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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Australia: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2024 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 2, 2024

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Growth has slowed; while inflation is retreating from its peak, it remains elevated as demand-supply imbalances persist particularly in sectors like rents, new dwellings and insurance. The mission projects a modest economic recovery next year, pushing growth from 1.2 percent for 2024 to 2.1 percent for 2025, bolstered by real income growth and resilient labor markets. The uncertain global environment and geoeconomic fragmentation pose significant external risks.
    • Near-term policies should continue to focus on reducing inflation while nurturing economic growth. The Reserve Bank of Australia’s continued restrictive monetary policy stance aimed at combating persistent inflation is appropriate. Should disinflation stall, policies may need to be further tightened while preserving targeted support to vulnerable households amid rising living costs. Financial sector policies should prioritize preserving stability, while tackling localized vulnerabilities arising from tightened financial conditions. Addressing the housing affordability challenges requires a holistic approach to tackle the continued supply shortfall.
    • Australia’s robust economic institutions and policy frameworks can be further enhanced to underpin stability and foster growth in the long term. Structural policies should focus on enhancing resilience, revitalizing productivity growth through enhancing competition and innovation — including leveraging AI technology responsibly — and strategically navigating the climate transition.

    Washington, DC:

    I. CONTEXT AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

    1. Australia’s resilient economy faces cyclical challenges. Recent decades of strong growth are attributed to effective policies, strong institutions, flexible prices, strong regional trade links, and robust population growth. Post-pandemic stabilization efforts have included a balanced set of macro policy measures to manage demand and bring inflation back to target while preserving the gains in the labor market. Progress in reducing price pressures and bringing inflation back to target has been slower than expected. In this context, significant policy challenges remain in rebalancing the economy while navigating cyclical headwinds.
    2. Economic growth has continued to decelerate. Under tightened policies, growth slowed to 1.0 percent (y/y) in the second quarter of 2024, down from 1.9 percent (y/y) a year ago. Per capita private consumption was down 1.9 percent (y/y) in 2024Q2, as real disposable income per capita declined due to high inflation, elevated interest rates, and tax payments growing faster than incomes prior to recent income tax cuts. Younger Australians, who are more likely to rent or hold mortgages, have seen a greater impact on spending. Despite recent resilience, private business investment has started easing, growing at just 1.6 percent (y/y). Economic activity has been supported by public demand and large state infrastructure projects. The labor market has eased somewhat but remains relatively resilient, with unemployment at 4.2 percent in August 2024, and the vacancies-to-unemployment ratio still above pre-pandemic levels. The current account fell into deficit in early 2024, driven primarily by the normalization of commodity prices.
    3. Inflation has continued to ease from post-pandemic highs, but price pressures remain elevated. Restrictive monetary policy and an easing in supply pressures led to headline inflation falling to 3.8 percent (y/y) in the second quarter of 2024 from a peak of 7.8 percent (y/y) in late 2022. Headline inflation—as measured by the monthly CPI indicator—declined to below 3 percent in August due in part to sizeable temporary electricity subsidies. However, underlying price pressures remain elevated, most notably in non-tradable sectors like rents, new dwellings, and insurance, reflecting ongoing demand-supply imbalances. The mission welcomes the second consecutive Commonwealth Government budget surplus in FY2023/24. This was achieved by saving revenue windfalls from a resilient labor market and higher commodity prices, and identifying expenditure reductions or reprioritizations, while implementing cost-of-living relief measures. While acute demand and supply imbalances in the housing market have begun to ease, national house prices have surpassed pandemic-era peaks and the momentum persists, with rents also rising significantly.

    II. OUTLOOK AND RISKS

    1. The economy is projected to recover gradually. Growth is expected to start picking up in the second half of the year, reaching 1.2 percent for 2024 and 2.1 percent for 2025. Real wage growth is expected to boost private consumption, while public demand is expected to remain solid. Meanwhile, it remains too early to assess to what extent the recent income tax cuts would be saved or spent by households. Starting in 2025, private demand is also expected to benefit from gradual monetary policy easing and a rebound in dwelling construction after the resolution of bottlenecks. However, growth will remain below its potential rate until 2026, when it is forecast to converge to 2.3 percent. Labor market conditions are anticipated to soften gradually, with a modest rise in unemployment to about 4.5 percent. Trimmed mean inflation is expected to sustainably return to the RBA’s target range at end-2025, with underlying price pressures easing only slowly. Upside risks to inflation include a slower than forecast rebalancing in labor market demand and supply, potential larger fiscal impulses, demand impact of recent house price increases, and higher tradable prices due to rising geoeconomic fragmentation.
    2. With large uncertainty surrounding the macroeconomic baseline, the balance of risks is tilted to the downside:
    • External risks: The uncertain external environment, including weakness in major trading partners, poses risks to Australia’s growth. Geoeconomic fragmentation, which could potentially reconfigure global trade, poses risks to external demand, especially given Australia’s sizeable commodity exports and diverse trading partners. Rising shipping costs and volatile energy and food costs stemming from global geopolitical tensions could complicate the fight against inflation. At the same time, Australia’s pivotal role in the Pacific in providing aid and remittances, enhances regional economic stability and development. Additionally, Australia’s economy continues to benefit from positive regional interactions, such as labor migration that addresses domestic capacity constraints and skills shortages.
    • Domestic risks: The disinflation process may stall due to persistent services inflation, a stronger-than-expected fiscal impulse, or spillovers from global trade and supply chain disruptions; this may in turn raise prospects of higher-for-even longer interest rates, with implications for consumption and investment. Conversely, growth may be weaker than forecast, or unemployment may rise faster than projected (for example, if the current labor market tightness proves to be localized), potentially requiring the Reserve Bank to lower interest rates sooner.

    III. NEAR-TERM POLICIES TO BRING DOWN INFLATION WHILE NURTURING GROWTH AND PRESERVING FINANICAL STABILITY

    1. Near-term policies should focus on managing the final phase of returning inflation to target while nurturing growth. The baseline policy mix should be orchestrated carefully to achieve these objectives and ensure price and financial stability. The current restrictive monetary policy stance is essential to address risks of prolonged inflation. Fiscal policy should support disinflation as the economy continues to grapple with supply capacity constraints. Additionally, macroprudential policies should maintain a stringent stance to mitigate the risk of excessive vulnerabilities in household balance sheets, particularly in the context of rising house prices. Should disinflation stall, monetary policy may need to be further tightened, supported by tighter fiscal policy while nurturing growth, and preserving targeted support to vulnerable households amid rising living costs. This contingent policy mix should ensure monetary and fiscal authorities complement each other to avoid overburdening any single policy instrument. In the face of external shocks, Australia’s commitment to a flexible exchange rate, will allow monetary policy to focus on domestic policy objectives.
    2. In this context, the RBA’s decision to maintain its restrictive policy stance in the near-term is appropriate. The still persistent inflation and emerging upside risks emphasize the importance of a tight monetary stance until the inflation outlook sustainably aligns with the target range. This stance is supported by the strong transmission of monetary policy through the Australian housing sector, largely due to a high proportion of variable-rate mortgages, and a possibly slow yet important transmission via non-mining business investment. While inflation expectations have remained anchored, the RBA should continue to build on its recent efforts and explore ways to further strengthen its communications capabilities and effectively guide the general public’s and the market’s understanding of its data dependent decision-making process and their expectations regarding policy shifts in an uncertain global policy environment.
    3. Should disinflation stall, a tighter fiscal stance would be warranted, while better targeting of transfers could more efficiently support vulnerable households. The FY2024/25 Commonwealth budget is projected to deliver a positive fiscal impulse based on the mission’s estimates. A preannounced personal income tax (PIT) cut and new expenditure items including broad-based cost-of-living support, are expected to contribute to moving the budget to a deficit. The mission’s analysis shows that while the cost-of-living support lowers the price level on a temporary basis, it may inject some additional stimulus into the broader economy. The permanent PIT cut increase households’ disposable income, but it remains too early to assess the extent to which they will be saved or spent and therefore the extent and timing of any impulse to demand. State and Territory budgets have proven more expansionary than expected in the near-term, incorporating further cost-of-living support and infrastructure spending. Should disinflation stall, expenditure rationalization at all levels of government could help lower aggregate demand and support a faster return of inflation to target. In particular, infrastructure spending could be carefully prioritized to avoid aggravating construction capacity constraints, by focusing on boosting productivity and facilitating the green transition. In addition, transfers should be made targeted wherever possible.
    4. Financial sector policies should prioritize maintaining stability, while carefully addressing localized vulnerabilities arising from tightened financial conditions. Banks are in a strong position, showcasing high capital levels, solid liquidity, and healthy profits, while also demonstrating resilience in recent stress tests conducted by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). While most households and businesses continue to be resilient, financial pressures are evident in vulnerabilities in low-income households and small-medium enterprises, and challenges to firms’ profitability under tight financial conditions. More generally, concerns about hidden leverage or vulnerabilities, combined with new and emerging global risks, could resurface. Thus, the mission welcomes APRA’s plan for the first system stress test to better understand interconnectedness across the financial system, providing a platform to quantify, assess and respond to identified risks. The mission team also welcomes APRA’s close monitoring of lending standards and regular review of macroprudential policy settings and would reiterate its recommendation that the authorities consider preemptively expanding their toolkit to include additional borrower-based measures, such as Debt-to-Income and Loan-to-Value Ratio, to manage household indebtedness and ensure financial stability amidst the housing market pressures. While financial supervisory and regulatory reforms have been undertaken to enhance resilience, data gaps on Non-Bank Financial Institutions pose challenges to effective risk oversight, including its exposure to commercial real estate (CRE) sector.
    5. A holistic policy package is needed to address housing affordability issues. Australia faces a significant housing supply shortfall, exacerbated by structural challenges such as restrictive planning and zoning regulations, high land costs, infrastructure deficits, and residential dwelling investment around decade lows. These barriers, coupled with high interest rates, elevated building costs, and labor shortages, have led to a substantial backlog in housing development, contributing to escalating prices and affordability concerns. To address these issues, a comprehensive strategy is essential, focusing on increasing construction worker supply, relaxing zoning and planning restrictions, supporting the built-to-rent sector, expanding public and affordable housing, and reevaluating property taxes (including tax concessions to property investors) and stamp duty to promote efficient land use. At the same time, capital flow management (CFM) measures that discriminate between residents and nonresidents are not consistent with the Fund’s Institutional View and should be replaced by non-discriminatory measures.

    IV. Medium-Term Reform Priorities to Strengthen Economic Resilience

    1. Australia’s robust economic institutions and policy frameworks can be further enhanced to underpin stability and foster growth. The establishment of a new Monetary Policy Board and strengthened governance arrangements and decision-making processes, in line with international best practices, would bolster central bank operational autonomy and enhance monetary-fiscal policy synergies. Tax reforms should target system efficiency and fairness, reducing reliance on direct taxes and high capital costs that hinder growth. Tax breaks, including from capital gains tax discount and superannuation concessions, could be phased out to generate a more equitable and efficient tax system. Forthcoming environmental and demographic changes will put structural upwards pressures on government spending. Expenditure reforms should therefore aim to enhance spending efficiency and sustainability, emphasizing improved governance in infrastructure projects and strengthening intergovernmental collaboration. The aged care reforms and NDIS review represent positive forward steps. As long-term spending pressures rise, the authorities can consider bolstering their fiscal policy framework with clearer anchors.
    2. Efforts to rejuvenate Australia’s productivity growth, including through competition policy, should be prioritized, focusing on reforms across capital and labor markets. Initiatives grounded in the five pillar Productivity Agenda—emphasizing innovation, a level playing field for firms, and human capital enhancement—are crucial for resilient medium-term growth. Enhancing innovation through building intangible capital, promoting R&D, creating a supportive environment for swift adoption of technologies, supporting intellectual property rights, and ensuring policy certainty are vital. The work of the authorities to improve the competition landscape, including data-based assessments of the use and impact of worker restraints (non-compete clauses), and reforms of merger rules towards a risk-based system using notification thresholds, together with initiatives to support labor market efficiency including expanding access to quality early childhood education and enhancing skills development to align with market needs, are critical for bolstering productivity.
    3. The advent of AI technologies introduces both opportunities and challenges to the Australian labor market, necessitating proactive labor market policies. With a significant portion of occupations highly exposed to AI, reminiscent of other advanced economies, the focus should be given to public awareness programs, as well as ensuring appropriate access to training and upskilling for workers who may be affected. These measures, coupled with ongoing assessment and policy flexibility, should aim to maximize AI’s productivity benefits, while mitigating the risks of job displacement and worsening inequality. This approach underscores the importance of agility and adaptation in policymaking to keep pace with rapidly evolving technological advancements. Efforts at the country level, must be complemented by multilateral collaboration, to ensure safe and responsible AI use globally.
    4. Australia’s approach to climate change and the global transition presents a multifaceted challenge, balancing risks and opportunities. To ensure an orderly transition to a low-carbon economy, a balanced mix of mitigation and adaptation, combined with transition policies, is crucial. Progress towards ambitious emission reduction goals necessitates addressing construction bottlenecks and community engagement issues, and potential solutions include an economy-wide carbon price or targeted sectoral policies. The domestic and global transition toward renewable energy would likely impact jobs, exports, and revenues, particularly given Australia’s status as a leading coal exporter. Thus, adapting to climate risks and fostering resilience, particularly in the financial sector and vulnerable communities, is of paramount importance. At the same time, emerging opportunities in green metals, green hydrogen and critical minerals mining and processing could mitigate these risks.
    5. Australia’s continued efforts to support multilateral solutions are welcome, including the rules-based international trading system. In this respect, the “Future Made in Australia” program goal of supporting the green transition, should be balanced with efforts for a careful design of the program and keeping it narrowly targeted to where market solutions fall short due to the presence of externalities or other market imperfections. In this context, adherence to core market-based principles, that are essential to minimizing trade and investment distortions in line with WTO obligations, crowding in private investments, while supporting economic resilience and net-zero objectives, would be key. Finally, the mission team would like to commend Australia’s continued voluntary participation in the review of transnational aspects of corruption through which the country is sending a powerful positive signal, which, if followed by other advanced economies, will help address more systematically transnational aspects of corruption and deliver a better governance world.

