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Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DPO’s Smart Hong Kong Pavilion showcases over 100 achievements in Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) co-organised the third edition of the InnoEX at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) for four consecutive days starting today (April 13). The Digital Policy Office (DPO) set up a large-scale Smart Hong Kong Pavilion to showcase over 100 technology solutions, including those developed by different government departments in relation to citizens’ daily lives. Through interactive experiences and on-site demonstrations, the Pavilion demonstrates the solid achievements in advancing the development of innovation and technology (I&T) and smart city in Hong Kong brought about by the concerted efforts of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and various sectors.

    On the opening day of the Pavilion, a number of officials, including the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, and the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, visited the Pavilion. They were briefed by the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, on how the DPO leads various government departments in leveraging I&T to enhance city management and operational efficiency, delivering enhanced public services to citizens. The DPO has all along worked in close collaboration with the local I&T industry to develop a variety of innovative solutions, with a view to continuously enhancing public services for the benefit of the public and businesses, jointly strengthening Hong Kong’s leading position as an international I&T hub.

    This year’s Smart Hong Kong Pavilion focuses on AI and data-driven applications, and showcases I&T solutions contributed by 20 government departments and the winning entries of international and domestic I&T competitions, including the Hong Kong ICT Awards, Asia Pacific Information and Communications Technology Alliance Awards, Maker in China SME Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Contest – Hong Kong Chapter and Open Data Hackathon, from local innovators and students. Through the exhibition, the DPO hopes to recognise outstanding local innovations, encourage and inspire industry players to develop more innovative solutions as well as promote Hong Kong’s I&T development to local industries, exhibitors and experts from home and abroad.

    Following are highlights of the six areas of the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion:

    Smart Living: “iAM Smart”, the one-stop personalised digital services platform that provides citizens with access to over 1 100 government, public and private online services and government e-Forms; the Hong Kong Observatory’s AI-powered weather prediction models that provide reference in preparing weather forecasts and tropical cyclone forecast tracks; and the industry’s award-winning solution, a smart packaging system from the Hong Kong Productivity Council that significantly increases packaging output of Chinese medicine and reduces manpower requirements.

    Smart Mobility: Award of the Year in the Hong Kong ICT Awards 2024, a solution from the MTR Corporation Limited and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology that adopts a digital twin calibrated with big data for railway planning and simulating service disruptions and congestion, thereby assisting the MTR to plan corresponding arrangements early to meet the travel needs of citizens.

    Smart Environment: The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s Shark Species Rapid DNA Identification technology that uses AI to rapidly identify the species of shark fins and more efficiently determine whether the imported shark fins are regulated; and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department’s AI-powered Aqua-bot that is used in early detection and rapid response to invasive alien species to protect ecosystems in wetlands.

    Smart People: The Architectural Services Department’s Wall-Climbing Robot that can move flexibly on building facades and conduct building facade assessments efficiently and accurately; the Drainage Services Department’s Tumbler Inspection Ball Robot with Embodied Intelligence, honoured with a Gold Medal in the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2024, that can monitor condition of pipelines through clear 360-degree panoramic videos and AI technology; as well as the Highways Department’s adoption of geospatial and AI technologies to automatically detect various road objects and create survey maps, enhancing efficiency of road construction projects.

    Smart Government: The Hong Kong Fire Services Department’s Virtual Fire Scene Incident Command Training System that allows firefighters to practice command and decision-making skills in an immersive experience; the Hong Kong Police Force’s The New Generation Scenario-based Interactive Multiplayer Simulation System that adopts multimedia broadcasting and simulated communication systems to train officers to respond to various simulated incidents; and the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s Mutual Use of QR Code between HKSAR and Macao SAR Clearance Service that fosters ease in cross-boundary mobility.

    Smart Economy: The Lands Department’s leverage of spatial data and Geographic Information System to enhance the safety, efficiency and planning of drone operations, supporting low-altitude economy development; and the award-winning solution, Hong Kong Housing Authority Project Information Management and Analytics Platform, that implements digital project management from planning to handover stages, thereby expediting decision-making process.

