NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Law and Justice

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ATCM: Over 1 million Single Justice Procedure cases moved from paper to digital

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    ATCM: Over 1 million Single Justice Procedure cases moved from paper to digital

    • English
    • Cymraeg

    The Single Justice Procedure (SJP) was introduced by the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015.

    It allows prosecutors – who decide whether a case should be taken through the procedure – to deal with cases involving adult defendants accused of lesser offences that cannot result in a prison sentence, including: 

    • speeding 

    • driving without insurance 

    • TV license evasion 

    • evading train fares  

    It enables defendants, prosecutors and courts to reach a resolution to minor offences without having to attend court (unless they choose to do so). 

    A single magistrate, advised by a professional lawyer, deals with cases under SJP away from a courtroom. There’s no prosecutor or defendant present and they can deal with the case swiftly without tying up valuable court time.  

    Before 2017, SJP cases relied on paper-based processes and outdated technology meaning: 

    • court staff and magistrates manually handling lots of paper 

    • hours spent manually entering data which also increased the risk of human error 

    • inefficient sharing of information over email causing delays 

    • cost to the taxpayer associated with printing and transporting files from building to building    

    The system needed modernisation to handle summary, non-imprisonable offences more efficiently.  

    Benefits 

    By introducing Automated Track Case Management (ATCM), a digital service created to help process SJP cases on the Common Platform criminal case management system, we’ve transformed the process. This modernised, streamlined service now provides courts, prosecutors, and the public with a more efficient service. 

    Over 1.1 million SJP cases have been completed digitally between April 2017 and 31 December 2024, each benefiting through: 

    • faster justice giving prosecutors more capacity and enabling for defendants to move on more quickly with their lives 

    • quicker information sharing between court, prosecutor and defendant 

    • the ability to interact with cases more accessibly at any time and keep informed of progress 

    • greater flexibility to magistrates and court staff, enabling a more efficient running of the work coming into court 

    • better consistency of service being provided to all stakeholders, with Courts and Tribunals Service Centres dealing with day-to-day enquiries, rather than individual courts 

    • more effective use of physical court capacity providing better value for money to the taxpayer 

    • case lists published online and additional information made available to journalists, to support open justice 

    • significant reduction in the financial cost of printing and transporting paper files 

    Our digital transformation 

    ATCM represents a transformation of the SJP system. The digital platform now manages cases from initial receipt through to the magistrate’s decision, while providing transparent access to case outcomes, referrals, and costs awarded to all stakeholders in the process, as well as journalists. 

    By creating a digital platform under the Reform Programme we’ve enabled: 

    • end-to-end digital case management from beginning of the process to decision, allowing all stakeholders to access the information they need in real time 

    • direct digital case uploading by prosecutors including DVLA, TV Licensing, TfL and local police forces 

    • online plea submissions, where defendants can upload supporting information  

    • real-time tracking of the progress made by a case 

    • automated notification system for case decisions to all stakeholders involved in the process, and also to journalists 

    • journalists can obtain detailed information (prosecution facts and defence mitigation) digitally 

    • digital access for magistrates to enter decisions directly into the system 

    • integrated support from Courts and Tribunals Service Centre (CTSC) 

    This benefits a range of people involved in the process: 

    • Prosecutors including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, TV Licensing, and police forces can now upload cases directly to the system 

    • Defendants can submit pleas and access supporting information online 

    • Magistrates and legal advisers can access case details, record decisions, generate orders and notices, and update driver records all through one unified platform 

    • Journalists receive more information and do not have to travel to courts in person in order to report on cases 

    Better information sharing 

    The system’s role-based access ensures users only see information relevant to their needs, eliminating the need for paper documentation and reducing manual data entry.  

    Transparency is maintained through online publication of court lists, while journalists can access both upcoming hearing lists and court records, enabling scrutiny and reporting of outcomes to the public. 

    Take up of the digital service has been strong, with the volume of digital cases between April 2019 and March 2023 more than doubling.

    Since April 2022, 80% of people going through the single justice service are satisfied with the service they received.  

    Working together 

    We have consulted and collaborated with a number of justice partners to design, test and implement Automated Track Case Management, the digital system developed to administer Single Justice Procedure cases online: 

    • local police forces on rollout and delivery – police prosecutors are now able to upload direct to the system and self-serve 

    • all criminal justice system partners  

    • non police prosecutors (NPPs) – these are now digital by default and onboarding for NPPs will accelerate in 2025/2026 

    • Courts and Tribunals Service Centres to offer best support and advice with ongoing cases to all stakeholders 

    • magistrates, legal advisers and judiciary as a vital partner to deliver a more streamlined system 

    Getting support 

    The Courts and Tribunals Service Centres (CTSC) provide comprehensive assistance to all users. Key improvements include: 

    • dedicated support for defendants, prosecutors, and journalists 

    • consistent service levels across all interactions 

    • reduced wait times from over an hour to 15 minutes for phone queries 

    • new online self-endorsement system for driving licence details 

    Feedback and insights 

    Andrew Morris, Acting Head of Legal Operations for Wales, reflected:

    “It increases flexibility, is time efficient, more eco-friendly, and saves courtroom space for dealing with more serious offences.” 

    West Yorkshire Police Unit Operations Manager, Debbie Taylor, emphasised the impact:

    “Before ATCM and Common Platform, we did 600 SJP cases a week. In October 2024, it’s now gone up to 650 cases a week – and we are on track to increase to a thousand by June or July 2025.”   

    Future plans 

    We plan to continue to evolve the system including: 

    • completing the digital service rollout to all police forces nationwide engaging new non–police prosecutors including the Environment Agency and transport companies 

    • holding a comprehensive evaluation of the system’s sustainability and effectiveness 

    • improving media access and transparency measures – publishing more data than ever before, as well as inviting journalists to observe SJP sessions 

    • developing enhanced self-service options for users 

    • implementing continuous technological improvements 

    Stay updated 

    Keep up to date with the latest criminal court news and information by subscribing to our e-alerts and newsletters.  

    You can read more about how the Single Justice Procedure works by visiting: Explaining the Single Justice Procedure in the magistrates’ court – Inside HMCTS 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pension Age Disability Payment opens for applications in 13 local authority areas

    Source: Scottish Government

    New Scottish benefit for pensioners extends to more areas ahead of national roll out 

    A new benefit for pensioners is now open for applications in 13 more local authority areas in Scotland.   

    Pension Age Disability Payment has been extended to Aberdeenshire, Angus, Clackmannanshire, Dundee City, Falkirk, Fife, Moray, Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles), Perth and Kinross and Stirling.  

     It is also now available in all three Ayrshire local authority areas – East Ayrshire, North Ayrshire and South Ayrshire.   

    The payment first launched in five local authority areas on 21 October 2024  and will be available throughout Scotland from 22 April this year.  

    Pension Age Disability Payment is for disabled people or those with a long-term health condition that means they need help looking after themselves or supervision to stay safe. It is available to people of State Pension age and is also available to pensioners who are terminally ill.  

    It is not means-tested and is worth between £290 and £434 a month depending on the needs of the person who gets it (increasing to between £295 and £441 a month from 1 April 2025).   

    Pension Age Disability Payment is replacing Attendance Allowance from the Department for Work and Pensions in Scotland. Social Security Scotland has started transferring the awards of 169,000 people in Scotland who currently receive Attendance Allowance to the new benefit.    

    People currently getting Attendance Allowance do not need to take any action; the transfer will happen automatically in phases throughout 2025. Everyone will continue to receive their payments on time and in the right amount.   

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:  

    “I urge anyone who thinks they could be eligible for Pension Age Disability Payment to apply.

    “It is vital older people who are disabled, terminally ill people or who have care needs get the money they need to help them look after themselves, stay safe and live with dignity.

    “The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring everyone gets the financial support they’re entitled to and this has not changed following the UK Government’s announcement on welfare.”

    Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive said:

    “It’s great to see Pension Age Disability Payment being rolled out across more areas. At the Brain Health and Dementia Resource Centre, we know that living with dementia leads to extra costs so it’s important that those affected can access the financial support they need, when they need it.

    “The application support that Social Security Scotland provide is vital for people who are already dealing with the emotional and practical challenges of living with dementia.

    “The availability of this support will make a positive difference to people living with dementia, improving their ability to live well with their condition.” 

    More information about Pension Age Disability Payment including who is eligible and how to apply can be found at: www.mygov.scot/pensiondisability  

    Background  

    Pension Age Disability Payment is replacing Attendance Allowance in Scotland. People in Scotland who are getting Attendance Allowance from the Department for Work and Pensions do not need to do anything as their award transfer will happen automatically. Social Security Scotland will write to people to let them know when this is happening and when this is complete. Social Security Scotland aims to complete case transfer for everyone by the end of 2025. Until people receive the letter from Social Security Scotland to tell them their transfer is complete, they should continue to report any change in circumstances, including a terminal illness diagnosis, to the Department for Work and Pensions.

    Pension Age Disability Payment launched on 21 October 2024 in five pilot areas – Aberdeen City, Argyll and Bute, Highland, Orkney and Shetland. It has rolled out to 13 more areas – Aberdeenshire, Angus, Clackmannanshire, Dundee City, East Ayrshire, Falkirk, Fife, Moray, Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles), North Ayrshire, Perth and Kinross, South Ayrshire and Stirling. The payment will be available throughout Scotland from 22 April 2025.   

    Eligible people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness are automatically entitled to the higher rate of care and can apply under special rules for terminal illness. This means that Social Security Scotland will prioritise their application. People who are already getting Pension Age Disability Payment who later receive a terminal illness diagnosis can also report this diagnosis under the special rules for terminal illness.   

    Pension Age Disability Payment was designed with the people who will be eligible for the benefit and those who support them. Improvements include a streamlined process for people to nominate a third-party representative who can support them in their interactions with Social Security Scotland.  

    Social Security Scotland can help people to apply, with face-to-face support available from advisers based in communities across the country.  

    Help is also available from independent advocacy service Voiceability who are funded by the Scottish Government to help disabled people applying for devolved benefits.  

    Social Security Scotland also has a separate, accelerated application process for people who are terminally ill. This is open to any eligible person who has a terminal diagnosis, no matter how long they’re expected to live. This is different to the Department for Work and Pensions, who only class someone as terminally ill if they are expected to live for 12 months or less. Eligible people automatically get the highest possible amount of Pension Age Disability Payment.   

    The Scottish Government has made it easier for people to nominate someone to support them in their engagement with Social Security Scotland – something that older disabled people told us was important to them.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged following fatal stabbing in Brixton

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been charged with murder following the death of a man in Brixton.

    Ibrahim Gonclaves-Cumare, 30 (15.03.1995) of no fixed address was charged with murder on Sunday, 23 March in connection with the death of a 34-year old man who has since been formally identified as Troy Ramsundar.

    Ibrahim has been remanded in custody to appear at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 March.

    Police were called at approximately 05:10hrs on Thursday, 20 March to reports of a man suffering a stab injury in Brixton Road, SW9.

    Officers and London Ambulance Service attended but despite their efforts Troy sadly died at the scene, his family continues to receive support from specialist officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Political-Security Community met with the Head of ICRC Regional Delegation for Indonesia and Timor-Leste

    Source: ASEAN

    Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz met with Mr. Vincent Raymond Ochilet, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Regional Delegation for Indonesia and Timor-Leste at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today. They discussed efforts to foster connections and facilitate cooperation between ASEAN and its partners in advancing International Humanitarian Law through dialogue and capacity-building, including through utilising ASEAN-led mechanisms.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: AI INFRINGEMENT ALERT – NZ Authors books scraped in LibGEN dataset

    Source: New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (PEN NZ)

    NZ Authors books scraped in LibGEN dataset – NZSA condemns authors intellectual property theft
     
    March 24, 2025 – Over the weekend, The Atlantic published a search tool that allows authors around the world to check if their works have been used in LibGen, an illegal pirate site Artificial Intelligence (AI) companies copied for their AI systems.

    This is a similar tool to the one that journalist Alex Reisner made available for the Books3 AI training dataset last year, but this new list has more than 7.5 million books copied by Meta, Open AI and other AI companies for their AI systems. It is not clear whether Meta Downloaded and used every book in LibGen.

    Thousands of books by NZ writers are included in this latest theft of intellectual property by Big Tech. NZ authors average incomes from their writing is circa $16k per year (Horizon Writers Survey, 2021) and our writers should not be the ones deprived of lost revenue in the development of this new technology. Big Tech can afford to pay licence fees to legally use the content they need to train their AI language models.

    Meta and other AI companies know exactly what they are doing

    AI companies need books for their quality writing, style, expression, long-form narration and content and use this to train their AI models. It appears those companies would rather steal that content than ask and pay for the use of it, as they do all other necessary components, costs and compliance required to run their businesses, such as electricity, wages, government health and safety requirements, and programming.

    Pirate Sites Are Illegal Sources of Books for AI Training 

    Author societies around the world are collaborating with each other, publishers and governments to combat major piracy websites that cost authors millions in lost sales and licence fees.

    In the US, collective action took down Z-Library and its 250 mirror sites and successfully sued Kiss Library, and assisted publishers in actions against LibGen, resulting in blocked domains In the US and multi-million-dollar fines. These sites remain challenging to permanently eliminate as they operate from Russia or Ukraine, and quickly migrate to new domains when blocked. New Zealand currently does not have legislation that allows site blocking to protect intellectual property and our creative industries.
     
    Around the globe Copyright Law is being reviewed and updated to tackle AI development and intellectual property rights. In NZ, The Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is the Ministry responsible for the Copyright Act review. MBIE is planning to progress formal consultation in 2025 with the creative industries and the public on Copyright legislation including AI.This is demonstrably urgent.

    NZSA is collating a list of all NZ books from NZSA members and other writers affected by this latest instance of mass piracy.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (PEN NZ) strongly condemns the appropriation of New Zealand Aotearoa authors intellectual property. This unauthorised use is intellectual property theft by Big Tech that infringes existing legislation. The imbalance of power between individual authors defending their property rights versus Big Tech money and might is alarming. The unsanctioned use of work is legally indefensible, and amoral. For the creative industries of Aotearoa to thrive we need robust copyright law, protections and enforcement mechanisms, and appropriate penalties for infringement.

    Article for reference:

    How the Emerging Market for AI Training Data is Eroding Big Tech’s ‘Fair Use’ US Law Copyright Defense: https://authors.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=905a5275ec5c023659502ec21&id=badb3ee21e&e=466373ae7c
    CLNZ/NZSA position statement on AI HERE: https://authors.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=905a5275ec5c023659502ec21&id=bbcb427614&e=466373ae7c

    About NZSA
    The NZSA represents over 1,800 writers in New Zealand. We offer support through advocacy and representation, professional development, information and guidance on publishing and the literary arts, administer prizes and awards and contract/business advice. We work to protect authors incomes and offer memberships for writers at all stages of their careers, including students. Our many assessment and mentorship programmes supported by Creative New Zealand. NZSA is affiliated to International PEN, a voice that upholds freedom of speech and protests against writers falsely silenced and imprisoned around the world. NZSA collaborates across the book sector with other organisations to make NZ books and NZ writers more visible. The NZSA is a not for profit incorporated society and a registered charity in Aotearoa.
    www.authors.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Digital crime has more than doubled since 2020

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Home Affairs

    In 2024, the police registered a total of 563 633 offences under the Swiss Criminal Code (SCC). This represents an increase of about 8% over the previous year. Broken down by type of crime, the figures show a continuation of the strong upward trend in digital crime seen in recent years. There were 8% more offences against property than in 2023. Serious violent offences increased for the third year in a row (+19%). These are some of the findings of the Police Crime Statistics of the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police pleased with Fringe revellers

    Source: New South Wales – News

    South Australia Police (SAPOL) has reviewed the behaviour of 2025 Fringe Festival attendees and is pleased overall – despite the removal of 50 people from the area.