    The IMF mission team would like to express its deep appreciation to the Australian authorities and other interlocutors for their close engagement and cooperation. Our unstinting gratitude particularly goes to the counterparts at the Treasury and the Reserve Bank of Australia for the substantial time and effort devoted to supporting our work. The team looks forward to maintaining this constructive engagement and policy dialogue.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Rahim Kanani

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/02/mcs-australia-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2024-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Australa: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2024 Article IV Mission

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: IMF – News in English

    October 2, 2024

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Growth has slowed; while inflation is retreating from its peak, it remains elevated as demand-supply imbalances persist particularly in sectors like rents, new dwellings and insurance. The mission projects a modest economic recovery next year, pushing growth from 1.2 percent for 2024 to 2.1 percent for 2025, bolstered by real income growth and resilient labor markets. The uncertain global environment and geoeconomic fragmentation pose significant external risks. Near-term policies should continue to focus on reducing inflation while nurturing economic growth. The Reserve Bank of Australia’s continued restrictive monetary policy stance aimed at combating persistent inflation is appropriate. Should disinflation stall, policies may need to be further tightened while preserving targeted support to vulnerable households amid rising living costs. Financial sector policies should prioritize preserving stability, while tackling localized vulnerabilities arising from tightened financial conditions. Addressing the housing affordability challenges requires a holistic approach to tackle the continued supply shortfall. Australia’s robust economic institutions and policy frameworks can be further enhanced to underpin stability and foster growth in the long term. Structural policies should focus on enhancing resilience, revitalizing productivity growth through enhancing competition and innovation – including leveraging AI technology responsibly – and strategically navigating the climate transition.

    Washington, DC:

    I. CONTEXT AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

    Australia’s resilient economy faces cyclical challenges. Recent decades of strong growth are attributed to effective policies, strong institutions, flexible prices, strong regional trade links, and robust population growth. Post-pandemic stabilization efforts have included a balanced set of macro policy measures to manage demand and bring inflation back to target while preserving the gains in the labor market. Progress in reducing price pressures and bringing inflation back to target has been slower than expected. In this context, significant policy challenges remain in rebalancing the economy while navigating cyclical headwinds. Economic growth has continued to decelerate. Under tightened policies, growth slowed to 1.0 percent (y/y) in the second quarter of 2024, down from 1.9 percent (y/y) a year ago. Per capita private consumption was down 1.9 percent (y/y) in 2024Q2, as real disposable income per capita declined due to high inflation, elevated interest rates, and tax payments growing faster than incomes prior to recent income tax cuts. Younger Australians, who are more likely to rent or hold mortgages, have seen a greater impact on spending. Despite recent resilience, private business investment has started easing, growing at just 1.6 percent (y/y). Economic activity has been supported by public demand and large state infrastructure projects. The labor market has eased somewhat but remains relatively resilient, with unemployment at 4.2 percent in August 2024, and the vacancies-to-unemployment ratio still above pre-pandemic levels. The current account fell into deficit in early 2024, driven primarily by the normalization of commodity prices. Inflation has continued to ease from post-pandemic highs, but price pressures remain elevated. Restrictive monetary policy and an easing in supply pressures led to headline inflation falling to 3.8 percent (y/y) in the second quarter of 2024 from a peak of 7.8 percent (y/y) in late 2022. Headline inflation—as measured by the monthly CPI indicator—declined to below 3 percent in August due in part to sizeable temporary electricity subsidies. However, underlying price pressures remain elevated, most notably in non-tradable sectors like rents, new dwellings, and insurance, reflecting ongoing demand-supply imbalances. The mission welcomes the second consecutive Commonwealth Government budget surplus in FY2023/24. This was achieved by saving revenue windfalls from a resilient labor market and higher commodity prices, and identifying expenditure reductions or reprioritizations, while implementing cost-of-living relief measures. While acute demand and supply imbalances in the housing market have begun to ease, national house prices have surpassed pandemic-era peaks and the momentum persists, with rents also rising significantly.

    I. OUTLOOK AND RISK

    The economy is designed to recover gradually. Growth is expected to start picking up in the second half of the year, reaching 1.2 percent for 2024 and 2.1 percent for 2025. Real wage growth is expected to boost private consumption, while public demand is expected to remain solid. Meanwhile, it remains too early to assess to what extent the recent income tax cuts would be saved or spent by households. Starting in 2025, private demand is also expected to benefit from gradual monetary policy easing and a rebound in dwelling construction after the resolution of bottlenecks. However, growth will remain below its potential rate until 2026, when it is forecast to converge to 2.3 percent. Labor market conditions are anticipated to soften gradually, with a modest rise in unemployment to about 4.5 percent. Trimmed mean inflation is expected to sustainably return to the RBA’s target range at end-2025, with underlying price pressures easing only slowly. Upside risks to inflation include a slower than forecast rebalancing in labor market demand and supply, potential larger fiscal impulses, demand impact of recent house price increases, and higher tradable prices due to rising geoeconomic fragmentation. With large uncertainty surrounding the macroeconomic baseline, the balance of risks is tilted to the downside: External risks: The uncertain external environment, including weakness in major trading partners, poses risks to Australia’s growth. Geoeconomic fragmentation, which could potentially reconfigure global trade, poses risks to external demand, especially given Australia’s sizeable commodity exports and diverse trading partners. Rising shipping costs and volatile energy and food costs stemming from global geopolitical tensions could complicate the fight against inflation. At the same time, Australia’s pivotal role in the Pacific in providing aid and remittances, enhances regional economic stability and development. Additionally, Australia’s economy continues to benefit from positive regional interactions, such as labor migration that addresses domestic capacity constraints and skill shortages. Domestic risks: The disinflation process may stall due to persistent services inflation, a stronger-than-expected fiscal impulse, or spillovers from global trade and supply chain disruptions; this may in turn raise prospects of higher-for-even longer interest rates, with implications for consumption and investment. Conversely, growth may be weaker than forecast, or unemployment may rise faster than projected (for example, if the current labor market tightness proves to be localized), potentially requiring the Reserve Bank to lower interest rates sooner.

    III. NEAR-TERM POLICIES TO BRING DOWN INFLATION WHILE NURTURING GROWTH AND PRESERVING FINANCIAL STABILITY

    Near-term policies should focus on managing the final phase of returning inflation to target while nurturing growth. The baseline policy mix should be orchestrated carefully to achieve these objectives and ensure price and financial stability. The current restrictive monetary policy stance is essential to address the risks of prolonged inflation. Fiscal policy should support disinflation as the economy continues to grapple with supply capacity constraints. Additionally, macroprudential policies should maintain a stringent stance to mitigate the risk of excessive vulnerabilities in household balance sheets, particularly in the context of rising house prices. Should disinflation stall, monetary policy may need to be further tightened, supported by tighter fiscal policy while nurturing growth, and preserving targeted support to vulnerable households amid rising living costs. This contingent policy mix should ensure monetary and fiscal authorities complement each other to avoid overburdening any single policy instrument. In the face of external shocks, Australia’s commitment to a flexible exchange rate, will allow monetary policy to focus on domestic policy objectives.
    In this context, the RBA’s decision to maintain its restrictive policy stance in the near-term is appropriate. The still persistent inflation and emerging upside risks emphasizing the importance of a tight monetary stance until the inflation outlook sustainably aligns with the target range. This stance is supported by the strong transmission of monetary policy through the Australian housing sector, largely due to a high proportion of variable-rate mortgages, and a possibly slow yet important transmission via non-mining business investment. While inflation expectations have remained anchored, the RBA should continue to build on its recent efforts and explore ways to further strengthen its communications capabilities and effectively guide the general public’s and the market’s understanding of its data dependent decision-making process and their expectations regarding policy shifts in an uncertain global policy environment.
    Should disinflation stall, a tighter fiscal stance would be warranted, while better targeting of transfers could more efficiently support vulnerable households. The FY2024/25 Commonwealth budget is projected to deliver a positive fiscal impulse based on the mission’s estimates. A preannounced personal income tax (PIT) cut and new expenditure items including broad-based cost-of-living support, are expected to contribute to moving the budget to a deficit. The mission’s analysis shows that while the cost-of-living support lowers the price level on a temporary basis, it may inject some additional stimulus into the broader economy. The permanent PIT cut increase households’ disposable income, but it remains too early to assess the extent to which they will be saved or spent and therefore the extent and timing of any impulse to demand. State and Territory budgets have proven more expansionary than expected in the near-term, including further cost-of-living support and infrastructure spending. Should disinflation stall, expenditure rationalization at all levels of government could help lower aggregate demand and support a faster return of inflation to target. In particular, infrastructure spending could be carefully prioritized to avoid aggravating construction capacity constraints, by focusing on boosting productivity and facilitating the green transition. In addition, transfers should be made targeted wherever possible.
    Financial sector policies should prioritize maintaining stability, while carefully addressing localized vulnerabilities arising from tightened financial conditions. Banks are in a strong position, showing high capital levels, solid liquidity, and healthy profits, while also demonstrating resilience in recent stress tests conducted by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). While most households and businesses continue to be resilient, financial pressures are evident in vulnerabilities in low-income households and small-medium enterprises, and challenges to firms’ profitability under tight financial conditions. More generally, concerns about hidden leverage or vulnerabilities, combined with new and emerging global risks, could resurface. The mission welcomes APRA’s plan for the first system stress test to better understand interconnectedness across the financial system Thus, providing a platform to quantify, assess and respond to identified risks. The mission team also welcomes APRA’s close monitoring of lending standards and regular review of macroprudential policy settings and would reiterate its recommendation that the authorities consider preemptively expanding their toolkit to include additional borrower-based measures, such as Debt-to-Income and Loan-to -Value Ratio, to manage household indebtedness and ensure financial stability amidst the housing market pressures. While financial supervisory and regulatory reforms have been undertaken to enhance resilience, data gaps on Non-Bank Financial Institutions pose challenges to effective risk oversight, including its exposure to commercial real estate (CRE) sector.
    A holistic policy package is needed to address housing affordability issues. Australia faces a significant housing supply shortfall, exacerbated by structural challenges such as restrictive planning and zoning regulations, high land costs, infrastructure deficits, and residential housing investment around decade lows. These barriers, coupled with high interest rates, elevated building costs, and labor shortages, have led to a substantial backlog in housing development, contributing to escalating prices and affordability concerns. To address these issues, a comprehensive strategy is essential, focusing on increasing construction worker supply, relaxing zoning and planning restrictions, supporting the built-to-rent sector, expanding public and affordable housing, and reevaluating property taxes (including tax concessions to property investors ) and stamp duty to promote efficient land use. At the same time, capital flow management (CFM) measures that discriminate between residents and nonresidents are not consistent with the Fund’s Institutional View and should be replaced by non-discriminatory measures.

    IV. Medium-Term Reform Prioritize then Strangthen Economics Resilinke

    Australia’s robust economic institutions and policy frameworks can be further enhanced to underpin stability and foster growth. The establishment of a new Monetary Policy Board and strengthened governance arrangements and decision-making processes, in line with international best practices, would bolster central bank operational autonomy and enhance monetary-fiscal policy synergies. Tax reforms should target system efficiency and fairness, reducing reliance on direct taxes and high capital costs that hinder growth. Tax breaks, including from capital gains tax discount and superannuation concessions, could be phased out to generate a more equitable and efficient tax system. Forthcoming environmental and demographic changes will put structural upward pressures on government spending. Expenditure reforms should therefore aim to enhance spending efficiency and sustainability, emphasizing improved governance in infrastructure projects and strengthening intergovernmental collaboration. The aged care reforms and NDIS review represent positive forward steps. As long-term spending pressures rise, the authorities can consider bolstering their fiscal policy framework with clearer anchors. Efforts to rejuvenate Australia’s productivity growth, including through competition policy, should be prioritized, focusing on reforms across capital and labor markets. Initiatives grounded in the five pillar Productivity Agenda—emphasizing innovation, a level playing field for firms, and human capital enhancement—are crucial for resilient medium-term growth. Enhancing innovation through building intrinsic capital, promoting R

    The IMF mission team would like to express its deep appreciation to the Australian authorities and other interlocutors for their close engagement and cooperation. Our unstinting gratitude particularly goes to the counterparts at the Treasury and the Reserve Bank of Australia for the substantial time and effort devoted to supporting our work. The team looks forward to maintaining this constructive engagement and policy dialogue.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATED

    PRESS OFFICER: Rahim Kanani

    Phone: 1 202 623-7100 Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokeperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/Nevs/Articles/2024/10/02/MCS-australa-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2024-article-iv-mission

    AXLE MILES

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kilne Cookware, Founded by Former Endy CEO, Retains Westmount Capital Partners as Exclusive Financial Advisor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westmount Capital Partners (“WMC” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that Kilne Cookware Inc., a premium direct-to-consumer cookware brand founded by Mike Gettis, former CEO of Endy, has retained Westmount as its exclusive financial advisor. Westmount will assist Kilne in its efforts to fuel market expansion and product development.

    This partnership opens an exciting opportunity for investors to join Kilne in its next phase of growth as it expands into new markets and continues to introduce innovative products that resonate with consumers. Kilne is strategically positioned to emerge as a leading premium cookware brand, setting itself apart with its commitment to exceptional quality, innovative design, and sustainable manufacturing. With a focus on empowering home cooks, Kilne aims to redefine the cooking experience by providing high-performance products that not only enhance culinary creativity but also elevate the kitchen aesthetic.

    Kilne is set to capitalize on the growing $27 billion North American cookware market, with a total addressable market (TAM) for premium cookware estimated at $7 billion. This promising landscape reflects the increasing consumer demand for high-quality, non-toxic cookware. Gettis, who successfully exited Endy in 2018 when Sleep Country acquired the company for $88.7 million, is now leading Kilne’s dedicated team as they embark on this ambitious journey.

    Westmount Capital Partners will support Kilne’s ambitious expansion plans, enhance marketing efforts, and assist in the launch of new products that reflect its premium quality ethos. These products include the ‘Mini Everything Pan,’ a new line of cast iron cookware, and additional color options for Kilne’s best-selling pieces. Kilne has already made a significant impact in the Canadian market, winning prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Product Design Award and Good Housekeeping’s Kitchen Gear Award in 2023. As the brand prepares for its U.S. market entry, Kilne will continue to leverage its direct-to-consumer model, offering professional-grade cookware without the retail markups, ensuring high-quality products at accessible prices.

    Alex Camus, Managing Partner at Westmount Capital Partners, stated: “Mike’s success with Endy speaks for itself. We are proud to partner with him and Kilne as they prepare for this exciting phase of growth. Kilne is perfectly positioned to capture the attention of both investors and consumers with its innovative approach to cookware.”

    Mike Gettis, Co-Founder and CEO of Kilne, added: “As we prepare to expand into the U.S. and other markets, having the right financial partner is crucial. Westmount Capital Partners brings the expertise we need to efficiently raise capital and accelerate our growth. I believe this will be my biggest venture yet, and with their support, we’re poised to scale Kilne into a household name while empowering home cooks with exceptional, affordable kitchen products.”

    About Westmount Capital Partners
    Westmount Capital Partners Inc. is a premier financial advisory firm specializing in capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate finance solutions. With a commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth, Westmount Capital Partners provides exceptional advisory services tailored to meet the evolving needs of its clients across various industries.

    About Kilne Cookware

    Founded in 2020, Kilne Cookware is a premium direct-to-consumer brand dedicated to becoming a leading name in premium kitchenware. Kilne offers professional-grade tools designed for home cooks who value quality and performance. By collaborating with top chefs and eliminating traditional retail markups, Kilne delivers high-quality, non-toxic cookware at accessible prices. With a mission to transform the home cooking experience, Kilne ensures every product is crafted to meet the highest standards, making healthy and enjoyable cooking attainable for all.

    For further information contact:

    Westmount Capital Partners Inc.
    c/o Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l.
    Constitution Square, 340 Albert St #1400,
    Ottawa, ON, K1R 7Y6
    Attention: Nino Silvestri, President
    E-mail: nino@westmount.ventures     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CertiK’s 2024 Q3 Hack3d Report Shows Decline in Crypto Hacks Amid Industry Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CertiK, a leading blockchain security firm, released its Web3 security quarterly report, Hack3d, for Q3 2024. CertiK’s Hack3d reports provide the most comprehensive statistics and analysis of Web3 security.

    In this report, CertiK noted that hackers stole more than $750 million across 155 security incidents in Q3 of this year; this pushes the total amount stolen in 2024 to nearly $2 billion so far. Although this quarter saw a decline in the number of incidents compared to the previous quarter, there was an approximate 9.5% increase in total value lost. This shift indicates that attacks were, on average, more substantial, underscoring the continued need for stronger security measures across the industry.

    CertiK also reported that phishing attacks and private key compromises — the top two attack vectors — resulted in a total of $668 million stolen. In the most notable phishing incident, an attacker stole $238 million from a Bitcoin whale. Another large attack occurred on WazirX, where a malicious actor stole approximately $231 million by acquiring the wallet’s private key.

    Phishing attacks typically involve bad actors posing as legitimate entities to trick users into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials. Private key compromises occur when a user’s private key, which grants access to their crypto assets, is stolen or exposed, allowing attackers to transfer funds without needing any further authorization. To prevent falling victim to these attacks, users should be wary of unsolicited messages asking for private information, double-check website URLs and email addresses, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), and avoid signing or approving phishing contracts.

    Additionally, CertiK’s Hack3d report analyzes blockchains with the most exploits, the top three incidents of the quarter, general industry developments, and how users and protocols can boost their security.

    Hack3d serves as an essential resource and record of statistics for understanding security challenges and vulnerabilities in the Web3 space. It equips stakeholders with the knowledge and insights needed to fortify their defenses and make informed decisions in an increasingly high-stakes environment.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Thorpe, Professor in Sociology of Sport and Gender, University of Waikato

    Getty Images

    “The climate crisis is a health crisis.” So says World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.

    The World Economic Forum agrees. Its report this year highlighted how climate change is taking a toll on global health due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

    These issues are on the official agenda here too, especially since severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle caused extensive damage in the South-west Pacific and northern New Zealand in early 2023.

    Between February 13 and 14 it slammed into Te Tairāwhiti/East Coast and Te Matau a Māui/Hawkes Bay, with disastrous results for the land and its inhabitants. Communities were displaced, homes destroyed, power and telecommunications cut, water systems compromised, and many roads and bridges badly damaged.

    Shortly after Gabrielle hit, Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health commissioned us to investigate the impacts of adverse weather events on health systems and community health and wellbeing.

    Our community research teams interviewed 143 residents in the two affected regions. They included first responders, heath workers, council staff and members of the public. Their stories were emotional, powerful and insightful.

    Our recently published report amplifies these community voices and local knowledge, and offers recommendations about planning for future, inevitable events. Here we offer five key messages.

    1. Prioritise vulnerable people

    Many older people and those with disabilities or existing health conditions were deprioritised or simply forgotten during evacuations and in the days and weeks after the cyclone. As one community responder in Tairāwhiti recalled:

    Some of them couldn’t move out because they were so old and frail. The water was so powerful, they couldn’t move anywhere. Some just stayed in their room until somebody turned up. For instance, there was a lady [who] was stuck in her wheelchair, and by the time people found her, the water was at her neck.

    Our report identified the need for health and social services to work more closely to ensure at-risk, vulnerable older people and those with disabilities or complex needs are prioritised during evacuations, so their medical and physical needs are met during and after an extreme weather event.

    2. Invest in mental health support and trauma recovery

    Those in the most affected communities had high levels of stress, grief and trauma during and after emergencies and evacuations.

    Staff and volunteers in front-line roles during the state of emergency experienced similar mental health effects. Many felt mental health support was not there when they needed it most.

    Almost everyone we spoke to had some negative mental health impacts. These included sleep disruption, rain anxiety and stress from road closures, insurance claims and land instability.

    Māori participants also told of their grief over environmental damage and destruction, highlighting the links between whenua (land) and hauora (health). They described drawing on cultural practices to support whānau recovery. For example, a leader of local volunteer efforts spoke about the personal impact of the cyclone:

    I was not good […] it was seeing the impact on how it was for your own community whānau. I think it hit me quite a bit later on. I fell into depression […] It just built up over time. I’m still in healing therapy for the last probably six to seven months since Gabrielle, just trying to get my wairua [spirit] and my tinana [body] and everything back in place.

    Overall, the research shows a need for greater awareness and investment in weather-related trauma recovery and mental health support.

    3. Ensure medical supplies can reach remote areas

    Rural and isolated communities had heightened health challenges, particularly due to road and communication failures.

    Transporting medical staff into these communities often required creative solutions (driving, using helicopters or hiking through bush and across farmland when roads were damaged, for example).

    Access to medicines was a major concern. It took co-ordinated effort to get pharmaceuticals to such communities. Helicopters were crucial in getting supplies and patients in and out of remote areas. Not everyone who needed attention received it, however.

    The most effective responses involved organisations (such as the NZ Police and Civil Defence) working together with communities. As one police officer told us:

    Our whānau up the coast needed medicine, prescriptions. Getting access from the helicopter to the home was a challenge. So, the police leant in and helped out. We used [an all-terrain vehicle] to get to places and spaces to get medicine in.

    People need to be prepared for power and telcommunications failures.
    Getty Images

    4. Resource and co-ordinate local support networks

    Fiscally challenged health systems were stretched during the emergency and struggled with power and telecommunications outages. But we heard of many health workers going “above and beyond” to care for patients and communities.

    Many continued working even when their own families, homes and communities were directly under threat. Anticipating this and supporting these workers will be important as adverse weather becomes more frequent with climate change.

    We also found marae, schools, local social services and non-profit organisations played key roles after the cyclone, but were often outside the direct ambit of the health system.

    Often the people working in these organisations have strong community relationships and knowledge that is essential to supporting emergency and recovery processes. These connections should be mapped and integrated for future events.

    5. Shift resources and build common will

    Local communities are full of knowledge. Many have learnt from recent events to better prepare their families, workplaces and organisations.

    Whānau told us about the importance of having cash in case of power outages and telecommunications failure. Others identified battery-powered radio as a critical source of information when systems were down. Pharmacists and doctors told of the importance of hard-copy evidence of prescriptions, to be able to dispense when electronic systems are out.

    Checking in on neighbours, sharing resources and making time for a cup of tea were all important for people in the recovery and rebuilding phases. A key lesson is to harness the power of community connections, trust and relationships in climate change resilience and recovery.

    Although knowledge, experience and wisdom lie in the hands of communities, our research highlights how financial resources mostly sit with central government. The challenge is to shift resources and build common will for climate action, before the inevitable next event.

    The report is receiving attention in parliament. We hope local experience can be central to planning around the health impacts of climate change and decision-making at all levels.

    We acknowledge the important contributions of our wider research team and community partners, particularly Manu Caddie (Te Weu Charitable Trust), Josie McClutchie (project lead), Dayna Chaffey, Haley Maxwell and Hiria Philip-Barbara (community researchers) in Tairāwhiti, and Emma Horgan and John Bell (Sustainable HB Centre for Climate & Resilience) in Hawkes Bay.

    Holly Thorpe received support from the Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    Fiona Langridge received support from the Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    George Laking received funding from The Ministry of Health to conduct the research. He is an Executive Board member of OraTaiao, the New Zealand Climate and Health Council.

    Judith McCool receives funding from the Ministry of Health (Polynesia Health Corridors) and the Health Research Council.

    – ref. Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response – https://theconversation.com/lessons-from-cyclone-gabrielle-5-key-health-priorities-for-future-disaster-response-239392

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Digital roadmap drives innovation and delivers for communities

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Digital roadmap drives innovation and delivers for communities

    Published: 3 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government

    Greater accessibility, upskilling communities and building resilience for the future are at the heart of the Minns Labor Government’s new digital roadmap for New South Wales.

    The NSW Digital Strategy launched today sets out how the state will deliver innovative, inclusive and secure digital services to improve the lives of residents. For the first time, the new strategy includes a way to track progress on digital as a state.

    The NSW Digital Strategy is built around five key missions:

    • Accessibility: Make digital services accessible, inclusive and connected for all people in NSW
    • Productivity: Use digital to advance service delivery, support the local economy and drive productivity
    • Trust: Build trust through reliable, stable government services and sustainable digital infrastructure
    • Resilience: Keep NSW safe and resilient for emergencies online and in-person
    • Digital Skills: Uplift digital capability in our public sector workforce​.

    This provides a roadmap for how NSW will harness digital transformation to support economic growth, improve service delivery and create more connected communities.

    NSW is home to 32 per cent of Australia’s population and is one of the most diverse states in the world, with the Government committed to making digital services inclusive by supporting all NSW communities on their digital journey.

    People responding to a NSW Government survey to understand the challenges faced when engaging with digital technologies and services found 1 in 5 people (22 per cent) feel they lack the necessary skills to perform important online tasks such as job searching, working, studying or accessing government services.

    The feedback also found those aged 65+, from low-income households or whose highest education level is high school are less likely to feel confident in performing these tasks.

    The strategy leverages leading technology and builds on large-scale projects already underway, including ongoing work to deliver a secure and privacy-preserving NSW digital identity and verifiable credentials system for use across the public and private sectors.

    Key initiatives under the strategy include:

    • Delivery of the NSW Digital ID and NSW Digital Wallet to enable a safer, more inclusive digital economy by streamlining services and providing a secure way to prove who you are.
    • The state’s first Digital Inclusion Strategy, informed by community input which shows that key barriers to inclusion include not just location, physical challenges and economic factors, but also confidence in digital skills and trust in digitalisation.
    • Better coordination of information and communications technology spending across government to reduce duplication and an enhanced approach to cyber security coordination, governance and investment.
    • Supporting housing delivery by improving the NSW Planning Portal and developing the Digital Housing Pipeline, an initiative that offers access to information on the delivery of new homes, facilitating improved collaboration among developers, government agencies and homeowners to streamline the process from planning to occupancy.
    • Delivering secure and resilient critical communications for emergency services and supporting communities during disasters by building on projects like the Hazards Near Me app which includes fire, storm, tsunami and flood information.
    • Updating strategies to leverage data and use artificial intelligence to enhance the response to natural disasters and emergencies through tools like RFS Athena which predicts fire behaviour.