    The annual I&T mega event of Hong Kong, InnoEX, brings together I&T elites, enterprises and buyers from the Mainland and overseas to jointly promote I&T advancements and applications and explore global collaboration opportunities. Themed “Innovation • Automate • Elevate”, this year’s InnoEX will showcase cutting-edge technology solutions across five key areas: low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity and smart mobility. Interested parties from the trade can register free of charge at the HKTDC’s website (www.hktdc.com/event/innoex/en).
     
    Meanwhile, another major I&T highlight this April – the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – a high-level conference in the global Internet field, will take place on April 14 and 15 at the HKCEC concurrently. Under the theme “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”, the Summit will focus on forward-looking discussions in large AI models, digital finance, and digital government and smart life, attracting around 1 000 participants from the Mainland and overseas, including representatives from governments and enterprises, international organisations, internet giants, experts and scholars to attend.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative ‘Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise’ inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania & Raksha Rajya Mantri onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam

    Source: Government of India

    Harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative ‘Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise’ inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania & Raksha Rajya Mantri onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam

    Oneness & unity of purpose key to overcome maritime challenges and ensure a peaceful & prosperous future: Shri Sanjay Seth

    Posted On: 13 APR 2025 9:26PM by PIB Delhi

    The harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative of Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise (AIKEYME) was inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam on April 13, 2025. AIKEYME, co-hosted by India and Tanzania, involves participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa.

    Raksha Rajya Mantri also joined the digital inauguration of Weapons Training Simulator facility established at Arusha and inauguration of Defence Expo. In the Defence Expo, 22 companies from India are participating with their key products on display.

    In his address, Raksha Rajya Mantri emphasised on oneness, and unity of purpose to overcome the vast maritime challenges and to ensure a peaceful & prosperous future. He recalled the age-old relations between India & Africa and reiterated the principle of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region) for further strengthening the bond with our friends in Africa.

    Shri Sanjay Seth stressed on the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” highlighting the need for enduring partnerships in maritime security. He expressed gratitude to Tanzania for hosting AIKEYME 25, marking a significant step towards long-term collaboration.

    Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania thanked India for co-hosting the Exercise and she termed the Exercise a strategic initiative to build strong maritime partnership. She underscored the necessity of a collective approach to address challenges such as piracy and trafficking.

    Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to hosting future editions of AIKEYME and detailed the collaborative framework for regional maritime security, emphasizing innovation and information sharing. Her remarks firmly established that the relationship extends beyond military affairs, advocating for a broader regional cooperation.

    Dignitaries present included the Chief of Defence Force, Tanzania People’s Defence Force, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, and the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, reinforcing the importance of bilateral defence relationships. The event was punctuated by a parade of a 50-man guard and the stirring performance of the Indian Navy Band, embodying the spirit of maritime cooperation.

    Raksha Rajya Mantri also briefly interacted with the crew of participating countries of the Exercise and IOS SAGAR ship. He did a walkaround of INS Chennai. He gifted 15 sets of Parachutes, books for NDC and a Tri-Services War Gaming Simulator to Tanzania as a token of strong bonds and friendship between the two countries.

    The exercise represents commitment of the participating countries to a free, open and secure Indian Ocean. A new chapter has been added today to the growing relations between India and Africa. AIKEYME 25 and IOS SAGAR symbolize a transformative journey towards enhanced multinational collaboration in securing the seas, forging connections that transcend borders.

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    VK/SR/VM/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2121495) Visitor Counter : 88

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Force reaches new heights at 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Officers of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau and the Police Tactical Unit Headquarters (PTU HQ) of the Hong Kong Police Force reached new heights at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, which was held between April 9 and 13 in Geneva, Switzerland, and garnered the “International Press Prize” for the first time, the “Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury”, along with one Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze international award.

         Following a highly competitive judging process with international expert judges reviewing all the entries, the Force professionally presented the innovative technological solutions. The Force focused on the themes of “Building a Secure Cyberspace” and “Applying Technology”, demonstrating four solutions in the “Hardware, Software, Cybersecurity, Blockchain & Internet of Things (IoT)” category, winning five international awards, including:

         1) Scameter Series – A multi-layered public anti-scam initiative comprising a public-facing mobile app with real-time scam detection, open-data policies sharing threat intelligence with strategic stakeholders, and partnerships with banks to send public alerts on high-risk transactions (International Press Prize & Gold Medal);

         2) CryptoTrace – Jointly developed with the University of Hong Kong, this cutting-edge virtual asset analytics platform facilitates cryptocurrency tracing, fund flow analysis, and wallet correlation, accelerating fraud detection for frontline investigators (Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury);

         3) RAPID Engine – Through multilateral collaboration and proactive detection from various sources, RAPID Engine inspects newly registered suspicious websites. Utilising AI algorithms, RAPID Engine performs real-time analysis based on multidimensional rules such as domain characteristics and suspicious codes. Threat intelligence is simultaneously updated to the “Scameter Series” and sent to multiple internet service providers for blocking, effectively enhancing the public’s ability to resist phishing threats (Silver Medal);

         4) AI Visual Intelligence-enabled Glasses for Drone Operations – PTU HQ partnered with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, jointly developed an AI-powered image analysis system integrated with Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses. This system enables real-time display of both flight footage and AI computational results directly on the AR glasses, allowing operators to receive critical AI insights without interrupting flight control (Bronze Medal);

    The awards demonstrate the Force’s commitment to leveraging innovative technology to promote smart policing and improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the Force effectively employs AI to assist the public in combating fraud and enhancing law enforcement capabilities, particularly in tackling emerging types of crimes, including those related to virtual assets.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Security Education Day cum Police Museum Open Day held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    To echo the National Security Education Day on April 15, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) held the “National Security Education Day cum Police Museum Open Day” today (April 13) to enhance public awareness of national security, foster their sense of national identity and offer an opportunity for the community to learn more about the history and work of the HKPF.

    Addressing at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, said that safeguarding national security is everyone’s responsibility. The HKSAR Government has always been committed to promoting national security education to enhance public awareness and foster a sense of responsibility in protecting national security. He praised the HKPF for their crucial role in safeguarding national security. He said that Hong Kong has long been regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. This reassures investors and tourists to visit and should never be taken for granted; rather, it is the result of concerted efforts, with significant contributions from the HKPF.

    The Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming, in his opening remarks, said that national security is the cornerstone of prosperity and stability for a society. He added that the HKPF will continue its unwavering efforts to prevent, suppress, and impose punishment for acts endangering national security. Stressing that community support and participation are essential elements for safeguarding national security, he hoped the public would remain vigilant at all times and work together to safeguard national security.

    At the opening ceremony, the officiating guests were accompanied by children in mini police uniforms to display the 20 key areas of national security, symbolising the Police and the public’s concerted efforts to convey the message of “national security, a mission we share”.

    To commemorate the 5th anniversary of the implementation of the National Security Law, the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the National Security Department of the HKPF, the 1st anniversary of the implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and the 10th anniversary of the National Security Education Day, the open day featured the “National Security Express – Police Museum Station”, which showcased the Force’s efforts in safeguarding national security. The advanced equipment of various units, including the Police Dog Unit, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau and the Counter Terrorism Response Unit, were also on display, providing the public with an opportunity to learn about the work of the Force.

    In addition, officers dressed in police uniforms from different generations were present to take photos with the public, showcasing the evolution of police uniforms. In addition to the interactive technology elements in the Police Museum’s exhibitions, retired police officers and civilian staff also provided guided tours to the visitors, enabling them to have a better understanding of the history of the Force. The open day also featured a “drone football” experience game, an anti-drug publicity vehicle and a number of check-in spots where the public could take photos and have fun.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Security Education Day – Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development Open Day (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    To echo the 10th National Security Education Day, the Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development (ISITD) held an open day today (April 12), drawing the participation of over 4 000 citizens. The open day featured a range of activities, including introduction and demonstrations of the daily work of the Immigration Department (ImmD), exhibitions, guided tours and booth games, with the aim to raise public awareness of national security and strengthen their sense of national identity through interactive experiences, while highlighting the ImmD’s values and mission in defending against national security risks and firmly guarding the country’s southern gateway. 

         Various thematic exhibitions and booth games were set up to introduce the public to the ImmD’s technologies used in detecting suspicious documents, counter-terrorism work, management work of detention centre and tactical equipment, etc. Members of the public could also try out training facilities, such as the mock immigration clearance hall and mock court room, to better understand how the ImmD has been leveraging the work of effective immigration control, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

         In addition, the Immigration Department Youth Leaders Corps (IDYL) also set up an interactive booth, where IDYL members crafted panda and golden snub-nosed monkeys dough figurine for the members of the public on site, aiming to drawn public attention to endangered animal species while promoting the concept of ecological security and its importance to members of the public in a lively and interesting way.

         The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung attended the open day. Accompanied by directorate officers of the ImmD, they toured the exhibition booths, interacted with the public, and encouraged members of the Immigration Service to remain dedicated and steadfast in upholding national security.

         The open day offered an array of splendid programmes, including a musical performance by the Immigration Band and a Chinese-style foot drill demonstration by the Departmental Contingent. Holding flags printed with the five essential elements of the holistic approach to national security, the Departmental Contingent formed the shape of a shield, symbolising the logo of the National Security Education Day, as well as demonstrating the ImmD’s concerted efforts to safeguard the sovereignty, security and development interests of our nation. Afterwards, the Emergency Response Team of the Castle Peak Bay Immigration Centre demonstrated how to handle emergencies and quell disturbances professionally and promptly with the use of various firearms and anti-riot equipment, showcasing the ImmD’s capabilities to deal with incidents endangering public security and its commitment to maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Also, there was a demonstration session of the ImmD’s vehicles at the open day, introducing the multi-purpose vehicle of ImmD’s Enforcement Division and the mobile identification tactical unit to members of the public, so as to help them to learn more about the ImmD’s work in preventing and defending against national security risks.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Celebration of 135th Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14, 2025, at Parliament House Lawns, New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 APR 2025 12:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The celebrations of the 135th Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti will be organized on April 14, 2025, at the Prerna Sthal, Parliament House Lawns, New Delhi. The event to commemorate the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, will be organized by Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), on behalf of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

    The celebrations will begin with a floral tribute ceremony to Babasaheb Ambedkar by esteemed dignitaries including President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, other Ministers, Parliamentarians and other invited guests including scholars, students, and members of the public in the morning.

    After that, the event will be open to public up to 12:00 Noon. For the open event, the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) will facilitate those who will be paying there respects to Babasaheb Ambedkar. Special bus services have been arranged by the DAF for the public to visit to Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM) to pay their respect to the great leader. Mahaparinirvan Bhoomi, the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM), is located at 26, Alipur Road, New Delhi.

    Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF)

    The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation was constituted to disseminate the message and ideologies of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. In 1991, a Centenary Celebration Committee of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was constituted and was headed by the then Prime Minister of India. This committee decided to set up Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF). On March 24, 1992, Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), an autonomous body was established under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, to disperse programmes and activities for furthering the visions and thoughts of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar on a pan-Indian scale.

    Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM)

    The Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM) is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life, work, and contributions of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who was a renowned social reformer, orator, prolific writer, historian, jurist, anthropologist, and politician. The DANM museum houses a collection of personal belongings, photographs, letters, and documents related to Dr. Ambedkar’s life, including his education, social reform movements, and political career. There are also audio-visual exhibits to showcase his speeches and interviews.

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    VM

     

    (Release ID: 2121402) Visitor Counter : 187

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Kwai Chung (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (April 12) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Kwai Chung.

         Wu Hoi-sing, aged 70, went missing after he left his caring home on Lei Muk Road this morning. Staff of the caring home then made a report to Police.

         He is about 1.65 metres tall, 72 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a square face with yellow complexion, and is bald with short black and white hair on both sides. He was last seen wearing a grey jacket, black trousers and black shoes.

         Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 5217 5562 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lakelands — Missing person: Help the RCMP find John (Joao) Medeiros

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    April 13, 2025, Lakelands, Nova Scotia… East Hants District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 47-year-old John (Joao) Mederios, from New Minas, who was reported missing on April 13, 2025. He was last seen near the variety store in Lakelands, on Piggot Lake Road.

    Medeiros is described as 5-foot-10 and a medium build. He has light coloured hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing black Columbia jacket, back hoodie, black pants, brown boots and carrying a black gym bag.

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

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

    Note: Photo of John (Joao) Mederios is attached.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing woman in Mong Kok (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (April 12) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Mong Kok.

    Moran Dante Elaine Cipolla, aged 27, went missing after she left MTR Mong Kok East Station yesterday (April 11) afternoon. Staff of a rehabilitation centre then made a report to Police.

    She is about 1.5 metres tall, around 50 kilograms in weight and of thin build. She has a pointed face with white complexion and long black hair. She was last seen wearing a black long-sleeved hoodie, a pair of black trousers and black sport shoes.

    Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Kowloon West on 3661 8036 or 9020 6542 or email to rmpu-kw@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: JPC Innovation and Technology Competition 2024-25 Award Presentation Ceremony cum Carnival held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    JPC Innovation and Technology Competition 2024-25 Award Presentation Ceremony cum Carnival held today  
         The Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the General Manager of Information Technology Department of Bank of China (Hong Kong), Mr Yung Fai; and the Director of Operations of Police, Mr Chan Tung, officiated at the ceremony.

         In his welcome remarks, Mr Chow said that since its establishment in 1974, the JPC has been committed to training young people to become youth leaders and crime-fighting partners through diversified activities, striving to nurture a new generation of law-abiding young people with an affection for the country and Hong Kong, and equipped with positive thinking and an aspiring mindset. He noted that as the Police step up enforcement against “space oil drugs”, the competition introduced the theme of youth drug prevention, encouraging participants to raise anti-drug awareness among young people through creative solutions.
     
         Mr Chow also highlighted the quality of entries received, underscoring the pivotal role of experiential learning in STEAM education, which fosters students’ curiosity while developing their teamwork and problem-solving skills. He added that the JPC will launch more innovative activities to nurture I&T talents for Hong Kong and our country.
     
         The competition aims to encourage primary and secondary school students to utilise their knowledge and skills in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) to construct innovative and feasible “Smart City” solutions. Two “Best Smart City Awards” were introduced to recognise the most innovative entries in artificial intelligence and gerontechnology, while the “Best Safe City Awards” were also presented to acknowledge innovative solutions for fraud prevention and crime fighting, youth drug prevention, and community safety enhancement, ensuring that citizens can continue to thrive in a safe living environment. The competition was divided into four categories, namely junior primary school, senior primary school, junior secondary school and senior secondary school. Over 1700 students from nearly 160 schools participated, and over 1 300 submissions were received. The list of winning teams has been uploaded onto the JPC website.
     
         To further encourage the younger generation to engage with innovation and technology, some winners introduced the creative ideas and stories behind their works at the award presentation ceremony. An I&T carnival was also held and featured a workshop on simulated evidence collection at crime scenes and a number of virtual reality games, allowing participants to learn about the work of the Police, while experiencing the fun of technology.
     
         This is the fourth consecutive year that the JPC has organised the competition which combines experiential learning and policing elements to nurture future young leaders to join hands in preventing and combating crime. The competition was supported by the Education Bureau, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, the Digital Policy Office, the Association of I.T. Leaders in Education, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute, the Hong Kong Computer Society, the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, the Hong Kong Extra-curricular Activities Masters’ Association, the Hong Kong New Emerging Technology Education Association, the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Hong Kong STEM Education Alliance and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.
    Issued at HKT 16:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Correctional officers stop remand person in custody from committing suicide by hanging

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Correctional officers stopped a 38-year-old male remand person in custody from committing suicide by hanging in Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre today (April 12).

    At 12.03pm today, a correctional officer found the remand person in custody attempting suicide in the toilet of a dayroom by hanging with a pair of trousers tied to a window grille. The officer immediately rescued him and called for reinforcements. The remand person in custody was found unconscious and was subsequently sent to a public hospital for further treatment. The case has been reported to the Police.

    A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, “The department uses all possible measures to prevent persons in custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, improvement of institution facilities, staff training and first-aid services.”

    The person in custody was remanded for the offence of conspiracy to defraud in April 2024.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary hands over Rs. 515.31 crore to Asset Disposal Committee Chairman Justice D.K. Seth (Retd.) for restitution of properties to legitimate investors in Rose Valley Ponzi scam

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary hands over Rs. 515.31 crore to Asset Disposal Committee Chairman Justice D.K. Seth (Retd.) for restitution of properties to legitimate investors in Rose Valley Ponzi scam

    Restitution of Rs. 515.31 crore to approximately 7.5 lakh victims out of total claims of 31 lakh registered with Asset Disposal Committee; Rs. 22 crore has already been restored to 32,319 lawful investors by the ADC

    Rs. 515.31 crore was attached by ED in the years 2015-17 by investigating money trail and tracing 2,987 different bank accounts

    Posted On: 12 APR 2025 1:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary handed over a Demand Draft of Rs. 515.31 crore today to Justice D.K. Seth (Retd.), Chairman of the Asset Disposal Committee formed for the purpose of restitution of properties to legitimate investors in Rose Valley Ponzi scam.

    Shri Rahul Navin, Director, ED and other senior officials of the government were also present on the occasion.

     

    It is estimated that this amount will be used to restitute money to approximately 7.5 lakh victims out of the total claims of 31 lakh lodged so far with Asset Disposal Committee. Earlier, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) had handed over an amount of Rs. 22 crore to the ADC which was used to restitute money to 32,319 lawful investors.

    The amount of Rs. 515.31 crore was attached by ED in the years 2015-17 by investigating money trail and tracing 2,987 different bank accounts where the money collected from innocent victims had traversed. The said bank accounts were then seized/ attached following due process of law and converted into more than 700 Fixed Deposits (FDs) after confirmation of attachment by the Adjudicating Authority. It may be mentioned that ED has also attached other movable and immovable assets of Rs. 1,172 crore (present market value of the assets is estimated to be more than Rs. 2,000 crore), which is also in process of liquidation and refund to the victims.

    ED is investigating five (5) Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) cases against the Rose Valley Group in the states of West Bengal, Odisha, Assam and Tripura. ED has filed prosecution complaints in all these cases before the Special Courts under PMLA.

    Investigation under PMLA revealed that Rose Valley Group companies, had collected funds of Rs. 17,520 crore by luring people mostly from the lowest strata of society with promises of providing land parcels or time sharing in hotels and in the event of inability to deliver the land/time sharing, refund with high rate of interest was promised on maturity of investments. Investigation has revealed that out of the above, an amount of Rs. 6,666 crore, which constitutes the proceeds of crime, remained unpaid to the investors.

    This is one of the single largest investigation of this type undertaken by the ED, and an order passed by the Special court (PMLA) at Khurda, Bhubaneswar, on 29.03.2025 has paved the way for the return of investors’ money all over the country through the Asset Disposal Committee (ADC).

    It is pertinent to mention that on the direction of the Hon’ble High Court of Calcutta, an Asset Disposal Committee (ADC) was constituted under the Chairmanship of Justice Dillip Kr. Seth (Retd.), High Court of Calcutta with ED and others as members for restitution of properties to the lawful investors of Rose Valley Group Ponzi Scam.

     

    ED has played a crucial role in attachment, possession and disbursement of assets of the Rose Valley Group thereby smoothening and expediting the restitution of properties to the lakhs of victims of the States of West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura etc. Till now, around 31 Lakh investors of Rose Valley Group have registered their claim on the website www.rosevalleyadc.com. ED is also providing assistance to the ADC in conducting survey and valuation of confirmed attached properties and facilitating expeditious monetisation of the assets for timely disbursal of the same to the investors/victims of Rose Valley Group of Companies.

    Further, the restitution process is expected to continue in full swing over the coming months as more claims are being scrutinised and validated by the ADC.

    The instant restitution is in line with the commitment of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, to return the money looted from poor people. The Prime Minister of India has consistently emphasised the urgent need to recover and return funds misappropriated from the poor and innocent citizens of the country, and has repeatedly stressed that money siphoned off through fraudulent means must be rightfully restored to those who have been cheated in Ponzi schemes.

    The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs has also reiterated that the Government’s commitment for restitution of assets attached by ED to the victims/ rightful owners and made a statement in Parliament to this effect.

    The ED is actively pursuing investigations in cases of financial fraud, with a firm commitment to ensure that the proceeds of crime are not only traced and confiscated but also put immediately to productive use for the economy by being restored to the victims who have suffered financial loss. The ED continues to act decisively in such matters, reinforcing public trust and contributing to the larger goal of a corruption-free and transparent financial system.

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    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2121170) Visitor Counter : 77

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Report Commends Officers, Rejects ‘Two-Tier Policing’ Claims

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    The Home Affairs Committee has published its report into the police response to the 2024 summer disorder.

    The report commends police officers and staff for their efforts during last summer’s unrest, despite significant risks and injuries, calling the violence faced unacceptable. It acknowledges systemic challenges stemming from outdated structures and highlights the need for reform, echoing commitments recently made by NPCC Chair Chief Constable Gavin Stephens who has outlined his own vision for a new era of policing.

    The Committee’s recommendations, including around national mobilisation and addressing dis and misinformation on social media, are deemed timely and vital for improving policing effectiveness. The report rejects claims of ‘two-tier policing’ and appreciates the complexity of the response to such unprecedented events. The findings will inform ongoing discussions, with further insights expected following the next HMICFRS report.

    Chief Constable BJ Harrington is the NPCC Lead for Operations and the former Gold Commander of Operation Navette. He said:

    “The report rightly praises the efforts of police officers and staff in responding to the events of last summer, often in the face of very real risk and injury. Nobody should go to work and be physically assaulted, have bricks and petrol bombs thrown at them, and end up in hospital with potentially life-changing injuries. Unfortunately, that is what happened last year, and it was utterly unacceptable.

    “Policing leaders are proud of the work our officers, staff and volunteers do and the sacrifice they make to keep people safe. However, the fact that we are working in a system that was designed more than 60 years ago is far from ideal, and this report highlights the need for reform in specific areas, which aligns with the work of the newly founded Police Reform Programme.

    “We know that there are number of obstacles, from a policing perspective, that limit effectiveness in policing across the UK, so these recommendations are extremely timely and will inform conversations that we are having with partners.

    “The Committee cite previous findings from the Inspectorate that the national mobilisation plan could have been made earlier, and this is a helpful recommendation. Hindsight can be useful, and these learnings are important, but we are pleased that the Committee also recognise how complex of a situation this was for policing to respond to, and that on the whole, the service did so well.

    “We are pleased that the report robustly disagrees with the notion of ‘two tier policing’, and that the policing response was entirely appropriate given the levels of violence and criminality that were on display. We are also appreciative of the consideration given to the dangerous of mis and disinformation on social media, which remain substantial areas of risk for policing and something that the Inspectorate have been evaluating as part of their own review into the disorder.

    “We will carefully consider all of the Committee’s recommendations, noting that the Government will also be waiting for the publication of the second HMICFRS report later this year in order to ascertain how they can support policing in implementing these collective findings.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious Two Vehicle Crash, East Derwent Highway, Geilston Bay

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Serious Two Vehicle Crash, East Derwent Highway, Geilston Bay

    Sunday, 13 April 2025 – 5:44 am.

    At approximately 10:48pm on Saturday 12th April 2025, emergency services responded to a two-vehicle crash on the East Derwent Highway Geilston Bay, at the intersection of Sugarloaf Rd.
    A silver Opal sedan, driven by a 19-year-old man from Warrane, had been travelling south on the East Derwent Highway, when it collided with a north bound white Toyota Camry at the intersection of Sugarloaf Rd.  The Toyota was being driven by a 32-year-old man from Berriedale.
    There were a combined total of 7 occupants in both vehicles, all of which were transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital for medical treatment or assessment.  A 17-year-old woman who was travelling in the Opal sedan at the time of the crash has suffered serious injuries.
    Investigations in relation to this crash are ongoing, however initial investigations suggest that excessive speed may have been a contributing factor in this crash.
    Police would like to ask anyone with information about this crash or those who may have observed the manner of driving of the vehicles prior to the crash, to contact police on 131 444 or crime stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting ESCAD number 531-12042025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from National Governors Association on Fire at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence

    Source: US State of Colorado

    WASHINGTON — National Governors Association (NGA) Chair Governor Jared Polis of Colorado and Vice Chair Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma issued the following statement regarding the fire at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg:

    “We are relieved to hear that Governor Shapiro and his family are safe following the arson attack on the Governor’s Residence. On behalf of the nation’s governors, we extend our support to the Shapiro family as they recover from this distressing event.

    “We strongly condemn all acts of violence and ask our citizens to rise above these kinds of destructive actions.

    “Governors are not only public leaders but also parents, spouses, and neighbors. Incidents like this remind us of the very real challenges government officials and their families can face. We are thankful for the swift actions of local first responders and emergency personnel who helped ensure everyone’s safety.

    “The National Governors Association stands in solidarity with Governor Shapiro and his family during this time.”

    According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the fire was determined to be an act of arson. Governor Shapiro and his family were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. The incident remains under investigation.

    ### 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Middleton — UPDATE: Nova Scotia RCMP asks for public assistance to locate suspect in armed robbery

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Update: Annapolis District RCMP arrested the suspect in an armed robbery that occurred on April 9 in Middleton. On April 10 at approximately 2:20 p.m., officers located and safely took one person into custody on Commercial Dr. in Middleton. He will be held for an upcoming court appearance. More information will be shared when available.

    Original text below:

    RCMPNS is looking for public assistance to identify and locate a man in relation to an armed robbery involving a knife that occurred earlier this afternoon at a grocery store on Commercial St. in #Middleton. During the robbery, an employee of the store was assaulted and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The man fled the store on foot.

    The man is described as being in his 20s and was wearing a blue plaid jacket, light coloured sweatpants, black Addidas sneakers, and a mask at the time of the incident. The blue jacket and sneakers have been recovered.

    Anyone who sees this man is asked to call 911 and to not approach him. Anyone who can identify the man or who has information about this incident is asked to contact Annapolis County District RCMP at 902-825-2000.

    RCMPNS is actively searching for the man and investigating the incident. RCMP Police Dog Services and an RCMP drone operator are engaged in addition to general duty officers. Residents can expect to see a heavy police presence. There are no road closures at this time, however, the public is asked to avoid Commercial St. to allow officers to do their work.

    MIL Security OSI –

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Why are university protests important?

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

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

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

    As Victorian university legislation notes, universities should promote

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

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

    Restricting protests for campus safety

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

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

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

    What have universities done?

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

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

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

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

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

    The legal basis of the restrictions

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

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

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

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

    Could these changes be challenged?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    What will happen now?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

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

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

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

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

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

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

    Note: Photo of Paul Joseph Freel Westcott is attached.

    MIL Security OSI –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Reform freeze

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

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

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

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

    Wealth inequality

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

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

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

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

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

    • $24.5 billion for main residence Capital Gains Tax exemption

    • $22.73 billion for CGT discount for individuals and trusts

    • $22.2 billion for the concessional taxation of superannuation earnings

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

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

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

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

    Wealth creation tools

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

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

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

    Case study

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

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

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

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

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

    Tax relief is not reform

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

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

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

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

    Consensus needed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

    The Great Trade Diversion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    A repeat of the Great Depression

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

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

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

    Old fears, new pressures

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

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

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

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

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

    Global trade system at a crossroads

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

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

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

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

    Wolfgang Alschner receives funding from the SSHRC.

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

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Modern-day antisemitism, trajectories

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

    Antisemitism far predates Nazism

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

    Addressing Holocaust remembrance

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

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

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

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

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



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

    Wider implications

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

    Recommendations include:

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

    • For action to address antisemitic incidents;

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

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

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

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

    ANALYSIS: By Jane McAdam, UNSW Sydney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    As international development expert Professor Stephen Howes put it,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Secondly, the new visa does not specifically mention Tuvalu.

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

    Who can apply, and how?

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

    The primary applicant must:

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

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

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

    Applicants must also satisfy certain health and character requirements.

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

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

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

    The Explanatory Memorandum to the treaty says:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Waihi

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

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

    Police were called about 8.20pm.

    The road is closed, with diversions in place.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

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

    Police were called about 7.15pm. 

    The pedestrian is reportedly in serious condition. 

    The road is closed, with diversions in place. 

    Motorists should avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

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

    In brief:

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

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

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

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

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

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

    A MyWay+ account allows you to:

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

    The MyWay+ app can be downloaded for free from:

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

    No account, no problem

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

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

    Fare Free Fridays

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

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

    Ongoing improvements

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

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

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

    Help is available 

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

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

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    MIL OSI News –

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

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The teaching materials will include decodable readers.

    In brief:

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

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

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

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

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

    System-approved resources

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

    Resources will support both students and teachers.

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

    Setting kids up for success

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

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

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

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

    Read the Strong Foundations Phase 1 Implementation Plan.

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

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

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

    In brief:

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

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

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

    Read on to find out more about the winners.

    2025 ACT Australian of the Year recipient – Megan Gilmour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    2025 ACT Young Australian of the Year recipient – Daniel Bartholomaeus

    Daniel Bartholomaeus is an artist and neurodiversity advocate.

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

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

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

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

    2025 ACT Local Hero recipients – Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    MIL OSI News –

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

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    MIL OSI News –