    Operation Adelaide Fringe Festival 2025 was held from 21 February to 23 March and saw the deployment of foot and bicycle patrols, along with police horses, dogs and Public Transport Safety Branch members to focus on behaviour, liquor licensing compliance, and public safety.

    The ‘Adelaide Fringe Festival 2025’ Declared Public Precinct (DPP) was also in place for a 12-hour period from 6pm to 6am every night during the Fringe period, in addition to the city-west DPP already in place.

    “The event appears to have been extremely well attended, and I am pleased, as the Police Commander, to report that despite a few minor behavioural matters, most people in attendance were extremely well behaved,” Superintendent Scott Denny said.

    “A combination of additional police, the Declared Public Precinct, the extremely well organised event and great behaviour by the public saw a very successful and entertaining Fringe event yet again.

    “Police reported that the interactions with the public were friendly which again highlights how wonderful this event is. Pleasingly there were no significant incidents of note.”

    Fringe DPP results included:

    • Number of people removed from Fringe DPP- 50
    • Number of people issued with Licensed Premises Barring Orders within DPP- 0
    • Number of expiation notices issued for Offensive/Disorderly in Fringe DPP- 8
    • Number of people searched with a metal detector in the Fringe DPP- 83
    • Number of weapons located from a metal detector search in Fringe DPP- 0
    • Number of people arrested for breaching of Fringe DPP- 1
    • Number of people arrested/reported in Fringe DPP- 6

    Anecdotally, police reported large numbers of the public in the CBD each night, swelling extensively in the East End on Friday and Saturday nights being the peak times for the demand of police resources. Festival organisers announced the sale of one million tickets for the 2025 event.

    “Thank you to all involved in keeping festival goers safe for another year,” Superintendent Denny added.

    “It’s great to see the city come alive with many locals and visitors, and we look forward to being part of next year’s event.”

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man in custody following threats made, Sydenham

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Superintendent Lane Todd, Canterbury Metro Area Commander:

    One man has been taken into custody without incident in Sydenham after making threats earlier this afternoon.

    The address will now be cleared as a precaution to ensure there is no ongoing risk to the public before cordons are stood down.

    Police would like to thank the Sydenham community for their patience and understanding as we worked through the afternoon to resolve this safely for all.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road Closed, SH1, Taihape

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway One is closed following a serious crash this evening.

    Emergency services were alerted to the single vehicle crash near Spooners Hill Road at around 4.40pm.

    Two people are reported to have injuries.

    The road is closed while emergency services are at the scene and diversions are in place.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Security of payment: preventing enforcement of adjudicated amounts to contractors in precarious financial positions

    Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

    Stays granted even if contractors are not insolvent 6 min read

    The Queensland Supreme Court has granted a stay preventing enforcement of a judgment debt obtained by a contractor in reliance upon an adjudication decision pursuant to the Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act 2017 (Qld) (BIF Act).

    In this Insight, we consider Taringa Property Group Pty Ltd v Kenik Pty Ltd [2024] QSC 327 and similar cases in NSW and Victoria, with a focus on two key questions:

    • can contractors in liquidation benefit from security of payment legislation?
    • how do courts approach stay applications made by the principal where the contractor is solvent, but in a precarious financial position?

    Key takeaways 

    • Taringa Property Group is a welcome development for principals in Queensland as it lays the foundation for seeking a stay, even when a contractor is not in liquidation.
    • Insolvency remains a major challenge for contractors, who may now experience more difficulties in enforcing payment of adjudicated amounts which can, in turn, exacerbate cash flow problems.
    • Courts maintain a wide discretion and will consider each stay application on its own facts and circumstances—however, a major consideration is how long the stay will likely be.
    • We expect to see an increase in security of payment adjudication and related court litigation as a result of the likely reforms in Victoria.

    Taringa Property Group Pty Ltd v Kenik Pty Ltd [2024] QSC 327

    TPG (Principal) engaged Kenik (Contractor) to design and construct a retail complex at Taringa.

    The contract ended in August 2023 and the Contractor made a final payment claim in September 2023 for $9.7 million. Following the Principal issuing a payment schedule (with a scheduled amount of nil), the Contractor made an adjudication application under the BIF Act, where the adjudicator awarded the Contractor $4.2 million. The Contractor obtained judgment in respect of the adjudicated amount.

    The Principal commenced two applications in the Queensland Supreme Court:

    • First, seeking to have the adjudication decision declared void for jurisdictional error or, in the alternative, a stay of the judgment debt.
    • Second, seeking final relief relating to the contract (specifically, that the Contractor is not entitled to retain the adjudicated amount).

    The court warned that considerable caution should be given to the granting of the stay as it detracts from the primary purpose of the BIF Act in enabling a contractor to be paid.1 Any risk of non‑recovery of payments made under the BIF Act as a consequence of the financial failure of the contractor after the receipt of the BIF payment is generally to lie with the principal.2

    The court gave three examples of circumstances of when a stay might be granted:3

    • where the contractor has taken steps to make the task of recovering any BIF payment more difficult for the principal by way of restructuring its financial affairs;
    • where the contractor engages in tactics to delay the resolution of the substantive proceeding;4 or
    • where the contractor is in liquidation or in some form of external administration due to liquidity issues at the time the BIF payment would otherwise be made.

    Essentially, there needs to be a real risk that the Principal will suffer prejudice or damage if a stay is not granted. However, Justice Hindman rejected the proposition that the risk must reach the level of certainty before a stay might be granted—in other words, the threshold is not so high that the contractor must actually be in external administration or must be positively proved to be hopelessly or otherwise insolvent.5

    Justice Hindman found ‘undisputed’ evidence of serious financial instability and that, if a stay is granted, the Contractor is most likely to financially fail.6 It was further observed that, even if it received the adjudicated amount, the Contractor was still likely to go into external administration as it would be insufficient to satisfy its debts.

    The court concluded that if the stay was refused, there would be a very high risk that the Contractor would not be able to repay the adjudicated amount should the Principal succeed in its claim for final relief. The practical effect of refusing the stay would be to transform the Contractor’s interim entitlement under the BIF Act into a final payment, unable to be recovered by the Principal, and at odds with the intended operation of the BIF Act.

    In a separate proceeding following this decision, a creditor of the Contractor successfully obtained an order that the Contractor be wound up.7

    The decision is currently under appeal.

    Discussion 

    Insolvency has been a major challenge for contractors, who are experiencing obstacles at every turn—high inflation, regulatory reforms, supply-chain issues, delayed effects of the pandemic, labour shortages etc. The main purpose of the BIF Act (and equivalent acts) is to help contractors be paid for the work they do, so stays to delay payment to contractors may have significant consequences and could potentially increase insolvency rates in the industry.

    New South Wales

    Since 2019, NSW has had a prohibition on companies in liquidation using the security of payment process8—the only jurisdiction in Australia to have such an express carveout. Companies in liquidation may not serve or enforce payment claims, or make applications for adjudication of a payment claim.

    Where contractors are not in liquidation, courts have been cautious in light of the policy of the statute and have undertaken a close analysis of the extent or certainty of the risk of prejudice or damage if a stay is not granted. Nevertheless, courts have been ready and willing to grant stays if the failure to do so would have the practical effect of making permanent that which, clearly enough, the legislature intended to be only interim.9

    Recently, the NSW Supreme Court noted that, although it does make it harder to obtain a stay when the contractor is not in liquidation, it by no means follows that a stay cannot be obtained unless it is.10

    The court further observed that:

    ‘up to a point, the more financial difficulty the contractor is in, the less reason there is for granting a stay, as the more likely it will be that the grant of such a stay will result in the contractor being deprived of the cashflow which is needed to sustain its operations. It is only when insolvency becomes inevitable, or at least highly probable, that the dynamics reverse because of the possibility that an interim payment will effectively become final.’11

    Indeed, in another recent decision, the court considered that even a ‘significant risk’ was not sufficiently certain of financial difficulty such that a stay should be granted.12 We note, however, in that case the contractor continued to trade, unlike the contractor in Taringa Property Group.

    The decision in Taringa Property Group, although the first of its kind in Queensland, is consistent with the approach taken in NSW.

    Victoria

    Victorian principals can still run the argument that contractors in liquidation may not use the payment regime, though this is unlikely to be without serious consideration by the courts due to conflicting decisions on this issue.13

    There is also a question of whether, in seeking a stay against a contractor who is not in liquidation, a principal is required to show that there is more than a real risk the contractor would not be able to repay the adjudicated amount in order to succeed.14

    At least one decision has granted such a stay, without requiring that higher standard.15 In that case, the stay was justified—save the fact of the parlous financial circumstances of the contractor—on the basis that it would be limited in time, and therefore minimal in the prejudice it caused the contractor.16 The likely takeaway is that, where the court is able to grant the stay on conditions or for a limited time period, application of a higher standard in the form of more than a real risk may be less relevant.

    On a wider note, principals in Victoria should be prepared to engage in more and broader adjudications in the near future as a result of the likely reforms to the current Victorian act. Consequently, it is expected that there will be an increase in proceedings seeking final determination of rights under contract and corresponding stay applications.

    To read more about Victoria’s proposed reforms, including the removal of Victoria’s unique ‘excluded amounts’ regime, removal of the concept of ‘reference dates’, an introduction of a blackout period and the introduction of a new provision allowing notice-based time bars to be declared unfair, see Government support for security of payment reform in Victoria.

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: South Wairarapa homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now release the name of the man who died after being shot in Featherston on Saturday 22 March.

    He was 23-year-old Doreion Peri Ropata Hard, from Masterton.

    Two men, aged 23 and 25, appeared in the Wellington District Court today, charged with murder.

    They will next appear in the High Court at Wellington, on 11 April.

    Further charges are being considered against the pair.

    Police are still appealing for anyone with information to please speak to us.

    If you have any information that may assist, please contact us via 105 either over the phone or online.

    Please reference Operation Ascot – reference number 250322/8281.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Tennis pros rally for better pay and less punishing schedules, amid wider power struggles in world sport

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Windholz, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University

    Last week, the Novak Djokovic-led Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) announced it was suing the sport’s governing bodies – the men’s (ATP) and women’s (WTA) tours, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).

    The lawsuit:

    • seeks to change the prize money formula designed by the men’s and women’s tours (the PTPA says too little of the sport’s revenue goes to players)
    • aims to improve the “unsustainable” 11-month calendar and match schedules that often keep players on court well past midnight
    • alleges a “heavy-handed approach” by the ITIA
    • criticises the sport’s rankings system
    • wants to boost the number of combined men’s-women’s events.

    The union, cofounded by Djokovic five years ago, also alleges “anti-competitive practices and a blatant disregard for player welfare”.

    The lawsuit is just one example of a battle for control of international sport – the outcome of which will shape sport for years to come.

    The power of sport governing bodies

    Sport’s international governing bodies – such the International Olympic Committee, soccer’s governing body the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and, in the case of tennis, the ATP, WTA and ITF – are masters of their domains.

    These bodies exercise great power and autonomy over the competitions they administer. They determine who competes in their competitions, when and where, as well as rules and policies.

    These rules cover tournament schedules, player eligibility and anti-doping policies. Players, teams and even countries that breach these rules are subject to penalties including expulsion from competitions.

    Governments have largely been willing partners in this. They have respected the autonomy of these governing bodies and assisted them where necessary by, for example, hosting their mega-events such as the Olympics, World Cups and Grand Slam tournaments.

    However, this is changing.

    A changing landscape

    As shown by the PTPA lawsuit, players are seeking a greater share of sports’ economic pie, better working conditions, more freedom in selecting where and when they play, and a greater say in how their sports are run.

    Private investors also are seeking to share in the money being made from sport by establishing rival competitions.

    These include the Wall Street-backed, but ultimately ill-fated, European Super League (soccer); the International Swimming League, funded by billionaire swimming fan Konstantin Grigorishin; and the Saudi-Arabia backed LIV Golf tour.

    In response, some fans and lower-level teams are organising to protect their clubs from the influx of private money.

    In the United Kingdom, this has resulted in proposed legislation to establish an independent regulator of football.

    And all of this is occurring in the shadow of a broader geopolitical restructuring in which the West’s traditional hegemony over sport is being challenged by the wealth of the Gulf states, the assertiveness of authoritarian regimes, and the emerging economies of the Global South.

    The result is a contest for control between actors and forces, both powerful and passionate.

    The outcome of this contest is important because sport is a generator of significant economic activity (a recent study estimated the global sport industry to be the ninth largest industry on earth) and an important vehicle for driving social change – both of which also make it politically important.

    What does the future hold?

    When confronted with forces for change, sport governing bodies generally go through a three-stage process of denial (rejecting the need for change), resistance (fighting the change), and adaptation (conceding some autonomy while retaining ultimate control).

    The tennis dispute is travelling this well-worn path. Tennis’s governing bodies have denied the PTPA a seat at the table, so the PTPA is now taking the matter to court (early indications are tennis’s governing bodies will fight it vigorously).

    Predicting the outcome of litigation is fraught. However, sport governing bodies do not have a strong record defending the use of their power before the courts.

    Courts are more independent and less deferential towards sport governing bodies than the political arms of government.

    Recent decisions from the Court of Justice of the European Union offer evidence of this. It applied EU competition law to constrain the power of sport governing bodies to:

    • prevent third parties organising rival sporting competitions
    • restrict athletes’ freedom of movement.

    Another example comes from the United States, where the Supreme Court struck down as an antitrust (competition) law violation, rules that limited the benefits student-athletes can receive for playing.

    This litigation led the governing body of collegiate sport, the National Collegiate Athletic Association, to propose a US$2.8 billion (A$4.45 billion) settlement that will allow colleges to pay their student-athletes.

    As for tennis, settlement of the PTPA litigation is possible, notwithstanding the current rhetoric.

    Indeed, some form of adaptation of sports’ governing bodies to accommodate the various forces and interests at play is the most likely outcome.

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

    – ref. Tennis pros rally for better pay and less punishing schedules, amid wider power struggles in world sport – https://theconversation.com/tennis-pros-rally-for-better-pay-and-less-punishing-schedules-amid-wider-power-struggles-in-world-sport-252721

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Miramar unexplained death: Runner, pedestrian may hold critical details

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard:

    Police investigating the unexplained death of a man in Miramar want to hear from two members of the public who may have critical information.

    Abdul Nabizadah, 63, was located with serious head injuries at the intersection of Camperdown Road and Totara Road, about 2.20am on 17 March. Mr Nabizadah was found by Police carrying out area enquiries following a serious burglary that happened a short distance away about 20 minutes earlier.

    Sadly, Mr Nabizadah died in hospital the following day.

    Police would like to hear from two individuals, who may have details that are critical to the investigation.

    At 12.28am, a man was seen walking down Camperdown Road from Totara Street and turned right in to Darlington Road from Totara Street.  The man was wearing a light-coloured top and dark pants.

    We know Mr Nabizadah arrived in Totara Street in his silver-coloured Toyota Aqua, registration NQE681, at 12.25am, so this man may well have seen Mr Nabizadah and or his vehicle.

    At 1.30am, a man in fitness clothing or activewear was seen running south on Darlington Road. The man crossed the Camperdown Road intersection around that time. The man was wearing a blue shirt, and we need to hear from him.

    Police have been making a number of enquiries into the victim’s unexplained death, and the parallel investigation into a burglary in Darlington Road at 2am, during which an intruder was disturbed by the property’s occupants.

    We are still seeking dashcam footage from anyone in the Miramar area from midnight to 3am. It’s likely there were people out and about at that time, or people commuting to or from work.

    If you can help

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250317/6324, or reference Operation Celtic.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search continues for woman missing on Flinders Island

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Search continues for woman missing on Flinders Island

    Monday, 24 March 2025 – 2:20 pm.

    Police are continuing to search the Flinders Island area for 68-year-old Victoria Jean Paine.
    The White Beach resident has not been seen or heard from since Wednesday 19 March and there are concerns for her welfare.
    Police from Flinders Island and Launceston along with SES volunteers, and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter have been involved in searches over the weekend.
    The search will continue today, including a targeted ground search and sea search utilising police divers on Police Vessel Cape Wickham. 
    Anyone with information or who may have been contacted by Victoria after 2pm Wednesday should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following crash, Taupō

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Fane Troy

    Taupo Police investigating a serious crash in Rangitaiki, Taupō are seeking information from members of the public about events leading up to the crash.

    At around 10:30am on Sunday 23 March, Police were called to a two-vehicle crash involving a van and a car on State Highway 5 near Rangitaiki School Road.

    Eleven people were transported to hospital as a result of the crash. None of these injuries are thought to be life threatening.

    The driver of the van appeared in the Tauranga District Court today and is set to reappear on Wednesday 26 March.

    Police would like to speak to the driver of a vehicle that was overtaken by a White Toyota Hiace van moments before the crash.

    Anybody else who witnessed the crash, or has any dashcam footage of the van, is encouraged to contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online.

    Please reference the file number 250323/1172.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Investigation team calling for information about former police officer

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Investigation team calling for information about former police officer

    Monday, 24 March 2025 – 1:08 pm.

    As was announced on 26 February, Tasmania Police is conducting an investigation into former police officer Dale Cook, who has been charged with allegedly accessing child exploitation material.
    Acting Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said the investigation is examining Cook’s entire career to determine whether he used his position as a police officer to commit child sexual abuse crimes or any other criminal offending and identify any misconduct during his employment with Tasmania Police.
    “The investigation has independent oversight by the Integrity Commission and is being run concurrently with the criminal case he is currently facing charges over,” Acting Commissioner Higgins said.
    “We strongly encourage anyone with information to come forward, as every piece of information, no matter how small, can be key to the outcome of an investigation.”
    “The investigators would like to hear from anyone with information by 5 May 2025, however information after this time will of course still be examined.”
    “The specialist investigation team recognises the need to offer choice and confidentiality to anyone wanting to provide information.”
    There are several ways information can be provided to investigators.
    This includes:

    Sending a direct email to the investigation team at cookinvestigation@police.tas.gov.au
    Submitting an online form which allows you the option or remaining anonymous, or providing your details if you are willing to be contacted.
    Submitting a report to the Tasmania Police Professional Standards online portal.
    If you would like to meet in person, contact the investigation team at cookinvestigation@police.tas.gov.au and they will arrange this at a time and place that ensures confidentiality.

    “An important part of the investigation is also receiving any relevant information from people who have previously been in the workplace with Dale Cook, and our staff are being contacted to facilitate this.”

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: (WIP) High Court says no to travelling Group Costs Orders

    Source: Allens Insights (legal sector)

    Impact on class action landscape: Victoria’s magnet effect 7 min read

    In the first of a string of upcoming decisions about the class action landscape, the High Court of Australia handed down judgment in Bogan v Smedley on 12 March 2025.1 The Court held that a group costs order (GCO) made in a class action commenced in the Supreme Court of Victoria could not travel to the Supreme Court of New South Wales and that, consequently, neither could the proceeding.

    Key takeaways 

    • GCOs will anchor proceedings to Victoria. Proceedings commenced in the Supreme Court of Victoria are likely to remain there once a GCO has been made—irrespective of whether another jurisdiction is the more appropriate forum, and particularly where the survival of the proceeding depends on the GCO.
    • Timing of challenge is critical. Businesses facing a class action in the Supreme Court of Victoria should give early consideration, prior to any GCO being made, to whether it is appropriate to make an application to transfer the proceeding to another jurisdiction.
    • The evolving funding landscape. While the decision consolidates Victoria’s position as a magnet for class action activity, the Federal Court is likely to remain the preferred jurisdiction for class action filings, a trend that can be seen in our recent report on class action risk.

    Background

    The legislative regime

    Group costs orders

    In every state and territory across Australia, legislation prohibits a law practice from charging contingency fees. Since July 2020, however, Victorian legislation has contained an exception for GCOs—orders allowing the representatives of plaintiffs in a class action to recover as costs a specified percentage of any award or settlement obtained in the proceeding.

    To make a GCO, the Supreme Court of Victoria must be satisfied that it is ‘appropriate or necessary to ensure that justice is done in the proceeding’.2

    Transfer of proceedings

    At the heart of this proceeding was s1337H(2) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), which allows a court to transfer a proceeding to another court if it appears to the first court that, ‘having regard to the interests of justice’, it is more appropriate for the second court to determine the matter.

    Notably, this provision only applies to a proceeding with respect to a civil matter arising under, relevantly, the Corporations Act or the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001 (Cth) (ASIC Act).

    The Arrium proceeding

    On 14 August 2020, a class action was commenced in the Supreme Court of Victoria against the directors of Arrium Ltd (Arrium) and its auditor, alleging contraventions of the Corporations Act, the ASIC Act and the Australian Consumer Law. There was evidence that the proceeding was originally intended to be filed in the Supreme Court of New South Wales, where Arrium had its principal place of business and where the relevant events had largely taken place. The High Court inferred that the ultimate choice to file in Victoria rather than NSW was to take advantage of the availability of GCOs.

    The plaintiffs applied for a GCO on 2 February 2021. On 26 February 2021, one of the defendants applied to transfer the proceeding to the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

    The Supreme Court of Victoria made orders that the GCO application be determined first, before the transfer application. As noted by the High Court, no objection was taken to that order at the time. A GCO was then made in favour of the plaintiffs’ solicitors entitling them to 40% of any award or settlement (the Arrium GCO).

    The transfer application was not ultimately dealt with by the Supreme Court of Victoria. Instead, three questions arising on that application were removed to the Victorian Court of Appeal:

    1. whether the Arrium GCO would remain in force if the proceeding were transferred to the Supreme Court of New South Wales;
    2. if not, whether the absence of the Arrium GCO in the Supreme Court of New South Wales was a relevant factor to the transfer application; and
    3. whether the proceeding should be transferred.

    Decision of the Victorian Court of Appeal

    In respect of those questions, the Victorian Court of Appeal unanimously held that:

    1. the Arrium GCO would not remain in force if the proceeding were transferred to the Supreme Court of New South Wales;
    2. this was relevant to (and decisive of) the transfer application; and
    3. the proceeding should not be transferred.

    The same questions were subsequently removed to the High Court for determination.

    Summary of findings

    A majority of the High Court (Chief Justice Gageler, Justices Gordon, Gleeson, Jagot and Beech-Jones ) and Justice Edelman (in separate reasons) reached the same conclusion on each question as the Court of Appeal. Justice Steward disagreed on the second question, holding that the availability or not of a GCO in the Supreme Court of New South Wales was not relevant to the transfer application.

    Would the Arrium GCO remain in force in NSW?

    The parties agreed that the Supreme Court of New South Wales had no power to make an order in the nature of the Arrium GCO. The issue for the High Court instead turned on whether a provision of the Corporations Act would give legal force to the Arrium GCO if the proceeding were transferred.

    The High Court held that it would not. To the contrary, the provision could only apply if the Supreme Court of New South Wales had power to make an order providing for at least ‘similar steps’ to the Arrium GCO. The parties agreed it did not have that power and, accordingly, the Arrium GCO could not be carried into NSW. 

    Was the absence of the Arrium GCO relevant to the transfer application?

    The majority held that the absence of the Arrium GCO could not be ignored in considering whether transfer to NSW was in ‘the interests of justice’. Importantly, it was agreed between the parties that there was not a realistic prospect of alternative funding being obtained in the absence of the Arrium GCO. In this regard the majority stated that the capacity of the plaintiffs and class members to obtain access to justice ‘bear[s] vitally’ on the interests of justice,4 a sentiment echoed by Justice Edelman.5 In the views of the majority and Justice Edelman, these matters were decisive of the transfer application because, on the facts of the case, there was a ‘considerable risk’ that the proceeding would not be able to continue without the GCO.6

    By contrast, Justice Steward held that the Arrium GCO was not relevant to, and so not determinative of, the transfer application. His Honour disagreed with the majority on the basis that a GCO offers a plaintiff an advantage (a way of ensuring the financial viability of a proceeding) and imposes on a defendant a corresponding disadvantage (being subjected to a proceeding which would not be viable in any other jurisdiction). To consider the Arrium GCO a relevant factor would, in his Honour’s view, be for the court to ‘play favourites’.7 As his Honour noted, NSW did not cease to be a place where the plaintiffs could obtain justice merely because Victoria introduced laws introducing an exception to an otherwise national ban on contingency fees, and nor did those laws mean NSW was not a suitable forum in which to litigate class actions.

    Will a GCO always anchor proceedings to Victoria?

    The majority also noted that common factors bear on the determination of GCO applications and transfer applications. As noted above, the former involves consideration of whether the GCO is appropriate or necessary to ensure that justice is done, while the latter involves an inquiry into ‘the interests of justice’. While the High Court stopped short of articulating a general rule, its reasoning suggests that where a GCO has been made (because the court is satisfied that it is appropriate or necessary to ensure that justice is done), that will tend in favour of it being in the interests of justice that the proceeding remains in Victoria.

    Looking ahead

    One route not taken by the parties in this case was to challenge the sequence in which the Supreme Court of Victoria dealt with the GCO and transfer applications. If the transfer application was heard before the making of the GCO, the transfer application would have been decided by reference only to the connections the proceeding had to Victoria and NSW respectively. It remains to be seen what the attitude of the courts will be to that kind of challenge, however, it may be one strategy open to parties faced with similar circumstances in future.

    The majority’s reasoning also suggests a potential shift in the High Court’s approach to considering factors relevant to the ‘interests of justice’ and similar assessments. The High Court previously held that whether an action can proceed is not relevant to that inquiry.8 By contrast, in Bogan v Smedley, the majority and Justice Edelman held that whether the action could proceed was relevant to an inquiry into whether the transfer was ‘in the interests of justice’. As further matters come before the High Court which require a similar analysis, it will be interesting to monitor the extent to which the Court considers the survival of a proceeding to be relevant to ‘ensuring justice is done’.

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Yangtze River Delta witnesses progress in green, integrated ecological development

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

    Yangtze River Delta witnesses progress in green, integrated ecological development

    Updated: March 24, 2025 08:55 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on March 17, 2025 shows a bridge on Yuandang Lake linking Wujiang District of Suzhou City in east China’s Jiangsu Province and Qingpu District of east China’s Shanghai. Through joint protection and governance, the lake has now become a tourist attraction. In recent years, Wujiang District of Suzhou City has worked together with Qingpu District of Shanghai and Jiashan County of Zhejiang Province to promote green development through joint protection and governance of ecological environment, intelligent management and setting up emission trading systems, as part of a campaign to accelerate the construction of demonstration zones for green and integrated ecological development of the Yangtze River Delta. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on March 17, 2025 shows a bridge on Yuandang Lake linking Wujiang District of Suzhou City in east China’s Jiangsu Province and Qingpu District of east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Waterfowls are pictured on Yuandang Lake in east China on March 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members from ecological environment departments in Wujiang District of Suzhou City in Jiangsu Province, Qingpu District of Shanghai and Jiashan County of Zhejiang Province conduct joint water quality monitoring on the Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province, March 18, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on March 17, 2025 shows a bridge on Yuandang Lake linking Wujiang District of Suzhou City in east China’s Jiangsu Province and Qingpu District of east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Law enforcement officers from ecological environment departments in Wujiang District of Suzhou City of Jiangsu Province, Qingpu District of Shanghai and Jiashan County of Zhejiang Province check monitoring equipment at an industrial waste water treatment plant in Wujiang District of Suzhou City in Jiangsu Province, March 18, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on March 17, 2025 shows a staff member checking an automatic water quality monitoring station by the Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone patrols to collect data for an intelligent management platform developed to protect the environment of the Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province, March 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on March 18, 2025 shows cargo ships sailing on Fenhu section of Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province. Taipu River, which originates from Taihu Lake in the west and flows into Huangpu River in the east, is a key river in the demonstration zones for green and integrated ecological development of the Yangtze River Delta. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member introduces an intelligent management platform developed to protect the environment of the Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province, March 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members from the environmental monitoring station of Wujiang test waste water samples collected at an industrial waste water treatment plant in Wujiang District of Suzhou City in Jiangsu Province, March 18, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on March 18, 2025 shows a view of Taipu River in Wujiang District of Suzhou City, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following fatal crash, Whakatane

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Sergeant Shane Tailby, Eastern Bay of Plenty Road Policing:

    Police are appealing for information following a fatal crash in Whakatane yesterday, (Sunday 23 March).

    Around 4:55pm Police responded to Ohope Road after a car and a motorbike collided.

    It appears the motorbike has been travelling at speed around the corner where they have slid out onto their side into the opposite lane, a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction has then struck the motorbike, with the impact resulting in the car flipping onto its roof.

    The motorbike rider was located in a critical condition and CPR was commenced, however sadly they died at the scene.

    The driver was taken to Whakatane Hospital with minor injuries, and was discharged last night.

    The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing and Police are asking anyone that witnessed the crash or has information that may assist in our investigation to contact Police.

    You can report information to us via 105 either online or over the phone. Please reference file number: 250323/2112.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Invercargill Police appealing for information following aggravated robbery

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are appealing for information following an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises in Invercargill.

    At around 3.30am this morning, Police were alerted to four people entering a store on North Road with two armed with knives and another with a trye iron.

    The group targeted cigarettes and tobacco before fleeing the area in a vehicle.

    Thankfully, the two store employees are uninjured however they are understandably shaken by the incident.

    Invercargill Police would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed the aggravated robbery or may have information that could assist in our investigation.

    Police would also like to hear from anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage in the North Road area between 12am and 5am this morning.

    Anyone who may have information that can assist Police in our investigation is urged to contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please use the reference number 250324/2633.

    Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 11

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged after police seize shortened semi-automatic rifle from vehicle

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Man charged after police seize shortened semi-automatic rifle from vehicle

    Monday, 24 March 2025 – 10:19 am.

    A man has been charged with multiple firearms and drug-related offences after police seized a shortened semi-automatic rifle and a significant quantity of cash during a vehicle search at Westbury yesterday.
    Uniform officers from Central North attempted to intercept a vehicle on Mary Street before locating the vehicle parked behind a Westbury business.
    The driver – a 33 year old Kings Meadows man- was drug tested and returned a positive result.
    During a subsequent search of his vehicle, police located and seized a shortened semi-automatic rifle, quantities of methylamphetamine, illegal stimulants and prescription drugs and more than $120,000 in cash believed to be proceeds of crime.
    The driver was charged with multiple firearm and drug-related offences, including possess prohibited firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued, possess shortened firearm, possess controlled drug and dealing with property suspected of being proceeds of crime.
    He was detained to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court today.

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Firearms and ammunition surrendered to police during amnesty drive

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Firearms and ammunition surrendered to police during amnesty drive

    Monday, 24 March 2025 – 11:10 am.

    Police continue to encourage Tasmanians to surrender illegal or unwanted firearms and related items, after eight firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were surrendered as part of a mobile amnesty drive over the weekend. 
    “As part of a firearms amnesty drive across the state over the weekend, eight firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were surrendered to police,” said Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar.
    “This is eight firearms now out of our community that can’t get into the wrong hands and be used to commit crime or cause harm.” 
    Included in the surrendered firearms were one shotgun, three rifles, two air rifles, one pistol and one gel blaster that has the appearance of a firearm. 
    “While it’s pleasing that people surrendered these items, we know there continues to be people in our community that have illegal or unwanted firearms, which is a concern.” 
    “Under Tasmania’s permanent firearms amnesty you can surrender illegal or unwanted firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, or gel blasters that have the appearance of a firearm at any time without fear of being prosecuted for the possession.” 
    “If you have items to surrender, or you know of someone who has illegal firearms, please contact police on 131 444.” 
    Crime Stoppers Tasmania Ambassador, Mark Mewis said, “if you suspect that someone has an illegal firearm or ammunition, you can help keep your community safe by sharing what you know with Crime Stoppers.” 
    “The public can provide information anonymously to Crime Stoppers, safely and without the need to say who you are, get involved, or put yourself at risk of harm. Submit your tip at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000,” added Mr Mewis.”

    MIL OSI News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Serious crash, Symonds Street

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police remain at the scene of an earlier crash in Symonds Street.

    We can now advise five people sustained injuries following the single vehicle crash.

    One person was transported to hospital in a critical condition and four others suffered moderate to minor injuries.

    Police are aware of speculations surrounding the cause of the crash.

    This remains under investigation, however at this early stage we believe drugs or alcohol may have been a factor.

    Symonds Street remains closed from Wellesley Street to Grafton Road and diversions are in place.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Symonds Street

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash in Auckland Central.

    The crash, on Symonds Street, was reported to Police just after midday.

    At this early stage it appears a vehicle has collided with a tree and a pedestrian.

    One person has been transported to hospital in a critical condition and two other people have suffered moderate injuries.

    Symonds Street is closed from Wellesley Street to Grafton Road and diversions are in place.

    Motorists are advised to expect delays.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fraudulent asbestos removals catch up with industry veteran

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    24 March 2025

    Solid ethics and legal compliance must underpin the asbestos industry, WorkSafe New Zealand says, after an unlicensed asbestos remover was sentenced for pocketing more than $20,000 by misrepresenting his employer.

    Barrie John Crockett was in a project management role at Demasol Limited. Between December 2021 and June 2022, Mr Crockett used Demasol’s name and letterhead to invoice three customers who paid into his personal bank account for work totalling $21,938. A dissatisfied customer contacted Demasol, leading to an investigation that revealed the illegal activity following Mr Crockett’s redundancy in May 2022.

    As Demasol was not involved in the work, it cannot give any assurance that the asbestos removal was carried out in line with the regulatory requirements. It also remains unclear exactly where the removed asbestos was disposed.

    “Not only is this dangerous work for an unlicensed person to do, but someone like Mr Crockett who had worked in the industry for over 25 years should have known far better. This type of criminal behaviour is not worth the risk because offenders will be held responsible,” says WorkSafe’s Head of Authorisations and Advisory, Kate Morrison.

    Most asbestos removals need to be carried out by a licensed asbestos remover, and the work must be notified to WorkSafe under the under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.

    “Licensing exists for a reason and removal work is tightly regulated to ensure safety. Circumventing the rules is both reckless and deceitful when the harm done by asbestos exposure is well known. An estimated 220 people die each year from preventable asbestos-related diseases in New Zealand. A system with trained and qualified people to remove this dangerous material is critical to better safety for workers and all New Zealanders,” says Kate Morrison.

    Asbestos fibres can be blown a long way from a poorly managed removal site. The airborne fibres are so small they’re invisible to the naked eye, and can cause harm when breathed in. There are no safe levels of exposure, so there are no excuses for not managing asbestos safely.

    High-risk activities including asbestos removal are a priority focus within WorkSafe’s new strategy. We are focusing particularly on high-risk sectors and high-risk activities which may result in acute, chronic or catastrophic harm.

    Read about WorkSafe’s priority plan for Permitting
    Read WorkSafe’s latest guidance on managing asbestos

    Background

    • Barrie Crockett was sentenced at Auckland District Court on 21 March 2025.
    • An order to pay $15,000 in reparations was imposed, alongside a sentence of 140 hours community work.
    • Barrie Crockett was charged under sections 240(1)(a) and 241(a) of the Crimes Act 1961
      • By deception and without claim of right, obtained possession of a pecuniary advantage, namely $21,938.75
    • The maximum penalty is seven years imprisonment.

    Media contact details

    For more information you can contact our Media Team using our media request form. Alternatively:

    Email: media@worksafe.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 90 recruits join Wing 386

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The 90 recruits of Wing 386, alongside their patron Dame Noeline Taurua, were welcomed to the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) last week.

    “The constabulary recruiting team has worked incredibly hard to deliver 90 recruits onto Wing 386 and we are really happy to have increased our wing capacity sooner than initially planned,” 500 Programme Director, Superintendent Kelly Ryan says.

    “Other groups within Police providing specialist services to some of our recruiting processes such as Emergency Communication Centre, Vetting and Safer People have provided additional support to make this possible.”

    Last year Police announced it would increase the potential capacity of recruit wings at the RNZPC from 80 to 100 from April 2025. The change was in response to a major surge in applications and will help ensure quality applicants move through the pipeline and into training faster.

    Since the announcement, changes have been made to the RNZPC to facilitate the larger wings.

    “Enabling even 10 more recruits to join a wing is a significant jump and required a lot of planning and additional support for training. We look forward to welcoming even more recruits in our wings of up to 100 in the months ahead,” Superintendent Ryan says.

    “The median time between application and starting at RNZPC has already reduced by more than 90 days over the last year.

    “We’re focused on making sure our process is fit-for-purpose, so applicants flow through each step quickly and our standards continue to be robust.”

    The increased capacity at the RNZPC, and a training facility to come in Auckland soon, will support Police’s work to deliver on the Government’s commitment of 500 additional officers.

    “Achieving this growth in recruits requires a huge effort from across the entire organisation for attracting, selecting, and training the new officers,” Superintendent Ryan says.

    “Research is very clear, the most effective way to recruit police officers is through our own staff identifying, encouraging, and supporting people they know would be great to apply.

    “It’s critical that everyone leans in on this, so we get the very best people into our organisation.”

    Districts have also demonstrated strong support by putting in place at least one full time constabulary member to actively engage and take ownership of their district’s recruiting.

    “Whether you’re taking your first steps into the workforce or considering a career change, the best time to apply is right now.

    “The earlier you apply, the sooner you’ll be ready to start your training into a one of the most rewarding careers there is,” Superintendent Ryan says.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cordons in place, Sydenham

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A cordon is in place around a property in Sydenham as Police work to ensure a person’s safety.

    Police were called to an address on Percival Street about 10:40am to reports a person was making threats.

    As a precaution, Police have evacuated people from adjacent properties and a cordon of approximately 100m is in place around the Percival Street address.

    People are asked to stay clear until the situation can be safely resolved.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cycling not only enhances health but also builds character, says Dr Manuskh Mandaviya during ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ in Lucknow

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Cycling not only enhances health but also builds character, says Dr Manuskh Mandaviya during ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ in Lucknow

    Dr Mansukh Mandaviya leads 500-plus riders during ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ in Lucknow; Paralympians Nitesh Kumar, Manisha Ramdass support fight obesity campaign

    Posted On: 23 MAR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Honourable Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya led more than 500 riders during the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ here along with Minister of State for Sports & Youth Welfare, Govt of Uttar Pradesh, Girish Chandra Yadav,  Principal Secretary (Sports) Manish Chauhan and Secretary (Sports) Uttar Pradesh Suhas Yathiraj.

    Spreading Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of fighting obesity and indulging in a healthy and active lifestyle, Dr Mandaviya said “Cycling not only enhances one’s health but also builds character.”

    The Union Sports Minister completed a 3 kilometre ride from Marine Drive (Samajik Parivartan Sthal) to Samta Mulak Chauraha to 1090 Chauraha and back along with senior officials from Sports Authority of India (SAI) and members of MyBharat intitiative and Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI).

    Organised by SAI’s Netaji Subhas Regional Centre in Lucknow, the cycling drive witnessed huge enthusiasm from young boys and girls and 100-plus athletes from the local National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) who also grooved to Zumba performances prior to the cycling drive.

    Building Fitter & Healthier Bharat ! 🚴‍♂️🇮🇳

    Participated in the #SundaysOnCycle drive in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

    Guided by PM Shri @narendramodi’s vision, we should work towards eliminating obesity and embrace fitness in our daily lives. pic.twitter.com/XhUzqsSdkr

    — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) March 23, 2025

    Addressing the media after the cycle rally, Dr Mandaviya encouraged citizens to incorporate cycling in their daily routines to fight obesity and reduce air pollution levels across the country.

    “Cycling not only enhances one’s health but also builds character, boosts confidence and shapes the future of our nation. It is not just a mode of transport, but a key step towards a healthier, more sustainable future. By adopting cycling as part of our daily lives, we can improve our physical well-being, reduce pollution and contribute to a greener environment. I urge every citizen to embrace cycling, not only as a hobby but as a regular part of their lifestyle for the benefit of their health and our planet. Let us all make fitness a priority, for a healthy youth is the strength of a prosperous state and country,” he said.

    Sh. Girish Chandra Yadav, Hon’ble Minister of State for Sports and Youth Welfare, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, remarked: “Fitness is the foundation of a strong and vibrant society. For our youth to succeed in life, both physically and mentally, it is essential that we instill the values of discipline, hard work and fitness.”

    In Delhi, the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ saw the presence of Paris Paralympics para badminton medallists Nitesh Kumar and Manisha Ramadass. The athletes were in Delhi to participate in the ongoing Khelo India Para Games 2025. Smt Sminu Jindal, founder of Svayam, the official accessibility partner of KIPG 2025, was also present to motivate the participants. Nitesh, Manisha and Ms. Jindal flagged off the event that was supported by PEFI and witnessed participation of more than 600 people.

    In Mumbai, Asian Games medal-winning javelin thrower Kishore Jena participated in the cycling movement at picturesque Aksa Beach.

    Till now, the nationwide cycling drive has been organised across 5000 locations with approximate participation of 2 lakh-plus individuals. The movement also promotes environment-friendly practices to decrease air pollution levels across the country. The initiative is being conducted across multiple States & Union Territories with participation from cycling enthusiasts, athletes, coaches, sports science experts, amongst others.

    Previously, the cycling event witnessed participation of Indian Army jawans, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and prominent sports stars like Lovlina Borgohain, Sangram Singh, Shanky Singh, Nitu Ghanghas, Saweety Boora, Paris Paralympics bronze medallist Rubina Francis and Simran Sharma (para world champion) apart from celebrities like Rahul Bose, Amit Sial and Gul Panag, to name a few.

    The ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), My Bikes and MY Bharat. Events are simultaneously held nationwide at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) and the Khelo India centres (KICs).

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2114172) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) launches Samarthya: National Competition on Corporate Rescue Strategies 2025 at Manesar

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) launches Samarthya: National Competition on Corporate Rescue Strategies 2025 at Manesar

    The Programme offers a dynamic platform for students to devise innovative turnaround strategies for businesses facing financial distress

    Samarthya 2025 Focuses on Real-World Corporate Rescue Strategies and Expert Engagement

    Posted On: 23 MAR 2025 10:38AM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) inaugurated Samarthya: National Competition on Corporate Rescue Strategies 2025 on March 22,2025 at its campus in Manesar, Haryana. Taking place on March 22nd and 23rd, 2025, the programme offers a dynamic platform for students to devise innovative turnaround strategies for businesses facing financial distress.

    The event emphasizes practical learning and strategic thinking in corporate rescue, providing participants with hands-on experience in navigating real-world financial distress scenarios. Participants will analyse financial statements, develop corporate rescue strategies, and present their solutions to a panel of esteemed judges. Additionally, they will engage with insolvency professionals, legal practitioners, and business leaders through panel discussions and networking opportunities. The competition offers valuable industry exposure, expert feedback, and the opportunity to gain recognition for their innovative solutions.

    The inauguration ceremony commenced with the traditional Lighting of the Lamp, performed by distinguished judges of the event and dignitaries on the dais, symbolizing the formal commencement of the competition by an introduction by the Student Convenors for the event, Ms. Ayushi Agarwal, Ms. Eepsa Bansal, and Ms. Harshitha Ulphas.  Following this, Dr. Pyla Narayana Rao, Course Director and Head of the School of Corporate Law, delivered the Inaugural Address, emphasizing the significance of corporate rescue strategies in ensuring business sustainability and financial resilience.

    Ms. Pavithra Ravi, Professor at Gujarat National Law University, delivered the Opening Remarks, offering insights into the competition’s objectives. A video message from Mr. Kapileshwar Bhalla, LL.M Faculty, encouraged participants to apply their financial knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. He extended his best wishes to all participants and applauded the organizers for their efforts in making the event a success.

    The ceremony concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mr. Pramod Jangra, Course Coordinator of LL.M (IBL) at IICA, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, participants, and organizers for their contributions.

    The competition will challenge students with practical case studies simulating real-world financial distress scenarios. Participants will be evaluated based on the feasibility, innovation, and strategic insight demonstrated in their proposed solutions. Through this platform, IICA aims to nurture the next generation of corporate leaders equipped to address complex financial challenges.

    Dr. Ajay Bhushan Pandey, DG & CEO of IICA, extended his best wishes for the success of the event.

    ******

     NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2114121) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DELHI BECOMES THE 28TH LEGISLATURE TO JOIN THE NATIONAL E-VIDHAN APPLICATION PLATFORM

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 9:54PM by PIB Delhi

    The Delhi Legislative Assembly has taken a significant step towards digital governance by signing a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), Government of India and Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) for the implementation of the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). With this development, Delhi becomes the 28th legislature to sign MoU with the Ministry for implementation of the project, marking a new chapter in its legislative functioning.

    The occasion was graced by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs; Shri Vijender Gupta, Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly & Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, MoPA.

    Dr. Satya Prakash, Additional Secretary, MoPA & Mission Leader (NeVA); Shri Ranjeet Singh, Secretary, Delhi Legislative Assembly; and Shri Reetesh Singh, Principal Secretary (Law), GNCTD signed the MoU for implementation of the project in Delhi Assembly.

    The agreement signifies Delhi’s commitment to transitioning to a paperless and more transparent legislative system, in alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision of “One Nation, One Application.”

    The NeVA platform, developed under the guidance of the MoPA, aims to enhance legislative procedures by promoting greater efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability. By digitizing House business and providing real-time access to documents, it enables seamless coordination among legislators and secretariat staff. This adoption of NeVA by the Delhi Assembly will not only reduce paper consumption but also streamline workflows, empowering Members of the Legislative Assembly with digital tools to improve legislative performance.

    The NeVA platform is hosted on Meghraj 2.0, India’s cloud infrastructure, ensuring robust scalability, security, and data integrity. Its device-agnostic nature allows it to be accessed seamlessly across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops, ensuring that legislators can manage legislative business from any device, anytime, anywhere.

    Designed for paperless operations, NeVA provides real-time access to key legislative documents, such as agendas, bills, and reports. The platform features a secure digital repository, safeguarding the confidentiality and integrity of legislative data. The platform also offers multilingual capabilities, catering to the linguistic diversity across states and regions, making it accessible to a broader range of users.

    Speaking in the event, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, emphasized the transformative potential of NeVA in streamlining legislative functions and expressed confidence that this digital shift will contribute to enhance transparency and accountability within legislative processes across the nation.

    Shri Vijender Gupta, Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, welcomed the adoption of NeVA as a step towards fostering a more efficient and transparent legislature. He noted that the integration of this platform will empower lawmakers to work more effectively, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Delhi.

    Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, MoPA, lauded the efforts of the Delhi Assembly and reiterated the Ministry’s full support in facilitating smooth implementation, onboarding, and training of stakeholders under the NeVA initiative.

    This landmark move further strengthens the nationwide momentum toward digital transformation in legislative institutions, as NeVA continues to expand its footprint across the country. The onboarding of the Delhi Assembly onto the NeVA platform marks a key milestone in the Delhi Government’s 100-day agenda, underscoring its commitment to promoting tech-driven, transparent, and efficient governance. With the constitution of the new assembly, the integration of NeVA further accelerates the modernization of legislative processes. This makes the Delhi Assembly a model for digital governance.

    ***

    SS/ISA

    (Release ID: 2114104) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 24, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 594 595 596 597 598 … 1,000
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress