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Category: Transport

  • MIL-Evening Report: Virgin Australia’s deal with Qatar has been given the green light. Travellers should be the winners

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University

    Petr Podrouzek/Shutterstock

    Treasurer Jim Chalmers has given the green light for Qatar Airways to buy a 25% stake in Virgin Australia, as part of a strategic alliance. The deal will shake up the Australian aviation market.

    The announcement follows a detailed assessment by the Foreign Investment Review Board, and a draft determination to authorise the deal by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

    The deal allows Qatar Airways to buy the 25% stake from the US private equity firm Bain Capital, and makes an eventual initial public offering of Virgin more likely. It also allows Virgin to operate regular services from some of Australia’s major capital cities to Doha.

    Chalmers said the agreement will be subject to enforceable conditions, including retaining Australians on the board of Virgin and protecting consumer data.

    The ACCC has previously said the tie-up would boost competition and benefit consumers.

    The announcement comes on the same day as competitor Qantas posted its latest half-year earnings, showing statutory profits up 6% on the same period last year. So, will Australian flyers be the ultimate winners?

    Getting Australians around the world

    For many Australian travellers, getting where they want to go around the world has long meant making a stopover, especially if travelling to Europe.

    Currently, Qantas does operate direct flights between Perth and three cities in Europe: London, Paris and Rome.

    Doha’s Hamad International Airport is an important global aviation hub.
    Light Orancio/Shutterstock

    However, other international carriers – including Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airways and some Chinese carriers – all provide connecting flights via an international hub airport.

    Doha’s Hamad International Airport is one such hub, and Qatar Airways currently flies from there to more than 170 destinations.

    At the heart of this new partnership is what’s called a “wet lease arrangement”. Virgin will be able to use both the aircraft and crew of Qatar Airways to operate its own flights.

    That will allow Virgin to compete as if it were an established international carrier, because it provides access to Qatar’s international network. It should also mean streamlined transit procedures, minimal waiting times, and better baggage handling.

    This deal is expected to create 28 new weekly return services to Doha, from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane. Having additional flights to this hub by Virgin will give travellers many more options for getting around the world.

    More competition for Qantas

    The agreement will greatly expand Virgin’s international reach and make it more competitive with Qantas. Virgin had to scale back its international footprint after it went into receivership in 2020.

    Qantas will continue to be a major player in flying Australians to Europe. It has also recently added more direct flights from Perth to European destinations.

    But we may be seeing signs of more robust competition pressures already. In its profit announcement on Thursday, Qantas outlined a plan for cabin upgrades for its Boeing 737s as it awaits delivery of new Airbus aircraft.

    Virgin will offer international flights through a ‘wet lease’ arrangement with Qatar.
    Seth Jaworski/Shutterstock

    Turning things around

    Virgin Australia has come a long way since entering voluntary administration in April 2020. After being sold to Bain Capital, the airline restructured its cost base, fleet and commercial functions.

    With a focus on cutting costs and improving its Velocity frequent flyer program, Virgin has since been able to bounce back from the brink and win back market share.

    That success means Virgin is now better positioned to return to international markets and compete with Qantas there, too.

    It will give the airline’s owners more confidence in handing over to a new chief executive and preparing the ground for a long-delayed initial public sharemarket offering that would see Virgin return to the Australian Securities Exchanges (ASX).

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

    – ref. Virgin Australia’s deal with Qatar has been given the green light. Travellers should be the winners – https://theconversation.com/virgin-australias-deal-with-qatar-has-been-given-the-green-light-travellers-should-be-the-winners-251025

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics and property – how our leaders are among the privileged using legal loopholes to build their wealth

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rod Campbell, Honorary fellow, Deakin University

    Not so long ago, former Liberal prime minister Malcolm Turnbull was branded “Mr Harbourside Mansion”, a moniker bestowed upon him by his own side of politics.

    Turnbull’s estimated A$200 million in wealth when he entered politics was well known. So too was the estimated $56 million in riches accrued outside of politics by Labor prime minister Kevin Rudd and his family.

    Not all politicians are multimillionaires like Turnbull and Rudd. But generally, they are wealthier than their constituents. They are also more likely to own more than one home.

    A recent ABC analysis of the parliamentary public interests register found 215 of Australia’s 227 members and senators own at least one property. 77 of them recorded interest in three or more properties.

    Out of touch pollies?

    Australians know their politicians tend to be richer than they are and sometimes it makes waves.

    Anthony Albanese’s purchase of a $4 million home on the New South Wales Central Coast dominated headlines for weeks, and it’s still being raised in focus and research groups as an issue with voters.

    Crucially, like Turnbull and Rudd’s wealth, Albanese’s cash splash on his coastal dream home has always been publicly available information.

    Veiled wealth

    But Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has mostly managed to skate by in the conversations about MPs and their money. He has kept the media’s focus on his brief career as a Queensland police officer, rather than the riches he has accrued through investing in property.

    While Dutton has not made a secret of his previous investments, and elements of his wealth have dripped into the public domain in the past, his affluence has rarely been discussed in whole terms. That changed this week with the Nine newspapers estimating his property investments at $30 million in transactions across 26 pieces of real estate.

    The portfolio, bought and sold over 35 years, eclipse Albanese’s property interests several times over.

    Dutton’s story highlights a tension that continues to frustrate voters: politicians who enjoy superior wealth are the ones who decide the financial circumstances of their constituents’ lives.

    Uncomfortable questions

    The stories highlighting Dutton’s prosperity have pointed out his past use of tax structures, including discretionary trusts, self-managed super funds and family companies to manage his money.

    Dutton has defended the millions he has made in property purchases. He’s accused his political rivals of mounting a “smear campaign” by trying to discredit him for being an “astute investor”.

    On the other side of politics, Albanese has refused to say if he used negative gearing before he became prime minister to reduce his tax bill.

    Exposing and debating the wealth of our leaders may be uncomfortable for them, but it’s an opportunity to push all sides of politics to address the aspects of our tax system that make it less fair.

    Tax loopholes for some

    The first thing to understand is that there are far fewer tax loopholes for avoiding tax on wages. If you work for a living, like most Australians, there are not many tax tricks for you.

    If you own assets and earn income from investments, however, things are a little different. How you own the assets is also important. Simply owning your own home is nice, but not as good as owning assets through a discretionary trust, a self-managed super fund, or a family company.

    Financial vehicles

    A discretionary trust is a way of holding income earning assets where the income stream can be split between beneficiaries. This means money can be directed to the people in the trust who face the lowest marginal tax rates, such as adult children, rather than a higher-earning parent, who faces a higher tax rate.

    The income earned from trusts overwhelmingly goes to high income earners. Treasury estimates (page 47) that the top 10% of income earners receive 63% of the income from trusts, while the bottom half of income earners get just 11% of the income.

    A self-managed super fund helps reduces taxation because of the various tax breaks for superannuation. For example, an owner might have their business in their self-managed super fund, with the income to the fund being taxed at a lower rate than it would have if it was owned in the business owner’s name.

    A family company, like trusts and self-managed super funds, is a vehicle for owning assets. If the assets are owned by a family company, then profits are subject to company tax rates. This can be as low as 25% if the company turnover is less than $50 million per year.

    All three of these asset-owning vehicles are entirely legal. And they can have legitimate uses. But they also provide tax loopholes that can be used to reduce the amount of tax someone has to pay and to obscure who actually owns the assets.

    Level the playing field

    This is fundamentally unfair. These structures for reducing tax are mostly only available to the wealthy. The average wage earner cannot structure their income through such complex tax structures.

    Scrapping the capital gains tax discount, getting rid of discretionary trusts, placing more limits on the types of assets that can be held in self-managed super funds, and increasing tax rates on people with big super balances would reduce the ability of the wealthy to avoid paying tax.

    It is hard to reform tax loopholes because most people don’t understand them and the people who do understand them reap the biggest benefits from them.

    The current discussion around Dutton’s investments might help more people become cognisant of these tax structures and how some of the biggest beneficiaries are politicians pretending to understand what it’s like to be a worker in a cost-of-living crisis.

    Rod Campbell is the Research Director at The Australia Institute, an independent research organisation based in Canberra. See www.australiainstitute.org.au

    – ref. Politics and property – how our leaders are among the privileged using legal loopholes to build their wealth – https://theconversation.com/politics-and-property-how-our-leaders-are-among-the-privileged-using-legal-loopholes-to-build-their-wealth-250929

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Revealed: the profound economic impact on women who experience domestic violence

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Summers, Professor, UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney

    Shutterstock

    The greatest achievements in women’s economic progress in recent decades are potentially being eroded by domestic violence. This is the key finding of a new research report being released today by the University of Technology Sydney’s Business School. The report provides data that enable us, for the first time, to quantify the economic impact of domestic violence on Australian women.

    The increase in women’s participation in employment and higher education in recent decades has been nothing short of dramatic. In 1966, about 37% of women were in the labour force, compared to 84% of men. By 2024 that figure had climbed to 63%, with almost 7 million women employed, 57.3% of them in full-time jobs.

    Yet our research shows a dramatic “employment gap” between women who have experienced domestic violence and those who have not.

    In 2021-22, the employment rate for women who had experienced partner violence or abuse (physical, sexual, emotional or economic) was 5.3% lower than the employment rates for women who had never experienced violence.

    The gap is larger for women who have experienced economic abuse, reaching 9.4% in 2021-22, according to customised data commissioned from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) especially for this report.

    The employment gap varies among sub-groups of women. For instance, the gap between women with disability who have recently experienced economic abuse by a partner and women with disability who have never experienced partner violence or abuse is 13.4%. For culturally and linguistically diverse women, the employment gap was 3.7%.

    We used the 2018-19 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey to try to calculate employment gaps for First Nations women. They certainly existed but, because of the small sample size, the results were not statistically significant. Further research is urgently needed.

    The 2021-22 Personal Safety Survey conducted by the ABS reported that 451,000 women have had a previous partner who had controlled or tried to control them from working or earning money. More than 30,000 women have experienced similar conduct from their current partner.

    In other words, many men are using forceful tactics to try to sabotage their partners’ employment. They resort to such tactics as hiding her car keys, letting down the car tyres, damaging her work clothes, even getting into her phone’s calendar to change her appointments, trying to make her appear unreliable as an employee.

    The ‘education gap’

    What is of perhaps even greater concern for the long-term employment prospects of women is the other key finding of our report: the existence of an “education gap” among young women at university. This is especially the case because the growth of women’s participation in higher education has been spectacular.

    In 1982, a mere 8% of women aged 25-34 held a bachelor degree or higher. By 2023, this had skyrocketed to 51.6% of women in this age range holding at least a bachelor degree, amounting to 990,000 women.

    The education gap is a new and truly shocking finding that young women who experience domestic violence fail to complete their university degrees. For young women, by the time they are 27, there is a nearly 15% gap in the rates of university degree attainment between victim-survivors and other women.

    Statistical analysis of data obtained from the Australian Longitudinal Study in Women’s Health, which surveys the same women over time, allows us to track the direct impact of domestic violence in the following years. We show that domestic violence causes a 5.2% decline in young women’s university degree attainment in the year following the first time they report experiencing violence. This rises to 9.7% three years after the violence is first reported.

    These findings on the impact of violence on university education in Australia have never previously been reported.

    Ripple effects of violence against women

    The implications of these findings are immensely significant for the progress of women’s employment.

    The lifelong consequences of failing to complete their degrees are significant, with individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in Australia earning 41% more annually than those with only Year 12 schooling. In addition, these young women are likely to have accrued an indexed HECS debt that could affect their credit rating throughout their lives. Their lower earnings also mean a concomitant decrease in retirement savings.

    These young women’s economic futures are severely compromised and it will be extremely difficult for them to ever recover those lost opportunities.

    Neither can we overlook the fact of, and possible connection between, the dramatic fall in men’s share of bachelor degrees. Women are now outperforming men at university. In 2023, a majority (57.2%) of bachelor students were women. Is this a source of resentment among men?

    The existence of domestic violence among students may be news to many people. Indeed, it is not something that has attracted much attention, including from universities, which have policies to provide paid leave and other supports for staff members who experience domestic violence but little for students.

    Yet it ought not to be surprising. We know that many students cohabit and so the possibility for violence exists. And we know from the Personal Safety Survey in 2016 that women aged 18-24 experience the highest rates of recent partner violence: 19.3% (compared to 11.5% for women aged 25 to 34 and 7.7% for women aged 35-44).

    Our findings point to the growing prevalence of men trying to exert economic control over their partners. Essential to this has been the use of surveillance, especially stalking of women, designed to intimidate and further control. In 2021-22 the Personal Safety Survey found 323,800 women reported a male intimate partner had “loitered or hung around outside their workplace, school or educational facility”. Often such stalking is accompanied by harassment using a phone or other device, which has been made easier by the advent of new technologies.

    In other words, the two gaps identified in this report represent the economic consequences of domestic violence, in addition to the physical harm women suffer when targeted by violent partners.

    The full report, by Anne Summers, with Thomas Shortridge and Kristen Sobeck (2025), will be available online on Friday, February 28.

    Anne Summers has received research funding from the Paul Ramsay Foundation and the federal Office for Women.

    – ref. Revealed: the profound economic impact on women who experience domestic violence – https://theconversation.com/revealed-the-profound-economic-impact-on-women-who-experience-domestic-violence-250278

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Unifiedpost delivers on strategic refocus and improves balance sheet strength

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press  release – Regulated information –  Inside inforrmation

    La Hulpe, Belgium – February 27, 2025, 7:00 a.m. CET – [REGULATED INFORMATION] Unifiedpost Group SA (Euronext: UPG) (Unifiedpost), a leading provider of integrated business communications solutions, presents its results for FY 2024. Unifedpost has executed its strategic priorities, including portfolio rationalisation, while improving its balance sheet strength and operational efficiencies.

    Strategic & Operational Highlights

    • Completed divestments of FitekIN/ONEA and Wholesale Identity Access Business
    • De-risked balance sheet through partial repayment of Francisco Partners’ senior facility loan by €95m
    • Significantly reduced net debt position by ~€ 73m at year-end
    • Enhanced governance structure with a strengthened Board and new CEO
    • Strategic partnerships delivering value creation across key markets

    FY 2024 Financial Highlights – Continuing operations1

    • Reported first contributions from income from client money2 amounting to €0,7m
    • Steady growth in Subscription and Transaction3 revenue of 8,2% y/y and 9,3% y/y, respectively
    • Digital service gross margin (incl. net income from client money) increased by 1,7%pts y/y to 59,7%
    • EBITDA (incl. net income from client money) improved to € -9,2m from € -11,0m in FY 2024

    FY 2025 Guidance (based on current reporting structure)

    • ~25% increase in Subscription revenue, with a gradual improvement expected throughout the year
    • FCF4 positive by year-end

    Commenting on the FY 2024 results, Nicolas de Beco, CEO, remarked: “2024 was marked by strategic refocusing and important structural changes. We have streamlined our business with the completed divestments of FitekIN/ONEA and the Wholesale Identify Access Business, the reduction of complexity and the de-risking of our balance sheet. While our financial performance reflects these necessary adjustments, this marks a key turning point – we have established a solid framework which allows us to move forward with greater clarity and direction. There is strong engagement from our customers, teams, and stakeholders.

    Looking to 2025, we have a clear roadmap and a strong commitment to execution. Our focus will be on selected geographies where e-invoicing regulations are expected to come into force within the next 12-18 months, strengthening strategic partnerships, and embedding payment solutions as a key upselling driver. At the same time, we remain committed to disciplined cost and cash management. As a SaaS business, accelerating growth remains a priority. We have set clear subscription revenue targets for the next 12 months, and with continued discipline, collaboration, and focus, we are well-placed to make progress on our objectives.”

    Key financial figures – Continuing operations1 (unless otherwise stated)

    (EUR thousands) FY 2024 FY 2023 Change (%)
    Group revenue and income from client money 84.273 94.169 -10,5%
    Digital service revenue 47.132 50.336 -6,4%
               Subscription 14.435 13.343 +8,2%
               Transaction 20.192 18.472 +9,3%
    • of which includes income from client money2
    		 723 – N/A
                Other 12.505 18.521 -32,5%
    Traditional communication service revenue 37.141 43.833 -15,3%
    Gross profit digital services (incl. net income from client money) 28.119 29.207 -3,7%
    Gross margin digital services 59,7% 58,0% +1,7%pts
    EBITDA (incl. net income from client money) (9.204) (11.032) 16,6%
    Profit/(loss) for the period (continuing and discontinuing operations)5 71.195 (83.146) N/A
    Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period6 14.525 22.534 -35,5%

    Portfolio rationalisation and value crystallisation

    Throughout 2024, Unifiedpost executed several strategic divestments of non-core assets that substantially strengthened its financial position while maintaining valuable commercial partnerships.

    In July, Unifiedpost completed the divestment of FitekIN/ONEA for €7,2m and announced the sale of 21 Grams to PostNord Strålfors, which remains subject to regulatory approval from the Swedish Competition Authority.

    In December, Unifiedpost completed the sale of its Wholesale Identity Access Business to Your.World B.V. for an aggregate equity purchase price projected between € 108,4m and € 116,1m, subject to the realisation of the earn-out condition. Unifiedpost has utilised part of the proceeds from the sale of the Wholesale Identity Access business to reduce its debt obligations to Francisco Partners Credit. Upon completion of the transaction, Unifiedpost repaid a principal amount of €75 million, along with accrued and due interest, bringing the total repayment to €94,8 million. The remaining balance is expected to be paid back within 2025.

    Looking ahead, Unifiedpost will continue to evaluate opportunities for divesting non-digital services as part of its strategic focus on core digital offerings and platform development.

    Digital services business

    Both subscription and transaction revenue reported steady growth of 8,2% and 9,3% y/y, respectively. Meanwhile, other revenue decreased from € 18,5m to € 12,5m, reflecting a higher base effect from one-off deals in Q4 2023, and the ending of low margin professional service contracts.

    The gross margin percentage increased by 1,7% pts y/y to 59,7%, driven by two key factors: (i) improvement in cost efficiencies, and (ii) income from client money.

    The income from client money, results from leveraging our network and upselling embedded payment services. Income from client money amounted to € 0,7m in 2024, with momentum building in the fourth quarter.

    Moving forward, Unifiedpost will focus on accelerating subscription revenue growth as a key performance indicator. This growth will primarily be driven by opportunities in core European geographies where regulatory requirements for e-invoicing and digital business communications are expected to come into force within the next 12-18 months. Unifiedpost is positioned to capitalise on these regulatory catalysts, particularly in Benelux, France and Germany, where mandatory e-invoicing requirements will create market opportunities.

    Furthermore, the European Commission’s VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) initiative represents a shift in digital reporting and e-invoicing requirements across the EU, creating additional momentum for digital adoption. This regulatory framework will require businesses to implement digital solutions for real-time transaction reporting and e-invoicing, aligning with Unifiedpost’s platform capabilities and market positioning.

    Traditional communication services business

    Traditional communication services revenue decreased as expected (€ 37,1m in FY 2024 compared to € 43,8m in FY 2023), driven by a continued shift towards digital solutions and a decrease in managed service volumes. This led to a corresponding reduction in gross profit of € 2,9m. Additionally, the gross margin percentage decreased by 3,0%pts to 23,9%.

    Execution of cost-saving plan 2023-2024

    Unifiedpost launched a cost-saving plan in 2023, resulting in an overall cost decrease of € 5,9m y/y and a decrease in cash outflows of € 6,9m y/y.

    • R&D expenses decreased from € 18,4m y/y to € 17,0m. The cash component within these costs decreased by € 3,2m, while non-cash expenses (amortisation) rose by € 1,8m.
    • G&A expenses decreased from € 34,0m y/y to € 30,9m. Expenses for 2024 included € 0,7m in non-recurring costs directly associated with legal and consultancy costs.
    • S&M expenses decreased from € 21,1m y/y to € 19,6m.

    Significantly reduced net debt position by ~€73m at year end

    As at December 31, 2024, the net debt position amounts to € 29,5m, a decrease of € 72,9m compared to December 31, 2023.
    At the end of 2024, Unifiedpost reported a financial position with cash and cash equivalents totalling € 14,5m, including € 1,2m of restricted cash.

    Management remains committed to achieving a positive free cash flow7 position by the end of 2025. 

    Statement from the external auditor

    We are currently finalising the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024. Our independent auditor has confirmed that its audit procedures in relation to the financial information for the year ended 31 December 2024 as included in this press release are substantially completed and have not revealed any material corrections required to be made to the financial information included in this press release. Should any material changes arise during the audit’s finalisation, an additional press release will be issued.

    Investors & Media webcast

    Management will host a live video webcast for analysts, investors and media today at 11:00 a.m. CET.

    To register and attend the webcast, please click here:

    https://unifiedpost-group-full-year-2024-financial-results.open-exchange.net/registration

    A full replay will be available after the webcast at: https://investors.unifiedpostgroup.com/

    Financial Calendar:

    • 17 April 2025: Publication of the Annual Report for 2024
    • 20 May 2025: General Shareholder Meeting
    • 23 May 2025: Publication of the Q1 2025 business update
    • 26 August 2025: Publication of the H1 2025 results (webcast)

    Contact

    Alex Nicoll
    Investor Relations
    Unifiedpost Group
    alex.nicoll@unifiedpost.com

    Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income (unaudited)

    Thousands of Euro, except per share data   For the period ended 31 December
        2024 2023 (*)
           
    Digital services revenues   46.409 50.336
    Digital services cost of services   (18.874) (21,129)
    Digital services gross profit   27,535 29.207
           
    Traditional communication services revenues   37.141 43.833
    Traditional communication services cost of services   (28.282) (32,075)
    Traditional communication services gross profit   8.859 11.758
           
    Research and development expenses   (17.022) (18.414)
    General and administrative expenses   (30.924) (33.961)
    Selling and marketing expenses   (19.592) (21.074)
    Other income / (expenses) – net   (1.160) (72)
    Net impairment losses   – (39.000)
    Loss from operations   (32.305) (71.556)
           
    Net financial income from client money   584 –
    Financial income   268 62
    Financial expenses   (22.998) (15.441)
    Share of profit / (loss) of associates and joint ventures   146 (573)
    Gain upon losing control over a subsidiary   3,972 –
    Loss before tax   (50.333) (87.508)
           
    Corporate income tax   (846) (745)
    Deferred tax   152 243
    LOSS FOR THE PERIOD FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS   (51.027) (88.011)
           
    Net profit from discontinued operations   122.222 4.865
    PROFIT / (LOSS) FOR THE PERIOD   71.195 (83.146)
    Other comprehensive income / (loss):   (656) (15)
    Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss, net of tax:      
    Remeasurements of defined benefit pension obligations   (37) 123
    Items that will or may be reclassified to profit or loss, net of tax:      
    Exchange gains arising on translation of foreign operations   104 36
    Exchange losses arising on translation of foreign operations related to discontinued operations   (723) (174)
    TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE PROFIT / (LOSS) FOR THE PERIOD   70.539 (83.161)
    Total loss for the period is attributable to:      
    Owners of the parent   71,031 (83,899)
    Continuing operations   (51,191) (88,764)
    Discontinued operations   122,222 4,865
    Non-controlling interests   164 753
    Total comprehensive loss for the period is attributable to:      
    Owners of the parent   70,375 (83,914)
    Continuing operations   (51,124) (88,604)
    Discontinued operations   121,499 4,690
    Non-controlling interests   164 753
    Profit/(loss) per share attributable to the equity holders of the parent:      
    Basic   1,94 (2,32)
    Diluted   1,94 (2,32)
    Loss from continuing operations per share attributable to the equity holders of the parent:      
    Basic   (1,41) (2,46)
    Diluted   (1,41) (2,46)

    (*) The comparative figures for period ended 31 December 2023 have been restated to reflect the restatement of the profit and loss related to the discontinued operations in accordance with IFRS 5

    Consolidated statement of financial position (unaudited)

    Thousands of Euro   As at 31 December As at 31 December
        2024 2023
           
    ASSETS      
    Goodwill   92.048 113.069
    Other intangible assets   66.725 82.856
    Property and equipment   1.486 7.420
    Right-of-use-assets   9.391 9.734
    Investments in associates   2.400 1.493
    Deferred tax assets   39 776
    Other non-current assets   3.036 2.561
    Non-current assets   175.125 217.909
    Inventories   544 612
    Trade and other receivables   16.494 25.318
    Contingent consideration receivable   7.774 –
    Current tax assets   291 770
    Prepaid expenses   1.483 1.901
    Restricted cash related to client money8   75.798 3.789
    Cash and cash equivalents   14.525 22.534
    Current assets from continuing operations   116.909 54.924
    Assets classified as held for sale   31.250 5.145
    Current assets   148.159 60.069
    TOTAL ASSETS   323.284 277.978
           
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES      
    Share capital   329.238 326.806
    Costs related to equity issuance   (16.029) (16.029)
    Share premium reserve   492 492
    Accumulated deficit   (164.603) (232.257)
    Reserve for share-based payments   175 1.831
    Other reserve   2.697 (1.581)
    Cumulative translation adjustment reserve   (4.470) (3.851)
    Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent   147.500 75.411
    Non-controlling interests   758 499
    Total shareholders’ equity   148.258 75.910
    Non-current loans and borrowings   29.010 110.517
    Liabilities associated with puttable non-controlling interests     200
    Non-current lease liabilities   6.376 6.193
    Non-current contract liabilities   387 4.430
    Deferred tax liabilities   1.463 4.636
    Non-current liabilities   37.236 125.976
    Current loans and borrowings   5.698 5.059
    Current liabilities associated with puttable non-controlling interests   3.980 7.560
    Current lease liabilities   3.232 3.547
    Trade and other payables   31.127 40.194
    Liabilities related to client money8   75.774 3.736
    Contract liabilities   5.330 13.487
    Current income tax liabilities   410 1.845
    Current liabilities from continuing operations   125.551 75.428
    Liabilities directly associated with assets classified as held for sale   12.239 664
    Current liabilities   137.790 76.092
    TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES   323.284 277.978

    Consolidated statement of changes in equity (unaudited)

    Thousands of Euro

     

    		  

     

     

     

    		 Share capital Costs related to equity issuance Share premium reserve Accumulated deficit Share based payments Other reserves Cumulative translation adjustment reserve Non-controlling interests Total equity
    Balance at 1 Jan 2024 326.806 (16.029) 492 (232.257) 1.831 (1.581) (3.851) 499 75.910
                         
    Result for the period   – – – 71.031 – – – 164 71.195
                         
    Other comprehensive income / (loss)   – – – (37) – – (619) – (656)
    Total comprehensive loss for the period   – – – 70.994 – – (619) 164 70.539
                         
    Conversion subscription rights   2.432 – – – (1.656) 1.656 – – 2.432
                         
    Current period profit AND OCI of NCI with put option   – – – – – 171 – (171) –
                         
    Changes in carrying value of liabilities associated with puttable NCI   – – – – – 280 – – 280
                         
    Acquisition of 20% of the shares in Unifiedpost d.o.o.   – – – (2.437) – 2.437 – – –
                         
    Release of NCI due to acquisition of 20% of the shares in Unifiedpost d.o.o.   – – – – – (266) – 266 –
                         
    Dividend payments   – – – (965) – – – – (965)
                         
    Other   – – – 62 – – – – 62
                         
    Balance at 31 Dec 2024 329.238 (16.029) 492 (164.603) 175 2.697 (4.470) 758 148.258
    Thousands of Euro

     

     

     

    		 Share capital Costs related to equity issuance Share premium reserve Accumulated deficit Share based payments Other reserves Cumulative translation adjustment reserve Non-controlling interests Total equity
    Balance at 1 Jan 2023 326.806 (16.029) 492 (148.497) 1.813 (2.864) (3.713) 281 158.290
                         
    Result for the period   – – – (83.899) – – – 753 (83.146)
                         
    Other comprehensive income / (loss)   – – – 123 – – (138) – (15)
    Total comprehensive loss for the period   – – – (83.776) – – (138) 753 (83.161)
                         
    Share-based payments   – – – – 18 – – – 18
                         
    Current period profit AND OCI of NCI with put option   – – – – – 535 – (535) –
                         
    Changes in carrying value of liabilities associated with puttable NCI   – – – – – 750 – – 750
                         
    Other   – – – 16 – (3) – – 13
                         
    Balance at 31 Dec 2023 326.806 (16.029) 492 (232.257) 1.831 (1.581) (3.851) 499 75.910

    Consolidated statement of cash flows (unaudited)

    Thousands of Euro For the period ended 31 December
        2024 2023
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES      
    Loss for the period   71.195 (83.146)
    Adjustments for:      
    • Amortisation and impairment of intangible fixed assets
    		   20.546 21.332
    • Impairment losses of goodwill
    		   – 38.574
    • Depreciation of property. plant & equipment
    		   1.041 1.489
    • Depreciation of right-of-use-assets
    		   4.129 4.429
    • Impairment of trade receivables
    		   (389) 335
    • Gain on disposal of fixed assets
    		   (15) (33)
    • Financial income
    		   (334) (174)
    • Financial expenses
    		   23.579 15.910
    • (Gain) realised upon losing control over subsidiaries
    		   (124.168) –
    • Loss of remeasurement at fair value less costs to sell for disposal groups
    		   6.342 –
    • Share of profit / (loss) of associate
    		   (146) 573
    • Income tax expense / (income)
    		   3.894 2.319
    • Deferred income tax expense
    		   (841) (1.387)
    • Share-based payment expense / own shares
    		   – 18
    Subtotal   4.833 238
           
    Changes in Working Capital      
    • (Increase) / decrease in trade receivables and contract assets
    		   (5.318)                         6.145
    • (Increase) / decrease in other current and non-current receivables
    		   (448) (61)
    • (Increase) / decrease in inventories
    		   (93) 209
    • Increase / (decrease) in trade and other liabilities
    		   9.420 7.729
    Cash generated from / (used in) operations   8.394 14.260
    Income taxes paid   (1.763) (3.222)
    Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities   6.631 11.038
           
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES      
    Payments made for the purchase of associate   (282) –
    Payments received for divestment of business   114.388 –
    Payments made for the purchase of intangibles and development expenses   (16.015) (16.372)
    Proceeds from the disposal of intangibles and development expenses   415 15
    Payments made for the purchase of property, plant & equipment   (247) (739)
    Proceeds from the disposal of property, plant & equipment   442 17
    Interest received   – 175
    Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities   98.701 (16.904)
           
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES      
    Conversion of subscription rights   2.432 –
    Proceeds from loans and borrowings   2.720 3.913
    Repayments of loans and borrowings – Francisco Partners   (75.000) –
    Repayments of loans and borrowings – other   (6.813) (6.367)
    Repayment of lease liabilities   (4.485) (4.524)
    Interest received   334 –
    Interest paid on loans and borrowings – Francisco Partners   (21.590) (3.286)
    Interest paid on loans and borrowings – other   (1.898) (1.295)
    Net cash provided by / (used in) financing activities   (104.300) (11.559)
    FX impact cash   (487) –
    Net increase / (decrease) in cash & cash equivalents   545 (17.425)
    Cash classified within current assets held for sale   (5.423) (74)
    Cash movement due to change in the consolidation range   (3.131) –
    Net increase/(decrease) in cash & cash equivalents, including cash classified within current assets held for sale   (8.009) (17.499)
    Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period   22.534 40.033
    Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period   14.525 22.534
           
           
           
               

    About Unifiedpost Group

    Unifiedpost is a leading SaaS company for SME business services built on “Documents”, “Identity” and “Payments”. Unifiedpost operates and develops a 100% SaaS-based platform for administrative and financial services that allows real-time and seamless connections between Unifiedpost’s customers, their suppliers, their customers, and other parties along the financial value chain. With its one-stop-shop solutions, Unifiedpost’s mission is to make administrative and financial processes simple and smart for its customers. For more information about Unifiedpost Group and its offerings, please visit our website: Unifiedpost Group | Global leaders in digital solutions

    Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: The statements contained herein may include prospects, statements of future expectations, opinions, and other forward-looking statements in relation to the expected future performance of Unifiedpost Group and the markets in which it is active. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events. By nature, they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that appear justified at the time at which they are made but may not turn out to be accurate. Actual results, performance or events may, therefore, differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, Unifiedpost Group does not undertake any obligation to update, clarify or correct any forward-looking statements contained in this press release in light of new information, future events or otherwise and disclaims any liability in respect hereto. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    1 Excludes discontinued operations: Wholesale Identity Access Business and 21 Grams

    2 Money a company receives from or holds for, or on behalf of, a client (application IAS 7)

    3 Income from client money is a result of e-payment services and is included in digital services transaction revenue

    4 Free cash flow is defined as net income (i) plus non-cash items in the income statement, (ii) minus cash out for IFRS 16 adjustments, (iii) minus capital expenditure, (iv) minus reimbursement on loans and leasing for the reporting period

    5 Including capital gains from divested transactions

    6 Excluding restricted cash related to client money

    7 Free cash flow is defined as net income (i) plus non-cash items in the income statement, (ii) minus cash out for IFRS 16 adjustments, (iii) minus capital expenditure, (iv) minus reimbursement on loans and leasing for the reporting period

    8 The comparative figures 2023 have been restated to demonstrate the accounting policy related to client money.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Local outbreak of measles in Victoria

    Source: Government of Victoria 3

    Key messages

    • An outbreak of measles has been identified in Victoria, after two new cases were reported who likely acquired their infection in metropolitan Melbourne. These cases have had no history of overseas travel or known contact with other cases of measles.
    • These cases were infectious at multiple locations around Melbourne and Greater Bendigo. People who have attended a listed exposure site during the specified dates and times should monitor for symptoms of measles and follow the instructions below.
    • Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can spread from person-to-person and potentially lead to serious health complications including pneumonia and brain inflammation (encephalitis).
    • Anyone who develops symptoms of measles should seek medical care and testing for measles. Wear a face mask and call ahead to make sure you can be isolated from others.
    • Healthcare professionals should be alert for measles in patients with fever and rash, particularly those who have recently returned from overseas or attended a listed exposure site during the specified period.
    • Clinicians should also consider measles in people with compatible symptoms who have spent time in metropolitan Melbourne in the prior 7 to 18 days.
    • Suspected cases should be tested, advised to isolate, and notified to the Department of Health immediately by calling 1300 651 160.
    • All Victorians are eligible to receive the free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine if born during or after 1966. Two doses are required for immunity.
    • Victorians born between 1966 and 1992 may not have received two doses of vaccine. If you are unsure, see an immunisation provider now to ask for an MMR vaccine.
    • Anyone planning overseas travel should make sure they have received appropriate travel vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine. This is especially important for anyone planning on travelling to South and South-East Asia, including Vietnam.

    What is the issue?

    Two new cases of measles have been reported in Victoria that have not travelled overseas, and have no known links to recent cases of measles. These cases were infectious at multiple locations in Greater Bendigo and metropolitan Melbourne. This means there is now local transmission of measles in the community.

    Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can lead to uncommon but serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation (encephalitis). There have been 8 cases of measles identified in Victoria in 2025.

    A number of populations in Victoria are susceptible to measles, including anyone who is unvaccinated, infants under 12 months of age, immunocompromised people and adults who were born between 1966 and 1992 who may not have received two MMR vaccines in childhood.

    Any overseas travel could also lead to exposure to measles, with outbreaks reported in multiple countries and regions, including Vietnam, Thailand, India, Africa, Europe and the UK, the Middle East, and the USA.

    Active public exposures sites in Victoria for recent cases are listed in the table below.

    Date Time Location Monitor for onset of symptoms up to
    Wednesday 26 February 2025 12:01am to 12:25am

    The Royal Melbourne Hospital Emergency Department

    300 Grattan St, Parkville VIC 3050

    		 Sunday 16 March 2025
    Tuesday 25 February 2025 5:20pm to 12:00am (midnight)

    The Royal Melbourne Hospital-Emergency Department

    300 Grattan St, Parkville VIC 3050

    		 Saturday 15 March 2025
    Tuesday 25 February 2025 11:00am to 12:00pm (mid-day)

    DiagnostiCare Specialist Radiology Clinic

    Unit 46/235 Milleara Rd, Keilor East VIC 3033

    		 Saturday 15 March 2025
    Tuesday 25 February 2025 10:00am to 11:00am

    Australian Clinical Labs

    Eastbrooke Family Clinic Lincolnville, 493-495 Keilor Road, Niddrie VIC 3042

    		 Saturday 15 March 2025
    Tuesday 25 February 2025 9:00am to 11:00am

    Eastbrooke Family Clinic Lincolnville

    493-495 Keilor Road, Niddrie VIC 3042

    		 Saturday 15 March 2025
    Monday 24 February 2025 5:50am to 9:00am

    Bendigo Hospital – Emergency Department

    Bendigo Health, Drought St & Arnold Street, North Bendigo VIC 3550

    		 Thursday 14 March 2025
    Saturday 22 February 2025 4:30pm to 5:05pm

    Chemist Warehouse Airport West

    Westfield Airport West

    40/29-35 Louis St, Airport West VIC 3042

    		 Tuesday 12 March 2025
    Saturday 22 February 2025 11:30am to 4:30pm

    Keilor East Leisure Centre Swimming Pool

    84 Quinn Grove, Keilor East VIC 3033

    		 Tuesday 12 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 4:30pm to 6:30pm

    Epsom Village

    16-20 Howard St, Epsom VIC 3551

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 5:50pm to 6:30pm

    Epsom Village Pizza

    Shop 8/16-20 Howard St, Epsom VIC 3551

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 5:20pm to 6:15pm

    Chemist Warehouse Epsom

    S/C 16 to Shops 1 to 3/40 Howard St, Epsom VIC 3551

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 5:10pm to 5:45 pm

    Woolworths Epsom

    16/40 Howard St, Bendigo VIC 3550

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 4:30pm to 5:45pm

    Aldi Epsom

    182/192 Midland Hwy, Epsom VIC 3551

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Thursday 20 February 2025 12:30pm to 01:05pm

    Coles Bendigo

    Williamson St & Myers St, Bendigo VIC 3550

    		 Monday 10 March 2025
    Wednesday 19 February 2025 4:00pm to 5:30pm

    Oscar Nails and Beauty

    305a Buckley St, Aberfeldie VIC, 3040

    		 Sunday 9 March 2025
    Wednesday 19 February 2025 8:30pm to 9:05pm

    Lansell Square

    267 High St, Kangaroo Flat VIC 3555

    		 Sunday 9 March 2025
    Wednesday 19 February 2025 8:30 pm to 9:05pm

    Coles Lansell Square

    267 – 283 High St, Kangaroo Flat VIC 3555

    		 Sunday 9 March 2025
    Wednesday 19 February 2025: 4:00pm to 5:00pm

    Highpoint Shopping Center

    120-200 Rosamond Rd, Maribyrnong VIC 3032

    		 Sunday 9 March 2025
    Wednesday 19 February 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm

    Timezone Highpoint

    Level 1 Highpoint Shopping Centre 120-200 Rosamund Rd, Maribyrnong VIC 3032

    		 Sunday 9 March 2025

    Anyone who has attended a listed exposure site during the specified times above should monitor for symptoms and seek medical care if symptoms develop for up to 18 days after the exposure and follow the recommendations below.

    In addition, anyone who presents with signs and symptoms compatible with measles should be tested and notified to the Department of Health immediately. There should be an especially high level of suspicion if they have travelled overseas or visited any of the sites listed above and are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated for measles.

    Who is at risk?

    Anyone born during or since 1966 who does not have documented evidence of having received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or does not have documented evidence of immunity, is at risk of measles. This is also known as being susceptible to measles.

    Unvaccinated infants are at particularly high risk of contracting measles. Victorians born between 1966 and 1992 may not have received two doses of vaccine, which are required to provide immunity.

    Young infants, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system are at increased risk of serious complications from measles.

    Symptoms and transmission

    Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore or red eyes (conjunctivitis), runny nose, and feeling generally unwell, followed by a red maculopapular rash. The rash usually starts on the face before spreading down the body. Symptoms can develop between 7 to 18 days after exposure.

    Initial symptoms of measles may be similar to those of COVID-19 and influenza. If a symptomatic person tests negative for COVID-19 and/or influenza but develops a rash, they should be advised to continue isolating and be tested for measles.

    People with measles are considered infectious from 24 hours prior to the onset of initial symptoms until 4 days after the rash appears. Measles is highly infectious and can spread through airborne droplets or contact with nose or throat secretions, as well as contaminated surfaces and objects. The measles virus can stay in the environment for up to 2 hours.

    Figures: Example of a typical measles rash

    Recommendations

    For the general public

    • Anyone who has attended a listed exposure site during the specified date and time should monitor for symptoms and seek medical care if symptoms develop for up to 18 days after the exposure.
    • Anyone who attended a listed exposure site and is not fully vaccinated for measles may be eligible to receive the MMR vaccine if they present within 72 hours (3 days) of exposure. Anyone who is immunocompromised or pregnant and not fully vaccinated for measles should seek medical review if within 6 days of exposure to a measles case.
    • Anyone who develops symptoms of measles should seek medical care and testing for measles. Call the health service beforehand to advise that you may have been exposed to measles and wear a face mask.
    • The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine provides safe and effective protection against measles. The MMR vaccine is available for free:
      • on the National Immunisation Program, routinely given at 12 months and 18 months of age.
      • for anyone born during or after 1966 who have not already received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, are unsure of their vaccination status, or do not have evidence of immunity to measles.
      • for young infants aged 6 to 12 months prior to overseas travel to countries where measles is endemic or where outbreaks of measles are occurring. If an infant receives an early dose of MMR vaccine prior to travel, they should still receive routine doses at 12 months and 18 months of age as per the National Immunisation Program schedule.
    • Victorians born between 1966 and 1992 may not have received two doses of vaccine. If you are unsure, see an immunisation provider now to ask for an MMR vaccine. Two doses are required for immunity.
    • Anyone planning overseas travel should make sure they have received appropriate travel vaccinations, including MMR vaccination.

    For health professionals

    • For persons who have attended an exposure site, anyone who is not fully vaccinated for measles may be eligible to receive the MMR vaccine if they present within 72 hours (3 days) of exposure. Anyone who is immunocompromised or pregnant and not fully vaccinated for measles may be eligible to receive normal human immunoglobulin (NHIG) if they present up to 144 hours (6 days) after close exposure to a measles case.
    • Clinicians should be alert for measles in patients presenting with compatible illness if they have travelled overseas or attended a listed exposure site during the specified dates and times and are not fully vaccinated against measles.
    • These new cases now indicate local transmission of measles within Victoria. Clinicians should also consider measles in people with compatible symptoms who have spent time in metropolitan Melbourne in the prior 7 to 18 days.
    • Anyone who presents with signs and symptoms compatible with measles should be tested, isolated and notified to the Department of Health immediately, by calling 1300 651 160 and connecting to the relevant Local Public Health Unit.
    • Discuss the need for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing using nose and throat swabs with the Local Public Health Unit (PCR testing for measles does not attract a Medicare rebate).
    • Take blood samples for measles serology in all suspected cases.
    • Minimise the risk of measles transmission within your practice/department/community:
      • avoid keeping patients with fever and rash in shared waiting areas (send to a separate room).
      • if measles is suspected, give the patient a single use, fitted face mask and isolate under airborne precautions until a measles diagnosis can be excluded.
      • leave all rooms that were used to assess the suspected case vacant for at least 30 minutes after the consultation.
      • if returning home, patients should isolate at home until test results are available.
    • Offer MMR vaccine to people born during or after 1966 who do not have documented evidence of receiving two doses of a measles-containing vaccine or documented evidence of immunity.
    • Serology is not required before vaccinating.
    • People who are not Medicare eligible can also receive the free MMR vaccine. Refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook – MeaslesExternal Linkfor further guidance on immunisation.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why does music make us feel things?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katrina McFerran, Professor and Head of Creative Arts and Music Therapy Research Unit; Director of Researcher Development Unit, The University of Melbourne

    Al Cruz/Unsplash

    Imagine a scene from the movie Jaws, with the great white shark closing in on another helpless victim. The iconic semi-tone pattern builds and your heartbeat rises with it; the suspense pulls you further to the edge of your seat.

    Now picture that scene without the score. Much of the tension evaporates.

    Maybe it’s a heartfelt pop ballad or a suspenseful soundtrack. If you are my age, it might be the Friends theme song, forever associated with the (largely unfulfilled) hope for sharing apartments with mates and growing old together in a blissful acceptance of one another’s limitations. Music is a powerful force to induce and pre-empt all kinds of emotions in us.

    But how do so many different combinations of rhythm, harmony and melody trigger such profound reactions?

    The categorical approach

    Swedish music psychology researcher Patrik Juslin proposed the most popular explanation of music’s ability to trigger emotion.

    He identified eight key mechanisms under the acronym BRECVEMA. The categories begin with more fundamental connections:

    Brain stem reflexes – maybe a movie jumpscare moment or another sudden, frightening sound triggering a pre-conscious response. Evolution programmed these reactions into the brain over thousands of years in order to influence arousal levels and initiate the necessary emotional response.

    Rhythmic entrainment, like the tendency to tap your foot to the beat; the benefits of moving in time together have been critical to human survival and evolution.

    Then, the listings become increasingly complex:

    Evaluative conditioning in the fashion of Pavlov’s dog. After years of watching and cultural references, we hear the Jaws music and automatically feel tense.

    The contagion effect, wherein we feel the emotions we perceive in the music. Lyrics aren’t necessary; the Peanuts cartoon’s signature tune, for example, strongly conveys childhood wonder and freedom without any words.

    The visual imagery many people experience when listening to music, imagery which is often tied to some deep emotion.

    Episodic memories, when hearing certain music brings up recollections of a past event. Music therapists can monitor the emotional reactions people have when unexpectedly reminded of particular situations, be they positive, negative or both. The therapists then use their expertise to support people in processing these resulting emotions.

    From there, Juslin’s model gets more technical and music theory-based:

    Musical expectancy, when we anticipate the resolution of a chord or phrase. This is something you might feel rather than consciously notice. Take My Heart Will Go On: a delicate tension builds through the chorus, before finally resolving as Celine Dion sings the final line of the section and listeners are put to ease.

    Aesthetic judgements, closely related to the ways we experience pleasure, are our personal emotional responses to how beautiful (or not) we consider a piece of music.



    Read more:
    Different songs for different days: why it’s important to actively choose the music for your mood

    It makes sense that a theory using the brain to explain otherwise indescribable relationships would be popular. It provides a level of objectivity to what is, in essence, a purely subjective and non-generalisable experience.

    Celine Dion keeps listeners on tenterhooks before the chorus comes to a beautifully satisfying resolution.

    Is it just about neurological pathways?

    Evolutionary theories suggest music and emotions are connected because of the inherent musicality we are each born with, essential to our ability to develop relationships and flourish.

    Parent-infant interactions often have musical aspects to them, described as:

    • pulse, a shared tempo, where infant and carer move in time together and synchronise to one underlying beat

    • quality, the character and melodic interplay of voices and movements, mirroring one another in dynamics and timbre

    • narrative, the tendency for the same phrases, gestures and movements to be repeated on the same pitch and pace over time.

    When responding to musical sounds, babies are also able to recognise musical phrases even when they start on a different note.

    Subsequently, however, other learning and our limited brain capacity mean this ability is buried deep, so it rarely translates to perfect pitch or other forms of music theory knowledge that underpin Mozart-like genius.

    A mother, laying on a bed, holds her smiling baby up on her chest.
    All of us are born with an inherent musicality.
    FamVeld/Shutterstock

    This baby-talk theory may be the most intimate and emotion-based explanation for why music affects us so strongly – it was designed to enhance our emotional bonds with others. When adults coo and dance with babies, they are being musical, meaning emotional reactions to music are implicit in human nature.

    Cognitive developmental theorists like Steven Pinker have opinions firmly in contrast to this. Pinker calls music “evolutionary cheesecake”, functioning only to tickle the senses and serving no evolutionary purpose.

    Pleasure for purpose

    Cultures across the world have long acknowledged the healing power of music.

    Sound healing practitioners in India and China, for example, point to ancient traditions of healing and draw correlations between recovery from illness and certain tones, scales and chants. Some suggest the vibrations of different tones can serve specific purposes.

    In the West, the idea of emotional differences between major and minor scales still has public traction even though its academic credibility hasn’t really extended in the past 100 years.

    None of these concepts have been used in the modern practice of music therapy, but they do reflect assumptions many people hold about how music works.

    Instead, a fundamental principle of music therapy is based on how each person’s unique connections with music shapes their emotional reactions. What moves your sibling to tears might leave you cold, for example. It always depends on a range of conditions – historical, cultural and personal.

    Cultural upbringing, simple song-like phrases from infancy and our own unique musical preferences and behaviours all shape these connections. They’re powerful, but they sure ain’t simple.

    The Conversation

    Katrina McFerran has received funding from the Australian Research Council to investigate music and emotions. She is affiliated with the Australian Music Therapy Association.

    – ref. Why does music make us feel things? – https://theconversation.com/why-does-music-make-us-feel-things-250756

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New report slaps an official price tag on Australia’s precious natural assets

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

    Roadwarrior Photography/Shutterstock

    Climate regulation through carbon storage was worth A$43.2 billion to Australia in 2020-21, according to a report released today which seeks to put a monetary value on the benefits flowing from our natural assets.

    Australia’s first national ecosystem accounts were released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics today. Together, they reveal the key ways our environment contributes to Australia’s economic and social wellbeing in dollar terms.

    Ecosystems covered by the accounts include desert, grasslands, native forests, rivers, streams, coastal areas and oceans.

    The accounts provide a holistic view of Australia’s land, freshwater and marine environments. They intend to help policymakers look beyond GDP to a broader measurement of how ecosystems contribute to society and the economy.

    Valuing our ecosystems

    The accounts cover services provided by Australia’s ecosystems in 2020–21.

    Australian ecosystems stored more than 34.5 billion tonnes of carbon – the most valuable service by ecosystems examined in the accounts, according to the ABS.

    It brought a $43.2 billion benefit to Australia in the form of climate regulation. Plants and other organisms reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by removing and storing them. This helps stabilise the climate, avoiding damage caused by climate change.

    Grasslands made the biggest contribution to carbon storage, followed by native forests and savannas.

    The accounts show grazed biomass, or grasslands, provide $40.4 billion in benefits, through the forage provided to cattle and sheep. The dollar figure represents what farmers would otherwise have spent on feeding their livestock.

    The accounts also examined the provision of surface water taken from ecosystems, and used for drinking, energy production, cooling, irrigation and manufacturing. This was valued at $1.4 billion.

    The provision of wild fish, sold to consumers to eat, was put at $39.2 million.

    The accounts also reveal how coral reefs, sandbanks, dunes and mangroves protect our coastlines against tides and storm surges.

    The ABS estimates mangroves protected 4,006 dwellings around Australian coastlines. This prevented more than $57 million worth of building damage.

    The accounts also track changes in Australia’s ecosystems.

    Some 281,000 hectares of mostly farmland were converted to urban and industrial uses between 2015–16 and 2020–21. And 169,000 hectares of “steppe” land – flat, unforested grassland – was converted to sown pastures and fields.

    Feral animal and weed species continue to spread. Meanwhile, the number of threatened native species is increasing.

    Why do we need ecosystem accounting?

    Think of a logged forest. The value of the timber produced counts towards Australia’s gross domestic product. But cutting trees down also produces a loss. For example, the forest is no longer there for the community to enjoy. And it no longer provides “services” such as filtering water and preventing soil erosion.

    There are many reasons to measure the value of those services. For example, governments might then be able to charge a logging company a licence fee which reflects the community value of the forest. A government may decide the forest is too valuable to allow logging at all, or the fee may just be set too high for any company to find it profitable to log it.

    To date, the value lost when trees are cut down, or other ecosystems are damaged, has not been included in the national accounts. The new environmental accounts seek to change this.

    Obviously, ecosystems are complex and difficult to measure. The ABS has been guided by an international framework developed by the United Nations.

    The ecosystem accounts are a collaboration between several federal agencies: the ABS, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and the CSIRO.

    Boundless plains and golden soil, girt by sea

    The accounts distinguish between environmental “realms”.

    About half of Australia’s terrestrial (dry land) realm is desert. About a quarter is savanna and grassland. Intensively used land, such as pastures, is a smaller proportion.

    There are contrasts between the states. Western Australia has 158 million hectares of desert while Victoria, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory have none. Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory host 97% of Australia’s mangroves.

    About half of Australia is the marine realm, covering 681 million hectares. Some 30% of this is the marine shelf and 70% deep sea. About 14 million hectares comprise coral reefs. The darker areas in the map below show where most fish are caught.

    The coastal realm comprises mangroves and saltmarsh. In 2021, mangroves covered an estimated 1.1 million hectares of Australia’s coastal areas.

    A small but important proportion of Australia is our freshwater realm, comprising rivers and streams. The accounts show between 2015–16 and 2020–21, 4% of natural environments along perennial rivers were converted to higher intensity land uses.

    Where to now?

    These accounts are just the first step in estimating the value of Australia’s natural assets.

    The ABS will update Australia’s ecosystem accounts annually. It describes the inaugural accounts as “experimental” and says the government agencies involved will run a consultation process to improve them.

    We can expect the accounts to become more useful over time as data accrues and trends can be identified.

    According to the ABS, policy uses for the accounts include managing healthy and resilient ecosystems, and integrating biodiversity into planning.

    Poet and playwright Oscar Wilde defined a cynic as someone who “knows the price of everything but the value of nothing”. In today’s society we often underrate things that do not have a dollar value attached.

    So this compilation of Australia’s ecosystems, and their value to us, is a welcome development. It should lead to more informed, holistic decisions about whether natural assets should be protected, or damaged for economic benefit.

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

    – ref. New report slaps an official price tag on Australia’s precious natural assets – https://theconversation.com/new-report-slaps-an-official-price-tag-on-australias-precious-natural-assets-250623

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Seasonal bushfire outlook – Autumn

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) has today released its latest bushfire outlook for Autumn 2025, highlighting an elevated risk of bushfires in parts of Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria. Dry conditions are expected to persist along much of Australia’s southern coastline during the outlook period.

    The Northern Territory (NT) is currently facing a normal risk of bushfire, however, a dry spell could increase the likelihood of fires spreading in areas with available fuel, particularly in Central Australia.

    The AFAC outlook highlights higher fuel loads in regions southwest of Alice Springs, including the southern Tanami and MacDonnell Ranges. Landholders in these areas are strongly encouraged to prepare their properties for ongoing fire risk.

    Stephen Hunter A/Deputy Chief Fire Officer emphasised the importance of avoiding complacency and encouraged landholders to ensure their fire management plans are up-to-date and firefighting equipment is in working order.

    “Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service reminds the public that the Central Australian bushfire season will continue through until April 2025. We encourage everyone to stay informed about fire danger ratings and bushfire warnings, and to be prepared to implement emergency plans,” he said.

    “Fire activity is recurring in Central Australia, even in areas affected by last year’s fires, so it is important to monitor grass regrowth and perform regular property maintenance.”

    One of the best ways to protect your property and community is by maintaining firebreaks. Ensure firebreaks are at least 4 meters wide, and vegetation within them is kept below 50mm in height.

    In the Top End, Territorians are reminded that prescribed burning is common during this time and there is a possibility that controlled burns may impact surrounding areas with smoke and falling ash.

    It is recommended that residents:

    Close windows and bring any washing in.

    Anticipate smoky conditions for the duration of the burns.

    When driving pay attention and if the roads are smoke affected, turn on your lights and drive carefully.

    For more information on the AFAC outlook, visit AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook Autumn 2025.

    For fire ban information, bushfire warnings, and advice, visit Secure NT

    Media contact
    Rickie Abraham

    8923 9303

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New wellness clinic opens for local patients

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today officially opened a new community wellness clinic in Lower Hutt that will better integrate the clinic’s services into the community.

    The clinic is primed to expand its service offerings, and currently caters to people receiving treatment. It offers an alternative to more clinical settings, with a more comfortable and therapeutic environment for clients with a kitchen space and a variety of activities – such as arts and crafts – to make use of while waiting. 

    “It’s great to be here today at the opening of this new clinic and to see what a therapeutic environment it provides people using the services,” Mr Doocey says.

    “Having a space where people feel comfortable and safe is vitally important for their wellbeing, and I’m glad to see this in action for people getting support with their mental health challenges.”

    The clinic is a partnership between Health New Zealand’s Community Mental Health service and PACT, an NGO that provides a broad range of support to people with mental health issues. 

    “The two agencies collaborated on scoping out and understanding how our communities would benefit from accessing services that welcome them in their treatment space,” Mr Doocey says. 

    “This clinic sees that collaboration come to fruition and is a great example of how NGOs and clinical specialist services are working together to deliver care closer to the community for those who need it. It aligns with one of the Government’s five mental health targets, specifically around ‘Faster access to specialist mental health and addiction services’. 

    “The next steps are to replicate the clinic in other spaces around the country, ultimately with the intention of creating pleasant, convenient spaces and reducing barriers for people needing treatment. This will create better outcomes for them and their families, friends, loved ones, and communities, which is what we’re all striving for.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Updates Proof of Reserves for February 2025, Reserve Ratios Increase to 186%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released their proof-of-reserves report for February 2025. The newest snapshot shows the updated data highlights an increase of reserves to 186% up from its commitment of 100%. Bitget’s latest proof of reserves reaffirms its financial stability and transparency, showcasing a strong total reserve ratio. 

    The exchange holds substantial reserves across major assets, ensuring more than full backing of user funds. The breakdown reveals a 322% reserve ratio for Bitcoin, with over 19,393 BTC held against user liabilities of 6,030 BTC. Similarly, Ethereum reserves stand at 173%, with holdings of 199,433 ETH exceeding the 115,051 ETH in user assets. Stablecoin reserves are also robust, with USDT at 138% and USDC at 121%, showing strong backing.

    The Merkle root hash verification adds an extra layer of transparency, allowing users to independently verify their assets within Bitget’s system. With 35 million records included in the Merkle tree, the exchange continues to prioritize accountability. The report highlights Bitget’s commitment to safeguarding user assets while maintaining operational integrity. By consistently holding reserves well above liabilities, Bitget reinforces trust in its financial health, positioning itself as a secure and reliable platform for crypto traders and investors.

    The updated PoR showcases Bitget’s efforts in maintaining more than industry standard 100% reserves, which effectively guarantees that users’ assets are safe. The platform is capable of covering user withdrawals, even if all user assets are withdrawn.

    In addition to maintaining a higher than industry standard PoR, Bitget insures its users further with a $300M Protection Fund, now valued over $570 million according to its latest protection fund report. This gives the platform an extra layer of resilience against cybersecurity threats.

    For real-time PoR tracking, please visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM market, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7e6e37dd-29ad-4275-b259-d9650b21488f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Council backs funding for Auckland’s St James Theatre

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has backed a commitment of $15 million towards the restoration of the St James Theatre. The council’s funding is one part of an agreement between the council, central government and the owner of the St James.  

    The decision to uphold the grant came at today’s Governing Body meeting. Mayor Wayne Brown says the council’s commitment will enable public access to the theatre in the future.

    “I’m keen to get on with things to improve the safety and amenity of mid-town Auckland as a priority. My expectation is the funding will allow work to begin immediately to clean up the eyesore on Queen Street at the same time as the theatre restoration. Residents and visitors will hopefully see an improvement to this important part of the city as a result. It’s been left like this far too long,” says Mayor Brown. 

    How will the funding help?  

    This decision cements the pledge made by Auckland Council in 2016. The council is only one piece of this puzzle, and the restoration requires funding from all the parties involved to go ahead.  

    The funding will help to carry out critical foundational and strengthening work which aims to prepare the St James to operate for many years to come. It will enable the theatre to reopen and be operational, with a total capacity of approximately 900 people seated, or 1800 standing.  

    A star-studded past 

    Designed by architect Henry Eli White, St James Theatre is a unique blend of traditional and Spanish-renaissance styles. It sits at the heart of central Auckland’s arts quarter between the art gallery, library, Civic Theatre and Town Hall. Conservation of the St James will positively complement other critical investments and rejuvenation efforts in central Auckland.   

    After first opening its doors in 1928 as a Vaudeville theatre, the St James was part of a wave of theatres built worldwide in the 1920s for live performance. It was later converted to show off the new world of motion pictures. Notable performers such as Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh have graced the St James stage over its long history, as well as James Brown, Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell and Aotearoa New Zealand’s own Sir Howard Morrison.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police presence in Ngaruawahia during tangi

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Inspector Will Loughrin, Area Commander Waikato West

    Police had a large presence in the Ngaruawahia and Taupiri area today in relation to a tangi for a patched gang member.

    An operation to monitor the behaviour of those involved in the tangi was carried out by Police to ensure minimal disruption to the public.

    During the operation, one person was arrested for displaying gang insignia and another person who was unrelated to the tangi was arrested for a Warrant to Arrest.

    Police staff monitoring the tangi saw the man of interest travelling in the area and he was taken into custody sometime later.

    Police engaged with the whānau and Marae throughout the day to ensure minimal impact to the community, while allowing those attending the tangi to have space to grieve.

    While it is not always possible to take action at the time, Police are committed to enforcing the gang insignia legislation and will take every opportunity to not only follow up on these breaches but also any other unlawful activity.

    We would like to thank the members of the Ngaruawahia community for their patience.

    Police encourage the public to report any instances of unlawful activity to us, so we can take appropriate action.

    Please contact 111 if it is happening now, or report non-emergencies to Police by calling 105 or making an online report via 105.police.govt.nz.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Te Poi road rebuild – section of SH29 to close 

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A short section of State Highway 29 (SH29) at Te Poi near Matamata will be closed 24/7 for road rebuilding from Monday 10 March until Sunday 23 March. 

    The 2-week closure is between Te Poi Road and Stopford Road. 

    Closing the road means the work will be completed more quickly than if stop/go was in place says Andy Oakley, Waikato System Manager at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). 

    “We do not take road closures lightly, but by completely closing this small section of SH29, NZTA and contractors are able to complete the work more efficiently and safely,” Mr Oakley says. 

    Traffic (light vehicles) will be detoured via Te Poi Road and State Highway 24 or Te Poi South Road and State Highway 28 – adding around 5 minutes to journeys along SH29. Heavy vehicles will be detoured via SH27, SH24 and SH28 adding around 15 minutes. See map attached. 

    Access to properties and businesses within the closure zone will be maintained, however there may be delays entering and exiting the closure site, depending on the work being carried out at the time.   

    “We know that road works are disruptive for residents and local businesses, but this is critical maintenance work, which will improve everyone’s journeys long-term,” Mr Oakley says.  

    The work is scheduled to be completed by Sunday 23 March; however, this may be impacted by bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. 

    NZTA thanks road users and especially the local community for their patience while we complete this rebuild. 

    View larger map [PDF, 297 KB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Injured skipper rescued from yach near Eddystone Point

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Injured skipper rescued from yach near Eddystone Point

    Thursday, 27 February 2025 – 2:58 pm.

    A man has been rescued after being injured while sailing from George Town to Hobart yesterday.
    A distress call was received by Tas Maritime Radio about 2.30pm Wednesday after the skipper of a yacht – who was sailing alone – had been struck in the head by the yacht’s boom.
    Tasmania Police’s Northern Marine Services was contacted and police boarded a St Helens Volunteer Marine Rescue vessel along with an Ambulance Tasmania paramedic.
    The man was treated on the yacht by the paramedic while the vessel was skippered by police to Binalong Bay.
    The patient was transferred from the yacht about 9pm and transported to St Helens District Hospital for assessment.
    Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of St Helens Volunteer Marine Rescue for their assistance and skill during difficult sailing conditions.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between burnout and depression?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gordon Parker, Scientia Professor of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney

    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    If your summer holiday already feels like a distant memory, you’re not alone. Burnout – a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion following prolonged stress – has been described in workplaces since a 5th century monastery in Egypt.

    Burnout and depression can look similar and are relatively common conditions. It’s estimated that 30% of the Australian workforce is feeling some level of burnout, while almost 20% of Australians are diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.

    So what’s the difference between burnout and depression?

    Depression is marked by helplessness and burnout by hopelessness. They can have different causes and should also be managed differently.

    What is burnout?

    The World Health Organization defines burnout as an “occupational phenomenon” resulting from excessively demanding workload pressures. While it is typically associated with the workplace, carers of children or elderly parents with demanding needs are also at risk.

    Our research created a set of burnout symptoms we captured in the Sydney Burnout Measure to assist self-diagnosis and clinicians undertaking assessments. They include:

    • exhaustion as the primary symptom

    • brain fog (poor concentration and memory)

    • difficulty finding pleasure in anything

    • social withdrawal

    • an unsettled mood (feeling anxious and irritable)

    • impaired work performance (this may be result of other symptoms such as fatigue).

    People can develop a “burning out” phase after intense work demands over only a week or two. A “burnout” stage usually follows years of unrelenting work pressure.

    What is depression?

    A depressive episode involves a drop in self-worth, increase in self-criticism and feelings of wanting to give up. Not everyone with these symptoms will have clinical depression, which requires a diagnosis and has an additional set of symptoms.

    Clinically diagnosed depression can vary by mood, how long it lasts and whether it comes back. There are two types of clinical depression:

    1. melancholic depression has genetic causes, with episodes largely coming “out of the blue”

    2. non-melancholic depression is caused by environmental factors, often triggered by significant life events which cause a drop in self-worth.

    When we created our burnout measure, we compared burnout symptoms with these two types of depression.

    Burnout shares some features with melancholic depression, but they tend to be general symptoms, such as feeling a loss of pleasure, energy and concentration skills.

    We found there were more similarities between burnout and non-melancholic (environmental) depression. This included a lack of motivation and difficulties sleeping or being cheered up, perhaps reflecting the fact both have environmental causes.

    Looking for the root cause

    The differences between burnout and depression become clearer when we look at why they happen.

    Personality comes into play. Our work suggests a trait like perfectionism puts people at a much higher risk of burnout. But they may be less likely to become depressed as they tend to avoid stressful events and keep things under control.

    Excessive workloads can contribute to burnout.
    tartanparty/Shutterstock

    Those with burnout generally feel overwhelmed by demands or deadlines they can’t meet, creating a sense of helplessness.

    On the other hand, those with depression report lowered self-esteem. So rather than helpless they feel that they and their future is hopeless.

    However it is not uncommon for someone to experience both burnout and depression at once. For example, a boss may place excessive work demands on an employee, putting them at risk of burnout. At the same time, the employer may also humiliate that employee and contribute to an episode of non-melancholic depression.

    What can you do?

    A principal strategy in managing burnout is identifying the contributing stressors. For many people, this is the workplace. Taking a break, even a short one, or scheduling some time off can help.

    Australians now have the right to disconnect, meaning they don’t have to answer work phone calls or emails after hours. Setting boundaries can help separate home and work life.



    Read more:
    Australians now have the right to disconnect – but how workplaces react will be crucial

    Burnout can be also be caused by compromised work roles, work insecurity or inequity. More broadly, a dictatorial organisational structure can make employees feel devalued. In the workplace, environmental factors, such as excessive noise, can be a contributor. Addressing these factors can help prevent burnout.

    As for managing symptoms, the monks had the right idea. Strenuous exercise, meditation and mindfulness are effective ways to deal with everyday stress.

    Regular exercise can help manage symptoms of burnout.
    alexei_tm/Shutterstock

    Deeper contributing factors, including traits such as perfectionism, should be managed by a skilled clinical psychologist.

    For melancholic depression, clinicians will often recommend antidepressant medication.

    For non-melancholic depression, clinicians will help address and manage triggers that are the root cause. Others will benefit from antidepressants or formal psychotherapy.

    While misdiagnosis between depression and burnout can occur, burnout can mimic other medical conditions such as anemia or hypothyroidism.

    For the right diagnosis, it’s best to speak to your doctor or clinician who should seek to obtain a sense of “the whole picture”. Only then, once a burnout diagnsois has been affirmed and other possible causes ruled out, should effective support strategies be put in place.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Gordon Parker receives funding from the University of of NSW.

    – ref. What’s the difference between burnout and depression? – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-burnout-and-depression-250043

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand, Schumer, Garbarino, Nadler, Kean, Goldman Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation To Fix World Trade Center Health Program Funding Shortfall

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Without Congressional Action, The WTCHP Will Have To Start Turning Away First Responders And Survivors, Cut Back Access To Care For Existing Enrollees By 2028
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Representatives Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), and Dan Goldman (D-NY) joined advocates and survivors to introduce the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025. Representative Tom Kean (R-NJ) is also an original House cosponsor. 
    Despite recent congressional action, the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) continues to face an impending funding shortfall. As a result, by October 2028, the program will be forced to close enrollment to new 9/11 responders and survivors, and existing enrollees will face direct cuts to their care and be denied medical monitoring and treatment. 
    The 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025 would update the program’s outdated funding formula to ensure adequate funding until the program’s expiration in 2090. The bill would also increase funding for data collection on 9/11-related conditions and expand access to mental health care for program members. 
    A full recording of the press conference is available here. 
    “Yet again, we are introducing a bill to fix a projected funding shortfall in the World Trade Center Health Program,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Thousands of Americans risked their lives to protect our country in its darkest hour, and it is now our responsibility as members of Congress to be there for them as they continue to battle the horrific health ramifications from that day and the many days after. Our bill updates the funding formula for the WTCHP so that no 9/11 hero has to worry about losing coverage year after year. It is beyond time to get this passed, and I look forward to working across the aisle to do so.” 
    “‘Never Forget’ does not mean just commemorating 9/11, it is a promise to always take care of our 9/11 first responders and survivors. That’s why we are introducing legislation to stop funding patches and make this healthcare program funded permanently: now and forever,” said Senator Schumer. “Our 9/11 heroes should not have to come down here year after year, month after month, pleading for the funding for the healthcare they have earned, deserve, and was promised to them. It’s time for America to put its money where its mouth is and prove to the heroes of 9/11 that we mean it when we say will Never Forget.”
    “Today, alongside my House and Senate co-leads, responders, and survivors, I was proud to announce the reintroduction of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act,” said Congressman Garbarino. “This legislation would ensure the World Trade Center Health Program has the resources it needs to continue providing care for those suffering from 9/11-related conditions. We made a promise to never forget, and today, we stood together to reaffirm our commitment to delivering on that promise.”
    “While over twenty years have passed since the 9/11attacks, so many of our heroic responders and survivors continue to carry with them the burden of that terrible day as they have fallen sick from the air surrounding Ground Zero,” said Congressman Nadler. “Congress must uphold the promise made to our first responders and survivors by fully funding the WTCHP to provide the injured and their families the aid they need and deserve. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025, which will address the funding shortfall to keep the program available for those who need it for years to come.”
    “Every New Yorker has been impacted by the profound loss and devastating pain from the September 11th attacks, including those like me who lived in Lower Manhattan at the time,” said Congressman Goldman. “We owe a permanent debt to the first responders and unwavering support for the survivors who continue to bear the physical and emotional scars. The 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act will ensure that these heroes receive the health care they are owed. As representatives of New York, it is our bipartisan duty to guarantee that these American heroes receive the assistance they deserve from the federal government.”
    “Everyone remembers the dark day of 9/11, a day etched in history,” said Congressman Kean. “We honor all who ran toward danger, risking everything to help those in need. As an original cosponsor of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025, I am committed to ensuring that the heroes and survivors of 9/11 receive the care and support they deserve. This bill corrects outdated funding formulas, expands mental health resources, and strengthens data collection to address the long-term health impacts of that tragic day. We have a responsibility to stand by those who sacrificed so much, and this legislation reaffirms that commitment.”
    In addition to Reps. Garbarino, Nadler, Goldman, and Kean the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025 is cosponsored by Reps. Michael Lawler (R-NY), Laura Gillen (D-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), George Latimer (D-NY), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Nick Langworthy (R-NY), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Josh Riley (D-NY), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Nydia Valazquez (D-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Josh Gottheimer (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Grace Meng (D-NY), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY).
    “Cancer, COPD, Pulmonary Fibrosis and other serious respiratory illnesses are literally decimating the 9/11 Community from the toxic aftermath of 9/11,” said 9/11 advocate John Feal. “But we fail to mention the Toxic Redundancy in DC that continues to to take its toll on the deathly ill men & women, uniform and non uniform heroes and survivors who continue to travel over and over and over again to implore lawmakers to enact legislation again. The redundancy of traveling, the redundancy of being away from family, the redundancy of telling their stories, and the redundancy of me watching them die one by one. So one more time, no one last time we implore Congress to “ACT” now, so we can be left alone. The WTCHP is a lifeline for 140,000. $3 billion is a small ask for what we have been through dealing with our injuries, illnesses and most of all the redundancy we had to put up with for over two decades now. Together, today “WE” all have the opportunity “NOW” to stop the madness, the cruelty and redundancy!”
    “My name is Mariama James. I’m the daughter of two now late survivors dead of 9/11-related disease, the mom of three young survivors all with multiple WTC Health Program certifications, and I’m a health-impacted survivor myself,” said Mariama James, 9/11 survivor and advocate. “I stepped into this fight as a young woman, believing justice and care would swiftly follow the devastation of 9/11. Now, nearly 24 years later, I stand here still, imploring our leaders: fully and permanently fund the WTC Health Program. Time is not healing, it’s revealing the ongoing toll, and our commitment must match that reality.” 
    “Firefighters and officers are suffering from 9/11-related illnesses every day,” said Jim Brosi, President of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association. “Congress has a duty to uphold the promise made to first responders and ensure the WTCHP is fully funded for as long as our members need care. Access to treatment and medication is the least we can do for those who sacrificed their personal health to save the lives of countless victims.”
    “While it has been nearly 24 years since terrorists attacked our nation on 9/11, we still have daily reminders of the heavy price paid by the NYPD, FDNY, and first responders across this nation who willingly and selflessly answered the call to duty,” said NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) President Vincent Vallelong. “These brave men and women did not delay, they did not hesitate, and their actions in the weeks and months that followed September 11 gave our nation hope and the strength to rebuild.  The original Zadroga Act and the World Trade Center Health Program recognize our nation’s obligation to care for those first responders who sacrificed so much on that fateful day. The SBA is grateful for the continuing strong leadership of Sen. Gillibrand, Rep. Garbarino, Sen. Schumer, and the New York delegation in reintroducing the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act and ensuring Congress fulfills its obligation to fully fund this critical program.”
    ““We walked the halls of Congress in 2010 to enact the World Trade Center Health Program, and again in 2015 to reauthorize this vital program to ensure our nation took care of those suffering from 9/11-related chronic health conditions as a result of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. Attacks that left many Port Authority Police Officers with severe disabling and life-threatening illnesses contracted during the selfless performance of their duties in the World Trade Center Rescue and Recovery efforts,” said Frank Conti, President of the Port Authority Police Benevolent Association. “The WTCHP is facing a significant funding gap that, if not addressed by Congress, will impact its ability to provide necessary care to our nation’s 9/11 responders and survivors, including the officers we represent. We thank Senator Gillibrand and Representatives Garbarino and Goldman for their support, and we stand with them in urging Congress to pass the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act now. This is not over…the sacrifice continues.”  
    “We fought for the enactment and near permanent reauthorization of the WTCHP as we view it as our obligation and duty to ensure that responders, who risked their lives to protect us, and survivors continue to receive the care that they deserve,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations. “The 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act honors that obligation and ensures the WTCHP is fully funded. We thank Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Garbarino for their leadership and stand with them in support of this legislation.”
    We have vowed to never forget our heroes and survivors of the horrific attacks of 911. Yet, here we stand today, fighting for them once more. The actions Elon Musk has taken against the World Trade Center Health program are as insulting as they are inhumane. Our heroes and survivors deserve the utmost respect and the best possible care. I would like to thank the New York and New Jersey Republican members of Congress, led by Congressman Garbarino, for having the courage to stand shoulder to shoulder with us. Their actions were instrumental in having President Trump rescind the termination of many of the program’s key providers. Standing here in solidarity, hopefully Congressman Garbarino can convince more of his colleagues to do the right thing and fully fund the World Trade Center Health Program. As stated earlier we will never forget, and we will never go away until all our heroes and survivors are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.” said Thomas Hart, President of Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act and President of Local 94 International Union of Operating Engineers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Insurance platform for NEV helps 114,000 units get insured since inauguration

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    As of Tuesday, an insurance platform dedicated to ensuring proper coverage for new energy vehicles (NEVs) had successfully helped 114,000 units get insured, a significant step in China’s border efforts to strengthen insurance support for the growing NEV sector.

    Launched on Jan. 25, the platform has attracted 185,000 registered users and provided insurance coverage totaling 94.49 billion yuan (about 13.17 billion U.S. dollars), according to the Insurance Association of China and the Shanghai Insurance Exchange.

    For years, NEV owners have struggled with high premiums and the risk of being denied coverage, while insurers have been burdened by mounting financial losses due to the high repair costs of NEVs.

    China launched its first-ever guidelines for insuring NEVs last month to address the challenges.

    Insurers participating in the platform are prohibited from denying coverage.

    China’s NEV sector has seen rapid development in recent years. By the end of 2024, the number of NEVs in use in China had reached 31.4 million, data from the Ministry of Public Security showed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment – Strike action begins tomorrow at Oranga Tamariki over insulting pay offer, unmanageable workloads – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Workers at Oranga Tamariki begin strike action tomorrow over an insulting pay offer and a refusal by the agency to address their concerns over unsafe and unmanageable workloads.
    “Workers are taking this action to send a very strong message to Oranga Tamariki that it needs to take their concerns seriously and make a fair offer,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “Oranga Tamariki is effectively offering a real pay cut and failing to ensure workloads are safe and manageable. It’s unfair and incredibly damaging to the morale of workers carrying out such a vital role.”
    The strike covers around 2,800 workers including social workers, supervisors, kairaranga, youth workers, night workers, and support staff in care and protection and youth justice residences, family group conference coordinators, workplace administrators and national advisory and support staff.
    In bargaining for a new collective agreement Oranga Tamariki has offered small lump sum payments and no salary increases and provided no solutions to long standing and growing workload management issues. Member proposals to enhance obligations to Te Ao Māori remain unresolved.
    “Staff are burning out while the need to support tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau is not going away.
    [See attached stories from workers about the stress they are enduring]
    “Decades of reviews and inquiries have consistently identified high staff workloads as a barrier to Oranga Tamariki consistently delivering on its purpose. The Government’s reckless spending cuts have seen Oranga Tamariki lose over 400 workers, meaning those remaining must shoulder even higher workloads.
    “If the Government is serious about supporting whānau and protecting tamariki and rangatahi from neglect and abuse; they need to invest more in this key frontline agency and do more to retain such critical workers.”
    Details of strike action
    A variety of actions will be taken by PSA members. Some actions include members working in essential services; care and protection residences, youth justice residences, residential homes, and the national contact centre (their actions begin 7 March). There will be a total withdrawal of labour across the agency for two hours from 3pm Friday 7 March.
    The actions begin at 5pm on Friday 28 February and end on Friday 18 April. They include:
    – A ban on all work that is not paid work, including only working standard hours of work and taking all rest and meal breaks.
    – A ban on using all work-related systems and software outside of paid work, including online case recording systems.
    – A ban on working paid overtime; and a ban on working overtime for TOIL.
    – A ban on working double shifts.
    – A ban on being on-call and working call-back (after-hours duties).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Wāhine toa and women’s health champion a finalist for Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year – Vic

    Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

    Professor Bev Lawton ONZM (Ngāti Porou), founder of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s national centre for women’s health research, gets up every morning to save lives—and she’s up for the 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year award for her groundbreaking research.

    Throughout her career, first as a GP, then as founder of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine, Bev has sought to reduce preventable harm and death for Māori and non-Māori women, their children and whānau. With a kaupapa Māori lens, she focuses on clinical care pathways, and systems to identify how these can better perform for women, babies, and whānau.

    “Every member of my team works to eliminate preventable harm and death for women, babies, and whānau. One such goal includes eliminating cervical cancer. With the taonga of vaccination, and HPV self-testing, this is now achievable,” says Bev.

    The achievement Bev is most proud of in her career is her advocacy for HPV self-testing. She says, “The voices of women in Aotearoa New Zealand have contributed to everything about the way in which this programme has been implemented. It was research in real-time. Those that had had the test as part of research projects, were informing the programme as it was being rolled out.”

    “Regularly I meet people who tell me they were not just happy to do their HPV self-test, they were proud of it—because they own it, and they tell their friends to do it too. It is reaching a lot of people. Screening rates are going up.”

    Bev is a partner in the ongoing campaign to eliminate cervical cancer. “We have the tools, but it will require funding, and a plan. The introduction of HPV self-testing in September 2023 is a fantastic step, but our HPV vaccination coverage is very low in comparison to Australia, where their government has committed nearly $50m to support the national elimination strategy.

    “If I had a wish, it is that tomorrow, myself and every woman in Aotearoa be literally or figuratively, standing behind the Minister of Health when they announce their commitment to resourcing a cervical cancer elimination strategy.”

    Previous Patron of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine and advisory board member Dame Silvia Cartwright says, “Over many years of association with Bev, I have been deeply impressed both by the quality and breadth of her research, but also by the skill she has demonstrated in nurturing the work of a whole generation of younger researchers who share her passion for the improvement in health care delivery. Bev has the rare ability to gather wide support for her work, but also to make it available at every level of the health care community. Her academic rigour and advocacy for improvement in health care together make her stand out in a field where it is notoriously difficult to achieve real, practical results.”

    Working with iwi and communities, including Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Toa, Bev leads projects and programmes to create positive, long term health system transformation. Each, she says, comes from years of relationship-building across iwi, hapū, health care providers and champions—all with the overall goal or serving community to reduce harm and save lives.

    Bev speaks to the impact of having a rōpū Kaumātua advising her, saying, “The kaumātua ensure our mahi is tika (true) and responds to community. I get the right people on the waka. It’s not just my effort that has achieved the successes we have had in women’s health. It takes a lot of people to make this happen, as well as our vision for māmā and pēpi flourishing,” says Bev.

    Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Māori, Professor Rawinia Higgins says, “Bev’s career exemplifies how research can create real-life, meaningful change. Her research shapes a better world, where women and children live longer, healthier lives.

    “Her ability to collaborate with health providers, policy advisers, kuia kaumātua, funders, and people in the Māori community, exemplifies what we as a university want to achieve through research. Her achievement, to become a finalist in these prestigious awards, is superbly well-deserved—and if one more person self-tests because they’ve seen her story and experienced her advocacy, then she has achieved her goal.”

    The other two finalists in New Zealander of the Year are Dame Lisa Carrington for pushing boundaries in sport and inspiring the next generation, and Sarah Hirini ONZM for redefining what is possible on and off the rugby field.

