectively dismantle these networks.

The Organised Immigration Crime Summit is the first of its kind and will reinforce the UK’s position as a leader by securing international commitments to disrupt Organised Immigration Crime at every stage of the business model.

The summit demonstrates mine and the Prime Minister’s absolute dedication to disrupting the callous Organised Criminal Gangs, strengthening our borders and ultimately save countless lives.

The UK’s global leadership on this is issue is already delivering results. France has agreed to launch a unit of specialist officers who are mobile, highly trained and equipped to respond dynamically to prevent small boat launches.

Germany has committed to strengthen their laws against those who facilitate smuggling to the UK and a new UK-Italy taskforce is hitting people smugglers’ financial flows. After boosting the resources for the National Crime Agency to work with international law enforcement partners, they have seized 600 boats and engines since July.

Along with this, work continues at home through giving law enforcement tougher powers than ever to smash the smuggling gangs, ramping up removals to record levels and surging illegal working raids to end the false promise of jobs used by gangs to sell spaces on boats.

This comprehensive approach is a vital aspect of the government’s Plan for Change, with the threat from organised immigration crime increasing in scale and complexity.

Organised immigration crime spans multiple countries, nationalities, and criminal methodologies, with recent estimate of the total global income from migrant smuggling reaching $10 billion last year.

Criminal gangs headed by hundreds of kingpins are using sophisticated online tactics, the abuse of legitimate goods and services, and illicit financial networks to facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys which undermine border security and put thousands of lives at risk each year.

The summit will also examine the work of the government’s Joint Maritime Security Centre (JMSC) in supporting the US, by providing innovative space-based maritime surveillance capability to monitor and dismantle any vessels along Haiti’s north coast suspected to be involved in illegal immigration, illegal fishing activities and drug smuggling.

The JMSC is harnessing cutting edge technology and capabilities to provide 24 hour monitoring of UK waters and ensure our borders are secure, by using satellite to provide a better overall understanding of incoming threats to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The UK government is working with our partners in Turks and Caicos to support and protect the Island from irregular migration.

This collaboration demonstrates the UK government’s commitment to deploying advanced capabilities against illegal migration while protecting overseas territories.

There has also been a series of major arrests of smuggling kingpins, including:

arrests linked to a major Syrian organised crime group responsible for smuggling at least 750 migrants into the UK and Europe

the arrest of a Turkish national suspected of being a huge supplier of small boats

the conviction of 2 men in Wales who ran a smuggling ring moving thousands of migrants across Europe

the arrests in February of 6 men wanted in Belgium over their suspected involvement in a major people smuggling ring

These arrests come alongside the NCA working with the authorities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for the first time, to facilitate the arrests of 3 men linked to a Kurdish people smuggling organised crime group, as well as an increase in the takedown of social media accounts linked to people smugglers.

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Published 31 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Three high-range drink drivers detected in states north

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Three high-range drink drivers detected in states north

Sunday, 30 March 2025 – 7:43 am.

Police detected three high-range drink drivers in the North overnight Friday including a woman who was nearly five times the legal alcohol limit.
About 6.30pm Friday a Northern Highway Patrol officer stopped a 38-year-old woman on the Midland Highway near Symmons Plains, after reports the driver had been been weaving across the road at Epping Forest.
During the intercept police discovered the driver – from NSW – had two passengers in the car who were both licensed and sober.
The NSW woman was taken to the Longford Police Station where she was breath tested, returning a reading of 0.234 – nearly five times the legal alcohol limit.
She was arrested, and charged and disqualified from driving for 12 months.
She will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.
In the early hours of Saturday morning, Launceston police intercepted two further high-range drink drivers.
A 31-year-old Ravenswood man on Invermay Road who returned a reading of 0.159 – more than three times the legal limit and a 25-year-old Ravenswood man in Launceston CBD who returned a reading of 0.148 – nearly three times the legal limit.
Northern Road Policing Services Acting Sergeant Rockliff said driving while under the influence of alcohol, particularly such high levels, posed a serious risk not only to the drivers, but all other road users.
“We would like to thank the members of the public who reported the woman’s driving behaviour at Epping Forest,” he said.
“Anyone with information about dangerous driving should contact police on 131 444.”

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with drink driving and driving under the influence, Kingston

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Man charged with drink driving and driving under the influence, Kingston

Sunday, 30 March 2025 – 9:05 am.

A 41-year-old Kingston man has been charged with drink driving and driving under the influence following a two-vehicle crash on the Channel Highway, Kingston yesterday.
Police were called to the crash about 2pm Saturday 29 March.
A driver of one of the vehicles returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.255 – more than five times the legal alcohol limit.
Thankfully, nobody was injured in the crash.
Kingston Police would like to thank the members of the community who assisted at the crash prior to the arrival of emergency services.
The man will appear in court at a later date.

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Cooee Point Reserve incident

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Cooee Point Reserve incident

Sunday, 30 March 2025 – 9:48 am.

A pedestrian has been flown to Melbourne in a critical condition following an incident at Cooee Point Reserve overnight.
Police and emergency services were called to Cooee Road about midnight after reports a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.
The pedestrian was taken to the Northwest Regional Hospital with serious injuries before being airlifted to Melbourne in a critical condition.
The driver of the vehicle – a 17-year-old-boy- presented to the Burnie Police Station a short time after the incident and was assisting police with their inquiries.
Investigations into the circumstances leading up to the crash are ongoing.
Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash, Orford

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Fatal crash, Orford

Sunday, 30 March 2025 – 6:00 pm.

Sadly, a man in his 60s has died after a single-vehicle crash at Orford today.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene on the Tasman Highway just before 12.45pm Sunday after reports a camper had left the road, and crashed into a tree.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle sadly died at the scene.
At this stage it is believed the man suffered a medical episode.
Investigations into the crash are ongoing and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Indonesia

Source:

Before entering Indonesia, ensure you understand your visa conditions and entry and exit requirements. Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages can be considered damaged (see ‘Travel’).

If you’re travelling to Bali, read the Bali Provincial Government’s ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ advice for foreign tourists before you travel (See ‘Local Laws’). Offensive behaviour that fails to respect local culture, religion, places of worship, and traditional ceremonies can lead to criminal penalties and/or deportation.

Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks. Don’t leave food or drinks unattended. Cases of methanol poisoning in drinks have previously been reported in Bali and Lombok (see ‘Safety’).

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Update: Attempted murder arrest at Morphett Vale

Source: New South Wales – News

A woman has been arrested following a violent altercation at Morphett Vale that resulted in two people sustaining stab wounds.

Police and paramedics were called to Columba Street, Morphett Vale about 12.45am on Saturday 29 March by reports of a serious assault.

When officers arrived, they located the occupant of the house, a 27-year-old Morphett Vale man, with multiple stab wounds.

He was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but they are no longer believed to be life-threatening at this time.

It will be alleged that four people attended and forced their way into the property and a violent altercation occurred inside the house.

While police were at the scene at Morphett Vale, another man, aged 22 from Port Noarlunga, also presented at Flinders Medical Centre with serious stab wounds, believed to have occurred in the same incident.

Southern District CIB detectives, with the assistance of Major Crime detectives, and forensic response officers, attended and examined the scene overnight.

This incident is not believed to be random.

A 21-year-old woman from Christie Downs was arrested and charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and attempted murder. She was refused police bail and will appear in Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday 31 March.

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information that may assist or has any CCTV or dashcam footage from the street is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 0000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.

CO2500013126

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police strike lucky cord to locate four firearms

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police have located four guns inside a guitar case in Ōrākei following a call to Police.

At about 2.10pm yesterday, Police received a report of a person in possession of what appeared to be a firearm outside a property in Kitemoana Street.

Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, says Police arrived and quickly located the firearms inside a vehicle parked at the address.

“An armed approach was made, however all parties were cooperative with Police.

“A search of the vehicle located a guitar case with four firearms inside, including two pistols, one shotgun and one rifle.

“Taking another four firearms out of circulation from our community is a great result and we continue to be committed to holding people to account and delivering on our intent to keep people safe.”

A 29-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court on 4 April charged with three counts of unlawful possession of a firearm.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police strike lucky chord to locate four firearms

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police have located four guns inside a guitar case in Ōrākei following a call to Police.

At about 2.10pm yesterday, Police received a report of a person in possession of what appeared to be a firearm outside a property in Kitemoana Street.

Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, says Police arrived and quickly located the firearms inside a vehicle parked at the address.

“An armed approach was made, however all parties were cooperative with Police.

“A search of the vehicle located a guitar case with four firearms inside, including two pistols, one shotgun and one rifle.

“Taking another four firearms out of circulation from our community is a great result and we continue to be committed to holding people to account and delivering on our intent to keep people safe.”

A 29-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court on 4 April charged with three counts of unlawful possession of a firearm.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Pursuit ends in arrest

Source: New South Wales – News

A pair have been arrested after a pursuit through the western suburbs yesterday evening.

Just before 6.30pm on Sunday 30 March, patrols spotted a white Holden sedan stationary in Edward’s Park, Adelaide. The vehicle was stationary within an area only permitted for authorised vehicles to access. Police indicated for the driver to speak to police before he drove away from police. Police activated emergency lights, indicating for the driver to stop the vehicle. The vehicle continued to drive from police.

The car stopped for a short time and then took off again. Police followed the car as it headed west on Port Road.  PolAir were quickly in the air and tracked the car as it travelled south on Tapley Hills Road and onto West Lake Boulevard.  The driver drove through two red lights on Cheltenham Parade and Addison Road.

The car was tracked through the back streets of Pennington and then west onto Grand Junction Road.   The car was successfully spiked as it approached Addison Road and the vehicle came to a stop on Grand Junction Road.

The driver and the passenger refused to exit the car and officers had to break the car window to arrest the occupants.

The driver, a 27-year-old man from Ingle Farm, was breath tested and he provided a positive result of 0.107 – more than double the legal limit.  He was charged with dangerous driving to escape a police pursuit, failing to stop, driving whilst unlicenced and a raft of other traffic offences.

The passenger, a 28-year-old woman from Queensland, was charged with resisting arrest.  They have both been refused police bail and will appear in Port Adeliade Magistrates Court on Monday 31 March.

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Pedestrian dies in crash on Wakefield Street

Source: New South Wales – News

A pedestrian died after being struck by a car on Wakefield Street in the city last night.

Police and emergency services were called to the intersection of Wakefield Street and Frome Street, Adelaide about 9.30pm on Sunday 30 March by reports of a collision.

It is believed the pedestrian was crossing Wakefield Street when he was struck by a Nissan four-wheel drive, then by a second vehicle, a Mazda station wagon.

Sadly, the 65-year-old Adelaide man died at the scene.

The driver of the Nissan, a 61-year-old Mitchell Park man, was arrested by Major Crash officers and charged with cause death by careless driving. He was bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 18 June.

The driver of the Mazda, a 20-year-old Hillcrest man, is assisting police with their enquiries.

Both vehicles were towed from the scene for forensic examination.

Major Crash investigators closed Wakefield Street while they examined the scene overnight, but the road has reopened.

The pedestrian’s death is the 23rd life lost on South Australian roads so far this year.

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Prepare for Snow, Freezing Rain and Ice
Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for snow, freezing rain and ice beginning tonight and continuing through Sunday for parts of the North Country, Mohawk Valley and Capital District. A period of wet snow and sleet is expected this evening, transitioning over to freezing rain tonight except over far Northern New York where a mix will persist. Freezing rain will occur Saturday into Sunday with the greatest ice accumulation potential occurring during the overnight and early morning hours. Some parts of the North Country could see up to seven inches of snow and more than a quarter inch of ice accumulation through Sunday. In these areas, hazardous travel is likely and local power outages are possible. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to pay close attention to weather conditions this weekend and adjust plans accordingly.

“We’re expecting a series of winter weather conditions to hit parts of the North County, Mohawk Valley and the Capital District, and our agencies are prepared to assist as the forecast fluctuates across the regions this weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers in these regions should monitor emergency alerts and their local forecasts to prepare themselves for the snow, freezing rain and ice accumulation.”

A Winter Weather Advisory in effect for the North Country and northern parts of the Mohawk Valley and Capital District for mixed precipitation and ice from tonight into Sunday. Also on Sunday, for parts of Western New York and the Finger Lakes, there is a risk of severe thunderstorms. On Monday, additional severe thunderstorms with damaging winds are possible, mainly across the southeast half of the state.

For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

Agency Preparations
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely.

Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,754 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. All available response equipment is ready to deploy and all residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors, and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:
- 1,615 large plow trucks
- 350 large loaders
- 159 medium duty plows
- 53 tow plows
- 30 snow blowers
- 19 graders
The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event. For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.

Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority is ready to respond with 691 operators and supervisors available. Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:
- 365 large and medium duty plow trucks
- 10 tow plows
- 65 loaders
Variable Message Signs and social media (X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook) are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

The Thruway Authority is leveraging technology to enhance the safety of both plow operators and drivers through a pilot program utilizing iCone technology. More than 50 of the Thruway’s heavy-duty plow trucks across the state are equipped with devices that can provide real-time data and alerts to popular vehicle navigation applications. In addition, all of the Thruway’s more than 250 heavy-duty plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights, complementing the standard amber hazard lights. Green lights are intended to improve visibility and enhance safety during winter operations, particularly in low-light conditions and poor weather. Drivers are reminded that Thruway snowplows travel at about 35 miles per hour — which in many cases is slower than the posted speed limit — in order to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. The safest place for motorists is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and treated.

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

Department of Public Service
New York’s utilities have about 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

New York State Police
State Police instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles are staged and ready for deployment.

Department of Environmental Conservation
The Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow, sleet, and ice.

DEC reminds local officials to watch for ice jams and potential flooding in their communities. Ice jams are a major hazard that occurs when ice breaks apart and the pieces prevent a stream from flowing, leading to rapidly rising river stages and flooding. Municipalities are encouraged to undertake local assessments of potential ice jams in flood-prone areas and to remove any accumulating ice or woody debris. DEC permits and authorization are not required to remove debris unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by debris removal and/or the use of heavy equipment. Municipalities and local governments are advised to contact DEC’s Regional Permit Administrators if assistance is required and to help determine if a permit is necessary.
If a permit is necessary, DEC can issue Emergency Authorizations to expedite approval of projects in place of an individual permit. DEC approves Emergency Authorizations for situations that are deemed an emergency based on the immediate protection of life, health, general welfare, property, or natural resources. DEC coordinates with agency partners — including DHSES and DOT — on monitoring and response to potential ice jams.

Additional information on ice jam flooding, contact information for emergency assistance, and permit requirements is available on the DEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quantity/dam-safety-coastal-flood-protection/flood-preparation/ice-jam-flooding

Unpredictable weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, snow, ice, and the cold to ensure a safe outdoor experience. Trails have mixed conditions of snow, ice, slush, and mud.

Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails, as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information. Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Safety Tips
Travel
Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:
- Monitor the forecast for your local area and areas you may be travelling to.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.
- If you must travel, make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
- If you have a cellphone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
- The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
- It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit.
- Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, to safely clear several lanes at one time.
- Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.
- Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted. Never attempt to pass a snowplow while it’s operating.
Power Outages
- Check with your utility to determine area repair schedules.
- If you lose power, turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored; leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
- If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.
To Report an Electric Outage, call:
- Central Hudson: 800-527-2714
- Con Edison: 800-752-6633
- National Grid: 800-867-5222
- NYSEG: 800-572-1131
- O&R: 877-434-4100
- PSEG-LI: 800-490-0075
- RG&E: 800-743-1701
For more safety tips, visit https://www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.

For all non-emergency service needs in New York State before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit www.211nys.org/.

About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership, coordination and support to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from and mitigate disasters and other emergencies. For more information, follow @NYSDHSES on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or visit dhses.ny.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Uncertainty and pessimism abound. Will fear be enough to push Dutton into office?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University

Tony Abbott was once unelectable. So were Donald Trump and Boris Johnson.

And so was Peter Dutton, not so long ago. But opinion polls over much of 2024 and early 2025 indicated otherwise, and a nightly assault of pre-election political advertising – as my wife and I watched reruns of Law & Order: Criminal Intent – suggested that the Liberals had done their research and needed to humanise their man.

Devotees of Detectives Goren and Eames in that venerable program were able to enjoy briefly reviewing Detective Senior Constable Dutton’s time as a Queensland cop, as well as his splendid business career (which has received some closer scrutiny since) and his more recent meeting and greeting of ordinary Australians as a likeable everyman and all-round good guy.

The ad sometimes played twice in a particular break: the saturation coverage suggested that the Liberals had done rather well with donors. Unfortunately for Dutton, we later gained a deeper insight into the very high priority he attaches to rattling the can for the Liberal Party. Dutton’s decision to attend a fundraiser in Sydney while a cyclone was descending on Queensland did him immense damage, recalling his predecessor’s “I don’t hold a hose, mate” response to the Black Summer bushfires of 2020-21.

If historical precedent is any guide, Dutton’s task should be somewhere between formidable and impossible. When Australians elect their national governments, they can normally assume they are doing so for at least two terms. The last one-termer was the Labor government of James Scullin, elected in October 1929 and sent into oblivion via an election held a few days before Christmas in 1931.

Scullin was a victim of the century’s greatest international economic crisis; governments everywhere faltered or disintegrated under similar pressures. The economic challenges faced by the present Labor government have been more modest. But will it suffer a similar fate to Scullin’s Depression-era administration?

Normally, the rarity of one-termers might have provided Anthony Albanese with a measure of reassurance. But we live in an era where historical precedent seems to count for little.

That was clear enough even at the 2022 election. It was unprecedented in several respects. There was nothing resembling the atmosphere of excitement of 1972, 1983 and 2007 – or, for that matter, 1929 – which had brought Labor governments to power from opposition and awarded them solid or large majorities.

Labor’s majority on the floor of the House of Representatives following the 2022 election was piddling – a mere three seats, and just two after the election of a speaker. Its primary vote was about 32%. It won just five of the 30 available seats in the third most populous Australian state, Queensland.

There had never been a Labor victory like this one. Its exceptionalism haunts Labor’s efforts to gain re-election in 2025.

Labor won in 2022 rather like many state Labor oppositions have won in recent decades. The margin was narrow. The unpopularity of a government, and its leader, was there to be exploited. Again and again, state Labor oppositions have fallen over the line at an initial election, sometimes able only to form minority government: Bob Carr, Mike Rann, Peter Beattie, Steve Bracks and Annastacia Palaszczuk were all examples.

Voters seemed at best grudging in their support, but enough were willing to give Labor a go and then look over the results when a new election came round a few years later. In each case, governments were able to consolidate, sometimes winning landslide victories by establishing their credentials, exploiting incumbency, and building new constituencies.

There were signs Albanese might do the same after May 2022. His slim three-seat majority became a five-seat advantage when Labor’s Mary Doyle won the Aston byelection on April 1 2023 – a seat deep in the traditional Liberal heartland. As late as the Dunkley byelection of March 2 2024, also in Melbourne, the base of electoral support that had seen Albanese into office almost two years before looked to be more or less intact.

Part of the problem for the Coalition seemed to lie with Dutton himself. Would Australians vote for him? Or to put it more precisely: would the kinds of voters in the mainland capital cities who had turned so sharply against Scott Morrison in 2022 shift their votes to a figure as conservative and as bleak as Dutton?

That bleakness always struck me as being a bigger problem than the conservatism. Australians routinely elect conservative prime ministers. They elected Malcolm Fraser when they thought he was a conservative (as indeed he was). Then they elected him twice more. They elected John Howard, who had proudly called himself the Liberal Party’s most conservative leader ever. Then they elected him another three times. They elected Abbott, even if buyer’s remorse quickly followed. They elected Morrison when the Coalition had seemed dead in the water.

But leaders such as Howard and Morrison were much more optimistic than Dutton. They both seemed to think Australia was a pretty good place full of pretty good people and that all things being equal, the future was likely to be pretty good too while there were pretty good blokes in charge (but, of course, it would be much better under a Coalition government, which had the best blokes).

Abbott, to be sure, was more pessimistic – his description of the Syrian conflict as a struggle between “baddies” and “baddies”, and his references to “death cults”, said more about his habit of reducing complexity to melodrama than it did about that Middle East. Yet Abbott’s outlook, at least as expressed publicly while in office, was nowhere near as dismal as Dutton’s.

For Dutton, the enemy is close to home, menacing us in the dark. His bleakness is in a league of its own.

Lech Blaine’s portrait in his Quarterly Essay Bad Cop was convincing: Dutton was a man formed and perhaps damaged by his experience as a policeman, and a political hardman in the habit of painting whole groups of people – commonly politically vulnerable – as a threat to society. Dutton evokes a vision of good people besieged by bad, of the decent and law-abiding as in constant danger of being swamped by the immoral and the criminal – or possibly mugged on their way home from a Melbourne restaurant.

As 2024 unfolded, no one doubted there was sufficient dissatisfaction with Labor building, especially in many outer Australian suburbs, to do the government serious damage at an election. Persistently high interest rates had increased the cost of a mortgage. Inflation had moderated, but living standards had taken a beating. The chattering classes started talking of the inevitability of minority government, but they usually meant minority Labor government. Then they started talking about minority Coalition government, as the polls turned nastier for Labor.

Labor spirits have revived in recent weeks after Dutton’s missteps over Cyclone Alfred, a comfortable victory in the Western Australian election, and opinion polling that shows the ALP ahead on a two-party preferred count. Still, uncertainty abounds.

Albanese often campaigned poorly last time: will he again falter? Dutton, meanwhile, is untested as leader in an election campaign, has little policy on the table, and has a habit of going missing when there are hard questions to be answered.

For me, the key to this election is whether there is a sufficient number of voters, concentrated in the right places, who share enough of Dutton’s pessimism about their own circumstances and, to a lesser extent, about the general state of the country. If, indeed, there is enough congruence between Dutton’s bleakness and theirs, Australia may well have a new government and a new prime minister by winter.

But Dutton’s blessed run might well have now come to an end. Inflation has moderated, the Reserve Bank has made a cut to interest rates, and a sense of scepticism seems to have settled in about Dutton among voters taking a serious look at him as a potential prime minister a few weeks ago.

He now looks more like Old Mother Hubbard with a bare policy cupboard, desperately seeking to shore up the hard right vote against depredations from Pauline Hanson and Clive Palmer, than Australia’s answer to Donald Trump.

Frank Bongiorno 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. Uncertainty and pessimism abound. Will fear be enough to push Dutton into office? – https://theconversation.com/uncertainty-and-pessimism-abound-will-fear-be-enough-to-push-dutton-into-office-247360

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 31, 2025