    The NSW Digital Strategy puts people at its heart by targeting practical benefits, powered by community insights and formulated through extensive collaboration with industry and academic partners. For more information, read the strategy at http://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/strategy

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “The NSW Digital Strategy lays the foundation for a future for digital services that are more secure, inclusive and accessible, and is a commitment to improving people’s daily lives.”

    “This strategy is about more than just technology— it’s about people and how we build world-class digital services that strengthen our communities while supporting economic growth.”

    “Our key missions of accessibility, productivity, trust, resilience and skills will help ensure we deliver with purpose on the things people need, like increasing access to government services.”

    “We are already bringing our strategy to life, through initiatives like our new EasyRead hub and updated AI frameworks, by ensuring digital infrastructure is front of mind for government projects, and by improving cyber security coordination and investment.”

    “From Western Sydney to regional and remote NSW, our vision is for a more connected state and a government that embraces new technologies and brings everyone on the journey.”

    “The NSW Digital Strategy will help ensure we continue to innovate and build digital services that are both forward-thinking and responsive to the needs of the community we serve.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: VET workforce key to solving many of Australia’s current job shortages

    Source: Australia Jobs and Skills

    VET workforce key to solving many of Australia’s current job shortages
    Hayden

    News and updates
    A new study published by Jobs and Skills Australia gives fresh insights into the national VET workforce.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Ernst Introduce Bill to Deport Illegal Migrants Convicted of Sex Crimes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) in reintroducing bipartisan legislation to deport illegal immigrants convicted of sexual offenses. The legislation follows recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data revealing more than 15,000 illegal immigrants convicted of sexual assault currently reside in the U.S. outside of ICE custody. 
    “Sexual violence has no place in America,” Grassley said. “The Biden-Harris administration’s open border policies have allowed criminals to enter our country and threaten the safety of our communities. I’m fighting to uphold the law and protect American citizens.” 
    “These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” Ernst said. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped and deported.” 
    Download bill text HERE. 
    Background: 
    The Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by Unnaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act would classify sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as “aggravated felonies” under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Migrants convicted of “aggravated felonies” are subject to immediate deportation and barred from reentering the U.S.  
    Grassley continues to push back against the Biden-Harris administration’s open border policies. He is cosponsoring legislation requiring ICE to arrest, detain and deport criminal migrants, and has also worked to root out abuse of the immigration parole program and reform the Biden-Harris program endangering migrant children. Further, he’s sounded the alarm on the Department of Homeland Security’s unlawful failures to collect DNA from illegal immigrants at the border. 
    -30- 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: South Pacific defence meeting fosters collaboration

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week’s South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM) has concluded with a renewed commitment to regional security of all types, Defence Minister Judith Collins says.

    Defence Ministers and senior civilian and military officials from Australia, Chile, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga gathered in Auckland to discuss defence and security cooperation in the South Pacific. 

    “We all want to see regional security, and that means protecting our maritime areas, improving the effectiveness of our Defence Forces and adapting to the impacts of climate change,” Ms Collins says.

    “The South Pacific is our home. We all benefit from working together and sharing knowledge to support a secure, stable and prosperous region.

    “This year’s meeting further fostered the spirit of collaboration among trusted partners.

    “Members shared their views on security challenges, as well as the role of emerging technology, in responding to these challenges, and collective approaches to improving the effectiveness of the region’s Defence Forces.”

    “Members agreed on the importance of working with civilian agencies when it comes to supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, and in the areas of combating maritime security threats such as illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing and transnational organised crime. 

    “These are issues that have significant impact on many South Pacific nations which, like New Zealand, have large Exclusive Economics Zones.”

    SPDMM member countries discussed approaches to non-traditional security challenges, where South Pacific militaries have come together in response to regional security challenges, and co-deploying to help communities recover from cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, bushfire and floods. 

    “SPDMM is a unique dialogue and coordination platform that enables collective action and leadership among South Pacific Nations. In a region this size it is vital we work together on our shared challenges with our shared values,” Ms Collins says.

    “It has been an absolute honour to host SPDMM 2024 in Auckland and I wish Chile all the best for SPDMM 2025.”

    A full summary of key outcomes from the 2024 South Pacific Defence Ministers meeting can be found in the Joint Communique. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Don’t let the bad weather catch you out

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Southern District Police are urging drivers to take care and obey road closure signs after heavy rain flooded roads and snow trapped cars.

    High alpine passes in the Central Otago Lakes have experienced heavy snowfall today. This morning, Police worked with NZTA Waka Kotahi to help a number of vehicles that were trapped on the Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) by heavy snow that closed the road. It has since reopened and caution is advised.

    Motorists should check NZTA’s Journey Planner at https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/.

    “We’re urging people not to put themselves at risk,” Senior Sergeant Blair Dalton says. “Police have noticed multiple vehicles drive around road closure signs and attempting to continue their journey.

    “It’s not worth the risk, so for the safety of yourself, your passengers, other motorists and emergency services, please follow and adhere to the road signage in place.”

    A number of roads in the Dunedin area have been affected by surface flooding, and it is expected that the biggest impact along coastal areas will arrive with the high tides this evening.

    Dunedin Council and Otago Regional Council are monitoring the impacts closely and are working alongside emergency services.

    “Motorists are to be advised to stay off flooded roads and not to attempt to enter any flooded sections or cross fords.”

    To ensure a safe journey, keep your following distances, reduce your speed, use your headlights, and watch your visibility.

    For more information on roads, go to NZTA Journey Planner, Dunedin City Council, Otago Regional Council, and Environment Southland websites.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic’s coming Auto framing application for PTZ cameras achieves high-quality video for broadcasting and video production

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic’s coming Auto framing application for PTZ cameras achieves high-quality video for broadcasting and video production

    Osaka, Japan, October 3, 2024 – Panasonic Entertainment & Communication today announced the upcoming launch of a new auto framing application for Panasonic PTZ cameras that achieves natural, high-quality, automated video shooting suitable for broadcasting and video production. The application will be offered as an Advanced Auto Framing plug-in for Panasonic’s Media Production Suite software platform from the second quarter of CY2025. In addition, selected auto framing features are set to be offered for Panasonic’s top-of-the-line AW-UE160W/K PTZ camera via firmware and Media Production Suite updates from the first quarter of CY2025. The latest information including release dates will be announced on the Panasonic website (https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/software/mps/).
    Panasonic expects to exhibit the auto framing feature of the AW-UE160W/K at its booth during the 2024 NAB Show New York on October 9 to 10, 2024.
    In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the consumption of video content via streaming platforms and web-based broadcasts is rapidly increasing, which has dramatically increased the need to optimize human resources and technical systems to ensure the stable production and delivery of high-quality content across broadcast networks, production houses and live event coverage.
    Panasonic’s new auto framing solution leverages the company’s extensive experience with broadcasting and video production, supported with valuable feedback from diverse industry professionals, and incorporates advanced technologies such as auto tracking, image recognition and natural auto framing. It achieves camera framing exactly as defined by the user for enhanced on-site efficiency and high-quality content.
    The paid Advanced Auto Framing plug-in for the Media Production Suite, which can be activated with a software key in the Media Production Suite, will enable auto framing for Panasonic PTZ cameras including the AW-UE160W/K, AW-UE150W/K, AW-UE100W/K and AW-UE80W/K. The plug-in is set to support multi-camera setup for auto framing to enhance subject-detection accuracy and operability. Additionally, facial recognition technology will enable optimal framing for specified individuals.
    The new auto framing feature for the AW-UE160W/K will be offered free of charge via camera firmware and Media Production Suite updates. Subject detection is handled by the camera’s internal processor, and framing commands are managed with the Media Production Suite. A GPU is not required for the operating PC, so the feature can be used on any PC that meets the Media Production Suite’s basic operating requirements.
    The Advanced Auto Framing plug-in and auto framing feature of the AW-UE160W/K enable professional-level automatic high-quality framing in real time, thanks to framing presets that accurately replicate user-defined framing settings. Framing presets can be combined, including multi-subject group shots. Additionally, advanced human body detection ensures consistent subject headroom. These feature sets make it easy for users to shoot and produce high-quality video content.
    The graphical user interfaces (GUI) design and operation are consistent with those of the Media Production Suite for intuitive setup and operation via a user-friendly control panel. The Advanced Auto Framing plug-in’s GUI includes a multi-camera display option for easy management of multiple PTZ cameras. Multiple feeds can be monitored and controlled from a single screen to facilitate multi-camera shooting even in environments with limited staff to ensure high content quality.
    The auto framing application can be used in conjunction with the AW-RP150GJ and AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers, making it easy to fine-tune the camera angle during auto framing. In addition, synchronizing camera selection with auto framing in the Media Production Suite simplifies switching between auto and manual framing operations.
    Panasonic’s auto framing application aims to deliver high-quality framing for advanced content production in broadcast studios and live event shooting with PTZ cameras, contributing to more efficient on-site workflows.

    Advanced Auto Framing plug-in features

    Auto framing with multiple Panasonic PTZ cameras
    Register multiple user-created framing presets to accurately reproduce user-defined framing
    Group shots for framing multiple subjects, such as two- and three-shots
    Stable framing of moving subjects based on advanced human body detection and camera control for professional-level camera work, including consistent headroom
    Privacy-conscious shooting since body detection does not require personal information
    Facial recognition with registered faces allows specification of individuals for framing
    Multi-camera coordination for stable subject detection and seamless switching between framing targets
    GUI accepts PTZ camera listing for multi-camera viewing and operation
    Subject-tracking autofocus using phase detection auto focus (AW-UE160W/K only)
    Seamless integration with Panasonic AW-RP150GJ & AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers
    Tablet-ready GUI for touch-panel operation
    For more details, please visit the Advanced Auto Framing plug-in and Media Production Suite website:https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/software/mps/aaf/https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/software/mps/

    AW-UE160W/K Auto Framing features

    Available via free firmware and Media Production Suite updates
    Register up to three framing presets to accurately reproduce user-defined framings
    Group shots for framing multiple subjects, such as two- and three-shots
    Stable framing of moving subjects based on advanced human body detection and camera control for professional-level camera work, including consistent headroom
    Privacy-conscious shooting since body detection does not require personal information
    Subject-tracking autofocus using phase detection auto focus
    Seamless integration with Panasonic AW-RP150GJ & AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers
    Tablet-ready GUI for touch-panel operation
    For more details, please visit the AW-UE160W/K website:https://pro-av.panasonic.net/en/products/aw-ue160/

    * Product specifications are under development and subject to change at time of release.

    About Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd.
    Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd. established in April 2022 as part of the Panasonic Group’s switch to an operating company system, is strengthening the bonds among people and enriching our customers’ lives by providing consumer electronics, including AVC products such as OLED TVs, Lumix digital cameras, headphones, phones, intercoms, and more, as well as business products and solutions including for broadcast, professional AV, and sound systems globally. Our mission is to offer people new emotion and relaxation through our entertainment and communication solutions. To fulfill this mission, we strive to act with professionalism to continuously recreate the future by connecting people. For more details, please visit https://www.panasonic.com/global/peac.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNISFA Peacekeepers assist Flood-Affected Communities in Abyei

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    In the wake of heavy rainfall that has resulted in flooding in Abyei, and left communities in urgent need of assistance, UNISFA peacekeepers are stepping up to provided much needed support. The relentless heavy rains in the southern and northern parts of Abyei have displaced many people, forcing some to move to higher ground as communities struggle for basic supplies.

    Mrs. Aluel Maroab Chan, a mother of four from Manyiel Rou, says: “We were forced to leave our home and build a temporary shelter in an area without any amenities. My children are suffering from infections due to the humidity. I urge the government to assist those affected.”

    To mitigate the impact of the floods, the Vietnamese Engineers have constructed four channels in Abyei town. This is facilitating the flow of water and assisting people who are trapped by the flood waters to move to safety.  This initiative has also helped many people who were forced to relocate to move back to their homes.

    In Malual and Athony, the Vietnamese Engineers are assisting to facilitate movement by rehabilitating roads, making it easier for people to access areas that had been made impassable by flooding and enabling assistance to reach affected communities.  The Abyei Physical Infrastructure Ministry has acknowledged these timely construction efforts as essential as rains continue to impact the area.

    On September 9, Ghanaian peacekeepers reached out to communities in Abathok, Mijak County, distributing essential supplies such as mosquito nets, clothing, and sanitary pads to vulnerable families. In addition to delivering goods, the peacekeepers engaged with local women, fostering dialogue to improve their living conditions.

    Meanwhile, on 11 September, Lt. Col. Altaf, Commander of the PakBatt-2 contingent, led his team in a similar effort, visiting flood-hit areas in Dari Market and surrounding regions. Some 150 individuals were provided with food, medical supplies, and other essential items.

    According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 735,000 people across South Sudan and Abyei have been affected by the floods, with Abyei facing a critical situation compounded by food insecurity and disease outbreaks. The newly formed Abyei Flood Task Force is coordinating efforts among various agencies to address these challenges.

    As the floods persist, local leaders are calling for more assistance for the affected areas.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Abyei workshop for people with disability champions inclusion

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    10 September – The Abyei Youth Union and the Persons with Disabilities Union (PwDU) held a workshop to address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Abyei and brainstorm solutions for greater inclusion in all areas of life.

    The secretary general of PwDU, Mr Wol Akonon said, “Disability is not an Inability” a message that resonated strongly with the audience. Another participant observed that “limited access to education, healthcare, and employment exacerbates the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, including stigma, discrimination, and poverty”.

    The Abyei Youth Union President, Mr Deng Aguer, stressed that “inclusion requires active involvement from the community, local administration, and international partners in Abyei,” adding that “education and awareness is crucial to understand that physical, mental, or sensory impairments should not hinder full participation in the community”.

    Participants called for greater investments in empowering individuals with disabilities, including employment quotas for persons with disabilities within the Administration, UNISFA, and UN AFP. Representatives from the Juba-appointed Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Youth and Education pledged to advocate for policies and practices that promote accessibility, including free education, medication, and priority access to healthcare services in Abyei, which highlighted the workshop’s significance and impact.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Members On Strike at Molson Coors Beverage Company in Milwaukee

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    MILWAUKEE, Oct. 2, 2024 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Midwest Territory releases the following statement regarding IAM members on strike at Molson Coors Beverage Company in Milwaukee:

    Approximately 43 IAM members at Molson Coors Beverage Company in Milwaukee voted to reject the company’s final offer and overwhelmingly voted to strike on October 1, as the contract expired at midnight. The IAM represents mechanics and machine repair workers at the brewery, represented by IAM Locals 66 and 510 in Milwaukee.

    The primary issues driving this strike include:

    Economics: The company’s economic offer fails to keep up with inflation, does not match wages of other trades at Molson Coors, and other area benchmarks.

    Work/Life Balance: The employer insists on an alternate work schedule and other concessions that undermine our members’ flexibility and negatively impact their work/life balance.

    The IAM will provide our members with the necessary resources and will continue to support them as they fight for a fair contract that reflects their critical contributions to Molson Coors’s success. We call upon Molson Coors to come to the bargaining table to resolve these differences quickly.

    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.

    goIAM.org [goiam.org] | @MachinistsUnion [twitter.com]

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema, Kelly: $5 Million Awarded to the City of Page to Support Business Growth and Job Creation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
    WASHINGTON – Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly announced a $5 million grant to the City of Page, Arizona for infrastructure improvements to support business growth and job creation in the region.  
    “We’re proud to announce this $5 million grant to make infrastructure improvements for the City of Page – supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and expanding opportunities for Arizonans so they may continue building better lives for their families,” said Sinema.
    “As Arizona’s economy continues to grow, we need to make sure our rural communities aren’t left behind,” said Kelly. “These investments will help the City of Page build the infrastructure it needs to attract new businesses and good-paying jobs—ensuring long-term economic growth for the community.” 
    Allocated through the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), this grant will support redevelopment of the Downtown Business District, to increase its commercial viability and promote tourism. This EDA investment will be matched with $5.9 million in local funds and is expected to create 36 jobs, retain 89 jobs, and generate $1.6 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: FamilyBoost payments make ECE more affordable

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Parents and caregivers are now able to claim for FamilyBoost, which provides low-to-middle-income families with young children payments to help them meet early childhood education (ECE) costs. 

    “FamilyBoost is one of the ways we are supporting families with young children who are struggling with the cost of living, by helping make ECE costs more affordable. It will make a difference to more than 100,000 Kiwi families – that’s 140,000 Kiwi kids,” Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.  

    “Eligible families will be reimbursed for 25 per cent of their ECE costs up to a maximum of $75 a week, paid quarterly. 

    “Families simply need to register for FamilyBoost in myIR and submit their ECE invoices to Inland Revenue. Claims can be submitted now for fees invoiced during the 1 July to 30 September 2024 quarter.  

    “We know from hearing from parents and caregivers that the extra support will mean a little less stress when the rent or the next mortgage payment falls due or when they are shopping for groceries.  

    “FamilyBoost will provide real relief for struggling families. It’s cash for families with young children, straight into their bank accounts, so they can choose how they use it.” 

    Inland Revenue aims to make FamilyBoost payments within 15 business days.  

    For more information and to check eligibility, visit http://www.ird.govt.nz/familyboost. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to the Minerals West Coast Forum

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Introduction

    Good morning!

    What a pleasure to be back in the stunning West Coast at one of my favourite events in the calendar. 

    Every time I come back here, I’m reminded of the Coast’s natural beauty, valuable resources, and great people.

    Yet, every time I come back here, I’m also reminded about how much of a handbrake the Resource Management Act (RMA) is for this region and the mining industry that plays such a vital role here.

    Under the RMA, we have devolved from a land of great potential to one of wasted opportunity, and the West Coast is a region of immense opportunity.

    As someone recently remarked to me, because of laws like the RMA, there are too many referees in this country and not enough players.

    Whether it’s Woodstock Quarries seeking an extension at Waimakariri, which was declined and is now under appeal to the Environment Court, or the drawn-out consenting process for the Barrytown sand mining venture, the RMA undermines prime opportunities to meet our needs with New Zealand’s own resources, and we are forgoing economic development opportunities because of it.

    What could we do about this?

    One option is to bury our heads in the sand and get distracted by the noise.

    We could pretend there’s nothing fundamentally wrong with the RMA. 

    We could pretend the problem is a mere ‘perception’ of unjustified regulation, or of a system too rigid.

    We could pretend that the issue is simply that the RMA has ‘not been implemented correctly’, much like the supposed reason for the failure of communism…

    Believe it or not, these are all things some have argued, but it’s pretty clear what this thinking delivers.

    Thankfully, we’ve built a coalition around a much better vision which accepts the necessity to provide for human needs.

    What are we doing about resource management?

    Fast-track

    Ministers Jones and Bishop have been leading the charge on delivering a one-stop-shop fast-track approvals process for consenting projects of regional and national significance.

    This is an important jump start to get some of the big wheels turning.

    RMA amendments

    Minister Bishop has also announced a suite of panel-beating changes to the RMA to clear some immediate congestion in the system we’re currently stuck with.

    The first amendment Bill includes the re-alignment of the treatment of coal with that of other extractive activities around wetlands, removing what is currently an arbitrary additional hurdle. Minister Jones has done great work in this space.

    Another important element is the streamlining of the pathway for making and amending RMA national direction.

    This streamlined pathway will pave the way for a package of national direction work to follow to address the incoherence of existing instruments and fill the gaps that currently exist. I trust this will provide long-fought relief for my friends in the quarrying sector whose constructive solutions to sloppy inconsistencies – inconsistencies which have blocked the provision of critical aggregate materials – are finally being picked up.

    Quarrying is one of these essential services ‘ancillary’ to infrastructure, without which neither infrastructure nor the things it enables can be built, and these ancillary services are part of what I am considering in my work on a National Policy Statement for Infrastructure. This NPS has a key role in enabling infrastructure and addressing the fact there is currently no instrument properly promoting its benefits.

    Phase three

    The fast-track jump-start and the amendment panel-beating are important steps to get us moving. 

    However, a lemon can only take us so far.

    Through the RMA, we have veered so far off track that many have lost sight of the role of the resource management vehicle, and what it should deliver. 

    This is why Minister Bishop and I recently announced the “Phase 3” plan to replace the Resource Management Act with a system based on the enjoyment of property rights.

    This is a core commitment in the ACT-National coalition agreement, and it will liberate different sectors across the country. The mining sector is no exception.

    A property rights foundation provides a narrow and focused scope for resource management, which is something the current system has lost control of.

    This focus anchors us to the issue resource management needs to solve – that is managing situations where one’s enjoyment of property rights materially spills over into that of another’s. In other words, managing material effects. 

    One of the most common objections to this focus stems from concern about the environment, and a perception that a property rights approach is somehow incompatible with environmental goals.

    What this ignores is our ambition to for the environment to get a property right, too.

    The environment should have a property right centred on environmental limits, where a breach of those limits undermines the ability for the environment to continue to provide for human needs in the future.

    This “human needs” aspect is important. It forms half of a “double bottom line” that embeds acceptance that development must provide for human needs now, with the environmental limits bottom line serving to ensure these needs can continue to be met in the future.

    What is not negotiable is that human needs will be met. Frustrating development to resist growth doesn’t abate the need for it, nor does it change the reality that human existence necessarily has effects on the environment. If development cannot occur within an environmental limit in one place, then it must occur in another. But development must, and will, occur.

    This focus, and the acceptance of the fact that some effects are unavoidable, brings us to a place where we can have the grown-up conversation about what we need and where we need it, and provide pathways for that to be delivered. 

    This includes pathways for accepting significant environmental effects where there are net benefits at play, and recognising the great mitigation, offset, and restoration work done by many people and organisations – I’ve heard some great stories about the conservation work around the Roa coal mine and the OceanaGold Globe Progress mine restoration. The ACT-National coalition commitment to promote the use of Crown minerals is just one of many important things contingent on a net benefits approach.

    A narrow effects-based scope and double bottom line also allows us to filter out the oodles of vexatious objections from every Tom, Dick, and Harry that frustrate development. No effect, no objection.

    This may not stop the hypocrites locking themselves in buildings of mining companies while live streaming on their iPhones (it’s hard to know whether these people are NIMBYs or just a few sandwiches short of a picnic…) What it will do, however, is reduce their ability to use the resource management system to obstruct access to New Zealand’s critical resources.

    What about other frustrating factors? 

    Having to ask permission to do anything, when already know how to do most things, is an unnecessary problem. 

    Through codifying into standards established and accepted ways of doing things, the new system will drive a big shift from pre-project consenting to compliance monitoring and enforcement, restoring both trust and incentives to do things right.

    What if councils insist on consents for these things anyway?

    Cabinet has agreed to something along the lines of a ‘Planning Tribunal’. Among other things, this will provide an avenue to strike out unwarranted consent requests from councils which is a critical accountability mechanism to ensure the new de-scoped system is properly embedded.

    Conclusion

    We have an important window to drive a step change in this country to liberate us from the shackles that have restrained us for so long.

    As a civil engineer, I’m proud to be working on this resource management reform programme with Minister Chris Bishop.

    I’m looking forward to the work the RMA Reform Expert Advisory Group has been tasked to deliver, which will be based on the 10 principles agreed by Cabinet, including those I’ve covered off today.

    Relief is finally on the horizon.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cracking down on shrinkflation to help Australians save time and money

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    The Albanese Government is taking action to fight shrinkflation in our supermarkets and retail sector by strengthening the Unit Pricing Code to make it easier for Australians to make accurate and timely price comparisons.

    The Government will also introduce substantial penalties for supermarkets who do the wrong thing and breach the Unit Pricing Code.

    The practice of ‘shrinkflation’ is becoming increasingly common, where the size of a product is reduced, but the price at the supermarket is the same or even increases, taking advantage of Australians doing their groceries.

    Unit pricing helps consumers spot good value for money by being able to see the price of products by their volume, weight or per unit – so they aren’t tricked by unchanged packaging hiding less product.

    These changes are about making sure shoppers are able to access the best deals at the supermarket, both in store and online – and that they’re not the victims of inflation by stealth in their everyday products.

    The ACCC Interim Supermarket Inquiry Report, released by the Albanese Government last week, found that almost 90 per cent of consumers always or often use unit pricing when deciding what products to buy.

    Through the course of the Inquiry, stakeholders raised concerns about how supermarkets apply unit pricing in Australia – including the size and font of print on in‑store labels and the inconsistent units of measure being used to price the same products.

    To make sure unit pricing is helping Australian shoppers, the Government will be strengthening the Unit Pricing Code to ensure supermarkets are providing the information Australians need to find the best deal.

    The Government will consult on improvements to the Code like:

    • Improving readability and visibility of unit pricing in stores;
    • Addressing inconsistent use of units of measure across supermarkets;
    • Whether to expand the scope of retailers covered by the Code;
    • More specific prominence and legibility requirements; and
    • Improving the use of unit pricing in cross‑retailer price comparisons.

    To ensure shoppers are able to get the best value for money, we’ll fund the ACCC to deliver a consumer awareness campaign showing shoppers how they can find the best deals.

    Today’s announcements come in addition to a series of actions undertaken by the Albanese Labor Government to get a better deal for Australians at the supermarket:

    • Provided the ACCC with a $30 million boost to crack down on market conduct that pushes up cost‑of‑living pressures for Australians, like misleading and deceptive pricing practices and other unconscionable conduct by supermarkets and retailers.
    • Commenced consultation on a new mandatory Food and Grocery Code, adopting all recommendations of Dr. Craig Emerson’s review.
    • Banned unfair contract terms and increased penalties for breaches of competition and consumer law and delivering progress on the most significant merger reforms in Australia in almost 50 years.
    • Commenced work with the states and territories to revitalise National Competition Policy, including on planning and zoning for supermarkets
    • Supported CHOICE to release its second Albanese Government‑funded price monitoring report, giving Australians accurate data on where to get the cheapest groceries.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Government is cracking down on supermarkets to help Australians get a fair deal at the checkout.

    “Tackling ‘shrinkflation’ through stronger unit pricing and new penalties is part of our plan to get a better deal for Australians,” the Prime Minister said.

    “We are also making changes to make sure the ACCC is a tough cop on the beat, while also encouraging more competition and making sure there are significant consequences for supermarkets who do the wrong thing.”

    Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones said the Albanese Government knows Australians are doing it tough and won’t accept businesses taking advantage of consumers.

    “Misleading practices around pricing are illegal and completely inappropriate. The bar needs to be raised significantly,” the Assistant Treasurer said.

    “Australian consumers deserve fair prices, not dodgy discounts. That’s why we’ve empowered the ACCC to act in the interests of consumers and crackdown on dodgy practices immediately.”

    Assistant Minister for Competition Andrew Leigh said the Governments wants a supermarket industry that is fair for families, and fair for farmers.

    “Competition is the consumer’s friend. We’re working to hold supermarkets to account by providing consumers with the information they need to make the best decisions,” Assistant Minister Leigh said.

    “The Albanese Government is committed to helping Australian families save time and money at the checkout.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Jamestown

    Source: South Australia Police

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash near Jamestown.

    About 10.45am Thursday 3 October emergency services were called to the Wilkins Highway, about 300m south of Jamestown-Whyte Yarcowie Road after reports a motorcycle had left the road crashed.

    Wilkins Highway will be closed, please take direction from emergency services personnel at the scene.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Various events, activities held in Macao to celebrate 75th founding anniv. of PRC

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

    Various events, activities held in Macao to celebrate 75th founding anniv. of PRC

    Updated: October 3, 2024 09:00 Xinhua
    Fireworks illuminate the sky in Macao, south China, Oct. 1, 2024. Various events and activities were held here to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists visit the Senado Square in Macao, south China, Oct. 1, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An open-air cantata is staged in front of the Macao office of the Bank of China in Macao, south China, Sept. 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Fireworks illuminate the sky in Macao, south China, Oct. 1, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists visit the Ruins of St. Paul’s in Macao, south China, Oct. 1, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1/SH29 emergency road repairs

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising that emergency road repairs are underway at the intersection of SH1 and SH29 in Piarere following heavy rain.

    The roundabout opened to traffic on Tuesday 24 September with two temporary approaches in place.

    The surface of these approaches has deteriorated as a result of recent weather, requiring urgent repairs.

    More intensive repairs will be carried out tonight, from 7pm until 12am, with stop/go traffic management in place.

    NZTA thanks road users for their patience and asks people to adhere to the signage and take extra care when travelling through the area.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Forestry Centre of Excellence launched in Mount Gambier

    Source: University of South Australia

    03 October 2024

    An artist’s impression of the Forestry Centre of Excellence, due to be built on UniSA’s Mount Gambier campus in 2025.

    The State Government has today released new artist impressions of the Forestry Centre of Excellence (FCoE) being built in Mount Gambier and officially launched today.

    The Centre is a collaborative project between the State Government, the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the forest industry. It will be built on the same site as the UniSA Mount Gambier campus, the new Mount Gambier Technical College and the Mount Gambier TAFE, providing a unique opportunity to create an education, training and research precinct.

    The design for the facility is due to be finalised in November 2024 with building construction due to commence in April 2025 and an expected completion in January 2026.

    Vital research underway in temporary facilities was showcased at a special launch on site today and includes projects on:

    • structural timber market access
    • improving safety
    • fire detection from cameras and satellites
    • suppression, recovery and analysis of digital forestry data using artificial intelligence
    • immersive data analytics using VR and AR to understand the implications of climate change on plantation growth yield and water use.

    Following a global search, Professor Jeff Morrell has been appointed as the Forestry Centre of Excellence’s inaugural director due to commence in mid-January 2025. Previously, he was Director for the Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life based at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

    The FCoE links to the forest industry and its key attribute of collaboration, connection and partnerships through its research, training education, development, and extension activities, has been reflected in the new FCoE brand of interlocking abstract trees also unveiled today.

    In launching the FCoE, SA Premier Peter Malinauskas described the Green Triangle plantation forest region as “one of the powerhouses of the Australian forest industry”.

    “The South Australian portion of the region contributes more than $860 million to the state’s gross product annually – making it one of our most productive primary industry sectors,” Premier Malinauskas said.

    “We are delivering on our election commitment to establish a world-leading Forestry Centre of Excellence to strengthen this already thriving industry.”

    UniSA Chancellor John Hill, who attended the launch, said the University was honoured to host the new Forestry Centre of Excellence, which has evolved from Forest Research Mount Gambier, established in 2018 by the State and Federal Government, UniSA and the forestry industry.

    “The model of recruiting UniSA researchers into the forestry industry has resulted in a more efficient, safer, progressive, and profitable industry, establishing standards for best practice,” Chancellor Hill said.

    “Together with the State Government, we are proud to continue this partnership and help advance research and development projects to ensure the industry’s economic prosperity committing more than $6 million towards the Centre’s operations and building along with significant in-kind support.”

    For further information on the Forestry Centre of Excellence visit: Forestry Centre of Excellence – PIRSA

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Latest census data highlights New Zealand’s growing ethnic diversity

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The latest 2023 Census results released today further highlight New Zealand’s growing ethnic and cultural diversity, says Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee.

    “Today’s census results are further evidence of the increasingly diverse nature of our population. It’s something that should be celebrated and also serve as a reminder of the importance of growing social cohesion in an ever-evolving New Zealand,” says Ms Lee.

    Today’s figures show that all of New Zealand’s major ethnic groups have increased in population between 2018 and 2023. In addition, nearly a third of people in New Zealand were born overseas, with the census recording more than 200 different birthplaces from around the world, and more than 150 languages spoken in New Zealand.

    “New Zealand’s Filipino community grew by nearly 50 percent since 2018, driving a lot of the growth in the Asian population. Among our most widely spoken languages, Panjabi, Tagalog, and Afrikaans are the fastest growing, showcasing our country’s rich cultural diversity,” says Ms Lee.

    “Auckland, already recognised as one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, continues to be New Zealand’s most ethnically diverse region – with nearly one in three Aucklanders having an Asian ethnicity.”

    Ms Lee welcomed the latest census findings, saying they also demonstrate the important role data can play in delivering better outcomes for diverse communities around New Zealand.

    “As Ethnic Communities Minister, one of the things I’m championing is building a stronger data and evidence base around New Zealand’s ethnic communities. Robust data and evidence can bring greater visibility of the needs of ethnic communities, helping to identify equity gaps and measure outcomes and progress over time.”

    Ms Lee pointed to a new report being developed by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities as an example of a tool that, along with the census, can help build a stronger public dataset about New Zealand’s ethnic communities.
     
    “I’m looking forward to seeing the Ministry’s inaugural Ethnic Communities Indicators Report, which will be available later this year. This will be the first ever comprehensive baseline report about ethnic communities in New Zealand,” says Ms Lee.

    “Not only will it increase the visibility of how ethnic communities are faring and contributing to our economy, but I envision it will also be the catalyst for better use of data and evidence about ethnic communities in government decision-making and service delivery.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: When even fringe festival venues exclude people with disability, cities need to act on access

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shane Clifton, Associate Professor of Practice, School of Health Sciences and the Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney

    Sanit Fuangnakhon/Shutterstock

    It’s about time city councils did more to make our cities accessible. I recently tried to buy tickets to two Sydney Fringe Festival events, only to be told by the box office that the venues were not wheelchair-accessible.

    Sydney remains a place where people with disability feel like they don’t belong. The same is true of other Australian cities. But local councils don’t bear all the blame.

    Event organisers are responsible for selecting venues. In the case of the Fringe Festival, they chose locations inaccessible to wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges. It’s a bitter irony that a fringe festival, which ostensibly empowers artists and creatives on the margins, would exclude people with disability.

    If event organisers (and every one of us) decided never to hire inaccessible venues, then the market might solve the issue. But those of us with disability are realistic enough to know most people don’t care – or don’t give us a thought. The market hasn’t solved the problem, so it’s up to governments.

    The problems go beyond arts venues

    Inaccessible venues are only the tip of the iceberg. Countless restaurants, shops and offices are inaccessible, with steps on entry, inaccessible bathrooms and narrow and cluttered aisles.

    “Spend the day in my wheelchair” programs are sometimes criticised for trivialising the challenge of disability. However, they do unmask how frustrating and alienating our cities and towns can be.

    Google Maps now indicates whether premises are accessible. Those that are bear the universal symbol of disability access – the stylised blue wheelchair. Even then, a person with a disability is just as likely as not to turn up and discover a lift has broken down, a doorway has been blocked off, a bathroom has been used for storage, or a venue is only partially accessible (it’s always the cool spaces that are out of reach).

    The Commonwealth and states brought in disability discrimination laws in the 1990s. These have made some difference, but their many exemptions let businesses off the hook. (See the Disability Royal Commission’s recommendations to amend the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.)

    More than 30 years down the track, our cities and towns remain bastions of exclusion.

    Newtown Hotel is marked as accessible on Google Maps, but the upstairs room used for a Sydney Fringe Festival event was not.
    Slow Walker/Shutterstock



    Read more:
    What does a building need to call itself ‘accessible’ – and is that enough?

    Better access benefits everyone

    Landowners and businesses typically complain providing access for the few affected people is too costly. In reality, making our public spaces accessible often requires little more than determined creative design. The costs are a mere fraction of what we spend on other things we judge as more important.

    We also underestimate the value added by accessible design.

    The Kerb-Cut Effect, for example, describes how designing for people with disability often benefits everyone. The term refers to the impact of activist action in California in the 1970s. Disability advocates in the city of Berkeley poured concrete onto road kerbs to create ramps giving wheelchair users access to footpaths.

    These ramps also proved valuable to parents pushing children in strollers, older people and cyclists. Refined into kerb cuts, they spread rapidly around the world.

    There are many other examples. Television captioning, developed for people who are deaf and hard of hearing, is now widely used by non-disabled people. Audiobooks, developed for people who are blind, are now a common way that many other people enjoy books.

    Accessible venues will not just benefit wheelchair users. Older people, those with impaired mobility and people who push prams and tow suitcases all benefit. Indeed, if we make venues accessible to those on the margins, no one is excluded.

    The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities highlights the importance of universal design. The convention insists on

    the design of products, environments, programs and services to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialised design.

    Why use steps that exclude some people when everyone can use a ramp or a lift?

    Kerb cuts are now common since it became obvious how many people benefited from designing ramps into road-crossing points.
    John Robert McPherson/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    Why councils must lead the way

    Accessibility in cities is about more than just wheelchairs; it requires a comprehensive approach to urban planning to meet the varied needs of all citizens. This includes providing sensory aids like audio signals, braille signage and visual measures for people who are blind, deaf or hard of hearing. It’s also crucial that information on public services and events is easily available to everyone in formats they can access and understand.

    My focus has been on access to public spaces, but we also need to turn our attention to private homes. Wheelchair users and people with other mobility impairments can’t access most private houses in Australia. There is a drastic lack of accessible housing for people with disability and the cost of retrofitting access is exorbitant.

    New South Wales is yet to follow the lead of other states and territories by signing up to the Silver Liveable Housing Design Standards. These standards are part of the revised National Construction Code. They require new housing developments to offer basic accessibility for all people.

    We can and must do better. Every level of government can contribute to change.

    However, new builds and renovations are often decided upon at the regional level. This means local councils should bear much of the responsibility.

    A determined effort by our mayors and councillors to insist premises are accessible will be better for everyone. From a selfish perspective, it might mean I could go out to dinner or a festival without worrying if I can get in the door.

    Shane Clifton is affiliated with the Centre for Disability Research and Policy at the University of Sydney.

    – ref. When even fringe festival venues exclude people with disability, cities need to act on access – https://theconversation.com/when-even-fringe-festival-venues-exclude-people-with-disability-cities-need-to-act-on-access-239937

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Anne & Gordon Samstag International Visual Arts Scholarship

    Source: University of South Australia

    03 October 2024

    Anticlockwise: Henry Jock Walker (Photo: Bri Hammond); Hannah Gartside (Photo: Illona Nelson); Helen Grogan (Photo: Helen Grogan).

    Henry Jock Walker (SA), Helen Grogan (VIC) and Hannah Gartside (VIC) have been announced as the 2025 Anne & Gordon Samstag International Visual Arts Scholarship recipients.

    Each artist will receive a scholarship that provides institutional fees for one academic year of study, a $70,000 tax-free allowance, and travel expenses to a leading international art school of their choice.

    Erica Green, Director of the Samstag Museum of Art, which administers the scholarships program, congratulates the 2025 scholars on their achievement.

    “The Anne & Gordon Samstag International Visual Arts Scholarship is a life-changing professional opportunity,” Green says.

    “It enables artists to develop their artistic capacities, skills and networks outside Australia through a dedicated period of practice-based learning.

    “We know from experience that it is personally and artistically transformative.”

    This year’s three recipients encompass diverse approaches to making art. Their processes and materials include moving image, wall-based work, collective and socially engaged practice, site specific and installation, as well as kinetic textile objects. 

    The selection committee for the 2025 Samstag Scholarships comprised Erica Green, Director, Samstag Museum of Art, University of South Australia; Michael Kutschbach, 2005 Samstag Scholar and Lecturer, Contemporary Art, University of South Australia; and 1994 Samstag Scholar Dr Megan Walch.

    The selection panel noted:

    “This year the three successful artists each impressed us in their own way. Henry Jock Walker’s work showed maturity, vitality and connected the various strands of his diverse practice with a written application that made a forceful case for further study.

    “Helen Grogan’s site-specific installations comprising of objects and moving image demonstrated intellectual and spatial curiosity, conceptual rigour and a quiet, compelling precision.

    “Hannah Gartside’s sculptural textile and kinetic installations possess a sensual, playful and tactile materiality. Steeped in the history of theatre, wardrobe and fashion, Gartside identified the Netherlands, a historical centre for textiles, as a site of study. We had no difficulty imagining her excelling in this rich cultural environment.”

    In response to the announcement, Samstag has commissioned South Australian writer Melinda Rackham to introduce the artists through texts that distil their respective art practices.

    The announcement coincides with 2024 Samstag Scholars Min Wong, Ash Tower, and Yasmin Smith arriving at their respective institutions of learning across Berlin, Rome and London to begin their studies.

    The competitive national scholarship program, established in 1992, is open to art school students, and graduates. 151 scholarships have been awarded to date.

    Previous Samstag scholars include Sam Mountford and Inneke Taal from 2023; Elyas Alavi from 2019; 2020 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art: Monster Theatres artists Julian Day and Mikala Dwyer; 2018 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art: Divided Worlds artists Kristian Burford, Sean Cordeiro and Claire Healy, Timothy Horn, Hayden Fowler, Julie Gough and Nike Savvas; 21st Biennale of Sydney artist Nicholas Mangan; 2019 The National: New Australian Art artists Nicholas Folland, James Nguyen and nova Milne; 2020 Adelaide Studios Artist Residency recipient and Madison Bycroft; and Adelaide Film Festival and Samstag Museum of Art 2020 Art & Moving Image Commission recipient Soda Jerk.

    For the full list, visit https://unisa.edu.au/connect/samstag-museum/scholarship/

    Samstag scholarships are awarded by the University of South Australia on behalf of the Trustee of the estate of Gordon Samstag, the celebrated American artist who taught at the South Australian School of Art in the 1960s.

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    For further information, to arrange interviews or high-resolution images, contact:
    Erica Green: M: +61 438 821 239 E: Erica.Green@unisa.edu.au

    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Piyush Goyal to co-chair 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue meeting in Washington D.C. with Ms. Gina Raimondo

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Piyush Goyal to co-chair 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue meeting  in Washington D.C. with Ms. Gina Raimondo

    Commerce and Industry Minister to interact with leading American and Indian CEOs, discuss investment avenues in India

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 9:45AM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of the United States Secretary of Commerce, Ms. Gina Raimondo Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Shri Piyush Goyal, will undertake a visit to the United States of America from September 30 – October 3, 2024.

    Shri Piyush Goyal will co-chair with Secretary Raimondo the India-USA CEO Forum on October 2  2024, and the 6th India-USA Commercial Dialogue on October 3, 2024 to be held in Washington D.C., during which both sides will discuss ways to generate sustainable economic growth, improving the business and investment climate and to deepen ties between the Indian and the American business communities.

    Minister Goyal will interact with leading American and Indian CEOs & industry leaders and to highlight the vast opportunities for investment in India. His interactions with business and industry leaders in a roundtable organized by US-India Strategic Partnership Forum will stress upon ways to further leverage the complementary strengths and synergies between the economies of India and USA. He will also chair a Young Business Leaders Roundtable and India-USA Gems & Jewellery Trade Roundtable.

    Shri Goyal and Secretary Raimondo will also discuss steps to Expand and Diversify Critical Minerals Supply Chains between India and the USA. The two sides are negotiating a MoU which intends to enhance bilateral collaboration to increase and diversify essential critical mineral supply chains and leverage their complementary strengths.

    Minister Goyal will also meet the USTR Ambassador Katherine Tai at Washington DC to discuss the ongoing collaboration under the Trade Policy Forum and ways to further add to two way trade between the two countries.

    The Minister’s visit will add further impetus to the strong and growing trade and investment ties between India and the USA. It will encourage business-to-business engagement, and promote strategic partnerships across sectors of priority to both sides, including critical minerals, building Supply Chain Resilience, facilitating Climate and Clean Technology Cooperation, Inclusive Digital Growth, Standards and Conformance Cooperation, Travel & Tourism etc. 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh to inaugurate National Workshop on People’s Plan Campaign (Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas) on 30th September 2024 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 12:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh will  inaugurate National Workshop on  People’s Plan Campaign (Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas) on 30th September 2024 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti Smt. Vini Mahajan, Secretary, Department of Rural Development Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayat representatives and functionaries from across the country will also be present in the occasion. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing a National Workshop on People’s Plan Campaign famously known as ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ Abhiyan to equip officials, elected representatives, and other stakeholders with the necessary skills and strategies for preparation of high-quality and effective Panchayat Development Plans.

     This workshop will bring together representatives from various Union Ministries/ Departments, State Departments, faculty members from training institutes, and elected representatives from different levels of Panchayats to share best practices for adoption across States and Union Territories. The Booklet on People’s Plan Campaign (2024–25) for Preparation of Panchayat Development Plans for Financial Year (2025–26) and Annual Action Plan 2024–25 Report of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) will be released on this occasion. The Hindi version of the website of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj will also be launched.

    Background

    The People’s Plan Campaign known as “Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas” is a transformative nationwide initiative launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in 2018 for the preparation of participatory Panchayat Development Plans (PDP) for next financial year with voluntary involvement of Elected Representatives, Frontline workers of respective Line Departments, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Community Based Organization (CBOs) and other related Stakeholders. This campaign is a step towards aligning with the core principles of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, ensuring participation of people in preparation of developmental plan of Panchayats.

    The exercise for the preparation of Panchayat Development Plan is undertaken by the Panchayati Raj Institutions every year and the process usually start with the launch of People’s Plan Campaign by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj on 2ndof October through mandatory Gram Sabha. It is a campaign where the people’s forum i.e. Gram Sabha discuss felt needs and available resources of their Gram Panchayat followed by preparation of Gram Panchayat Development Plan for the coming financial year to carry out developmental works.

    The Panchayat Planning process usually start with the mandatory Gram Sabha on 2ndOctober, wherein progress of the plan of current year, availability of resources for coming year, activities/ works to be incorporated in the Plan of coming year are discussed along with other issues. The activities / works to be incorporated in the Plan of coming year are prioritised and placed before Gram Sabha for the approval in subsequent meeting(s). The approved Gram Panchayat Development Plans are uploaded on eGramSwaraj, a unified works flow enabled portal for better transparency, accountability.

    During the Campaign, the frontline workers of Line Departments are invited to present the details of their schemes and programmes, resource availability, beneficiaries, etc. in Gram Sabha. Hence, the campaign is also an effective tool for preparation of convergent Plan and to amplify the resource of Panchayats to address basic infrastructure needs and social development goals.

    In a significant step towards holistic development, the campaign has been aligned with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By localizing these goals, often referred to as Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs), the campaign ensures that development initiatives in rural areas across the country are in harmony with global objectives. Nine key themes have been identified for accelerated focus, touching upon critical areas such as poverty alleviation, health, education, environmental sustainability, etc.

    State Panchayati Raj Departments and State Institutes of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (SIRD&PRs) play an important role in facilitating this process. They conduct extensive workshops and training sessions, equipping local leaders and community members with the knowledge and tools needed to engage effectively in the planning process. Gram Sabha meetings become vibrant forums for discussion and deliberation, where ideas are shared, debated, and refined.

    The People’s Plan Campaign is more than just an administrative exercise; it is a movement towards participatory democracy and inclusive development. It empowers citizens to be active architects of their future, promotes efficient use of resources, and fosters a sense of ownership and accountability in the development process. The People’s Plan Campaign exemplifies a collaborative approach to rural development, aligning with the vision of “Viksit Panchayats for a Viksit Bharat”.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in the 114th Episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on 29.09.2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 12:09PM by PIB Delhi

    My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Once again we have the opportunity to connect in Mann Ki Baat. This episode today is going to make me emotional. It’s flooding me with a lot of old memories… The reason is that this journey of ours in Mann Ki Baat is completing 10 years. 10 years ago Mann Ki Baat started on the day of Vijayadashami on the 3rd of October. And what a divine coincidence it is that this year on the 3rd of October when 10 years of Mann Ki Baat are completed, it will be the first day of Navratri. There are many phases in this long journey of Mann Ki Baat that I can never forget. Crores of listeners of Mann Ki Baat have been our companions in this journey, whose continuous support I have kept receiving. They provided information from every corner of the country.

    The listeners of Mann Ki Baat are the real anchors of this show. A commonly held belief has become so ingrained that as long as there are no spicy or negative conversations, it does not receive much attention. But Mann Ki Baat has proved that how hungry the people of the country are, for positive information. People like positive stories, inspiring examples, encouraging stories very much. Just as there is a bird called Chakor about which it is said that it drinks only raindrops. In Mann Ki Baat we saw that like the Chakor bird, people too listen with great pride to the achievements of the country, the collective achievements of the people. The 10 year long journey of Mann Ki Baat has created a garland of sorts, in which, every episode encompasses new sagas, new records; new personalities get added. Whatever work is taking place in our society with a sense of collectiveness, it gets recognition through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. My heart also swells with pride when I read the letters that come for ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

    There are so many talented people in our country… How much passion they have, to serve the country and society. They dedicate their entire life to serving people selflessly. Knowing about them fills me up with energy. This whole process of Mann Ki Baat for me is like, going to the temple to have a Darshan of The Almighty. When I remember each and every thing, each and every incident, each and every letter connected with Mann Ki Baat, I feel as if I am having a Darshan of the Janata Janaardan, the people, who are like the Almighty to me.

    Friends, today I will appreciate all people associated with Doordarshan, Prasar Bharati and All India Radio. On account of their tireless efforts, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has reached this important milestone. I am also thankful to various TV channels, regional TV channels who have consistently broadcast it. Many media houses also ran campaigns on the issues that we raised through Mann Ki Baat. I also thank the Print media for taking it to every home. I would also like to thank those Youtubers who did many programs on Mann Ki Baat. This program can be heard in the country’s 22 languages, besides 12 foreign languages ​​as well. I love it when people say that they, listened to the Mann Ki Baat program in their local language. Many of you might know that, a quiz competition based on the Mann Ki Baat program is also going on, in which any person can take part. By visiting MyGov.in and win prizes too. Today, at this important juncture, I once again seek your blessings – With a pure heart and complete dedication… May I continue singing songs of the greatness of the people of India… May we all continue to celebrate the collective power of the nation in this way… This is my prayer to God, this is my prayer to the people.

    My dear countrymen, for the last few weeks it has been raining heavily in different parts of the country. This rainy season reminds us how important ‘water conservation’ is… how important it is to save water.

    Water saved during rainy days helps a lot during water scarcity months, and that’s the spirit of campaigns like ‘Catch The Rain’. I am happy that many people are taking new initiatives to conserve water. One such effort has been witnessed in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.

    You know that ‘Jhansi’ is in Bundelkhand, whose identity is linked with water scarcity. Here, in Jhansi, some women have given a new lease of life to the Ghurari river. These women are associated with a Self Help Group and they have led this campaign by becoming ‘Jal Saheli’. No one would have ever imagined the way these women have saved the dying Ghurari river. These Jal Saheli created a check dam by filling sand in sacks, stopped the rain water from getting wasted and filled the river to the brim with water. These women have enthusiastically contributed to the construction of hundreds of reservoirs and their revival. This has not only solved the water problem of the people of this area; Happiness too has returned to their faces.

    Friends, at some places woman power enhances water power whereas at other places water power also strengthens woman power. I have come to know about two very inspiring efforts from Madhya Pradesh. Here in Raipura Village of Dindori, construction of a large pond has raised the groundwater level considerably. The women of this village benefited from this. Here the women associated with ‘Sharada Aajeevika Self Help Group’ have also entered into a new occupation of fish farming. These women have also started a Fish Parlour where their income is also enhancing through the sale of the fish. The efforts of women in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh are also commendable. When the big pond of Khomp village started drying up, the women took the initiative to rejuvenate it. The women of ‘Hari Bagiya Self Help Group’ removed a large amount of silt from the pond… they used the silt removed from the pond on barren land to set up a fruit forest.

    Due to the hard work of these women, not only has the pond been filled with water, but the crop yield has also increased substantially. Such efforts of water conservation being done in every nook & corner of the country will prove very helpful in dealing with the water crisis. I fully trust that you too will definitely join such efforts happening around you.

    My dear countrymen, there is a border village ‘Jhala’ in Uttarkashi of Uttarakhand. The youth here have started a special initiative to keep their village clean. They are running a campaign, ‘Dhanyvaad Prakriti’ or ‘Thank you nature’ in their village. As part of this, the village is cleaned for two hours every day. The garbage scattered in the streets of the village is collected and dumped at a designated place outside the village. Due to this, Jhala village is also turning clean and people are becoming aware as well. Just imagine, if every village, every street, every locality in your area starts a similar ‘Thank You’ campaign, how much change can come about!

    Friends, a cleanliness drive is being promoted aggressively on the beach of Puducherry too. Here, a woman named Ramya ji is leading a team of youth from Mahe Municipality & its surrounding area. The people of this team, through their efforts, are cleaning the Mahe Area, especially the beaches in the vicinity.

    Friends, I have discussed only two efforts here. But if we look around, we will find that in every part of the country, some unique effort or the other is definitely going on, associated with ‘cleanliness’. Just a few days later, on the 2nd of October, the Swachh Bharat Mission is completing 10 years. This is an occassion to commend those who turned it into such a big mass movement in Indian history. It is also a befitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, who dedicated his entire life to this cause.

    Friends, today it is the success of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’ that the Waste to Wealth’ mantra is becoming popular among people. People have started talking about Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, citing their examples as well. Like I just came to know about a great effort in Kozhikode, Kerala. Here, Seventy four (74) years old Subramanian ji has repaired more than 23 thousand chairs and thus made them re-usable again. People also call him ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’, that is, RRR, (Triple R) Champion. His unique efforts can also be seen at the offices of Kozhikode Civil Station, PWD & LIC.

    Friends, we have to connect as many people as possible with the ongoing campaign for cleanliness. And this is not a campaign for one day or one year; it is a task to be undertaken continuously for ages. This is work to be done until ‘cleanliness’ becomes our nature. I request all of you to take part in the cleanliness campaign along with your family, friends, neighbors or colleagues. I once again congratulate all of you on the success of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’.

    My dear countrymen, we are all very proud of our heritage. And I always say ‘Development as well as Heritage’. That is why I am getting a lot of messages about a particular aspect of my recent visit to the US. Once again, there is a lot of discussion about the return of our ancient artefacts. I can understand your feelings about this and I would also like to tell the listeners of Mann Ki Baat about it.

    Friends, during my visit to the US, the US government has returned around… 300 Ancient Artefacts to India. US President Biden, very affectionately, showed me some of these artefacts in his private residence at Delaware. Returned Artefacts are made of materials such as Terracotta, Stone, ivory, wood, copper and bronze. Many of these are four thousand years old. The US has returned artefacts dating back to 4000 years… those from the 19th century as well.

    These include vases, terracotta plaques of gods and goddesses, statues of Jain Tirthankaras, as well as statues of Bhagwan Buddha and Bhagwan Shri Krishna are among the returned artefacts. Several animal statuettes are also among the returned items. From Jammu and Kashmir, terracotta tiles bearing male and female figures are very interesting. These include bronze idols of Bhagwan Ganesha from Southern India as well. A large number of images of Bhagwan Vishnu are also among the returned artefacts. These are mainly from Northern and Southern India. Looking at these artefacts, one realises how much attention our ancestors paid to intricate detailing. They had a great understanding of art. Many of these artefacts were taken out of the country through smuggling and other illegal means – this is a serious crime… in a way it is like destroying our heritage, but I am very happy that in the last decade, many such artefacts and many elements of our ancient heritage have been brought back home. Today, India is also working with many countries as well in this direction. I believe that when we are proud of our heritage, the world also respects it, and as a result of that, today many countries of the world are returning to us such artefacts that were taken away from here.

    My dear friends, if I ask you which language a child learns most easily and quickly – your answer will be ‘mother tongue’. In our country almost twenty thousand languages ​​and dialects are there and each one of them is surely a  mother tongue of someone or the other. There are some languages ​​which are used by very few people, but you will be happy to know that today, unique efforts are being made to preserve those languages. One such language is our ‘Santhali’ language. A campaign has been started to give a new identity to Santhali with the help of digital innovation. ‘Santhali’ is spoken by the people of the Santhal tribal community residing in many states of our country.

    Apart from India, tribal communities speaking Santhali are also present in Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. Shriman Ramjeet Tudu, resident of Mayurbhanj, Odisha is running a campaign to create an online identity of the Santhali language. Ramjeet ji has prepared a digital platform where literature related to the Santhali language can be read and written in Santhali language. Actually, a few years ago when Ramjit ji started using the mobile phone, he was saddened by the fact that he could not send messages in his mother tongue. After that, he started exploring the possibilities of typing ‘Ol Chiki’, script of the Santhali language. With the help of some of his friends, he developed the technique of typing in ‘Ol Chiki’. Today, due to his efforts, articles written in Santhali language are reaching millions of people.

    Friends, when there’s a confluence of our strong resolve and collective participation, it leads to amazing results for the entire society. Its most recent example is ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – this was an amazing campaign; such an example of public participation is truly inspiring. People in every nook & corner of the country have done wonders in this campaign which was started for conservation of the environment. Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana have created a new record by planting more saplings than the set target. Under this campaign, more than 26 crore saplings have been planted in Uttar Pradesh. The people of Gujarat planted more than 15 crore saplings. More than 6 crore saplings were planted in Rajasthan in the month of August alone. Thousands of schools in the country are also participating in this campaign with great enthusiasm.

    Friends, many examples related to tree planting campaigns keep coming to the fore in our country. One such example is that of K.N. Rajasekhar ji of Telangana. His commitment to planting trees amazes us all. About four years ago, he started a tree planting campaign. He decided that he would certainly plant a tree every day.

    He followed this campaign like a strict vow. He has planted more than 1500 saplings. The most remarkable point is that even after becoming a victim of a mishap this year, he did not waver from his resolve. I heartily appreciate all such efforts. I also request you to join this sacred campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’.

    My dear friends, you must have seen… there are some people around us who do not lose patience in any adversity, rather they learn from it. Subhashri, one such lady, with her efforts, has created a wonderful garden of rare and very useful herbs. She is a resident of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. Though she is a teacher by profession, she also has great affinity towards medicinal herbs. This affection of hers started in the eighties when her father was bitten by a poisonous snake. At that time, traditional herbs helped her father recover to quite an extent. After this incident, she started exploring traditional medicines and herbs. Today, she has a unique herbal garden in Verichiyur village of Madurai, in which there are more than 500 rare medicinal plants. She has worked very hard to prepare this garden… In search of every plant, she travelled far and wide, gathered information and many a time asked for help from other people. During Covid, she made available to the people immunity boosting herbs. Today people come from far and wide to see her herbal garden. She imparts information about herbal plants and their uses to everyone. Subashree is carrying forward our traditional heritage, which has been a part of our culture for hundreds of years. Her herbal garden connects our past to the future. Our best wishes to her.

              Friends, in these changing times, the nature of jobs is changing and new sectors are emerging… Such as gaming, animation, reel making, film making or poster making. If you can perform well in any of these skills… your talent can get a very big platform… if you are a part of a band or working for a community radio, then also there is a huge opportunity for you.

    In order to promote your talent and creativity, The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India has started 25 challenges under the theme, ‘Create in India’. You will surely find these challenges interesting. Some challenges even focus on music, education and even on anti-piracy. There are many professional organisations associated with this objective and are providing full support to these challenges. In order to participate, you can log in to wavesindia.org. I specially urge the creators in the country to ensure participation and bring their creativity to the fore.

              My dear countrymen, this month marks the culmination of 10 years of another important campaign. The success of this campaign includes the contribution of the country’s big industries as well as small shopkeepers. I am talking about ‘Make in India’. Today, it gives me immense joy to see that the poor, the middle class and MSMEs are getting a lot of benefit from this campaign. This campaign has provided an opportunity to people of every class to showcase their talent. Today, India has become a manufacturing powerhouse and it is because of the youth power of the country that the whole world is looking up to us. Be it automobiles, textiles, aviation, electronics or defence… every sector in the country’s exports are constantly on the rise. The continual rise of FDI in the country is narrating the success saga of Make In India. Now we are mainly focussing on two things… The first is ‘Quality’, that is, goods made in our country should be of global standards… and the other is ‘Vocal for Local. That means, local products should get maximum promotion. In ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we’ve also discussed #MyProductMyPride’. How the people of the country can benefit from promoting local products can be understood through an example.

    In Bhandara district of Maharashtra, there is an old textile tradition of, ‘Bhandara Tussar Silk Handloom’. Tussar Silk, is known for its colour, design and strength. In some areas of Bhandara, more than 50 ‘Self Help Groups are working to preserve it. Women have a huge participation in that. This silk is fast becoming popular and empowering local communities… and that is the spirit of ‘Make in India’.

              Friends, in this festive season you can once again reiterate your old resolves. Anything you buy, should necessarily be ‘Made in India’… Anything you gift that too should be Made In India. Merely buying earthen lamps is not ‘Vocal for Local’. You should promote local products made in your area more and more. Any such product, that has been made with the sweat of an Indian artisan, that is made on Indian soil, is our pride – we always have to lend glory to this pride.

              Friends, in this episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ I really enjoyed connecting with you. Please send us your thoughts and suggestions related to this program. I am waiting for your letters and messages. Just a few days later, the festival season is about to begin. It will begin with Navratri and then for the next two months, this atmosphere of worshipping, fasting, festivals, joy and happiness will prevail all around. I extend my greetings to all of you on the upcoming festivals. Enjoy the festivals with your family and your loved ones and include others too in your joy. Next month ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will connect with you bringing in some new topics. I thank, all of you.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrow

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrow

    Event celebrates collective efforts towards a healthier & nourished India

    More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres located across India to be inaugurated virtually

    Exhibition showcasing aspects of Mission Poshan 2.0 at venue

    Around 12 crore activities conducted in this Poshan Maah by States/UTs so far

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 10:07AM by PIB Delhi

    The closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 will be  held tomorrow,30th September, 2024 at Shaurya Sabhagaar, Ranchi in the august presence of Shri Santosh Gangwar, Governor, Jharkhand; Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development; Smt. Baby Devi, Minister, WCD&SS, Govt. of Jharkhand; Shri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State, Defence, Govt. of India; Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development; and other officers from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India and State Govt of Jharkhand.

    The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (1st-30th September, 2024), focused on Anaemia, Growth Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, and Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, along with Technology for better governance. The month-long campaign also emphasised on ‘Environmental Sustainability’ through the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative in which plantation was encouraged across all Anganwadi centres. Till date around 12 crore activities have been conducted in this Poshan Maah by States/UTs.

    Convergence with Ministries/ Departments has always been the core of Jan Andolans since nation’s first nutrition-centric Jan Andolans started in 2018, as it helps reaching out to a variety of audience especially  the grassroots.

    Saksham Anganwadis are strengthened, upgraded and rejuvenated Anganwadis for improved nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education delivery (ECCE). Some of the special features of a Saksham Anganwadi Centre include- improved infrastructure including LED screens, water filtration system for clean drinking water; material for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), BALA (Building as a Learning Aid) Paintings; and Poshan Vatika that gives access to diverse food plants and herbs that help  the mission to fight malnutrition. More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres located across India will  be inaugurated virtually during the Poshan Maah closing ceremony.

    An exhibition showcasing aspects of Mission Poshan 2.0 will also be organised by the State Govt of Jharkhand at the venue.

    The closing event of Poshan Maah 2024 celebrates the collective efforts towards a healthier and nourished India.It not only recognises the dedication of all participating states, but also underscores the vital role of stakeholders’ collaboration, strengthening the grassroots movements through continued Jan Andolans while ensuring enhanced participation of beneficiaries and communities through Saksham Anganwadi Centres. The event will be webcast across India through the weblink: https://webcast.gov.in/mwcd/ 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Modi Dedicates Bidkin Industrial Area to the Nation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Modi Dedicates Bidkin Industrial Area to the Nation

    A new era of industrial growth begins in Marathwada Maharashtra

    Bidkin Industrial Area: A catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and global competitiveness

    Set to attract over ₹56,200 crore in investments, creating 30,000+ jobs and sparking industrial excellence

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 4:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Area (BIA) in Maharashtra to the nation, marking a significant milestone in India’s industrial development. The Prime Minister joined the event virtually, while the main ceremony in Pune was attended by Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and other dignitaries. The event was webcast from Auric Hall, where Shri Atul Save, Minister of Housing & OBC Welfare, Government of Maharashtra, Dr. Bhagwat Karad, MP Rajya Sabha, and many others were present.

    The Bidkin Industrial Area, a transformative project spanning 7,855 acres, has been developed under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) as part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. Situated 20 km south of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra, this industrial hub holds immense potential to catalyze economic growth in the Marathwada region.

    Key Highlights of the Project:

    Strategic Location: Bidkin Industrial Area boasts excellent connectivity, located adjacent to NH-752E and just 35 km from the Samruddhi Mahamarg, connecting Nagpur to Mumbai. With Aurangabad railway station (20 km), Aurangabad Airport (30 km), and Jalna Dry Port (65 km) nearby, BIA is designed to offer seamless multi-modal connectivity, in line with the principles of PM GatiShakti.

    Phased Development: The Government of India approved the project with a total cost of Rs. 6,414 crore, to be developed in three phases. Phase A, covering 2,511 acres, has been prioritized with an investment of Rs. 2,427 crore. The Maharashtra Industrial Township Limited (MITL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed with a 51:49 partnership between Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT), has driven this ambitious project.

    Infrastructure Readiness: Bidkin Industrial Area is now equipped with wide roads, quality water and power supply, and advanced sewage and common effluent treatment plants. These key infrastructure works are ready for the allotment of industrial and mixed-use plots.

    Major Investments and Economic Impact

    Bidkin has already attracted significant investment interest, with notable companies like Ather Energy (100 acres), Lubrizol (120 acres), Toyota-Kirloskar (MoU for 850 acres), and JSW Green Mobility (500 acres) committing to the area. Together, these four projects alone represent a total investment of Rs. 56,200 crore, with an employment potential of over 30,000 jobs.

    In just three years since construction, a total of 1,822 acres (38 plots) have been allotted across industrial and mixed-use zones. The development of Bidkin Industrial Area is expected to have a domino effect on the socio-economic growth of the region, drawing skilled human resources and spurring rapid industrialization.

    A Step Towards Industrial Excellence

    The dedication of the Bidkin Industrial Area to the nation marks a dynamic leap in India’s journey toward becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. The project is aligned with the Government’s vision of “Make in India, Make for the World,” fostering industrial growth, economic prosperity, and sustainable development in the region.

    Prime Minister Modi emphasized that Bidkin will become a beacon of industrial excellence, generating employment, boosting exports, and contributing to the region’s overall development.

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