    The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland on 20 March.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What’s the difference between burnout and depression?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Gordon Parker, Scientia Professor of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney

    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    If your summer holiday already feels like a distant memory, you’re not alone. Burnout – a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion following prolonged stress – has been described in workplaces since a 5th century monastery in Egypt.

    Burnout and depression can look similar and are relatively common conditions. It’s estimated that 30% of the Australian workforce is feeling some level of burnout, while almost 20% of Australians are diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.

    So what’s the difference between burnout and depression?

    Depression is marked by helplessness and burnout by hopelessness. They can have different causes and should also be managed differently.

    What is burnout?

    The World Health Organization defines burnout as an “occupational phenomenon” resulting from excessively demanding workload pressures. While it is typically associated with the workplace, carers of children or elderly parents with demanding needs are also at risk.

    Our research created a set of burnout symptoms we captured in the Sydney Burnout Measure to assist self-diagnosis and clinicians undertaking assessments. They include:

    • exhaustion as the primary symptom

    • brain fog (poor concentration and memory)

    • difficulty finding pleasure in anything

    • social withdrawal

    • an unsettled mood (feeling anxious and irritable)

    • impaired work performance (this may be result of other symptoms such as fatigue).

    People can develop a “burning out” phase after intense work demands over only a week or two. A “burnout” stage usually follows years of unrelenting work pressure.

    What is depression?

    A depressive episode involves a drop in self-worth, increase in self-criticism and feelings of wanting to give up. Not everyone with these symptoms will have clinical depression, which requires a diagnosis and has an additional set of symptoms.

    Clinically diagnosed depression can vary by mood, how long it lasts and whether it comes back. There are two types of clinical depression:

    1. melancholic depression has genetic causes, with episodes largely coming “out of the blue”

    2. non-melancholic depression is caused by environmental factors, often triggered by significant life events which cause a drop in self-worth.

    When we created our burnout measure, we compared burnout symptoms with these two types of depression.

    Burnout shares some features with melancholic depression, but they tend to be general symptoms, such as feeling a loss of pleasure, energy and concentration skills.

    We found there were more similarities between burnout and non-melancholic (environmental) depression. This included a lack of motivation and difficulties sleeping or being cheered up, perhaps reflecting the fact both have environmental causes.

    Looking for the root cause

    The differences between burnout and depression become clearer when we look at why they happen.

    Personality comes into play. Our work suggests a trait like perfectionism puts people at a much higher risk of burnout. But they may be less likely to become depressed as they tend to avoid stressful events and keep things under control.

    Excessive workloads can contribute to burnout.
    tartanparty/Shutterstock

    Those with burnout generally feel overwhelmed by demands or deadlines they can’t meet, creating a sense of helplessness.

    On the other hand, those with depression report lowered self-esteem. So rather than helpless they feel that they and their future is hopeless.

    However it is not uncommon for someone to experience both burnout and depression at once. For example, a boss may place excessive work demands on an employee, putting them at risk of burnout. At the same time, the employer may also humiliate that employee and contribute to an episode of non-melancholic depression.

    What can you do?

    A principal strategy in managing burnout is identifying the contributing stressors. For many people, this is the workplace. Taking a break, even a short one, or scheduling some time off can help.

    Australians now have the right to disconnect, meaning they don’t have to answer work phone calls or emails after hours. Setting boundaries can help separate home and work life.



    Read more:
    Australians now have the right to disconnect – but how workplaces react will be crucial

    Burnout can be also be caused by compromised work roles, work insecurity or inequity. More broadly, a dictatorial organisational structure can make employees feel devalued. In the workplace, environmental factors, such as excessive noise, can be a contributor. Addressing these factors can help prevent burnout.

    As for managing symptoms, the monks had the right idea. Strenuous exercise, meditation and mindfulness are effective ways to deal with everyday stress.

    Regular exercise can help manage symptoms of burnout.
    alexei_tm/Shutterstock

    Deeper contributing factors, including traits such as perfectionism, should be managed by a skilled clinical psychologist.

    For melancholic depression, clinicians will often recommend antidepressant medication.

    For non-melancholic depression, clinicians will help address and manage triggers that are the root cause. Others will benefit from antidepressants or formal psychotherapy.

    While misdiagnosis between depression and burnout can occur, burnout can mimic other medical conditions such as anemia or hypothyroidism.

    For the right diagnosis, it’s best to speak to your doctor or clinician who should seek to obtain a sense of “the whole picture”. Only then, once a burnout diagnsois has been affirmed and other possible causes ruled out, should effective support strategies be put in place.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Gordon Parker receives funding from the University of of NSW.

    – ref. What’s the difference between burnout and depression? – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-burnout-and-depression-250043

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 02.26.2025 Sen. Cruz, Rep. Roy Reintroduce RESULT Act to Increase Access to Life-Saving Medical Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and U.S. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas-21) reintroduced the bicameralReciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments (RESULT) Act. The legislation increases access to drugs, devices, and other medical therapies already approved in other trusted countries, facilitating access to life-saving treatments for Americans.
    Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “Washington bureaucracy and regulations far too often interfere with the healthcare decisions of patients and their doctors.  The RESULT Act will facilitate access to life-saving drugs, devices, and medical treatments that are already proven safe and effective in other trusted countries, empowering patients to access the medications they need to improve their health. I’m proud to be advancing it, and I call upon my colleagues to expeditiously take it up and pass it.”
    Sen. Lee said, “Americans should have access to the very best medicines and treatments in the world, without government bureaucrats standing in the way. This legislation will strengthen medical freedom, increase healthcare options for patients, and allow the most brilliant innovations from our trusted allies across the globe to help countless families in the United States.”
    Rep. Roy said, “Waiting for a pencil-pusher in Washington to green-light medications that are already approved in other trusted countries is the epitome of the bureaucratic nightmare that has plagued our healthcare system. This bill would cut through a wall of red tape that separates Americans from getting the care that they need, which means prioritizing their healthcare freedom.”
    This legislation was also cosponsored by Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah).
    Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas-21).
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    The RESULT Act amends the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to allow for reciprocal approval of drugs, devices and biologics approved in certain trusted countries, including the UK, EU member countries, Israel, Australia, Canada, and Japan. Sen. Cruz previously introduced the bill in 2023 and 2021.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Large car enthusiast event, Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Sergeant Ben Rutherford:

    Police are warning motorists to expect delays on some Canterbury roads ahead of a large car enthusiast event this weekend, and are asking people to report any unlawful activity seen.

    Police will have extra staff out on Christchurch and rural Canterbury roads monitoring the event, which is due to take place across three nights.

    The Antisocial Road User Team will be joined by additional staff, with one clear message: Dangerous driving behaviour will not be tolerated.

    We have been in contact with the event organiser who has been very receptive and while we do not expect there to be any issues at the event itself, we know from previous years there may be unlawful activity from a small section of attendees and other motorists following the event.

    We want people to enjoy themselves, however not at the expense of others. Where illegal activity is identified Police will be talking enforcement action.

    Antisocial road user activity not only puts the drivers at risk, but also passengers, bystanders, and members of the public.

    If you witness any unlawful driving behaviour please contact Police, you can report information to us at 111 if it’s happening now or via 105 either online or over the phone if it’s after the fact.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Support for First Nations boarding students to finish their schooling

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to support First Nations boarding students from remote and very remote communities to finish their schooling.

    More than 50 boarding providers across Australia have been selected to share a $44.2 million investment to support approximately 2,500 First Nations students to attend school and achieve their learning potential.

    The investment will enable culturally appropriate care and support for students to promote wellbeing and academic success.

    It will support cultural connection, upgrades to boarding facilities and provide support to students transitioning into boarding so they can stay in school and thrive.

    The funding from 2025 to 2026 will also be used to employ First Nations teachers and wellbeing officers, or counsellors trained in trauma-informed practices.

    At Blackheath & Thornburgh College in Charters Towers, Queensland, a culture hub and First Nations wellbeing and community officer will foster cultural connection and engagement by providing a place for First Nations students and families to come together.

    At Cape York Girl Academy in Wangatti Beach near Cairns, young women will learn cross-cultural and leadership development skills through the Independent Living Skills Program, while the Deep Driving Partnerships program at Djarragun College in Gordonvale, near Cairns will improve understanding between the school and Indigenous communities.

    At Laynhapuy Homelands School in Yirrkala in the Northern Territory, 30 Yolŋgu students will benefit from better school learning resources and an improved boarding environment, with new laptops and kitchen upgrades.

    Karalundi College in the mid-west region of Western Australia will increase capacity to welcome 20 more students, while Catholic Education Western Australia’s Transition Support Unit will continue to provide culturally informed assistance with boarding and school transition areas.

    In Victoria, Melbourne Indigenous Transition School will support more than 85 boarding students from regional Victoria and remote areas in the top end of the Northern Territory, by providing wraparound holistic support to attend their partner schools in Melbourne.

    Boarding plays an important role for many First Nations students from rural and remote communities and this investment is one of the ways the Albanese Labor Government is helping to close the gap in education outcomes.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “Investing in boarding facilities helps First Nations students access quality education and finish school.

    “The Government understands the importance of choice for families in supporting their children through their education and options to study on-Country, or nearby where possible.

    “Boarding continues to be an important education pathway for First Nations students, particularly for families in remote areas.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:

    “Education is key to Closing the Gap and the Albanese Labor Government is determined to support First Nations students to succeed at school and reach their full potential in life.

    “Moving to a boarding school can be a big change in a young person’s life, and they need appropriate supports. That’s why we’re funding programs that encourage students to grow their sense of wellbeing, learning, and cultural identity.

    “This funding will help more than 2,500 students receive an education while staying connected to their community and receiving the support they need to succeed.”
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Otoko Hill recovery work enters final phase

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    As the State Highway 2 Otoko Hill recovery work enters its final phase, crews are ready to begin work on the last of nine projects helping to make this section of highway safer and more reliable for Tairāwhiti communities.

    Work has been underway at SH2 Otoko Hill north of Gisborne since last winter on a number of sites, including repairs to underslips, overslips and extensive improvements to drainage.

    From Monday (3 March), work will start between Hihiroroa Road and Fitzgerald Road to install extensive counterfort drains on both upward and downward slopes to help reduce water pressure in the hills, channelling it away from the road.

    Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) Alliance crews, on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, have carried out similar drainage work across the Otoko Hills but on a smaller scale to this final project,” says TREC Project Manager Richard Bayley.

    “People who regularly travel through Otoko Hill will have seen the progress the team is making in improving this once vulnerable route and we’re very grateful for their support and patience, as we progress towards the end of this series of work.”

    Crews will be on site Monday to Friday until mid-year, working between 7am and 5pm.

    Temporary traffic lights will be in place and NZTA is reminding all road users to expect delays.

    Three active worksites will be underway simultaneously on Otoko Hill for a short time in early March and we’re encouraging people to plan their journeys and check NZTA’s Journey Planner before they travel.

    Tree removal

    As part of this work, tree removal on this stretch of highway also needs to be undertaken.

    Following ecology and environmental assessments, currently underway, work is expected to begin in mid-March and take approximately four weeks to complete.

    This work will be done under a stop-stop traffic arrangement with delays of up to 15 minutes expected. This wait time could be longer if a tree is being felled at that time.

    Pilot vehicles will be used to escort road users through the site safely.

    Tree removal and trimming is required as part of the recovery work.

    We will provide confirmed details of this work as soon as we have it.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stretches of HB Expressway closing for resurfacing; stop/go for tree removal

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A reminder that next week, two stretches of State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway will be closed overnight for resurfacing.

    See previous media release

    The work will take place between Monday 3 and Thursday 6 March, 8pm to 5am each night.

    During the work, a stretch of road approaching the roundabouts between Prebensen Drive and Taradale Road will be resurfaced first, overnight on Monday 3 and Tuesday 4 March. Crews will then move onto the Taradale Road to Meeanee Road section on the nights of Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 March. The road will reopen 5am Friday 7 March.

    Signposted detours will be in place during the work – please plan ahead and expect slightly longer journey times.

    • During the first closure (Prebensen Drive to Taradale Road), northbound road users will be detoured onto SH51 Taradale Road and then onto SH50 Prebensen Drive before rejoining the expressway. The reverse will apply for southbound motorists.
    • During the second closure (Taradale Road to Meeanee Road), northbound road users will be detoured left onto Meeanee Road, right onto Guppy Road, right onto Gloucester Street and into Kennedy Road, before turning left onto Taradale Road and rejoining the expressway. The reverse will apply for southbound motorists.

    During the day, the road will be open, with temporary traffic management in place and a temporary lower speed while the new surface settles.

    Tree removal

    Also next week, stop/stop traffic management (where north and south-bound traffic will be stopped temporarily) will be in place on Monday 3 March from 10AM for a maximum of 15 minutes while a tree is being removed between the Tutaekuri River Bridge and Meeanee Road overbridge.

    The exotic tree is being removed as part of the expressway Road of National Significance project vegetation removal plan. We will be closing both lanes to allow for two lengths of the tree for safety.

    Vegetation removal will allow future project work to progress, including construction of the new lanes, and approaches to the new additional bridges and overpasses.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with trafficking after police seize drugs during Spirit of Tasmania terminal search

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Man charged with trafficking after police seize drugs during Spirit of Tasmania terminal search

    Thursday, 27 February 2025 – 1:44 pm.

    A 43 year old Blackmans Bay man has been charged with trafficking following a search at the Spirit of Tasmania terminal last night.
    Members of Western Taskforce Scelus and the Dog Handlers Unit seized approximately 50 grams of methylamphetamine – with a potential for 500 street deals – from the man who was a foot passenger arriving in Tasmania on Wednesday 26 February.
    The man was arrested and charged with trafficking in a controlled substance along with other minor drug offences.
    He was bailed to appear in Devonport Magistrates Court on June 10.
    Anyone with information about illicit substances in the community should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Head lice are getting harder to kill. Here’s how to break the nit cycle

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cameron Webb, Clinical Associate Professor and Principal Hospital Scientist, University of Sydney

    DGLimages/Shutterstock

    Wrangling head lice, and the children they infest, must be up there with the most challenging duties a parent or carer has to face.

    And the job is getting harder. Commonly used chemical products aren’t working as well as they once did, meaning head lice are harder to kill.

    You can still rid your children of lice – but it’s likely to take some patience and persistence.

    Remind me, what are head lice? And nits?

    Head lice are tiny six-legged insects that are only found in the hair on a human’s head – most commonly in the hair of primary school-aged children.

    Head lice have been a constant companion for humans throughout their millions of years of evolution.

    Lice love living in our hair. But they scoot down to our scalp up to a half dozen times a day to drink our blood.

    Their claws are perfectly designed to scuttle up and down shafts of hair. But while they’re nimble on our hair, once they’re off, they don’t last long –they’re clumsy, uncoordinated and die quickly.

    The term “nits” actually describes the eggs of head lice. They’re often the first sign of an infestation. And with one louse laying more than 100 in their month-long lifespan, there can be a lot of them.

    Head lice live for around a month.
    logika600/Shutterstock

    Can they spread diseases?

    No. Head lice are annoying and their bites may cause skin reactions. But Australian health authorities don’t consider lice a health risk. There is no evidence that head lice can spread pathogens that cause disease.

    The stigma of head lice infestations can be greater than any direct health consequences for infested children.

    Why do my children always pick up lice?

    From child care through to primary school, it’s likely your child has had a head lice infestation at least once. One Australian study found the infestation rate in Australian classrooms ranged from no cases to 72% of children affected.

    Girls are more likely to be carry head lice than boys. Long hair means it’s easier for the head lice to hitch a ride.

    One study found that in some classrooms, almost three in four children had head lice.
    CDC/Unsplash

    Head lice don’t jump or fly, they move from head to head via direct contact.

    Head lice come home with your children because they spend time in close contact with other children, hugging, playing or crowding around books or screens. Any head-to-head contact is a pathway of infections.

    Rules differ slightly between states but in New South Wales and Queensland, children don’t need to be kept home from school because of head lice.

    How can I keep my home free of head lice?

    Keeping the house clean and tidy won’t keep head lice away. They don’t care how clean your bed sheets and towels are, or how frequently you vacuum carpets and rugs.

    There may be a risk of head lice transfer on shared pillows, but even that risk is low.

    There’s no need to change the child’s or other family member’s bedding when you find lice in a child’s hair. Research-based recommendations from NSW Health are that “bed linen, hats, clothing and furniture do not harbour or transmit lice or nits and that there is no benefit in washing them as a treatment option”.

    I’ve used nit solution. Why isn’t it working?

    A wide range of products are available at your local pharmacy to treat head lice. Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration assesses products to ensure that they are both safe and effective.

    The problem is that most of these products are insecticides that kill the lice on contact but may not kill the eggs.

    Also, if treatments aren’t completed as directed on product labels, some head lice won’t be killed.

    Head lice also seem to be fighting back against the chemicals we’ve been using against them and it’s getting harder to clear children of infestations.

    So how can you get rid of them?

    You’ll need conditioner and a nit comb.
    riopatuca/Shutterstock

    Don’t expect any miracle cures but health authorities in Australia generally recommend the “conditioner and comb” or “wet comb” method. This means you physically remove the lice without the need for chemical applications.

    There are three key steps:

    1. immobilise the lice by applying hair conditioner to the child’s damp hair and leaving it there for around 20 minutes

    2. systematically comb through the hair using a fine toothed “lice comb”. The conditioner and lice can be wiped off on paper towels or tissues. Only adult lice will be collected but don’t worry, we’ll deal with the eggs later

    3. repeat the process twice, about a week apart, to break the life cycle of the head lice.

    Repeating the process after a week allows the remaining eggs to hatch. It sounds counter-intuitive but by letting them hatch, the young lice are easier to remove than the eggs. You just need to remove them before they start laying a fresh batch of eggs and the infestation continues.

    While children are much more likely to have head lice, the reality is that everyone in the household is just as likely to host a head louse or two. You don’t necessarily need everyone to have a treatment but “grown ups” should be on the lookout for lice too.

    Cameron Webb and the Department of Medical Entomology, NSW Health Pathology and University of Sydney, have been engaged by a wide range of insect repellent and insecticide manufacturers to provide testing of products and provide expert advice on medically important arthropods. Cameron has also received funding from local, state and federal agencies to undertake research into various aspects of management of various medically important arthropods.

    – ref. Head lice are getting harder to kill. Here’s how to break the nit cycle – https://theconversation.com/head-lice-are-getting-harder-to-kill-heres-how-to-break-the-nit-cycle-250397

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump’s Systemic Takedown of CFPB is Making U.S. Consumers Less Safe & Increasing Financial Risks for Military Families and Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — Despite the fact that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has returned over $21 billion to American consumers who were ripped off by abusive and illegal financial activity since 2011, the Trump Administration is working to dismantle the watchdog agency. 

    The Trump White House has moved to dismiss the agency’s entire workforce, canceled the lease for the agency’s headquarters, suspended supervision of big banks, and dismissed open-and-shut cases against predatory lenders for deceiving consumers into paying usurious interest rates.  Two weeks ago, President Trump said in the Oval Office that his goal is for the CFPB to “be totally eliminated.”  Billionaire tycoon Elon Musk—a White House employee who donated $288 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign could personally benefit from rolling back the CFPB’s oversight capabilities— proposed “deleting” the agency.

    U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) says millions of Americans are more likely to be scammed and ripped off by junk fees after the Trump Administration took recent steps to incapacitate the CFPB, which was set up after the last major financial crisis.  And Reed, who created CFPB’s Office of Servicemember Affairs to help protect military families from financial fraud, says the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the CFPB increase financial risks to service members.

    “Apparently the Trump-Musk administration thinks consumers never get the short end of the stick from unscrupulous businesses, but that’s not the experience of families.  Billionaires don’t have to worry about having enough money to pay the mortgage and feed their kids, but the vast majority of Americans do.  The CFPB exists so that every American has a strong consumer watchdog looking out for their financial well-being, preventing scams, stopping special interests from running amok, and holding offenders accountable.  This is especially true for servicemembers, veterans, and their families, who are disproportionally targeted by predatory lenders and abusive mortgage, debt collection, payday lending, and auto lending schemes and often face greater financial risks than civilian borrowers due to the nature of their military service,” said Senator Reed.  “Since the CFPB was created, it has made real progress taking on special interests, rooting out scammers, and punishing financial abuse, from deceptive mortgages to unfair credit card terms to unscrupulous payday lenders.  We should be building on that progress, not tearing it down and empowering bad actors.”

    The Trump Administration’s short-sighted decision to stop supervision, enforcement, and litigation eliminates key Military Lending Act (MLA) protections that prevent servicemembers from being exploited. The financial and legal protections in these bipartisan laws–most notably a cap on interest rates on mortgages, credit cards, and auto loans–are critical to national defense and military readiness. Troops should focus on their service obligations while on active duty, rather than worrying about making ends meet at home.

    U.S. service members submitted approximately 84,600 complaints to the CFPB in 2023, a 27 percent increase over the previous year.

    Many elderly veterans are targeted for fraud and deceptive schemes, including scams operated by unaccredited veterans benefits claims agents, who charge exorbitant fees for illegitimate assistance with claims.

    At a special CFPB forum in Washington, DC this week, Senator Reed had a chance to speak with Stacey McCall, an Army veteran who was trapped in a doom loop with an auto lender, unable to transfer her title back home after her assignment overseas ended and being unfairly charged for a Toyota vehicle she couldn’t drive.  She worked for nearly a year to resolve it, unsuccessfully, until the CFPB came to the rescue.

    Senator Reed noted his own experience in uniform and how he saw fellow Army soldiers unfairly treated by unscrupulous car dealers: “I discovered how soldiers, sailors, airmen, guardians are used by financial companies a long time ago.  I was the executive officer of a parachute company in the 82nd Airborne Division, and I spent a lot of time talking to my troops and wondering why they signed a contract to buy a car with 250 percent interest. I thought that was a little outrageous.  But more importantly, why would anyone try to exploit a soldier serving the nation and defending the nation?  So, it got me a little bit upset and put it in the back in my mind.”

    Reed cited his experience in the military as one of the reasons for supporting a regulator whose mission is to focus on consumer protection and military families.

    “Whether serving stateside or abroad, U.S. military personnel and their families and veterans deserve financial protection and a watchdog that actively looks out for their financial well-being.  The CFPB’s Office of Servicemember Affairs has been staffed by real people who have done outstanding work providing personalized assistance to those in need.  The Trump Administration is cutting that service off and as a result, more troops will lose their hard-earned paychecks and more families will fall victim to abusive and predatory financial practices,” said Reed.

    The Senate Banking Committee plans to hold a confirmation hearing Thursday for Jonathan McKernan, President Trump’s nominee to lead the CFPB.  Senator Reed says he plans to ask Mr. McKernan about his plans to protect consumers, including military families, and take meaningful enforcement actions against predatory lending.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed, Colleagues Demand Answers on VA Firings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed is teaming up with Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA), the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (Milcon-VA), to demand answers on how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will ensure veterans receive the health care and benefits they earned amidst the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate firing of recently hired VA employees.

    Senators Reed and Ossoff were joined by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) in pressing VA Secretary Doug Collins for answers after the Department fired doctors, nurses, and crisis hotline staff, despite the agency claiming otherwise.

    “VA recently announced the firing of ‘more than 1,000 employees’ and claimed in its press release that ‘mission-critical positions’ were exempt. This claim is false. Clinicians, researchers, and Veterans Crisis Line employees were fired, apparently solely on the basis that they were recent hires,” the Senators wrote.

    “We hope it goes without saying that clinical staff who provide medical care and employees who field calls from suicidal veterans are indeed ‘mission-critical,’” Senator Reed and the group continued. “VA’s indiscriminate termination of such personnel is self-defeating and risks the immediate disruption of veterans’ health care and services. The potential consequences — delayed clinical appointments or neglected phone calls from veterans in crisis — could be life threatening.”

    As part of the inquiry, Senator Reed and the group requested specific answers from Secretary Collins about the locations, positions, and veteran status of staff impacted by the Trump Administration’s Hiring Freeze Executive Order and mass firings, in order to determine whether veterans in Rhode Island will be impacted by the actions.

    Additionally, the Senators asked for data on the termination of VA researchers who were in active and ongoing clinical trials for veterans dealing with cancer, burn pit exposure, opioid addiction, and more.  

    Earlier this month, Senator Reed joined colleagues in pressing Secretary Collins to protect veterans, their families, and VA staff from unprecedented access to sensitive information by Elon Musk and the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    The VA’s mission is to help veterans successfully transition to civilian life and assists them in their post-service journey by ensuring they have access to the benefits they earned.  The VA offers veterans and their families a wide range of services, including healthcare, housing, education, training, disability compensation and pension assistance, and more.

    Read the full text of the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Pushes for Legislation to Protect Rural Nursing Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    During a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) pushed for passage of her Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act, which would overturn a harmful Biden-era rule regulating nursing homes. Senator Fischer reintroduced the legislation today.
    In her remarks, Senator Fischer emphasized how unrealistic the Biden administration’s staffing standards are for rural nursing homes and the detrimental effects of nursing home closures in rural communities. She stressed her commitment to passing this legislation to protect rural seniors from upheaval in their final years.
    Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s remarks.
    Click here to download audio 
    Click here to download video
    Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery:M. President,
    Across America, 1.3 million people live in nursing homes.
    Many of us have parents, grandparents, or other loved ones who rely on these homes for care and community in their golden years.
    We understand just how vital nursing homes are—in urban, suburban, and rural areas alike—to help seniors around our country thrive.
    But unfortunately, a federal rule that is still in place from the Biden era is putting many of America’s nursing homes in jeopardy—especially those in rural communities.
    Last year, under President Biden, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services finalized a rule that placed strict, unrealistic regulations on nursing homes.
    The rule requires a registered nurse to be present 24/7 in these homes, and requires three and a half daily hours of dedicated nursing care for each resident.
    If this rule is not stopped, the regulations will be imposed on every nursing home in America over the next few years.
    It may sound nice to have a nurse on hand in nursing homes every moment of the day or night. But the reality is that these homes are already facing historic staffing shortages.
    Across the country, nursing homes lost more than 200,000 workers from February 2020 to December 2022.
    These shortages have already caused many nursing homes to close down.
    Since 2015, 44 nursing homes and 35 assisted living facilities have shut their doors in Nebraska alone.
    Those closures deprived Nebraskans of over 3,000 beds and hurt seniors who wanted to stay in their home community, close to family and friends.
    The CMS rule will worsen this crisis. According to the agency itself, 75 percent of America’s nursing homes will have to increase staffing to comply with its regulations.
    Under the Biden administration’s rule, nursing homes now have to scramble to find staff in the midst of overwhelming shortages.
    If they fail, they’ll have to shut their doors, depriving seniors of care and housing.
    That’s why today, I reintroduced legislation to stop this Biden-era rule in its tracks.
    My Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act will prevent the rule’s misguided requirements from going into full effect.
    It will also establish an advisory panel on the nursing home workforce representing various stakeholders, including members from rural and underserved areas.
    This will ensure that the government hears voices outside the big cities on the coasts when it comes to nursing homes.
    Nursing homes are few and far between in rural areas of our country. If one facility closes, the next closest one could be many miles or even hours away.
    Just one closure could be detrimental to seniors in some of our communities.
    But if our nursing homes stay open, seniors won’t have to face upheaval in their final years.
    They won’t have to leave family and loved ones behind to find a new home.
    They won’t have to experience the loneliness, uncertainty, and depression that can come along with moving to an unfamiliar place.
    My bill advocates for these seniors, their care, and their families. It fights for our rural communities and for nursing homes in Nebraska.
    I’ll keep pushing for this legislation until the president signs it into law—to protect seniors from a rule that would only harm them, their families, and their caretakers.
    Thank you, M. President, I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –