NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Names of two new Molonglo suburbs announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The two new suburbs will bring the number of suburbs in the district to seven.

    Two new suburbs in the Molonglo Valley will be named Bandler and Sulman.

    These honour prominent Australians Faith Bandler AC and Sir John Sulman.

    These new suburbs will sit within the Molonglo Valley 3 East development. This is the next major stage of suburban development in the area.

    Bandler will be developed first. It will sit east of Whitlam across John Gorton Drive.

    This will bring the number of suburbs in the district to seven.

    Naming Canberra suburbs and places allows us to celebrate influential people from all backgrounds.

    Faith Bandler AC

    Ida Lessing Faith Bandler was a human rights activist, social justice advocate and author.

    She helped raise public awareness and understanding of:

    • the cultural heritage of South Sea Islanders and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
    • women’s issues.

    Faith’s daughter Associate Professor Lilon Bandler said the naming acknowledged her mother’s dedication to creating a more just, inclusive world.

    “She had an unwavering commitment to civil rights and social reform that has left an indelible mark on our history. It is deeply moving to see her legacy honoured through the naming of this new suburb in Canberra, a city she visited many, many times.

    “As her daughter, I find it particularly fitting that the Division of Bandler will be located next to the Division of Whitlam. My mother often spoke of the importance of visionary leadership in creating social change,” Lilon said.

    Sir John Sulman

    Sir John Sulman was an architect and town planner. He helped shape Canberra in its early development and influenced the city’s design.

    He was appointed Knight Bachelor of the British Empire in 1924. This was in recognition of his influence and contributions in architecture.

    “Members of the extended Sulman family are delighted that my great-grandfather Sir John Sulman is being so very appropriately honoured,” Sir John’s great-grandson Emeritus Professor David Carment AM said.

    “He deserves this recognition for his significant contributions to Australia as an architect, patron of the arts, town planner and writer, and particularly for his vital role in Canberra’s development,” David said.

    Suburban themes

    Each suburb in the ACT has a theme used to help name its streets.

    For Bandler, the theme will be ‘Australian Social and Cultural Life’.

    For Sulman, it will be ‘Humanities and Social Sciences’.

    A possible town centre

    There is another suburb expected for the Molonglo Valley. This is yet to be named.

    The National Capital Authority is currently considering the reclassification of the commercial centre of Molonglo as a Town Centre.

    Have your say

    The ACT Place Names Advisory Committee welcomes suggestions of names and feedback from the Canberra community.

    More information about how places are named and how to provide feedback is available on the Place names page on the ACT Planning website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: A new purpose-built facility for CAMHS

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Cottage program has helped young people build their confidence and capacity to return to school or other programs.

    In brief:

    • The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services ‘Cottage’ program will relocate.
    • It will move to a brand-new facility in Lyons in 2026.
    • This is the first step in preparing the site at North Canberra Hospital for demolition, ahead of building a new northside hospital.

    The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) ‘Cottage’ program at North Canberra Hospital will relocate to the southside.

    It will move to a new purpose-built facility in Lyons in 2026.

    The CAMHS Childhood Early Intervention Program and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Program will also relocate to Lyons.

    CAMHS Cottage program

    The Cottage is a day program for teens with moderate to severe mental health issues. These issues impact their ability to attend school.

    The program has been successful in supporting young people to make functional gains.

    It also helps build their confidence and capacity to return to school or other programs.

    The new location

    The new Lyons location offers young people easy access to:

    • public transport
    • active travel networks
    • green space
    • recreation activities
    • other services.

    The ACT Government has appointed Billard Leece Partnership Pty Ltd as the design partner for the new facility.

    Design input from young people, carers, clinicians and the local community will help ensure it meets the needs of staff, patients and their families.

    The facility is expected to be complete in 2026. Until then, the Cottage will continue to operate at its existing site at North Canberra Hospital.

    Preparing for the new hospital

    This planned move represents the first step in preparing the site for demolition ahead of construction of the new northside hospital.

    The ACT Government is working with clinical services on the North Canberra Hospital campus to:

    • understand current and future needs
    • explore suitable locations for services that will have to move over the next few years.

    Find more information on the Northside Hospital Project at builtforcbr.act.gov.au.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2024 Heritage Grant recipients announced

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust will use their grant to develop a self-guided interpretive trail at Mulligans Flat.

    In brief:

    • The 2024 ACT Heritage Grants program is funding 13 local projects.
    • These grants help individuals and groups with projects that celebrate the region’s history.
    • The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust is one of the recipients.

    The recipients of the 2024 ACT Heritage Grants program have been announced.

    This year’s program will fund 13 individual or community group projects to the value of $206,500.

    Funding was prioritised for projects that:

    • aim to conserve and promote the region’s diverse heritage
    • enhance local and visitor experiences.

    ACT Heritage Grants program aims to help Canberrans honour many years of culture, stories and history.

    Previous recipients have showcased the region’s rich history and First Nations heritage. This year’s Canberra and Region Heritage Festival program featured 22 projects funded through these grants.

    This year’s selected projects include restoration of heritage places and objects, oral histories, publications and tours.

    The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust

    The Woodlands & Wetlands Trust will receive a $20,200 grant.

    They will use this to create a self-guided interpretive trail at Mulligans Flat.

    “This will showcase the geological heritage of Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary and tell stories about how geology has shaped the landscape and people’s connections to country,” CEO Dr Jason Cummings said.

    The trail will give visitors to Mulligans Flat a new opportunity to engage with its natural and cultural landscape.

    It will be particularly useful for school groups and will form part of the Canberra Tracks network.

    “We will incorporate Ngunnawal perspectives and stories and take people on a journey through geological time. Interpretive signage will be installed to showcase local geological features and share stories about how geology shapes landscape features – water, plants, animals and people,” Jason said.

    2024–25 individual recipients and projects

    • Cuppacumbalong: Roof Conservation Works – $63,500
    • Tidbinbilla Pioneers Association: Oral Histories in the modern era – $22,200
    • Tidbinbilla Pioneers Association: Rock Valley Homestead Conservation Works – $17,000
    • Canberra Baptist Church: Conservation Management Plan – $15,525
    • Trevor Lipscombe: Griffith Weston Forest Trail Guidebook – $2,500
    • Canberra & District Historical Society: Digitisation of Limestone Plains photographs – $780
    • Hall Heritage Centre: Lyall Gillespie and the story of Ginninderra – $3,225
    • Yarralumla Residents Association: Discovering and Valuing Yarralumla Heritage – $9,850
    • Nick Swain: A History of the Mugga Lane area – $5,040
    • Woodlands & Wetlands Trust: Canberra Tracks geo heritage trail at Mulligans Flat – $20,200
    • University of Canberra: A City by Design – $32,500
    • Theatre Organ Society of Australia: Compton Organ maintenance, Albert Hall – $4,680
    • Free Serbian Orthodox Church St George: Murals Restoration Works – $9,500.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Where to spot wildlife in Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    You could spot kangaroos, koalas, platypus, echidnas, frogs, lizards, snakes and so much more.

    In brief:

    • Canberra is home to many different types of wildlife.
    • This article lists locations in Canberra where you can see native wildlife.

    Canberra has been given the name of the bush capital for good reason. Our bushland is the perfect habitat for a variety of native wildlife.

    We’ve put together a guide for spotting native animals and birds.

    Please remember that although wildlife can be cute and is exciting to see, do not:

    • Approach or disturb the wildlife
    • try to touch them,
    • feed them or
    • destroy their habitats in any way.

    Give our native wildlife lots of space and keep as much distance as you can to ensure you stay safe and protect their habitat.

    Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

    Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is home to a wide range of Australian wildlife. You could spot kangaroos, koalas, platypus, echidnas, frogs, lizards, snakes and so much more through the vast sub-alpine habitats.

    There is also the Threatened Species Conservation program, which helps research and recover threatened species. This includes the Southern Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby, Northern Corroboree Frog and Grassland Earless Dragon.

    Learn more about Tidbinbilla.

    Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary

    Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary has a program of reintroductions of species and allows them a place to grow and thrive. A predator-proof fence protects the wildlife inside and keeps them safe from introduced predators and pests like foxes and rabbits.

    A few of the native wildlife that call Mulligans Flat home were extinct on the mainland of Australian or found only in specific areas of Australia until their reintroduction. You might get lucky enough to see an Eastern Bettong, Eastern Quoll, New Holland Mouse any many more different species.

    See what else Mulligans Flat has to offer.

    Jerrabomberra Wetlands Nature Reserve

    This reserve is located next to the Kingston Foreshore and is one of the ACT’s most important wetland habitats. There are several different bird hides where you can watch birds and wildlife.

    For the full wetlands experience, download the Jerrabomberra Wetlands app and choose from three route options to wander.

    Find out more.

    Canberra Walk-in Aviary

    If you are looking for a place to view free flying birds, head to the Canberra Walk-in Aviary. You’ll find over 500 birds including nearly 60 different species from both Australia and around the world.

    See more info on the Aviary.

    Canberra Reptile Zoo

    Do scaly reptiles pique your interest? Visit the Canberra Reptile Zoo to see native snakes, lizards, geckos and more. You can not only watch the reptiles, but you also can sign up to touch them and some special volunteers get to hold them as well.

    Find out more.

    Canberra Birds

    If you’re into bird watching, the Canberra Birds site is home to all things bird-related in Canberra. Learn about different bird species, where they have been spotted and how to report and observe birds. There is also an amazing photo gallery full of the birds people have spotted.

    Check out the Canberra Bird group.

    Guided ranger tours

    Do you have a child that is obsessed with wildlife? Enrol them into one of the many young ranger programs that happen throughout the year. Kids can go on guided tours to see many different animals throughout Canberra. From frogs to birds there will be something to keep the kids fascinated.

    Keep up-to-date with what’s on.

    Check out the local parks in Canberra

    Canberra is home to over 90 amazing parks, many of which are filled with local wildlife. Search the area and see the different kinds of wildlife you come across on your travels. Whether you stay in your own suburb, or travel out to one of the national parks, you are bound to come across many interesting species.

    Find a park near you.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide investigation launched, Waiuku

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Karen Bright:

    Counties Manukau Police have launched a homicide enquiry following the discovery of a woman’s body in a vehicle in Waiuku yesterday.

    Police were called to the area around 5:40pm on Friday 11 April.

    A scene examination is underway, and a post-mortem will be conducted tomorrow.

    A 50-year-old man has been taken into custody and is assisting Police with our enquiries.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra team guide PhD student in local business venture

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Savannah McGuirk is using her PhD learnings to solve real-word problems through her start-up.

    In brief:

    • Savannah McGuirk takes PhD learnings to solve real word problems with a start-up.
    • She seeks advice to make sure her business is compliant.
    • Advice from the Access Canberra Business Assist Team confirms she’s on track.

    While completing her PhD, Savannah McGuirk discovered an industry problem that was yet to be solved.

    With her research pointing the way, Savannah launched her business, Remote Water Analytics.

    From research to start-up

    “Research is funny like that,” Savannah said. “You never know where you going to end up.”

    “I started out my PhD looking at carbon levels in soil, but soon discovered that soil moisture was impacting remote sensing satellite and drone data for carbon monitoring. What I also found, was there is no consistency in methods for monitoring soil moisture levels with optical satellite data.”

    That’s when things shifted for Savanah. She saw the application of her scientific research for the purpose of solving real world industry problems.

    Remote Water Analytics is in its infancy as Savannah finalises her PhD, but she’s already working with some clients. She’s using state-of-the-art remote sensing technologies, like satellites and drones alongside advanced data science, AI and machine learning to pull comprehensive insights into soil and water conditions.

    “We can do soil moisture mapping as well as long and short-term soil monitoring. We can also provide geospatial data visualisation. Satellite data gives us near real-time access to accurate and actionable information,” she said.

    Savannah said they can help small scale farmers or large agricultural operations to adopt more sustainable practices.

    “To be honest, I was surprised there wasn’t already a product in market that could affordably, reliably and efficiently test soil moisture remotely.

    “Soil sampling and testing is an expensive and labour-intensive endeavour, particularly over large areas when we’re dealing with large agricultural holdings.”

    But it’s not just agricultural applications that Remote Water Analytics can deal with. Savannah is currently working with a local Canberra civil construction company who are developing a new Canberra suburb.

    “Construction companies can’t work when it’s wet without damaging the surfaces which they have already carefully prepared. By accurately monitoring soil moisture levels, we can get them back on site as quickly and safely as possible after rain, ultimately helping them get their job done faster and realise real financial savings.”

    ACT Government business support

    Earlier this year, Savannah attended the ACT Government’s first CBR Small Business Expo. Curious to see what was on offer, she came across the Access Canberra Business Assist Team.

    “I overheard them speaking to someone else, and they sounded helpful,” she said.

    “It got me thinking about whether there were any permits or licences I need to operate a soil and water management business.”

    Like a true Canberran, and scientist, Savannah was keen to know that she was following all the correct processes and had all the right licences and permits.

    After hearing Savannah’s story, the Business Assist Team got to work on her behalf, seeking advice across government, including from the ACT Environmental Protection Authority.

    Kim from the Access Canberra Business Assist Team said they were glad to provide advice to Savannah.

    “Savannah’s business is a bit niche, and we were able to give her peace of mind that she was compliant with necessary regulations,” said Kim.

    Savannah agreed.

    “It was reassuring to be able to access the team by email and get confirmation that I had done the right things and was compliant in running my business,” she said.

    As for what’s next for Savannah, her business is one of 24 across Australia participating in a business accelerator program run by the Commonwealth Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

    “It’s a three-month accelerator program to support drought-resilience in Australian agriculture.

    “I’m a scientist, so I’m looking forward to learning many of the skill sets I need to run and operate a successful start-up,” she said.

    To find out more about the Access Canberra Business Assist Team that helped Savannah, contact the team.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping Canberra’s community gardens take climate action

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Community gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.

    Twelve Canberra projects have received a grant through the Community Garden Grants Program.

    They will each receive a share of $100,000 in total funding.

    The benefits of community gardens

    Community gardens offer opportunities for local climate action.

    The program also helps Canberrans connect and learn in a shared space.

    The gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.

    Havelock Community Garden

    The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative is a 2024 recipient.

    They plan to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.

    This will make it a place for community connection and socialising.

    They also see it as a means of engaging and educating the student community on growing and maintaining a garden.

    “Education is a big part of what we’re trying to do. Through the grant, we can carry out all these projects we wouldn’t have been able to do before,” Cooperative Director Benjamin Mason said.

    While volunteers and skills are plentiful, cost has been a barrier.

    “This grant means we will be spending less of our budget on the inventory required to run the garden. It means we can now start gardening,” Benjamin said.

    Growing their own food will bring substantial cost benefits, as well as environmental and social ones.

    “We have our own bulk food storage that all residents can access as part of the housing co-operative. The overarching plan is to eat the food from the garden, but anything we can’t eat fresh will be used in our pickling program,” he said.

    2024 Community Garden Grant funding streams

    There are two funding streams in 2024.

    In Stream 1, there is a total of $40,000 to:

    • improve and enhance existing gardens
    • build non-food-related gardens.

    In Stream 2, there is a total of $60,000 to:

    • set up large-scale food production community gardens
    • build significant infrastructure to increase food production in existing gardens.

    2024 grant recipients

    Stream 1:

    • Canberra Environment Centre: $7,835.76 to boost capacity to produce food in their community garden and increase resilience to climate change
    • Canberra Organic Growers Society Inc: $2,000.00 to buy zero-emission power tools for the Charnwood Community Garden
    • Holy Spirit Parish, Gungahlin: $2,641.79 to enhance the productivity and sustainability of their existing gardens
    • The Food Cooperative Shop: $2,872.72 to install vertical garden infrastructure and hold composting workshops
    • Red Hill Primary School P&C: $4,068.65 to plant a bush tucker garden and enhance existing food gardens
    • Church of Christ Ainslie ACT Inc: $3,922.60 to improve seed raising capabilities, build more garden beds and create a frog bog along with native plantings
    • Canberra Student Housing Co-operative: $2,239.00 to convert the Havelock Community Garden into a communal food production space
    • Miles Franklin Primary School P&C: $8,000.00 to build the Gambara Garden, complete with fruit trees and vegetable gardens
    • Scullin Community Group Inc: $2,832.84 to plant an edible sensory hedge at the Scullin Shops.

    Stream 2:

    • Old Narrabundah Community Council: $18,947.00 to install secure fencing around their newly renovated gardens
    • Canberra Muslim Community Inc: $22,000.00 to build the GM Multicultural Community Garden at Gungahlin Mosque
    • SEE Change Belconnen: $22,470.41 to build the demonstration verge garden network. This will build verge gardens in five locations across Belconnen.

    The Community Garden Grants Program began in 2015. It has since supported 87 community garden projects.

    Find more information on the Community Garden Grants program and this year’s recipients at the Everyday Climate Choices website.

    The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative plans to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: FOGO pilot is a go-go for Tuggeranong and Belconnen

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    More Canberrans will have access to weekly collection of food scraps and garden waste.

    In brief:

    • The Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection pilot provides a weekly collection of food scraps and garden waste.
    • The pilot is being expanded to include more than 1,150 households in multi-unit developments in Tuggeranong and Belconnen.
    • Participating households will be formally notified of their involvement in the coming weeks.

    The ACT Government is expanding the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection pilot. From September, the pilot will include more than 1,150 households in multi-unit developments in Belconnen and Tuggeranong.

    The FOGO pilot began in November 2021. Each week food scraps and garden waste are collected from about 5,300 households in:

    • Belconnen
    • Bruce
    • Cook
    • Macquarie.

    From September, the collection pilot will service more Canberrans, including:

    • 772 households in Belconnen
    • 400 households in Tuggeranong.

    These homes will be in multi-development units.

    About one-third of items put into household rubbish bins in the ACT is food. This is equal to around 26,000 tonnes of food waste going to landfill each year.

    Since the pilot began, it has diverted more than 3,475 tonnes of food and garden waste from landfill. This material has been turned into valuable compost. This supports a circular economy within the ACT and reduces the amount of harmful greenhouse gas emissions that come from our landfill.

    The Belconnen and Tuggeranong households added to the pilot will continue to provide information. This data will inform a future Canberra-wide rollout of FOGO. It will also provide insights to help improve waste management practices for multi-unit developments.

    Participating households will receive a letter to announce their involvement. There will also be information sessions over the coming weeks. Details will be provided to residents and building managers on the correct use of FOGO in their buildings.

    Those households will get an easy-to-use kitchen caddy with compostable liner bags for food scraps. They will also get access to a light green lidded FOGO bin within their shared waste enclosures. There will be no changes to regular bin collections within the expansion areas. ­

    For more information on the FOGO pilot, visit: www.cityservices.act.gov.au.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Upgrading the Watson Health Precinct

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    New and improved facilities will allow community organisations to offer a welcoming, secure and inclusive environment.

    In brief:

    • Plans to upgrade the Watson Health Precinct are moving ahead.
    • There will be new and improved facilities offering vital rehabilitation services.
    • A new drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be built.

    The Watson Health Precinct upgrades are moving ahead.

    Plans have been conditionally approved and a Head Contractor appointed.

    Important upgrades

    Community health organisations have provided vital rehabilitation services from the precinct for almost 20 years.

    New facilities will replace the site’s ageing infrastructure. This will help these organisations ensure a welcoming, secure and inclusive environment for people as they recover.

    It will also allow them to double their capacity in the future.

    The ACT Government will build new facilities in the precinct for:

    • the Ted Noffs Foundation – who offer live-in alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services for young people
    • Marymead CatholicCare – who provide a residential care facility for young people with mental health conditions.

    “Seeking support for drug and alcohol treatment is a massive step for any young person to undertake. Having a space that is designed and created to allow for young people to feel safe, comfortable and promotes treatment removes one barrier to young people accessing support. We welcome the ACT Government’s commitment to improve the treatment options for young people in the ACT,” the Ted Noffs Foundation said.

    “Young people struggling with mental health concerns deserve and will appreciate the new welcoming and fresh interiors, inspiring the sense of new beginnings and motivation to work towards their identified mental health recovery goals,” Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn said.

    A new facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

    The precinct will also expand. A new alcohol and other drugs rehabilitation facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be built.

    It will be a residential facility with 24 beds.

    Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services (Winnunga) will run the service.

    Winnunga has led the facility’s design and will be responsible for its construction and operation.

    This partnership will help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive culturally appropriate care for the best possible recovery.

    Monarch Building Solutions has been engaged as the Head Contractor for the work on the existing services.

    They will work with Winnunga and their Head Contractor as they build their new facility.

    Construction is expected to be completed in early 2026.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Planning underway for the new Palmerville Heritage loop path

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Palmerville Heritage Park sits in an historic cultural space near McKellar, Evatt and Giralang.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government will build a 650-metre loop path in Palmerville Heritage Park.
    • Palmerville Heritage Park is in north Belconnen.
    • This will help people better explore the area.

    The ACT Government will build a new loop path through Palmerville Heritage Park.

    It will be approximately 650 metres long.

    The park is a popular open space in north Belconnen.

    It sits in an historic cultural landscape near McKellar, Evatt and Giralang.

    This location represents a connection to the early rural settlement of the ACT. There is evidence of past land use in this area as a rural settlement from the early 1800s to the 1950s.

    Canberrans have requested the continuation of the park’s existing walking trail to create a loop.

    This will help people better explore the area.

    Ginninderra Creek runs along the park’s east side. As the area is flood prone, this will influence the final alignment of the path and the materials used to build it.

    Once heritage and environment approvals are complete, the final alignment will be released ahead of construction procurement.

    Construction procurement is expected to begin in early 2025.

    Find out more about the path on the City Services website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Beat the heat this summer with a climate-wise garden

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A climate-wise garden can create a shady haven for your family while providing a habitat for native animals and insects.

    In brief:

    • Canberra is expecting hotter temperatures, more heatwaves and less predictable rainfall.
    • Creating a climate-wise garden helps keep your home cooler and contributes to reducing urban heat.
    • This story has tips for creating a climate-wise garden for summer.

    Spring is a great time of year to plan your summer garden.

    Whether you have a large yard, a small courtyard or balcony, you can create a beautiful garden that:

    • thrives in local conditions
    • helps keep your space cool in hot weather
    • is a habitat for native animals and insects.

    By planning your climate-wise garden, you can lower the temperature around your home. This can help you save energy and reduce your cooling bills during the hot months.

    Choose plants for Canberra’s climate

    Canberra’s climate is changing. This means we will have:

    • hotter temperatures
    • more heatwaves
    • less predictable rainfall.

    Roads, footpaths and buildings absorb the sun’s heat and makes urban areas hotter than nearby green spaces.

    Living infrastructure (like the plants and trees in your garden) can reduce urban heat during hotter weather and heatwaves.

    A climate-wise garden has plants that consider sun, shade and water needs, and frost tolerance.

    The ACT Government’s Canberra Plant Selector is a free online tool that can help you choose the best plants for your climate-wise garden.

    You can search for plants suited to Canberra’s climate based on sun, shade, frost tolerance and water needs. Not sure what exactly you’re looking for? Use the handy quiz feature to get some recommendations tailored to your space.

    Find the Canberra Plant Selector tool here.

    Create a shady haven

    Don’t have space for a tree? Adding greenery to a westerly facing wall can help keep it cool during those hot summer afternoons. You can also consider an overhead trellis or placing some plants on your balcony or veranda. Another option is to install a shade structure, such as a sail.

    • Planting a tree in a hot space helps, but what about the ground surface underneath? If it’s compacted dirt, artificial grass, or pavers, some of the cooling effects of the tree are lost. Think about understory plants that might work well in your space. If you can’t plant directly into the ground, consider pots or planters.

    Use water wisely

    Planting only grass or groundcover won’t help you beat the heat. Grass and other forms of ground cover are coolest when irrigated or combined with shrubs and trees that also provide shade.

    • Consider getting a rain tank to capture runoff from your roof. You can use this water to keep your lawn and garden irrigated and cooler in hot conditions.

    If you already have trees and shade in your space, installing a small pond or other water feature can help keep things even cooler. Ponds can also provide habitat for frogs and insects, as well as providing a welcome respite for local wildlife.

    Help keep our city cooler

    Having a climate-wise garden isn’t just about keeping your own home cool. Landowners, builders and the community play an important role in reducing Canberra’s urban heat.

    The ACT Government is helping the Territory to adapt to the effects of climate change through living infrastructure like trees and plants.

    As Canberra’s urban environment grows and evolves, the ACT Government is committed to ensuring our tree canopy and living infrastructure also expands.

    By 2045, across Canberra’s urban footprint, the ACT Government aims to achieve:

    • 30 per cent tree canopy cover or other forms of living infrastructure, such as green roofs, shrub beds, wetlands and rain gardens.
    • 30 per cent permeable surfaces, such as lawns, gravel and porous paving.

    Canberra’s Living Infrastructure Plan outlines how we can nurture and grow our natural assets. The Plan will grow our urban forest, make our city and buildings more climate resilient and empower the community with the tools and resources to become climate ready.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Cosponsors Bipartisan, Bicameral Invest to Protect Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced he is once again cosponsoring the bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act, reintroduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05),John Rutherford (FL-05), and Steven Horsford (NV-04) this week. This critical legislation would make targeted investments in small and midsize departments with fewer than 175 sworn police officers, providing vital funds for recruitment, retention, training, and officer support.

    During the 117th Congress, the bipartisan Invest to Protect Act overwhelmingly passed the House with 360 votes. Other versions of the legislation have also passed the Senate. Despite broad support, a final agreed-upon bill has not yet fully passed out of Congress. This reintroduction renews the effort to deliver critical support to law enforcement officers serving communities across the country.

    “New Hampshire’s local law enforcement does critical work to keep our communities and our families safe, and this bipartisan legislation will ensure they have the resources and training needed to do their jobs,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “By making increased funding available to our local departments, this legislation will improve recruitment, retention, mental health support for officers and ensure they have the support to keep our communities safe. Whether they are keeping deadly fentanyl and other illegal drugs off our streets, protecting individuals from violent crime, or acting as first responders to physical and mental health emergencies, our local police departments do lifesaving work each and every day, and this legislation will help support their work and keep Granite Staters safe.”

    The bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act of 2025 would:

    • Invest in officer safety, de-escalation, and domestic violence response training, allowing officers to receive critical training that will make them more effective at their jobs;
    • Create grants for small departments to recruit new officers to bolster their departments;
    • Provide retention bonuses to keep existing officers as a part of their communities;
    • Fund officers’ tuition for graduate studies in mental health, public health, and social work up to $10,000; and
    • Allow departments to provide mental health resources for their officers.

    The critical need to support small and midsized police departments: 

    • The vast majority of law enforcement agencies in the U.S. are smaller than 200 full-time sworn officers.
    • More than 94% of local U.S. police departments have fewer than 100 sworn officers.
    • Small law enforcement agencies protect and serve our communities with strained resources and growing needs for additional support, training, and funding. 

    Read the full bill text here.

    The bipartisan Invest to Protect Act is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Troopers Coalition,the National Sheriffs’ Association, Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA), and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).

    “The Fraternal Order of Police applauds the recent reintroduction of the ‘Invest to Protect Act’ in the House. This crucial piece of legislation would establish a program within the U.S. Department of Justice to provide grants to small departments for their training, recruitment and retention, college tuition, and social services like therapy and treatment. Year after year, this bill has remained a priority of the FOP. We owe it to our smaller departments to better equip them with the tools they need to carry out their duties to the best of their ability as they work tirelessly to protect our communities. We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Gottheimer and Rutherford to introduce this bill in the House. We look forward to working closely with Congress to ensure this gets across the finish line,” said the Fraternal Order of Police. 

    “On behalf of the National Tactical Officers Association and its over 40,000 members nationwide, I am proud to support the Invest to Protect Act,” said Thor Eells, Executive Director of the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA). “This bipartisan legislation is a needed step in providing critical training and equipment to smaller and rural police departments to help ensure the health, security, and safety of both law enforcement and the citizenry that they are sworn to protect.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen and Senator Markey Lead a Letter to EPA Requesting a List of Companies Seeking Presidential Permission to Pollute

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    Fifty-four House Members and seven Senators want to know who is seeking to circumvent the Clean Air Act

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts today led 59 Congressional colleagues in a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin requesting a list of companies seeking a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act. The letter also requests information about how the companies claim the exemption would be in the national security interests of the United States, whether technical issues make meeting existing standards difficult, and other details about the companies’ requests. See the letter below.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “The Clean Air Act is a foundational law that protects public health and the environment by regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources. While the Act allows for limited exemptions in certain circumstances, it is vital that these exemptions not be granted arbitrarily or behind closed doors — especially when they will result in increased pollution and potentially harm public health.” 

    Senator Markey made this statement:

    “Rather than protect the health of all Americans by enforcing existing rules and regulations designed to reduce the risk and incidence of cancer caused by air pollution, the Trump administration is instead handing out polluter privilege passes — opening a VIP lane and an email inbox for coal plants and chemical giants to dodge Clean Air Act rules. Families in fenceline communities don’t get to opt out of breathing mercury, arsenic, and other toxics. These clean air protections save lives — up to 11,000 every year — and the public has a right to know who’s trying to dodge them. I’m proud to join Representative Cohen in demanding transparency and accountability. The Clean Air Act was written to protect people, not polluters.”

    The letter reads in part:

    “We are writing to request a comprehensive list of companies that have requested a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act, as outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 24, 2025. Given the EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment, the Administration’s expressed commitment to transparency, and your own written and oral testimony to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee during your confirmation hearing, we believe it is imperative that the EPA disclose which companies are seeking to circumvent current environmental regulations.

    “We request that you expeditiously provide the names of all companies that requested a presidential exemption under the Clean Air Act and the details of their exemption request, including 1) any emissions standards or limitations subject to the request, facility(ies) and/or affected sources, 2) the length of compliance period being requested, 3) their explanation why the technology to implement the standard is not available, and 4) their explanation why an extension is in the national security interests of the United States. Please also include which of these companies, if any, expressed an intention to submit proprietary information.

    “We would also like to know how your agency plans to evaluate and announce which companies are granted a presidential exemption and which applied but are denied. We expect all of this information to be made easily available to the public, as the Trump Administration repeatedly states that it is the ‘most transparent administration in history.’ ”

    The lawmakers ask to see the information by Friday, April 18.

    See the entire letter here.

    The letter request is endorsed by the Center for Biological Diversity, EarthJustice, EcoMadres, the Environmental Defense Fund, the League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, Rise4EJ, the Sierra Club, and the Southern Environmental Law Center.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Veasey, Doggett, Fletcher Lead Texas Democrats in Letter to CDC Condemning Mass Firings and Vaccine Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Veasey, Doggett, Fletcher Lead Texas Democrats in Letter to CDC Condemning Mass Firings and Vaccine Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak

    Lawmakers demand answers following an unprecedented surge in measles cases across Texas and nationwide, including the death of a Texas child, as DOGE cuts and HHS Secretary vaccine misinformation hinder response efforts.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Marc Veasey, Lloyd Doggett, and Lizzie Fletcher led Texas Democrats in sending  a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Acting Director Dr. Susan Monarez expressing deep concern over the surging measles outbreak in Texas and across the country. The lawmakers requested an urgent, detailed report on the CDC’s efforts to contain the outbreak, combat vaccine misinformation, and assess the impact of workforce reductions on outbreak response.

    The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported 259 confirmed cases of measles, including 34 hospitalizations and the tragic death of an unvaccinated school-aged child. The outbreak has disproportionately impacted school-aged children. 

    “We write to you with deep concern and grave urgency regarding the unprecedented spread of measles across the United States, with Texas at the epicenter of this alarming crisis.” The Representatives wrote. “We are troubled that anti-vaccine misinformation, cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) workforce, and reductions of public health funding will threaten the country’s ability to respond to the current measles outbreak, and future public health threats.” 

    The lawmakers raised alarm over the dangerous spread of anti-vaccine misinformation, including mixed messaging from Health and Human Services (HHS). Notably, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly downplayed the effectiveness of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, falsely suggesting that “natural immunity” from measles infection is preferable, while promoting alternative treatments such as Vitamin A supplements and cod liver oil.

    “Suggesting that children are better off contracting measles during an unprecedented outbreak is not only dangerous, but instills further distrust in the very safe and effective MMR vaccine amongst Americans,” the letter states.

    The lawmakers also condemned the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for mass firings at the CDC, including the layoff of at least 750 public health workers—many of whom were critical to outbreak response efforts. These cuts, along with a shift away from real-time public health data reporting, have significantly weakened the nation’s ability to contain infectious disease outbreaks.

    “With more than 70% of the CDC’s budget supporting state and local health departments, any cuts will have catastrophic consequences,” the lawmakers warned. “The CDC must have the necessary funding and personnel to protect American communities from infectious disease outbreaks.”

    The letter calls on the CDC to provide a detailed briefing on its plans to contain the outbreak, restore public confidence in vaccination, and describe how cuts have impacted the agency’s ability to fulfill its public health mission.

    “The people of Texas, and the entire country, rely on your agency’s leadership to address this outbreak and ensure that no more children suffer preventable harm,” the lawmakers concluded. “We look forward to your prompt response.”

     The complete text of the letter can be read here: 

    .

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Supreme Court Ruling, Hoyer Joins Raskin, Colleagues to Demand Trump White House Immediately Return Maryland Man Deported in ‘Error’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:

    “The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’ 

    “In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately. 

    “The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.

    “During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.

    “The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child. 

    “We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”

    “If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Nadler Lead Colleagues in Opposing Attempted Firings of FTC Commissioners, Urging FTC to Address Nationwide Affordability Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) and House Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and 53 of their colleagues sent a letter to President Trump and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Andrew Ferguson strongly opposing Trump’s unlawful attempt to fire Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Slaughter and urging the agency to use its authorities to address the “cost-of-living crisis” and “deliver emergency price relief” to working families. 

    The Members underscore in the letter how the attempted firing of Mr. Bedoya and Ms. Slaughter undermines the Commission’s ability to protect workers and consumers, as they provided crucial votes for cases and investigations that held pharmacy benefit managers accountable for artificially inflating insulin prices and stopped agricultural equipment companies from denying farmers the right to repair their own agricultural equipment. The Commissioners were also instrumental in the FTC’s regulatory efforts to end junk fees, abusive subscription practices, and ban non-compete agreements that limited workers’ employment opportunities.

    “President Trump ran a campaign promising to lower costs of living for working families, but instead he is illegally terminating leaders at the FTC, an independent agency whose mandate could be used to hold predatory corporations accountable, while the prices of food, housing, and services continue to rise,” said Congressman García. “I am proud to have partnered with Ranking Member Nadler on this effort; Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter must be permitted to do their jobs, and the FTC should prioritize workers and consumers, not billionaires.”

    “The illegal attempted firing of Federal Trade Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter is an affront not only to our Constitution but also the economic power of individuals, families, and small businesses across the country. The FTC is the body that ensures we have a fair market and it should not be politicized as President Trump has done. I am proud to join my colleagues in urging the President to reinstate the Commissioners and ensure that the FTC is focused on driving down costs for the American people,” said Ranking Member Nadler.

    “Following the Trump administration’s erratic policymaking and whipsaw tariff announcements, it’s more important than ever that Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter get back to work to lower prices for working Americans that will bear the brunt of any economic fallout,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “In times of economic uncertainty, robust enforcement from the FTC is absolutely necessary to defend the interests of consumers, small businesses, and workers who are already struggling under a cost of living crisis. We’re pleased to join these Members of Congress in urging the administration to get the full Commission back to work as fast as possible.”

    “By illegally trying to fire Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter, President Trump and Andrew Ferguson deliberately hobbled the FTC, one of the government’s most effective defenses against Big Tech and Wall Street abuses,” said Emily Peterson-Cassin, Corporate Power Director at Demand Progress. “Especially now when Americans are worrying about their retirement accounts and the price of household goods, we need a fully functional FTC to look out for Main Street. Chair Ferguson has talked a big game about standing up to the big fish and now is the time to actually use his power to curb corporate abuse and lower costs for everyday Americans.”

    “The out-of-control cost of housing is the number one economic issue facing most Americans and the number one driver of homelessness,” said Jesse Rabinowitz, Communications and Campaign Director at the National Homelessness Law Center. “That’s why it’s crucial to have a functional FTC with Commissioners who are committed to addressing corporate consolidation and other issues in the housing market that are driving up costs for families. When we solve homelessness and make housing affordable for all, we will be a safer, healthier, and more prosperous country.”

    A copy of the letter can be found here.

    Congressmen García and Nadler were joined by 53 colleagues: Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-31), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jimmy Gomez (CA- 34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John B. Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05). 

    The letter is endorsed by: American Economic Liberties Project, Americans For Financial Reform, Center for Digital Democracy, Demand Progress, Groundwork Collaborative, Institute for Local Self-Reliance, National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), National Homelessness Law Center, P Street, and Revolving Door Project.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cleaver Votes Against Budget Resolution that Opens Door to Slashing Medicaid and SNAP, Exploding Deficit to Provide Another Handout to Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against the Republican Budget Resolution that would open the door to slashing essential programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) while exploding the federal deficit to finance another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans. 

    “As Missouri families continue to struggle with the cost of living, as well as the economic chaos created by the president’s reckless tariff policies, my Republican colleagues are laser-focused on passing another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans—paid for by slashing essential programs that working class Americans depend on like Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, and more,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This isn’t just fiscally irresponsible, it’s a dangerous proposal that will drive up the cost of everything from healthcare and housing to groceries and energy, all while exploding the federal deficit.”

    According to estimates, the resolution would increase inflation, with the average American household’s purchasing power over the next five years falling by $300-$1,250. That does not include the average loss of $3,800 for the average American due to the president’s previously announced costly tariff plans.

    The Treasury Department found that the extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would give an average annual tax cut of $32,118 for those in the top 1 percent and an average annual tax cut of $314,266 for those in the top 0.1 percent. Nearly half the net benefit of extending the law would go to the top 5 percent of households, or those making more than $450,000 per year.

    Meanwhile, working families will only receive a few hundred dollars in tax cuts a year while losing access to programs like Medicaid, SNAP, school meals, and more, as well as facing higher costs due to inflationary effects. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the Republican budget previously passed by House Republicans would result in the largest Medicaid cuts in American history—which would be particularly devastating to Missouri.

    In addition to the $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicaid and CHIP, other devastating cuts to federal programs from the Republican budget include at least:

    • $330 billion in cuts targeting student loan programs, income driven repayment, Pell grants, and school meals;
    • $230 billion in cuts threatening nutrition assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
    • $50 billion in cuts that endanger government employee retirement benefits and the federal workforce;
    • $10 billion in cuts to investments in local infrastructure made through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law;
    • $1 billion in cuts that jeopardize the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and federal financial regulators;
    • $1 billion in cuts to clean energy investments made under the Inflation Reduction Act.

    “Rather than pushing an extreme, partisan budget resolution that will take from the most vulnerable in our community and give to those in the top five percent, Congress should be focused on expanding tax cuts for working and middle class families, investing in healthcare and housing programs that will lower costs for Missourians, and ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As Republicans continue to pursue more reckless trickle-down economics, I will do everything in my power to put a stop to these reverse Robin Hood policies.”

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Evans, House & Senate Colleagues Reintroduce ‘Poverty-Busting’ Bills to Expand Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON (April 11, 2025) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) and House and Senate colleagues have reintroduced what Evans calls “poverty-busting” legislation to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.

    Evans is sponsoring the House bill to expand the EITC, the Tax Cut for Workers Act (H.R. 2764). 

    Evans said, “I’m proud to join with Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) and our Senate colleagues to introduce this bill to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit. The EITC is one of the most effective poverty-busting tools that we have, and expanding it is something that members of Congress from both parties should support!”

    Evans’ bill would benefit an estimated 14 million Americans. It would:

    • Virtually triple the maximum value of the EITC for so-called “childless workers” from about $540 to about $1,500. These are workers not raising children in their home who are currently taxed into or further into poverty.
    • Extend the credit to both younger and older workers who are currently ineligible for the credit because of their age – delivering the credit to people ages 19 to 24 as well as 65 and older.
    • Make the credit more accessible for adults aging out of the foster youth system.

    A more detailed one-page fact sheet about the bill is available here.

    In addition to co-lead sponsor Khanna, House co-sponsors of Evans’ bill include Reps. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Linda Sánchez (D-CA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Shri Thanedar, (D-MI), Dina Titus (D-NV) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). 

    Organizations endorsing the bill include: Americans for Tax Fairness, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Coalition on Human Needs, Economic Security Project Action, Golden State Opportunity, National Council of Jewish Women, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, RESULTS, UnidosUS, and Young Invincibles.

    Evans is also co-sponsoring the American Family Act in the House. That bill would make permanent the expanded, monthly Child Tax Credit that was passed in 2021. 

    “We know from recent experience that this can lift millions of children out of poverty. I’m going to keep pushing for this too!” Evans said.

    The Child Tax Credit bill would:

    • Increase the value of the CTC from the current level of $2,000 per child to $6,360 for newborns, $4,320 for children ages 1 through 6, and $3,600 for children age 6 through 17;
    • End the longstanding, discriminatory policy that reduces the value of the Child Tax Credit for low-income families, ensuring that the families of 17 million low-income children left out of the CTC under current law would receive the same credit as families in the middle class;
    • Provide for monthly delivery of the credit so families would have access to it as bills arrive; and
    • Index the CTC for inflation to preserve the value of the credit moving forward.

    Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans’ office’s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.

    Evans serves on the influential House Ways and Means Committee, including its Subcommittee on Health. In addition to taxes, the committee also oversees trade, Social Security and Medicare. Evans’ website is evans.house.gov and his social media handle is @RepDwightEvans on Youtube, Bluesky, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Threads.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New law to better support donor-conceived Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    This is the first stage of work to regulate assisted reproductive services and improve access to information on heritage for donor-conceived people.

    In brief:

    • New laws will better support donor-conceived Canberrans and their families.
    • New regulatory requirements for clinical practice are being introduced.
    • A new ACT donor register will help donor-conceived people access family information.

    People who use and are conceived using assisted reproductive technology (ART) are now better protected in the ACT.

    A new piece of legislation – the Assisted Reproductive Technology Act (2024) ­– is in place.

    It requires Canberra ART providers to continue adhering to strong clinical and ethical standards.

    These will better support the health and wellbeing of donor-conceived Canberrans and their families.

    Improving access

    The new legislation is the first stage in the ACT Government’s work to regulate and improve access to ART services in Canberra.

    It supports Canberrans who:

    • use ART to become parents
    • are donor-conceived and wish to access information about their parents’ donor, in a timely and sensitive manner.

    It also introduces regulatory requirements for clinical practice by ART providers, including:

    • registration requirements
    • conditions around providing clinical services
    • requirements for gamete (sperm or eggs) retrieval and use
    • requirements for embryo creation and storage.

    “The legal regulation of the ART industry is a necessary step for all those who access fertility treatment in the territory and will help assure Canberrans that the industry is operating ethically and that they will be in safe hands while accessing treatment,” National Director of Donor Conceived Australia Aimee Shackleton said.

    An ACT donor register

    The new law ensures donor-conceived Canberrans will be able to access information about their parents’ donor/s from their ART providers. This includes information on genetic heritage and any half-siblings they may have.

    It also establishes a donor register. A register will make it an easier, more streamlined process for donor-conceived people to find such information.

    Stage 1 of the donor register

    The new law sets up the first stage of the register.

    Through this, donor-conceived individuals who are conceived after 29 March 2025 can access details about their donor, including identifying information. Parents will also be able to access this information, where the gametes were donated after 29 March 2025.

    This first stage will also include the establishment of a voluntary register. This will start in March 2025.

    This will allow for existing donor-conceived people and past donors to voluntarily add their details to the register.

    “We are grateful the ACT Government has legislated to create a voluntary register enabling those who wish to make connections with family, and share vitally important medical information, to now do so in a safe and appropriate manner,” Aimee said.

    Stage 2 of the donor register

    The second stage will include a retrospective register for all donor-conceived individuals. There, people can access information about their parents’ donor, irrespective of when they were conceived or born, if those records still exist.

    This will be put in place after extensive community and stakeholder consultation.

    If you have questions about the new laws, email art.healthpolicy@act.gov.au

    Read the legislation at Assisted Reproductive Technology Act 2024

    Find out more at act.gov.au and search ‘Assisted reproductive technology’.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next steps for South Tuggeranong Health Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The centre will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    Designs have been released for the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder.

    The Development Application (DA) has also been publicly notified.

    This marks a significant milestone in the project, which will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    This follows extensive consultation last year, with the designs reflecting community input.

    The DA lodgement gives the community another opportunity to provide feedback on the designs.

    South Tuggeranong Health Centre services

    The centre will feature consultation rooms and a multi-purpose space.

    These will support a range of specialities and non-government organisations to deliver services.

    These will include:

    • paediatrics
    • pathology collection
    • dementia care
    • diabetes clinics
    • falls and falls injury prevention
    • chronic disease programs
    • a virtual care space for people to access specialist services closer to where they live.

    A head contractor will soon be selected.

    Construction is expected to start early next year and be completed towards the end of 2025.

    More health centres for Canberra

    Early design work and planning is underway for new health centres in:

    • North Gungahlin
    • the Inner South
    • West Belconnen.

    The ACT Government recently completed consultation on the services for the centres in the Inner South and North Gungahlin.

    You can view the plans and provide feedback until 9 September 2024.

    Visit Planning ACT.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New neighbourhood park now open in north Watson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The park’s impressive eagle centrepiece was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church.

    In brief:

    • A new park on Aspinall Street, Watson is now open.
    • It provides families a vibrant new space to play and learn more about Ngunnawal culture.
    • It is part of the Section 76 Watson site, which will include new housing.

    The new Maliyan Park in north Watson is now open.

    It is located on Aspinall Street, near the Negus Crescent intersection.

    This new neighbourhood park celebrates Ngunnawal culture through:

    • vibrant artwork
    • new trees and plantings
    • diverse play equipment.

    It was designed with the aim of sharing Ngunnawal culture while enjoying time outdoors.

    The park’s centrepiece is a Maliyan (wedge-tailed eagle) structure. This was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church.

    The impressive structure signifies the Maliyan’s importance to the traditional custodians. It is believed she was chosen to create resources for Ngunnawal people.

    Other artworks include native animals and insects designed by Ngunnawal artists Jazz and Krystal Matthews from Wilay Designs.

    The park also features a selection of endemic plants with a special and practical connection to Ngunnawal community and culture.

    Visitors will find play equipment for a range of ages and play styles. There is nature play, swings, slides, climbers and spinners.

    Older children and adults can make use of exercise equipment and a kick-around space.

    Maliyan Park is a unique space for local families to play, relax and learn more about Ngunnawal culture.

    It is part of the Section 76 Watson site that will provide for:

    • approximately 200 new homes
    • a demonstration housing project of approximately 20 to 30 homes while keeping high-quality trees to continue to provide habitat for wildlife and reduce urban heat.

    Section 76 was developed in consultation with the community. This includes input from the Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee.

    There is play equipment for a range of ages and play styles.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Activities for toddlers in Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    • Here is a list of fun experiences in Canberra for you and your toddler.

    When it comes to keeping toddlers busy, not just any activity will do.

    They have moved beyond entertainment for babies but aren’t quite ready for school-aged fun.

    Luckily, Canberra has plenty of facilities and activities for kids of all ages, including toddlers.

    Here are some toddler-friendly activities loved by Canberra families:

    The Discovery Centre at the National Museum of Australia

    The Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre is a play space for children from birth to 6 years. It is jam-packed with different activities, including:

    • a quiet reading area with books
    • a wheelchair-accessible rocking deck
    • platforms, ropes, ramps and stairs to climb
    • light projections
    • and plenty more.

    There are also activity sessions during the school term, including:

    • pyramid making sessions on Wednesdays
    • story time on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

    Little Griffins Play & Learn 

    Join a free event for babies and toddlers aged 0 to 4 on the last Friday of every month at the National Capital Exhibition. Each month has a different theme and includes activities like arts and craft and music.

    When you’re finished, pop next door to the Canberra and Region Visitor Information Centre at Regatta Point. There is colouring in and some fun activities from Questacon. There is also a playground next door to the Centre.

    Curious Corner at the National Gallery of Australia

    On the first Thursday of the month, the National Gallery of Australia hosts a program designed for children aged 3-5 and their caregivers.

    The sessions encourage curiosity and creativity. They build on ideas from the Gallery through creative making in the Tim Fairfax Learning studio.

    The event is free, and bookings are essential.

    Little Faces at the National Portrait Gallery

    The National Portrait Gallery hosts a range of family-friendly activities. Little Faces is a way for babies and toddlers to explore portraits through play, music and fun.

    Bookings are essential.

    PlayUP at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

    PlayUP is a playful way for young families to explore the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The exhibition includes play spaces, roleplay, craft activities, story time, and more.

    PlayUP is open from 9am to 4:30pm daily.

    National Arboretum Canberra

    The National Arboretum Canberra’s outdoor educators host weekly nature-based playgroups for children aged between 18 months and 5 years.Sessions run from 10am to 2pm on Mondays and Fridays during the school term.

    The Playgroup is designed for children to build physical and emotional confidence and unleash their creativity. It also helps them to become environmentally conscious individuals.

    Playgrounds

    Regardless of what side of Canberra you live in, you’re never far from an excellent playground.

    Some popular Canberra playgrounds include:

    • Ruth Park Playground in Coombs
    • Farrer Nature Play & Adventure Trail
    • Boundless Canberra
    • Pod Playground at the National Arboretum Canberra
    • Point Hut Pond Gordon District Playground
    • Moncrieff Community Recreation Park.

    Yarralumla Play Station

    The Yarralumla Play Station in Weston Park includes:

    • the Weston Park Miniature Railway
    • Lake Walter Mini Golf
    • Mini Farm Friends.

    Catch the mini train for a farm visit for an exciting day out. Afterwards, grab a babycino and some lunch from the Station Stop Café. There’s also a playground across the road.

    National Dinosaur Museum

    Dinosaurs are a source of fascination for toddlers. The National Dinosaur Museum is a fun, interactive way to learn about the earth’s ancient history. Explore the indoor exhibitions and then venture outside to the landscaped dinosaur garden.

    Giggle & Wiggle

    Giggle and Wiggle is a free program held at Libraries ACT for babies and toddlers up to two and their carers.

    The program focuses on language development. Sessions include singing, dancing and sharing rhymes.

    Families are encouraged to spend time in the library afterwards to build connections and make friends.

    Questacon

    Questacon is always a hit with kids, but Mini Q is built specifically for curious toddlers.

    There are a range of activities and spaces for children aged up to 6. Each area is designed to help children learn about the world around them.

    There is a play café, vet office and mechanic. You’ll also find water play, a space-themed area, and much more.

    Mini Q is included with general admission. There may be session times in place during peak periods like school holidays and long weekends.

    The Australian National Botanic Gardens

    The Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for toddlers to spend some time outdoors. There’s plenty of space to run, wander and explore.

    Head to the Visitors Centre to get a guide and map. The staff can also tell you about the family-friendly activities available at the Gardens.

    The ‘Who Lives Here?’ children’s discovery walk takes 30 minutes and is designed for children up to 8. It’s fun and teaches children about their environment.

    There is also Bush magic: storytime in the Gardens on the first Friday of the month from 10am-11am.

    Canberra Zoo and Aquarium

    A visit to Canberra Zoo and Aquarium is about so much more than just seeing animals and sea creatures.

    There are 2.6km of walking trails, complete with an Adventure Trail with interactive activities for kids.

    When it comes to playing, AdventureLand is the star of the show. It’s the Zoo’s playground space for children aged 2-12.

    There are 55 activities available for children, including:

    • cubby houses
    • a tree house
    • animal sculptures and structures.

    There’s even a toddler-specific area that’s close to the toilet block and baby change room.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Contractors shortlisted for Northside Hospital Project

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Artist’s impression of the new northside hospital.

    The new northside hospital is another step closer.

    The ACT Government has asked two shortlisted tenderers to respond to a request for tender.

    These are:

    • CPB Contractors Pty Ltd
    • Multiplex Construction Pty Ltd.

    These companies were chosen due to their extensive experience in delivering major health projects.

    They are also both committed to creating new training and job opportunities throughout the project.

    The Northside Hospital Project will be the ACT’s largest single health infrastructure project.

    It will be delivered via an Early Contractor Involvement contract.       

    The request for tenders process will run until late 2024. The contract is expected to be awarded in early 2025.           

    The Government will work closely with the community, stakeholders, consumers and the workforce to complete the hospital’s design.

    This will help ensure it meets the needs of Canberrans now and into the future.   

    While planning for the new hospital is in progress, services will continue at North Canberra Hospital.  

    More information on the Northside Hospital Project is at builtforcbr.act.gov.au

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kweisi Mfume Pays Tribute to Dr. Michael Zollicoffer with Congressional Record Statement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    BALTIMORE – This week, Congressman Kweisi Mfume honored Baltimore Doctor, Michael L. Zollicoffer, M.D., and his selfless work, at the national level by inserting into the Congressional Record a written statement detailing his impact on the community. When a Member of Congress pays tribute to a constituent in this manner, it becomes part of the official, permanent record of the United States Congress, and part of history.    

    For decades, Dr. Z, as he’s known to most of his patients, has cared for patients at his urgent care facility, Life Care Plus, in an area of Baltimore City that struggles with poor health outcomes and poverty. Beyond his willingness to practice in an underserved area, Dr. Z is admired by many for never turning away a patient due to their insurance status or because they don’t have enough money.   

    However, in October of 2024, it was Dr. Z who was diagnosed with renal and colorectal cancer, and, due to paperwork issues with Medicare, he was facing the possibility of being unable to pay for his needed medical treatment.  

    Upon learning of Dr. Z’s health status, the Baltimore community quickly came together and launched a GoFundMe campaign to help. As of 12:00 p.m., on April 10, 2025, the campaign had raised $271,260 to support Dr. Z’s medical expenses. 

    Months removed from his diagnosis, Dr. Zollicoffer finished a month of treatment and his Medicare issue has been resolved.  

    “Mister Speaker, you would be hard-pressed to find another individual with as much passion for healing and love for his community as Dr. Michael Zollicoffer. For his kindness, his selflessness, and his God-given abilities, Dr. Z has been a pillar of the Baltimore community for decades. His cancer prognoses are positive and, God willing, he’ll be practicing in our City for years to come,” wrote Congressman Mfume.  

    After each day that Congress is in session, the proceedings are printed in the Congressional Record. Full text of Congressman Mfume’s Congressional Record Statement can be viewed below.  

    HONORING A HERO FOCUSED ON GIVING BACK: DR. MICHAEL L. ZOLLICOFFER, M.D.
    ______

    HON. KWEISI MFUME

    of Maryland

    in the House of Representatives

    Monday, April 7, 2025 

    Mister Speaker, I rise today to commemorate a beloved native son of Baltimore, Dr. Michael L. Zollicoffer, M.D.. Dr. Z, as he’s known to most of his patients, is a physician of boundless compassion and enthusiasm, and he has spent more than 35 years breaking down barriers to healthcare for all Baltimoreans, regardless of their ability to pay. His clinic has been a ray of hope for the under and uninsured, and his selfless commitment to healing has had major impacts on the wellbeing of his community. 

    Dr. Michael Zollicoffer is the son of trailblazing pediatrician Dr. Lawrence Zollicoffer, co-founder of Garwyn Medical Center, one of Baltimore’s first Black-owned multi-specialty medical centers. Dr. Z followed in his father’s footsteps by attending the University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine located in Chapel Hill; the school that his father helped integrate. While at UNC, Dr. Z was honored with the MacNider Award, a prize given to sophomores with humility, good character, and impeccable personal integrity.

    Dr. Z earned his Doctor of Medicine from UNC in 1985 and returned to his hometown to finish his medical training. He completed his residency in pediatrics at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore in 1988 and remained in Baltimore to begin his own practice. He opened his urgent care facility, Life Care Plus, in an area of our City that struggles with poor health outcomes and poverty. 

    In the decades since he opened Life Care Plus, Dr. Z has been a guardian angel to the people of the 21215 ZIP Code. Beyond his willingness to practice in an underserved area, what is so remarkable about Dr. Z is that he will never turn away a patient because they don’t have enough money. A pediatrician by trade, he encourages patients to bring in their grandparents for free check-ups, and he’ll happily give patients his personal cell phone number to call him any time, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.

    Dr. Z’s spirit of generosity has turned his clinic into a family home, and many of the people he treated as children now bring their own kids to the clinic. His incredible value to his community has been repeatedly recognized, with Dr. Z receiving awards like the UNC Harvey E. Beech Outstanding Alumni Award and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Community Leadership Award. 

    The love that the people of Baltimore hold for Dr. Z was most clearly shown in recent months, as Dr. Z is now dealing with health struggles of his own. He was recently diagnosed with renal and colorectal cancer, and due to insurance issues, he was facing the possibility of being unable to pay his medical bills. When his patients heard, they leapt into action to create a GoFundMe which has raised more than $250,000 from over 3,000 individual donors. As further proof of his virtue, Dr. Z made clear that every penny that he doesn’t need for his treatment, will go directly into his clinic. 

    Mister Speaker, you would be hard-pressed to find another individual with as much passion for healing and love for his community as Dr. Michael Zollicoffer. For his kindness, his selflessness, and his God-given abilities, Dr. Z has been a pillar of the Baltimore community for decades. His cancer prognoses are positive and, God willing, he’ll be practicing in our City for years to come. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Supreme Court Ruling, Mfume, Colleagues Demand Trump White House Immediately Return Maryland Man Deported in ‘Error’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06) and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:

    “The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’ 

    “In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately. 

    “The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.

    “During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.

    “The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child. 

    “We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”

    “If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia’s first publicly run residential eating disorder centre complete

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Receiving specialist care in a place that feels like home helps people with eating disorders apply their skills once they are ready to leave.

    In brief:

    • Canberra’s brand-new Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre in Coombs is complete.
    • Appointments will begin the week commencing 26 August 2024.
    • The centre is Australia’s first publicly run 24/7 residential eating disorder centre.

    The new Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre in Coombs is now complete.

    It is Australia’s first publicly run 24/7 residential eating disorder centre. This is a brand-new service for the ACT region.

    Appointments will begin the week commencing 26 August.

    Residential treatments will begin in the coming weeks.

    The importance of residential care

    Receiving specialist care in a place that feels like home helps people apply their skills once they are ready to leave the service.

    “We believe residential treatment, with 24/7 specialist eating disorder care in a home-like environment, is an essential option for successful recovery for many within the stepped system of care for eating disorders, and we’re excited to see more treatment options expanding across Australia for the more than 1.1 million Australians directly impacted each year,” Butterfly Foundation CEO Dr Jim Hungerford said.

    Eating disorders can have significant impacts on the physical, psychological, and social-emotional wellbeing of all affected.

    As such, the centre provides therapeutic services that include:

    • specialist treatment
    • intensive nutritional treatment
    • psychological treatment.

    Consulting with stakeholders

    The centre’s completion is an important milestone for those with, or caring for someone with, an eating disorder.

    The ACT Government worked with various stakeholders to finalise its design.

    These include clinicians, non-government organisations, people with lived experience of eating disorders, families, carers and the wider Canberra community.

    “Eating Disorders Families Australia (EDFA) looks forward to families and carers being active participants in the vital role of the Residential Treatment Facility and to continue providing our counselling, education and support services to the broader Canberra community,” ACT Director at EDFA David Quilty said.

    National charity The Butterfly Foundation also shared insights. It runs the Wandi Nerida residential recovery centre for eating disorders in QLD.

    The Australian Government has supported the establishment of the Coombs centre.

    It will complement other eating disorder services in the region, including the Eating Disorders Clinical Hub and the early intervention service.

    Getting help for eating disorders

    If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns, contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 or find support services at Butterfly.

    You can also refer yourself, or someone else to the Eating Disorders Clinical Hub for support and assessment.

    The centre is located at Madgwick Street Coombs in the Molonglo Valley.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New youth foyer to help tackle homelessness

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The foyer will support young people to finish their studies with a secure roof over their heads.

    In brief:

    • A new youth foyer will be built at CIT Woden.
    • The foyer will feature accommodation for students aged between 16 and 24 at risk of homelessness.
    • A service provider will run the foyer and offer culturally appropriate supports, like mentoring and cooking lessons.

    A new youth foyer will be built at the CIT Woden campus to help young students at risk of homelessness.

    Young people are on the frontline of the housing affordability crisis. The new foyer will provide a home close to study for those who are unable to live with family but want to finish their education.

    As well as students who are already enrolled in education, those who are not but are ready to start can move into the foyer.

    It will offer studio and single-parent family apartments for 20 students aged between 16 and 24.

    It is due to be finished in 2025 and is the second in Canberra.

    In the coming months, the ACT Government will appoint a service provider to run the foyer.

    The provider will also deliver a range of culturally appropriate supports.

    These are expected to include:

    • mentoring and coaching
    • life skills development such as budgeting, cooking and healthy eating
    • support to engage with the local community.

    The foyer integrates housing, education, future employment and life skills support, all under one roof.

    The 2024–25 Budget allocated funding for the foyer’s service provision.

    The Federal Government has also contributed, included in the overall funding of the CIT Woden Campus project.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Government business support helps fulfill fashion dream

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Kai’s design has been a way of connecting with his Japanese heritage.

    In brief:

    • Kai McKenzie changed careers from electrician to international fashion designer.
    • Despite early success, he is keen to take his business to the next level.
    • Advice from Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS) has helped him plan his next steps.

    Kai McKenzie had just finished his final exam to become a qualified electrician, after four years as an apprentice. But, after being let go from his full-time electrician role late last year due to company downsizing, he decided to follow his love for fashion and create a Japanese-inspired fashion label which sold out its first public release in just five days.

    Connecting with heritage through fashion

    Born in Australia to a Japanese mother and Australian father, Kai said his fashion label, Minami Studios is an homage to his mother’s heritage and her maiden name.

    “I don’t know if it’s a common feeling that Australians born into two different cultures experience, but I felt a void and a lack of connection to my Japanese heritage,” he said. “This has been my way of connecting with it.”

    With a trip planned to Japan late last year, he started out by creating five Japanese-inspired pieces of clothing for the trip. He documented the process on his Instagram account and has now amassed 74,000 followers, both English and Japanese speaking.

    “I started posting in Japanese and now 10-15 per cent of my audience is based in Japan,” he said. “I posted really consistently until something resonated,” he said.

    Free CBASS business support

    Although Kai has found a great way forward with Instagram and socials, he said he was totally lost when it came to running a business.

    That’s when he turned to the Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS), an ACT Government-funded program that supports Canberra businesses of all sizes and stages.

    The service is delivered by Anna and Candice at Lighthouse Innovation who have over 30 years of business experience. They provide advice from setting up to closing a business and everything in between.

    Kai heard about CBASS from a family friend. He called that day to make an appointment and met with Anna and Candice two days later.

    “It was so reassuring to meet with them,” he said. “There is so much you need to do to set-up a business, and honestly I was lost.”

    “They really helped me streamline things and map out timelines for all my plans. It felt really overwhelming, but they gave me some things to focus on, which I have, and they’ve worked out really well.”

    CBASS offers up to four hours of free advice to business owners, tailored to their business needs.

    Looking to the future

    When asked what was next, Kai said he’s working on getting some more training to improve his technical skills and launching his first full collection.

    “I had my first public release of a piece just this August,” he said. “It was the Tome (pronounced Tohmeh) pant in black and Khaki. I sold out in five days, and it blew me away! I’m working on making all of those now for my customers, and progressing with the launch of my first full collection, which should be ready for release in early 2025.”

    Kai said he recommends anyone thinking of starting a business head to see Candice and Anna at CBASS.

    “Go and see them,” he said, “It’s been such a reassuring process.”

    To find out more visit the CBASS website.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Emergency services in attendance at fire, Pakuranga

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Inspector Jason Homan:

    Emergency services are in attendance at a fire in a building on Grassways Avenue, Pakuranga, reported at around 12.45pm.

    One person reported to be in a critical condition has been transported to Middlemore Hospital.

    There are cordons in place, please avoid the area while emergency services attend.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Pasco Drug Trafficker

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Pierre Marquis Fowler (36, Tarpon Springs), a/k/a “Durk,” guilty of conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of cocaine; possessing with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of cocaine; possessing a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes; and two counts of illegal monetary transactions. Fowler faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. 

    According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Pierre Marquis Fowler and his brother, Marcus Jamar Fowler, a/k/a “Drastic,” conspired with each other and others to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The Fowlers used a stash location in Tarpon Springs as a place to distribute narcotics. Between 2020 and 2022 one witness estimated that Pierre Fowler had provided them with at least 75 kilograms of fentanyl, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, and multiple kilograms of cocaine.

    Firearms recovered from safe at stash location

    Evidence from search warrants included eight firearms, including two machineguns, 989.1 grams of fentanyl, 715 grams of methamphetamine, and 781 grams of cocaine at the stash location. In addition, seven parcels had been shipped from California to the Middle District of Florida, in the span of one week, which contained 3,981 grams of fentanyl and 4,458 grams of methamphetamine.

    Contents of two boxes bound for a residence in Pasco County

    Evidence also showed that Pierre Fowler had used proceeds of drug trafficking to make purchases of more than $10,000, including a piece of real property in Holiday. Certain assets being forfeited by the government include property located in Holiday and $10,409 in cash seized from Pierre Fowler during a search warrant on February 8, 2023.

    Marcus Jamar Fowler previously pleaded guilty for his role in this case. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16, 2025.         

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Secret Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Tarpon Springs Police Department, and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha E. Beckman. The forfeiture is being handled by AUSA James Muench.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –