NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Drugs and cash seized in traffic stop – Salisbury Downs

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man has been arrested after cash and drugs were found during a traffic stop at Salisbury Downs overnight.

    About 12.30am on Friday 14 February, police conducted a routine traffic stop on a Toyota Hiace van on Kings Road.

    Police had cause to search the man and located approximately 55 grams of methamphetamine inside his pocket. A further search of the vehicle uncovered an amount of 1-4 Butanediol, cocaine and other prescription drugs as well as more than $24,000 in cash and hydroponic equipment.

    A 30-year-old man from Walker Flat was arrested for three counts of trafficking a controlled drug, possessing prescribed equipment, unlawful possession and possessing prescription drugs. The man has been refused bail and will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court today.

    CO2500006481, CO2500006579

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Over $21 million to transform New South Wales’ regional cities

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Albanese Government is building Australia’s future by delivering social infrastructure that connects communities, boosts economies and transforms Australia’s regions.

    Today we are announcing four projects will share in over $21 million to create new and revitalise existing town precincts across regional New South Wales. 

    In Cessnock, over $14 million is going towards transforming the underutilised Apex Park into a thriving precinct connecting local businesses, community groups, service providers and the Cessnock Pool recreation area.

    The new precinct will transform Cessnock for locals and visitors alike, shaping the future of the town and strengthening its role as a tourism gateway to the Hunter Valley region.

    Further west, we’re investing $2 million into the Mid-Western Regional Council’s Mortimer Street Precinct to revitalise the south-eastern section of the Mudgee CBD. 

    The project will deliver plans to accommodate a hotel, residential apartments, commercial shops, restaurants, car parks, green spaces and designated pedestrian connections. It will enable the precinct to progress to Development Application and investment.

    Bathurst Regional Council’s Connected Regional Neighbourhoods project will receive $1.7 million to develop a comprehensive business case, master plan and concept designs to reinvigorate the Bathurst CBD. 

    The project will set a benchmark for the use of smart, sustainable technologies in a regional city, incorporating active transport infrastructure and streetscape enhancements to attract investment into the town.

    In Cobar, almost $3.5 million will deliver the design and planning works for the council’s Grand Precinct, getting it up to construction and tender-ready status. 

    The project will transform the town by redesigning the Grand Hotel into a cultural-commercial hub, upgrading the library with enhanced services, restoring the town hall for multi-purpose use, adding senior housing and improving streetscapes. 

    These projects showcase the Government’s commitment to listening to, and working with, local communities, and addressing regional needs.

    They are funded through the Albanese Government’s regional Precincts and Partnership Program, which provides investment to transform regional, rural and remote places. 

    The program is investing $47.9 million to support the transformation of seven precincts across New South Wales. For more information, visit: infrastructure.gov.au/regional. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King: 

    “Precincts like this not only give the community a space to gather and visitors a space to enjoy, but they transform towns by boosting local economies and shaping the everyday lives of locals.

    “The regional Precincts and Partnerships program is about revitalising underutilised spaces to enhance regional cities and towns – working collaboratively across government, community and with the private sector. 

    “We are listening to communities across regional New South Wales and boosting local economies by strengthening community infrastructure.”
     
    Quotes attributable to Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi: 

    “This investment is a game-changer for Cessnock, ensuring our region continues to grow, attract visitors, and provide better amenities for locals.

    “Our community has been asking for these improvements, and I’m proud to be delivering real outcomes that will make a lasting difference.

    “The Albanese Government is committed to supporting regional New South Wales, and this funding will help build a stronger, more connected future for Cessnock and beyond.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – CBA Emergency Assistance for Tropical Cyclone Zelia affected areas in WA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    Commonwealth Bank is providing Emergency Assistance to Tropical Cyclone Zelia affected areas across the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

    Commonwealth Bank is providing Emergency Assistance to customers and businesses in areas affected by Tropical Cyclone Zelia in WA.

    Retail Banking Services Group Executive, Angus Sullivan, said: “We are thinking of everyone affected by Tropical Cyclone Zelia across the Pilbara region of Western Australia. We are making a range of measures available, tailored to the needs of our customers.”

    CBA understands each customer will have different needs and encourages those affected to discuss their individual circumstances by either contacting the bank in the CommBank app, phoning 1800 314 695 or visiting their nearest Commonwealth Bank branch, if safe to do so. Business customers can also call 1800 314 695 or speak with their dedicated CommBank relationship manager.

    Special arrangements are in place to provide support to Commonwealth Bank customers should they need it, and the CBA team is ready to assist them with any financial concerns or enquiries.

    For more information on the support we’re providing to impacted communities, visit: commbank.com.au/support/natural-disasters

    CBA Emergency Assistance includes a range of options, including:

    Customised payment arrangements for home loans, credit card, personal loan and some business loans.
    Waiving fees and charges.
    Temporary overdrafts, additional loans or emergency credit limit increases (subject to credit approval).
    Waiving fees and notice periods for early access to Term Deposits.
    Emergency accommodation may be available for customers who have taken out Home Insurance provided by Hollard, distributed by CommBank, subject to making a claim and policy terms and conditions.
    Helping direct claims enquiries for customers seeking support through their Home Insurance provided by Hollard, distributed by CommBank.
    Loan restructuring for business customers with existing loans.
    Waiving fees for temporary and damaged merchant EFTPOS terminals, as well as support with merchant terminal rental fees.

    To access this support please either contact us via the CommBank app, on 1800 314 695 or visit us in branch, if it is safe to do so. Further information about our Emergency Assistance is available online at: commbank.com.au/emergencyassistance

    For emergency help call the State Emergency Service on 132 500. Alternatively, visit WA State Emergency Services. In a life-threatening emergency call 000 (triple zero). (ref. https://wases.com.au/ )

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Honda, Nissan call off merger talks amid disagreements

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken on Dec. 23, 2024 shows a Honda dealer in Tokyo, Japan. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. on Thursday announced the decision to terminate discussions on a potential merger, bringing an end to the restructuring attempt that could have created one of the world’s largest automotive group.

    Both companies held board meetings on Thursday, where they agreed to withdraw the basic agreement signed in December 2024 and officially end merger discussions.

    In the rapidly changing market environment in the age of electrification, prioritizing decision-making speed and the execution of management measures would make it more appropriate to forgo the merger at this time, Nissan said in a statement on its website.

    Despite the end of merger talks, the companies will continue to collaborate within the framework of the strategic partnership memorandum, the two companies said in separate statements.

    This photo taken on Dec. 23, 2024 shows a Nissan dealer in Tokyo, Japan. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The two automakers initially focused on forming a holding company that would oversee both brands, but negotiations stalled over the shareholding structure as tensions escalated when Honda proposed making Nissan its subsidiary, an idea Nissan strongly opposed.

    According to local media, Honda has been pushing Nissan to accelerate its restructuring efforts. In November 2024, Nissan announced plans to cut 9,000 jobs worldwide and reduce its global production capacity by 20 percent after reporting a more than 90 percent drop in net profit for the April-September period.

    The integration, if materialized, was expected to enhance development capabilities for electric vehicles (EVs) and software while reducing costs through cooperation. However, with the negotiations terminated, both companies must now reassess their strategic direction.

    On Thursday, Nissan revised its financial outlook for the fiscal year, estimating a net loss of 80 billion yen (about 520 million U.S. dollars). The company cited rising costs for restructuring its struggling U.S. operations, along with expenses related to workforce reductions.

    Revenue projections were also lowered, while operating income, which indicates profit from core business, is expected to be 120 billion yen, 30 billion yen less than the previous forecast.

    At a press conference, Nissan’s CEO Makoto Uchida acknowledged the challenges of continuing as an independent entity but ultimately believed that a holding company structure, rather than full acquisition, would have been the best way for Nissan to compete globally.

    He also signaled Nissan’s intention to seek partnerships in various fields to ensure future sustainability.

    Honda’s CEO Toshihiro Mibe expressed deep regret that both companies could not reach a consensus and take a step forward toward the merger.

    However, through these discussions, Honda and Nissan recognized the potential synergy effects of collaboration, he noted. Honda stated that they would leverage this understanding in their ongoing strategic partnership with Mitsubishi Motors, which was announced in August last year.

    The focus moving forward will be on intelligent and electrified mobility solutions, with plans to put these ideas into practice, Honda stressed.

    Honda said Thursday that it booked a net profit of 805.26 billion yen in the nine months through December, down 7.4 percent from the previous year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ derivatives ride blockbuster wave

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken on Feb. 13, 2025 shows a poster for the Chinese animated film “Ne Zha 2” at a cinema in Chaoyang District of Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fans of record-breaking blockbuster Chinese movie “Ne Zha 2” are making significant waves in the derivatives market, clearing out retailer inventories and even creating DIY character-shaped dolls and food items.

    Since the film’s debut on the first day of the Chinese New Year, which was Jan. 29 this year, sales of its collectibles, ranging from mystery toy boxes and cards to fridge magnets and badges, have reportedly topped 50 million yuan (about 6.97 million U.S. dollars) on Taobao, a leading e-commerce platform in China.

    This sequel to the 2019 hit “Ne Zha,” with inspirations derived from Chinese mythological tales, has already drawn over 200 million cinema-goers, the highest number in the country’s film history.

    The film became an instant holiday box office hit thanks to its contemporary re-imagination of Ne Zha, a well-known mythical figure with extraordinary powers, and via its intriguing plot twists. As of Wednesday, it had grossed over 9 billion yuan, igniting high public enthusiasm for its collectibles.

    Customers inquiring about toys featuring characters from the film are often left disappointed at stores across China. A salesperson at a trendy toy store in downtown Nanjing in east China’s Jiangsu Province said even display samples were sold out. “We expect to restock items like laser cards later.”

    Notably, Hunan Sunny & Sandy Toys Manufacturer Co. Ltd., the film’s sole licensed manufacturer of 3D food-grade plastic toys in China, reported sales of over 450,000 mystery toy box sets through live-streaming in just 11 days — ranking first in terms of the sales of board-game merchandise on the video platform. In addition, more than 10 million of these sets have been sold through offline partnerships.

    Yang Zhenlin, assistant to the company’s chairman, said their factory workshops had to resume operations ahead of schedule after the Spring Festival holiday, with their hundreds of staff members working tirelessly to replenish inventory. “We had great confidence in the film even before its release, so we promptly secured the copyright,” Yang told Xinhua.

    This week, on e-commerce platforms, some stores have gradually restored supplies. Businesses in the second-hand market have remained brisk.

    Fans have also discovered that the gold bracelets they had purchased after the first Ne Zha film came out in 2019, with designs inspired by the “universe ring” on Ne Zha’s arm, have tripled in value on the second-hand market, thanks to both the success of “Ne Zha 2” and a higher gold price.

    Some fans have gone so far as to make their own versions of it, using wood, plasticine, flour and even thread. Coinciding with the Lantern Festival on Feb. 12, netizens shared creative improvisations of Ne Zha-shaped glutinous rice dumplings, a festive food.

    Miao Lingyi, a 10-year-old girl living in east China’s Shanghai, expressed her admiration for the character Ao Bing, the son of the Dragon King, stating her desire to use her pocket money to buy a collectible featuring him. “I really love the character and I don’t mind waiting a while for the collectible,” she said.

    According to experts, the film’s huge success stemming from its captivating plot and stunning special effects, has evoked emotional attachment and resonance with characters among its audiences, while some related products feature limited edition designs — thereby enhancing their value as collectibles and stimulating consumer purchasing enthusiasm.

    Ye Guofu, founder of MINISO, a Chinese retailer known for its fashionable but affordable household products, said that Chinese consumers’ growing focus on emotional value attached to commodities, particularly among the younger generations, is expected to further drive the consumption of IP-featured products, such as those related to domestic animated films and games.

    With this lucrative market rapidly expanding, experts have stressed the importance of both IP innovation and product quality, while warning against risks of market irregularities and intellectual property rights violations.

    Law professor Zheng Ning with Communication University of China suggested that market regulators strengthen oversight to combat potential price gouging and the sale of substandard products — thereby ensuring a more orderly market environment.

    Zhao Liangshan, a lawyer in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, cautioned that handcrafted items made for personal use are not allowed for commercial purposes.

    As “Ne Zha 2” enters international markets, Hunan Sunny & Sandy Toys Manufacturer Co., Ltd. aims to target global markets — particularly in Asia, North America and Europe.

    The film is set to be screened in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Egypt, Singapore, Japan and the Republic of Korea, with premieres in Los Angeles and Sydney having received positive responses from professionals and fans alike.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Press conference – Fairfield Connect

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Thanks to the mighty Western Sydney University. When I was a little kid growing up in Cabramatta, just down the road from here, decades ago, I remember lots of KFC logos, lots of Macca’s logos, Westfield logos, but not a lot of university logos. Lots of Big W shops but not enough of that big W. And I want to see more of it. I want more young people to think in Western Sydney, that, “Hey, uni can be for me too.” I want more young people to be on Smart Street in Fairfield. And that’s what this is all about.

    As a kid growing up in Western Sydney – and you guys know this too – for a lot of our mates, university just seemed like it was too far away and that it was somewhere else for someone else. This is about bringing university closer to us, to our communities, to where people live in the western suburbs of Sydney. But not just that. Also the western suburbs of Brisbane and Melbourne as well. Bringing university closer so more people get that life-changing chance that education can provide.

    Alphia, you mentioned this to me when we came in a little bit ago – it was about a year ago that we were here and that we cut the ribbon and opened this launchpad. And it really is a launchpad. And it reminded me that, all those years ago, I got my first job working right here. It wasn’t a university launchpad then, it wasn’t a Study Hub, it was the Woolies car park. I was collecting shopping trolleys for Woolies. And it’s not lost on me that now this is a Study Hub for our local community, where young people out of school can get a chance to do a law degree, or a business degree, or an engineering degree, or maybe medical science. A place that can change your life and a place that can change our community.

    About one in two people in their 30s today have a university degree, but not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs of our big cities, not in the regions and not in the bush. You know, in a place like Fairfield, it’s only 12 per cent of the community that has a uni degree today. Mount Druitt, it’s about 19 per cent. In Inala, in the western suburbs of Brissie, it’s about 12 per cent as well. In Beenleigh, it’s about 9 per cent. That’s why what we’re doing here is important because when you bring university closer to where people live, it makes it a little bit easier to make that decision that, “Hey, I can do this too.”

    I used to get on the train at Cabramatta and catch it all the way to the city and then get on a bus from Central out to Randwick, it took an hour and a half each way. It was only about 10 minutes to get to Fairfield. As I went past here, I still had another hour and 15 minutes to go. Now, if we can bring university closer to our local communities, then we can change lives and we can change communities. We can help build communities where more people have the qualifications they need to get the jobs that they dream of and build the lives that they want. So, that’s what this is about – life-changing stuff.

    So, this funding helps to expand this centre, turn a launchpad into a real University Hub. But not just that. As you can see, funding to set up a hub like this in Liverpool as well. We announced one for Macquarie Fields just late last year and then a hub at Mount Druitt and Everton as well. And as I mentioned, Inala and Beenleigh in Queensland. All up, what we’re now doing is funding more than 70 of these hubs across the country. About 56 in the regions and the bush, and now, for the first time, 15 in the outer suburbs of our big cities.

    But it’s not just about the buildings, it’s about the lives that we will build and the lives that will change because of this. And I’ve got to say, the reason this launchpad exists, a big part of the credit goes to Western Sydney University. But, Maryanne, as you pointed out before, it also, a lot of the credit goes to the local representation in this community who fought for it for a very, very long time. And at the head of that is one of my best mates, we’ve known each other since before we ever had wrinkles or grey hair and we’ll be mates forever. He fought for it, he helped make it happen, and I’m so glad that we’re able to expand this centre today and turn it into a real University Hub. Can I introduce my friend Chris Bowen.

    CHRIS BOWEN, MINISTER FOR CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENERGY: Thanks very much, Jason. Well, when Jason and David and I were here launching Fairfield Connect almost exactly a year ago, since then 7,000 young people have used this facility. Uni students, Western Sydney Uni students, other universities, school students dreaming, wondering whether they could go to university have come through here. And I’ve got absolutely no doubt, as a result, have thought, “Yes, I can. Yes, I can. I can do this.”

    And today, Jason has locked in the future of this – I like to call it a campus – this campus of Western Sydney University, made sure it’s going to be permanent with this funding and made sure that we can increase the services available here. Mentoring, wrap-around services, wonderful fellow university students, academics talking to young people about how they’re going at university or at school, what more they can do, what help, and assistance is there, so they know that on that journey they are not alone. Their family is with them, but their community is with them too, their village is with them. And that’s so important. There’s always been a gap, in my view, in that wonderful institution of Western Sydney University. Great presences in Parramatta and Campbelltown and elsewhere. Always been a gap at Fairfield, a home to 200,000 people, didn’t have a Western Sydney University presence. I decided a little while ago that if we ever got the chance and got back to government, we’d fix that. And with the support of David as the state MP, we made complete pains of ourselves. And I was helped by the fact that Jason and I are Canberra flatmates. So, when he’d finish a hard day in Parliament and he’d get home to our place, he’d open the door and there’s me – perhaps with a glass of whisky – saying, “How’s that Fairfield Western Sydney Hub going, Jason?” And the last thing he needed after a busy day was hearing from me, so eventually we got there, with Jason’s leadership and passion as a fellow Western Sydney kid who got to university and then got to Parliament and then got to Cabinet. That makes a difference.

    So, today is a very special day for our community. As has been said, you can’t be what you can’t see. And it’s not just the 7,000 people who have been through. It’s the many thousands more who will walk past, maybe six years old, first they’ve heard of a university, out shopping with Mum and Dad, who think, “Oh, maybe that’s for me one day.” That’s what we’re doing here today.

    So, I’m just absolutely delighted. Obviously, I welcome as well the Mount Druitt and Liverpool Hubs because Western Sydney is one community. But this Fairfield Hub is the one in Smart Street, which has driven us for a long time and will drive us for a long time to come as we make it bigger and better and it continues to expand and grow. It’s become, I think, now an essential part of our community and will continue to be and will grow even more.

    So, I want to thank Jason for your leadership and commitment in delivering this $3 million for our community and the money for the other communities as well – $3.5 million, I think – which will see us grow, thrive, and continue to educate and make sure that every Australian child – whether the son of a brain surgeon on Sydney’s North Shore or the daughter of a single parent in Cabramatta or Fairfield – can grow to their full potential for themselves and for their country. And that’s what we’re doing today. So, thank you everyone who works here who has made it a reality. Thank you to everyone who’s going to make it a bigger reality. And thank you to Jason and the university for making this a special day for Fairfield. I’m going to hand over to Senator Sheldon, then I think we’re going to take a few questions.

    TONY SHELDON, SENATOR FOR NSW: Thank you, Chris. And I think that glass of whisky is now two glasses of whisky waiting for him. So, thank you for that announcement for Western Sydney. My previous life to being in the Senate was representing truck drivers and I did that for over 30 years. And most of that work took me throughout Western Sydney, many days and long hours because that’s what truck drivers do. They do 12- and 14-hour days. Many of them own their own trucks. And why are they doing that? Because they want to make sure there’s something for their kids, for their families, and they’re earning an income that will give an opportunity for their families to do good as well and to work hard as they have. But the big disadvantage for anyone in Western Sydney was that there was a lack of university connect. And congratulations to Western Sydney University and to Chris and to Jason.

    And Tu Le, for the years I’ve known Tu Le, is also our candidate for Fowler. Tu has been saying to me as well that we need to make sure that those communities we represent, we work with, have an opportunity for their kids, but also for them, for themselves. Now, for all those truck drivers out there and all those kids of truck drivers, and all those mums and dads out there that have stood by whilst those long hours have been worked, this is what pays off. This is what pays off when community comes together. When governments make decisions and make a real difference for people in a local community. And I can see Barry and [indistinct] and a whole series of people I’ve worked with for many, many years in my previous life, and I work with now, that are so privileged and so happy to see that Western Sydney is again on the map because of the hard work you’ve all been doing to deliver this. And for all those families that now have those opportunities, congratulations. And a significant, a significant opportunity for everybody here in the West. So, thanks, Chris. Thanks, Jason. And thanks to Western Sydney University. Thank you.

    JOURNALIST: I just wanted to start with education, Jason, if that’s alright. When it comes to the final two states, there’s hope that a deal would be reached. Well, I guess that’s hoped to be done imminently. Are you much closer and is there any chance that they’ll be done before the election, whenever that may be?

    CLARE: I’m not going to negotiate through the media. But already we’ve formed agreements, we’ve signed agreements with Western Australia, with South Australia, with Victoria, with the ACT, with Tasmania and the Northern Territory to fix the funding of public schools. And just as importantly, to tie that funding to real and practical reforms to help kids who fall behind at school, to catch up and to keep up and finish school.

    You know, if you don’t know already what drives me – and I think you got an idea of it from my comments a moment ago about helping more young people from communities like ours to get to university – it’s this. The number of kids finishing high school at the moment is going backwards. And it’s not happening everywhere, it’s not happening in private schools, it’s happening in public schools. It’s dropped from 83 per cent to 73 per cent in the last 10 years. And you can draw a connection between that and the billions of dollars that were ripped out of public schools by the last Liberal government.

    I want to fix the funding of our schools and I want to tie it to the sort of reforms that are going to help children who fall behind when they’re little to catch up and to keep up and to finish high school, and so they get a crack at a place like this, they get a chance to go to TAFE or to go to university. That’s what those reforms are about. That’s what the reforms that we passed through the Parliament yesterday are also about. That’s about making sure that disadvantaged kids who are currently missing out on going to child care, to early education and care, don’t miss out.

    At the moment, some of the most disadvantaged kids in this country aren’t just not finishing school, they’re not getting a chance to go to child care. Because of what the Liberal Party put in place when they were in power – something called the Activity Test – it meant that their mum and dads couldn’t get access to government-supported child care for their kids. These are the sort of kids who maybe don’t see a book until they start kindergarten, all because of changes the Liberal Party made.

    Well, we swept that away through the Parliament yesterday. It’s designed to make sure that more kids – as Chris said, whether they come from Mosman or whether they come from Fairfield – get the early education they need to start school ready to learn. The funding agreements that we want to strike with the states are about making sure that the same kids finish school. And hubs like this are about making sure that that same young person gets a chance to go to university closer to where they live.

    JOURNALIST: Can I just clarify, sorry, on that Activity Test, I heard two conflicting things. Is the entire test scrapped, like, across the board, or is it just those kind of three days?

    CLARE: The test as it stands at the moment means that, for some of the most disadvantaged kids in this country, they were only entitled, their parents were only entitled to one day a week of government-supported care. The legislation that passed through the Parliament yesterday strikes that out and provides a three-day guarantee a week for their parents in early education and care. Why three days? Because the Productivity Commission report that we got in the middle of last year, that provides us with a blueprint for how do we build a universal early education and care system for this country, says that’s the amount that kids need. Three days a week, or 30 hours a week, of early education and care. That’s what’s needed to help make sure that all Australia’s children get the early education they need to start school ready to learn, to make sure that they all get off to a great start in life.

    JOURNALIST: And then the final topic for me was just going back to deepfakes at school. So, we’ve seen some examples when it comes to – what’s it called? – in terms of, like, sexualising classmates with deepfakes. I’m just wondering if there’s been any development in that area? I know it’s also a state issue, to an extent, but is there anything you’re working on through that consent course that you’ve set up or in terms of Commonwealth legislation that might further capture this? We kind of have patchy legislation in the Commonwealth level and state levels.

    CLARE: This is terrifying. I can’t think of anything worse for a young student, in particular young Australian women, than if AI was used to do this to you. It’s just simply terrifying. There are three things that we’re doing, Dom. First is the legislation that passed through the Parliament in August last year that criminalises this, that sets serious criminal penalties for this sort of behaviour. Up to seven years in jail.

    The second is the extra funding that we’re providing to the eSafety Commissioner to make sure that she has the resources that she needs to crack down and stamp this out. And then the third is education, what we do in our schools and making sure that we provide the resources to the states and to schools to educate young people, in particular boys and young men, to make it very clear to them what this is and the fact that this is not on.

    We’ve provided about $70-odd million to the states. That consent and respectful relationships education funding is now there and those programs are rolling out in schools right across the country. And one part of that is exactly this.

    JOURNALIST: Thanks for that, mate. That’s all from me.

    CLARE: No worries. I think that might be it. Great. Thanks, guys.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Appoints Mosby as County Court Judge in the Fourth Judicial District

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Appoints Mosby as County Court Judge in the Fourth Judicial District

     

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced the appointment of Tamara T. Mosby of Omaha as the county court judge in the Fourth Judicial District. That district consists of Douglas County.

    Mosby’s 20-year career includes working as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. She started in New York, where she gained experience as an assistant district attorney in Brooklyn and worked in two law offices, including one that specialized in insurance cases. During her time in New York, Mosby was also an adjunct professor, teaching courses in business, criminal, and real estate law, among other areas.

    Mosby was self-employed as an attorney in Omaha for four years, prior to joining the Douglas County Public Defender’s office in 2018. There, she has represented clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses. In addition to civil and criminal law, Mosby also has experience as a juvenile attorney.

    Mosby received a degree in philosophy from Xavier University of Louisiana and earned a juris doctor from the University of Texas School of Law.  

    The Fourth Judicial District consists of Douglas County. The vacancy is due to the retirement of Judge Darryl R. Lowe.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police aware of social media posts, west Auckland

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Please attribute to Inspector Jason Edwards, Waitematā West Area Commander:

    Police are aware of social media posts across multiple west Auckland community pages concerning some suspicious activity reported this week.

    Some of these posts relate to an assault near the Sturges Road train station on Monday morning, in which a man was charged with assault.

    We are also aware of posts outlining suspicious activity allegedly involving the same specific vehicle and individual.

    To the community, we are aware of this matter and we are dealing with this.

    We strongly urge the community to cease posting photos or personal details of this individual on social media.

    If anyone has concerns or information relating to offending that is occurring, this should be reported to Police immediately so it can be dealt with appropriately.

    The public should not be taking matters into their own hands.

    Police have attended an assault at a Massey property this afternoon, where a person has been arrested and is being spoken to.

    The last thing anyone needs right now is people putting themselves at risk of harm or in a situation where they may be potentially committing an offence.

    Please report any matters to Police as they happen by calling 111.

    Any further information can be reported by reporting online, calling 105, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS.

    Jared Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellington drug suppliers ordered to forfeit assets

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley, Central Asset Recovery Unit Wellington.

    A Wellington-based drug supplier has had nearly $340,000 in assets seized, including a 42-foot yacht and high-end art, and could stand to lose more than $2.5 million more.

    This is the result of a long-running investigation by Police’s Asset Recovery Unit into the activities of Kenny Leslie McMillan, which were brought to a halt in 2019. The forfeiture orders were issued by the High Court at Wellington on 12 February this year.

    In 2019, an investigation led by the Wellington Organised Crime Unit – dubbed Operation Superdry – was launched into the drug supply activity of McMillan.

    While he pleaded guilty to some charges shortly before a hearing, he continued to deny other charges. He was subsequently subject to a jury trial, where he was found guilty, and sentenced to 18 years imprisonment in 2021.

    The assets ordered to be forfeited on 12 February include cash and bank accounts totalling nearly $168,000, three motor vehicles, a 42-foot Silverton 330 sport launch, jewellery – including a Hubolt watch estimated to be worth $50,000 – and a Ralph Hotere lithograph.

    The profit forfeiture order issued against McMillan totals $2.758 million – this order encompasses the profits made from his offending. It can potentially lead to future assets identified as belonging to McMillan also being seized.

    Operation Superdry targeted a drug dealing syndicate led by McMillan, who would arrange for methamphetamine to be sourced from Auckland and transported to Wellington in cars with secret compartments customised especially to conceal the drugs.

    McMillan concealed drugs in inner city parking buildings, where they were exchanged for cash. Robert Jason Taui was convicted as part of the syndicate for his part in these exchanges.

    Taui was sentenced to nine years and one month imprisonment, and in March 2024 was himself ordered to forfeit assets including cash, motorbikes and vehicles totalling nearly $54,000. A profit forfeiture order of $1.38 million was also made against him.

    The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act investigation established the assets of both McMillan and Taui were derived through illicit means, allowing them to live a lifestyle beyond legitimate means.

    “Police will continue to target organised crime offenders through both criminal and civil court jurisdictions,” Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley says.

    “The profit forfeiture orders issued in these proceedings demonstrate the full extent of criminality and amount of unlawful benefit received by the offenders. Property to an equivalent value can then be sought for forfeiture regardless of when or how it was acquired.”

    “One of the primary reasons that organised crime exists is to make money. This result will have a direct impact on the perception that those who commit crime can profit from it,” he says

    Organised crime and gangs cause serious harm to our communities and Police will continue to work to strip organised crime groups and their associates of their illegitimate wealth.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Astro Bendigo exhibition lands at Living Art Space

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    Astro Bendigo is a unique exhibition at the Living Arts Space that captures a vastly different Bendigo in a cosmic future.

    Local artist Chris Duffy from Ha Ho Art has created six impressive artworks on canvas that depicts Bendigo’s vibrant past but with an intriguing twist.

    The artist has included a cityscape that is being watched by aliens hovering above in UFOs.

    Vintage local business advertising signs and familiar local landmarks are also depicted in the pop art.

    Chris Duffy said he created a Bendigo frozen in time for the free Astro Bendigo exhibition.

    “Imagine a Bendigo unlike the one you’ve ever known, as if the world has hit pause during an apocalypse,” Mr Duffy said.

    “The streets are a cinematic mid-century dreamscape while alien passengers in UFOs gaze down at a city seemingly abandoned during its daily rhythm.

    “Astro Bendigo will transport visitors to a whimsical world of humour, and nostalgia with a futuristic twist.”

    Visitor Services Lead Liam Daniels said Astro Bendigo was fuelled by the artist’s extraordinary talent for pop art and his wild imagination.

    “The pop art is so vibrant and engaging with a unique concept that stops you in your tracks. It captures the essence of Bendigo’s unique charm and its potential cosmic future,” Mr Daniels said.

    “It is a great example of how the Living Arts Space provides a great platform for local artists to create and exhibit ambitious works, enabling residents and visitors to enjoy the stunning results for free.”

    An official opening celebration with Cr Aaron Spong and the local artist Chris Duffy is from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday February 15 at the Living Arts Space, located in the Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall. All are welcome to attend.

    Astro Bendigo is on until Sunday April 20.

    The Living Arts Space is open daily (except Christmas day) from 9am to 4.30pm.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 13 February 2025 Feature story Biosimilars: expanding access to essential biologic therapies

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO’s role in promoting biosimilars

    The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes biosimilars as key drivers for expanding global access to essential biological medicines. Through its Essential Medicines List (EML), WHO evaluates and includes quality-assured biosimilars, endorsing them as safe, effective, and cost-effective alternatives to originator biologics​. The WHO prequalification of biosimilars builds confidence for their procurement by the United Nation (UN) agencies and countries, enhancing their availability and affordability. WHO also advocates for non-exclusive voluntary licensing to accelerate affordable biosimilar access and emphasizes the importance of regulatory harmonization, healthcare professional education, and stakeholder collaboration in promoting biosimilar use​ (3).

    Standards for biological products

    Since early 1950s’ WHO has played a pivotal role in establishing norms and standards for biological products. These standards ensure the consistent quality, safety, and efficacy of biological medicines and related in vitro biological diagnostic tests worldwide. The WHO Expert Committee on Biological Standardization (ECBS) collaborates with international scientific and professional communities, regional and national regulatory authorities, manufacturers, and expert laboratories to develop these standards based on international consensus. WHO guidelines and recommendations for biological products cover various aspects, including production, control, and regulatory preparedness. This guidance is crucial for maintaining high standards in the development and use of biological products, including biosimilars. For instance, the guidelines on the quality, safety, and efficacy of biotherapeutic products provide a framework for evaluating biosimilars at country level, ensuring they meet the same rigorous standards as their reference products. WHO also establishes International Biological Reference Materials, which serve as benchmarks for the quality and potency of biological products (i.e. WHO International Reference Standards for Biological Products). These reference materials are essential for standardizing assays and ensuring the comparability of biosimilar products across different regions and manufacturers. WHO emphasizes the importance of regulatory harmonization to facilitate the global adoption of biosimilars.

    Biosimilars in the EML: bridging the gap

    As of 2023, the WHO EML includes 81 biologic therapies, representing over 15% of all listed essential medicines. The inclusion of biosimilars on the EML helps bridge the gap in affordability and availability of these therapies. For example, following the EML recommendation and WHO prequalification of trastuzumab and rituximab biosimilars treatment costs for breast cancer and lymphoma​ have significantly reduced. Countries such as Brazil (4), India (5), and South Africa (6) have successfully expanded patient access through approved biosimilars, demonstrating the practical benefits of these inclusions.

    Evolution of biologic medicines in the EML

    WHO recognizes the importance of expanding access to essential biologic medicines globally. In 2013, bevacizumab (recommended for age-related macular degeneration, a disease of the eye) was the first monoclonal antibody added to the WHO EML, followed by trastuzumab and rituximab in 2015, both indicated against cancer.  

    Trastuzumab has revolutionized breast cancer treatment for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer. Since its introduction almost 25 years ago, trastuzumab has significantly improved outcomes for patients with this type of cancer. It is a monoclonal antibody that targets the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in some breast cancers, and it has been pivotal in reducing recurrence and improving survival rates. Trastuzumab’s impact is reflected in the shift from conventional chemotherapy to targeted therapies, offering more effective and less toxic treatment options. However, with an average annual cost exceeding $20,000 USD, many LMICs faced severe budget constraints, leading to limited use of trastuzumab and poor survival rates for patients. In response, WHO prequalified the first trastuzumab biosimilar in 2019. These biosimilars, offering the same efficacy and safety at approximately 65% lower cost, had the potential to transform breast cancer treatment in LMICs.

    Since then, several trastuzumab biosimilars have been approved or are in development by various companies. These biosimilars have been launched in all WHO regions. The inclusion of these biosimilars on the EML facilitated initiatives such as the Cancer Access Partnership, led by the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and the American Cancer Society (ACS), which included biological medicines for the first time.

    Today, equitable global access to trastuzumab biosimilars is gradually being realized. Countries like India and Brazil have swiftly integrated these biosimilars into their national healthcare systems. India, for example, has approved multiple trastuzumab biosimilars, significantly reducing treatment costs and broadening patient access nationwide. Similarly, South Africa has adopted trastuzumab biosimilars into its treatment protocols, enhancing accessibility to essential breast cancer medications for patients. Overall, trastuzumab biosimilars have received market authorization and approval in at least 65 countries, signaling a major step forward in global cancer care (7).  

    As of 2019, trastuzumab biosimilars have received market authorization and approval in over 65 countries (8).

    The 2019 inclusion of adalimumab (recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn’s disease) further underscored WHO’s commitment to improving access and affordability through biosimilars​. Over the next few years, WHO has built on this biosimilar precedent by continuing to add further important biologic medicines to the EML and explicitly listing their quality-assured biosimilars as alternatives.

    Removing barriers to adoption

    While biosimilars have made promising inroads into the Model List, concerns have persisted regarding interchangeability and switching between reference biologics and their biosimilar versions. In 2021, after reviewing substantial evidence confirming the safety and efficacy of transitioning patients from original biologics to biosimilars, the WHO recommended that quality-assured biosimilars of listed biologic medicines should also be viewed as interchangeable and considered for national selection and procurement. This recommendation was pivotal for improving real-world access and use, positioning biosimilars as equal to their reference counterparts and affirming confidence in transitioning patients to save costs without compromising care. The committee reinforced this support by recommending the expansion of WHO prequalification to include biosimilars and advocating for their regular evaluation alongside originators (9).

    WHO recommends that quality-assured biosimilars of EML-listed biologic medicines should be viewed as interchangeable and eligible for selection and procurement at the country level for national essential medicines lists.

    Despite their potential, challenges remain in integrating biosimilars in clinical practice across countries and clinical areas. Issues such as concerns about switching between biosimilars and reference products, regulatory complexities, and educational gaps among healthcare professionals necessitate careful consideration (10).

    Current landscape of essential biologic and biosimilar medicines

    The 2023 Model List includes multiple biologics and their biosimilar alternatives across different therapeutic areas:

    Table 1: Biologic medicines and therapeutic alternatives (including quality-assured biosimilars) on the WHO Model Lists.

    Medicine Indication(s)
    Adalimumab
     
    (therapeutic alternatives: certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab, infliximab)    		 Ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
    Anti-rabies virus monoclonal antibodies
         		 Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis
    Asparaginase
         		 Acute lymphoblastic leukemia
    Bevacizumab
         		 Age-related macular degeneration
    Enoxaparin
     
    (therapeutic alternatives: dalteparin, nadroparin)
         		 Acute coronary syndromes
    Venous thromboembolism
    Erythorpoiesis-stimulating agents

    (therapeutic alternatives: epoetin alfa, beta, and theta, darbepoetin alfa, methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta)
     

    		 Anaemia of chronic renal disease
    Filgrastim Primary and secondary prophylaxis of febrile neutropenia associated with myelotoxic chemotherapy.
     
    Insulin (human)
    (soluble and intermediate-acting)
         		 Diabetes
    Long-acting Insulin analogues
     
    (therapeutic alternatives: insulin degludec, insulin detemir, insulin glargine)
         		 Diabetes
    Nivolumab
     
    (therapeutic alternative: pembrolizumab)
         		 Metastatic melanoma
    Pegaspargase
         		 Acute lymphoblastic leukemia
    Pegfilgrastim
         		 Primary and secondary prophylaxis of febrile neutropenia associated with myelotoxic chemotherapy.
     
    Rituximab
         		 Burkitt lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, follicular lymphoma, multiple sclerosis
    Trastuzumab
         		 HER2-positive breast cancer

    Economic benefits and WHO recommendations for biosimilar medicines

    The WHO guideline on country pharmaceutical pricing policies includes a strong recommendation for promoting the use of quality-assured generic and biosimilar medicines.

    WHO recommends that countries enable early market entry of generic and biosimilar medicines through legislative and administrative measures, with a view to encouraging early submission of regulatory applications, allowing for prompt and effective review, and ensuring these products are safe, efficacious, and quality-assured (9)

    The WHO guideline also emphasizes the importance of cost-effective procurement strategies to enhance accessibility and sustainability of healthcare systems, particularly in LMICs.

    Challenges and future directions

    Despite the demonstrated benefits, several challenges remain in the broader adoption of biosimilars. Regulatory barriers, lack of awareness among healthcare professionals, and limited manufacturing capabilities in certain regions can hinder the widespread acceptance and utilization of biosimilars​. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts among governments, healthcare providers, and the pharmaceutical industry to promote education, streamline regulatory processes, and invest in local manufacturing infrastructure.

    WHO continues to play a pivotal role in promoting the adoption of biosimilars through its strategic initiatives. WHO emphasizes the importance of regulatory harmonization and supports countries in building robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of biosimilars. Additionally, WHO collaborates with various stakeholders to enhance healthcare professional education and public awareness about the benefits of biosimilars, fostering a more receptive environment for their adoption​.

    References

    1. Agency EM. European Medicines Agency [Internet]. [cited 2024]. Available from: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/biosimilar-medicines-overview.
    2. Calleja MA, Albanell J, Aranda E, García-Foncillas J, Feliu A, Rivera F, et al. Budget impact analysis of bevacizumab biosimilars for cancer treatment in adult patients in Spain. European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy. 2023;30(e1):e40.
    3. Burrone E, Gotham D, Gray A, de Joncheere K, Magrini N, Martei YM, et al. Patent pooling to increase access to essential medicines. Bull World Health Organ. 2019;97(8):575-7.
    4. Celltrion. Biosimilar Development [Internet]2019. [cited 2024]. Available from: https://www.biosimilardevelopment.com/doc/celltrion-announces-approval-of-herzuma-trastuzumab-pkrb-in-brazil-0001.
    5. Lopes G. American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Connection [Internet]2016. [cited 2024]. Available from: https://connection.asco.org/blogs/biosimilars-emerging-markets-india-and-russia.
    6. Pategou J. Biosimilar Development [Internet]2020. [cited 2024]. Available from: https://www.biosimilardevelopment.com/doc/africa-s-biosimilar-landscape-outlook-current-challenges-0001.
    7. CHAI and ACS announce agreement to expand Cancer Access Partnership  [press release]. 2021.
    8. Biocon. Biocon [Internet]2019. [cited 2024]. Available from: https://www.biocon.com/mylan-and-biocon-launch-first-trastuzumab-biosimilar-ogivri-in-australia/.
    9. World Health Organization. WHO guideline on country pharmaceutical pricing policies. World Health Organization; 2020. Available from: https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/335692 

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-02-13T13:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://www.who.int/images/default-source/wpro/vaccines.jpg?sfvrsn=89a81d7f_14″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-02-13T13:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news/item/13-02-2025-biosimilars–expanding-access-to-essential-biologic-therapies”,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”NewsArticle”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Motor vehicle crash – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating the circumstances of a motor vehicle crash that occurred early this morning in Alice Springs.

    Around 1.10am, police CCTV operators sighted a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Stott Terrace and Hartley Street.

    A white Toyota Hilux had initially collided with a black Toyota hatchback at the intersection of Telegraph Terrace and Stott Terrace, before continuing east along Stott Terrace. The Hilux subsequently struck a light pole before coming to a halt after colliding with a nearby tree.

    Emergency services responded and identified the 46-year-old male driver of the white Hilux had allegedly suffered stab wounds to his back and chest prior to the crash. He was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital in a serious, but stable condition.

    Police believe the incident is related to an aggravated burglary that occurred earlier in the evening at a residence on Smith Street. Police received reports that one female and three males allegedly unlawfully entered the premises and threatened the 49-year-old male victim, before stealing items and his blue Toyota Hilux parked onsite

    The persons involved are believed to be known to each other.

    Southern Investigations have carriage of the investigation and urge anyone with information to contact 131 444 and quote reference P250043553. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Second Reading Speech – Early Childhood Education And Care (Three Day Guarantee) Bill 2025

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    Ask any parent, and they’ll tell you early education and care is an essential service. It helps them get back to work and helps their children get ready for school. Under
    the Liberals the cost went through the roof and the rules were tightened to make it harder for some children to get the start in life they deserve. We’re fixing that.

    Over 10 years the cost of child care exploded by more than 49 per cent—double the OECD average—under Abbott, Turnbull and Morrison. We said we’d cut the cost of child care and we have, for more than one million families right across the country. As a result of the changes we made and passed through this Parliament two years ago, a family on a joint income of about $120,000 has saved $2,768 since July 2023. That’s helped a lot of parents get back to work and put more money in their pockets, and it’s meant more children are now getting the benefits of our early education system. The number of children in our early education system is now about 100,000 more than it was when we were elected 2½ years ago. That’s a good thing. There are also 1,000 more centres and more services. That’s good, too.

    When we came to office 2½ years ago, something else was happening. The people who educate and care for our children were leaving the sector in droves. They were leaving the job that they loved. The attrition rate was through the roof. That’s now changed, too. The reason for that is the 15 per cent pay rise that we’re now rolling out. The best example of that is what’s happening at Goodstart Early Learning, the biggest childcare operator in the country. At their centres, across the country, job applications have now jumped by 35 per cent. Expressions of interest have jumped by 50 to 60 per cent, and vacancy rates are down by a massive 28 per cent. We’re seeing that right across the country. Vacancy rates right across the sector are now down by 22 per cent. It turns out that, if you pay people more, more want to do the job. Early educators are some of the most important workers in this country and some of the most underpaid. They were leaving the job that they love, the job that we need them to, not because they didn’t want to do it but because they couldn’t afford to keep doing it. That 15 per cent pay increase is fixing that.

    The next step in making our early education system better and fairer is making sure that more children who currently can’t get access to it get that chance. In February 2023, we asked the Productivity Commission to comprehensively review our early education system. We asked them to help build a blueprint for reform and tell us how we can build a truly universal early education system. We got their final report in June of last year. One of the things it says that we have to do if we want to build that universal early education system is build more centres where they don’t exist, what are sometimes referred to as ‘childcare deserts’. We’re doing that. In December, the Prime Minister announced that, if we win the next election, the government will create a $1 billion Building Early Education Fund. This will be the single biggest ever investment by an Australian government in new childcare services. It will build or expand over 160 early education and care centres where they’re needed most. I want to thank GrainGrowers, who said that this is positive step and that this fund will help expand and build new childhood education and care centres in areas of need. I want to thank the National Farmers Federation too for imploring the Liberals and the Nationals to match what we’re doing. They get it. Unfortunately, the Liberal Party and National Party haven’t heard them, because they don’t support this. They’ve spent 2½ years in this Parliament talking about childcare deserts. They spent a decade in government doing nothing about it. Now there is a $1 billion fund on the table that they could support, but they choose not to. It’s unbelievable. The Productivity Commission also recommended something else that we need to do next. That’s to get rid of the Liberals’ activity test. This is a real barrier that was purposefully put in place by the Liberal Party to limit access to early education for a lot of children—in particular, a lot of disadvantaged children and kids from poor families. It is deeply unfair. A test to determine if your child is worthy of accessing early education is one that no family should have to pass. The Productivity Commission report gives us a definition of what a universal early education and care system could and should look like. It says it’s a system where every child can get access to affordable early education and care three days a week or 30 hours a week. This bill gets rid of the Liberals’ activity test and replaces it with a guarantee of access to three days a week of government supported early education and care for every child who needs it. It’s still means tested, but it means that families will not be left out because parents are looking for work or preparing to go back to study. It means that over 100,000 families will be able to get more subsidised hours of early education and care. And it means real cost-of-living relief for 66,700 families in the first full financial your alone. Those families will save an average of $1,370 per year on their childcare costs. About half of those families earn less than $100,000 per year. Lower-income families will save even more: an average of $1,460 a year.

    This is going to make a real difference for a lot of young families. It will help with the cost of living but it will do more than that. Fundamentally this is about helping every child get a great start in life—what every parent wants for their children and what every child deserves—helping them to get ready to start school, helping to make sure they don’t start school behind. That’s what early education does. This is not babysitting; it’s early education. The evidence is clear: children who get access to early education and care are more likely to start school ready to go, ready to learn. They’re also more likely to finish school and then go on to more study. Former US President Joe Biden often made the point that a child who goes to preschool is 50 per cent more likely to go to college. At the moment, while lots of Australian children get the benefit of this life-changing opportunity, not all do. As the Productivity Commission pointed out in its final report, at the moment it’s children who need it most who are least likely to access early education and care. In 2021 only 54 per cent of children in the most disadvantaged areas were enrolled in early education and care, compared with 76 per cent of children in the highest socioeconomic areas. The most recent Early Development Census report found that only 42.7 per cent of children experiencing the highest level of socioeconomic disadvantage were on track when they started school, compared with 54.8 per cent of all children. That’s what this is about: helping them, helping to make sure more children are ready to start school.

    This bill does something else, too. As part of our commitment to closing the gap we are setting a target of ensuring that at least 55 per cent of Indigenous Australian children are developmentally on track. At the moment it’s 34 per cent. That’s a big gap. Not unsurprisingly, Indigenous children’s attendance at early education and care is way below the national average, and the activity test is one of the reasons for this. That’s why this bill increases the base entitlement to 100 hours for Indigenous children. It’s a really important change—one that Indigenous families and communities have been calling for since the activity test was created. And we have listened. You only have to listen to the words of the CEO of SNAICC, Catherine Liddle, after the Prime Minister announced this policy to know how important this is. This is what Catherine said:
    This can be a game-changer for our babies. It will mean more children are developmentally ready for school, setting them up for a thriving future.

    It’s just one part of the work we need do to close the gap, and I am so very proud that it’s part of this bill. I want to thank the Prime Minister for his leadership in driving reform in this area, and I know how personally important it is to him to see these changes being made. I also want to thank my dear friend and colleague the Minister for Early Childhood Education, the awesome Anne Aly. I also want to thank our offices, and I want to thank our department for the work they have done in preparing this legislation. And I want to thank our early educators and our teachers, and I hope you see in this bill how this government values the important work you do. I also want to thank everyone who has called for this for years and years and years—groups like the Parenthood, whose CEO, Georgie Dent, called this ‘a paradigm shift’; people like Ros Baxter, the CEO of Goodstart, who said, ‘This will change lives;’ or Jay Weatherill at the Minderoo Foundation who called this ‘a momentous step’; or the Centre for Policy Development, who said that this guarantee ‘is a game-changer’ and that it demonstrates ‘a real dedication to delivering a universal system’; or the Business Council of Australia’s Wendy Black, who said that they have ‘long called for an early childhood education guarantee based on quality, universal access to give children a strong educational foundation’.

    This is important reform for an essential service for more than a million families across the country. It helps parents get back to work, but, even more important than that, it helps the next generation of Australians to prepare for school, to prepare for their life ahead. That’s what makes this reform so important, and I am so happy to commend it to the House.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pulse Seismic Inc. Reports 2024 Financial Results and Declares Regular and Special Dividends

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pulse Seismic Inc. (TSX:PSD) (OTCQX:PLSDF) (“Pulse” or the “Company”) is pleased to report its financial and operating results for the year ended December 31, 2024. The audited consolidated financial statements, accompanying notes and MD&A are being filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and will be available on Pulse’s website at www.pulseseismic.com.

    Pulse’s Board of Directors today approved a quarterly dividend of $0.015 per share and additionally declared a special dividend of $0.20 per share. The total of the dividends will be approximately $10.9 million based on Pulse’s 50,837,863 common shares outstanding as of February 13, 2025, to be paid on March 13, 2025, to shareholders of record on February 28, 2025. This dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pulse’s dividends are subject to Canadian withholding tax.

    “We are very pleased with the Company’s 2024 financial performance, and what we have accomplished so far in 2025. We remain focused on returning capital to shareholders, as deemed appropriate given the annual fluctuations inherent in our business. So far in 2025 we have secured $17.5 million in sales and today the Board of Directors declared a special dividend of $0.20 per share, in addition to the regular quarterly dividend,” stated Neal Coleman, Pulse’s President and CEO. “In 2024, 76% of free cashflow was allocated to dividends and share buybacks, and looking back to Q4 2021, after repayment of the majority of the 2019 acquisition debt, we resumed dividends and share buybacks and have declared $0.83 per share in dividends and decreased our share count by three million,” Coleman concluded.

    HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024

    • The return of capital to shareholders in 2024 including all dividends declared in the year and shares purchased under the Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB), totalled $9.5 million, and was 76% of shareholder free cashflow generated for the year;
    • Dividends of $0.10875 per share were declared in 2024. Regular dividends declared and paid totalled $0.05875 per share. The annualized regular dividend of $0.055 per share was increased by 9% to $0.06 per share in the second quarter of the year. A special dividend of $0.05 per share was paid in the third quarter of 2024;
    • 1,784,000 shares were purchased during the year under the Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) at an average price of $2.17 per share, for total cost of approximately $3.9 million;
    • Shareholder free cash flow(a) was $12.4 million ($0.24 per share basic and diluted) compared to $24.8 million ($0.47 per share basic and diluted) for the year ended December 31, 2023;
    • EBITDA(a) was $15.5 million ($0.30 per share basic and diluted) compared to $30.4 million ($0.57 per share basic and diluted) for the year ended December 31, 2023;
    • Net earnings were $3.4 million ($0.07 per share basic and diluted) compared to net earnings of $15.0 million ($0.28 per share basic and diluted) for 2023;
    • Total revenue was $23.4 million compared to $39.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023; and
    • At December 31, 2024, the Company had a cash balance of $8.7 million as well as $5.0 million of available liquidity on its credit facility.

    HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024

    • The regular quarterly dividend of $0.015 per share was paid in the fourth quarter;
    • A total of 97,700 shares were purchased under the NCIB in the fourth quarter, at an average price of $2.32 per share and total cost of approximately $226,000;
    • Shareholder free cash flow was $2.4 million ($0.05 per share basic and diluted) compared to $10.9 million ($0.21 per share basic and diluted) in the fourth quarter of 2023;
    • EBITDA was $3.8 million ($0.07 per share basic and diluted) compared to $13.6 million ($0.26 per share basic and diluted) in the fourth quarter of 2023;
    • Net earnings were $774,000 ($0.02 per share basic and diluted) compared to net earnings of $8.3 million ($0.16 per share basic and diluted) in the fourth quarter of 2023; and
    • Total revenue was $5.6 million compared to $16.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023.
    SELECTED FINANCIAL AND
    OPERATING INFORMATION    		        
             
             
    (Thousands of dollars except per share data, Three months ended December 31, Years ended December 31,
    numbers of shares and kilometres of seismic data) 2024 2023 2024 2023
         
    Revenue 5,576 16,861 23,379 39,127
             
    Amortization of seismic data library 2,263 2,270 9,090 9,103
    Net earnings 774 8,307 3,391 15,007
    Per share basic and diluted 0.02 0.16 0.07 0.28
    Cash provided by operating activities 2,337 7,001 14,195 23,524
    Per share basic and diluted 0.05 0.13 0.28 0.44
    EBITDA (a) 3,785 13,592 15,496 30,431
    Per share basic and diluted (a) 0.07 0.26 0.30 0.57
    Shareholder free cash flow (a) 2,440 10,946 12,408 24,829
    Per share basic and diluted (a) 0.05 0.21 0.24 0.47
             
    Capital expenditures        
    Seismic data – – 225 –
    Property and equipment – – 45 28
    Total capital expenditures – – 270 28
             
    Dividends        
    Regular dividends declared 763 724 3,018 2,862
    Special dividends declared – 10,527 2,548 18,519
    Total dividends declared 763 11,251 5,566 21,381
             
    Normal course issuer bid        
    Number of shares purchased and cancelled 97,700 59,500 1,784,000 1,005,006
    Cost of shares purchased and cancelled 227 112 3,880 1,943
             
    Weighted average shares outstanding        
    Basic and diluted 50,878,652 52,647,740 51,448,985 53,237,569
    Shares outstanding at period-end     50,837,863 52,621,863
             
    Seismic library        
    2D in kilometres     829,207 829,207
    3D in square kilometres     65,310 65,310
           
    FINANCIAL POSITION        
          December 31, December 31,
    (Thousands of dollars except working capital ratio)     2024 2023
    Working capital     9,222 7,468
    Working capital ratio     5.1:1 1.5:1
    Cash and cash equivalents     8,722 15,948
    Total assets     21,516 41,249
    EBITDA     15,496 30,431
    Shareholders’ equity     18,295 25,655
             
     

    (a) The Company’s continuous disclosure documents provide discussion and analysis of “EBITDA”, “EBITDA per share”, “shareholder free cash flow” and “shareholder free cash flow per share”. These financial measures do not have standard definitions prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The Company has included these non-GAAP financial measures because management, investors, analysts and others use them as measures of the Company’s financial performance. The Company’s definition of EBITDA is cash available for interest payments, cash taxes, repayment of debt, purchase of its shares, discretionary capital expenditures and the payment of dividends, and is calculated as earnings (loss) from operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. The Company believes EBITDA assists investors in comparing Pulse’s results on a consistent basis without regard to non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization, which can vary significantly depending on accounting methods or non-operating factors such as historical cost. EBITDA per share is defined as EBITDA divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Shareholder free cash flow further refines the calculation of capital available to invest in growing the Company’s 2D and 3D seismic data library, to repay debt, to purchase its common shares and to pay dividends by deducting non-discretionary expenditures from EBITDA. Non-discretionary expenditures are defined as non-cash expenses, debt financing costs (net of deferred financing expenses amortized in the current period), net restructuring costs and current tax provisions. Shareholder free cash flow per share is defined as shareholder free cash flow divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period.
    These non-GAAP financial measures are defined, calculated and reconciled to the nearest GAAP financial measures in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

    OUTLOOK

    Pulse’s ability to predict future revenue generation has always been challenging due to the nature of the business, which naturally fluctuates from year to year. That said, Pulse has had a strong start to the year having closed $17.5 million in sales, representing approximately 75% of sales in 2024. There are generally a mix of positive and negative factors influencing the industry which contributes to the challenge, and at this time in particular, uncertainty concerning 2025 is high. Positive factors in 2024, and recent projections into 2025 include high levels of M & A activity, approximately $19.4 billion in 2024 compared to $16.5 billion in 2023, while the latest annual forecast by Sayer Energy Advisors for 2025 is approximately $15.0 billion. There were continuing high volumes of land sales in Alberta in 2024: approximately $365 million, down only slightly from the $370 million in 2023, and significantly higher than in recent years going back to before the 2014-2015 industry downturn. In British Columbia, land sales which had been paused since May 2021 finally resumed in December 2024. New infrastructure, such as the TMX pipeline expansion which was completed in 2024 has already provided increased export capacity and is a driver of increased drilling activity. The Canadian Association of Energy Contractors, in November 2024 forecast an increase to 6,604 wells to be drilled in 2025, an approximate 7% increase over 2024. The pending completion of LNG Canada’s liquified natural gas export facility is expected to contribute to the forecast increase in drilling and may lead to an improvement in Canadian natural gas prices. The positive factors are offset by factors that create uncertainty for the future, including economic, political, and environmental concerns. It is clear that Canada needs to continue to build pipelines and increase natural gas egress, to support the country’s energy security, as well as to secure new buyers of Canadian energy. The impacts of the recent change in administration in the United States and the uncertainty around energy tariffs and trade policy, together with Canadian federal government leadership changes are contributing to the lack of clarity for the future.

    Pulse, as previously stated, has low visibility regarding future seismic data library sales levels, regardless of industry conditions. The Company remains focused on business practices that have served throughout the full range of conditions. The Company maintains a strong balance sheet, has zero debt, no capital spending commitments, and a disciplined and rigorous approach to evaluating growth opportunities. This 15-person company, led by an experienced and capable management team, operates with a low-cost structure and focuses on developing excellent client relations as well providing exceptional customer service. Pulse’s strong financial position, high leverage to increased revenue in its EBITDA margin and careful management of its cash resources have resulted in the return of capital to shareholders through regular and special dividends and the repurchase of its shares.

    CORPORATE PROFILE

    Pulse is a market leader in the acquisition, marketing and licensing of 2D and 3D seismic data to the western Canadian energy sector. Pulse owns the largest licensable seismic data library in Canada, currently consisting of approximately 65,310 square kilometres of 3D seismic and 829,207 kilometres of 2D seismic. The library extensively covers the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin, where most of Canada’s oil and natural gas exploration and development occur.

    For further information, please contact:
    Neal Coleman, President and CEO
    Or
    Pamela Wicks, Vice President Finance and CFO
    Tel.: 403-237-5559
    Toll-free: 1-877-460-5559
    E-mail: info@pulseseismic.com.
    Please visit our website at www.pulseseismic.com

    This document contains information that constitutes “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “forecast”, “target”, “project”, “guidance”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “estimate”, “predict” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or language suggesting an outlook.

    The Outlook section herein contain forward-looking information which includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding:

    >   The outlook of the Company for the year ahead, including future operating costs and expected revenues;
    >   Recent events on the political, economic, regulatory, and legal fronts affecting the industry’s medium- to longer-term prospects, including progression and completion of contemplated pipeline projects;
    >   The Company’s capital resources and sufficiency thereof to finance future operations, meet its obligations associated with financial liabilities and carry out the necessary capital expenditures through 2025;
    >   Pulse’s capital allocation strategy;
    >   Pulse’s dividend policy;
    >   Oil and natural gas prices and forecast trends;
    >   Oil and natural gas drilling activity and land sales activity;
    >   Oil and natural gas company capital budgets;
    >   Future demand for seismic data;
    >   Future seismic data sales;
    >   Pulse’s business and growth strategy; and
    >   Other expectations, beliefs, plans, goals, objectives, assumptions, information and statements about possible future events, conditions, results and performance, as they relate to the Company or to the oil and natural gas industry as a whole.
         

    By its very nature, forward-looking information involves inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved. Pulse does not publish specific financial goals or otherwise provide guidance, due to the inherently poor visibility of seismic revenue. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations and anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking information.

    These factors include, but are not limited to:

    >   Uncertainty of the timing and volume of data sales;
    >   Volatility of oil and natural gas prices;
    >   Risks associated with the oil and natural gas industry in general;
    >   The Company’s ability to access external sources of debt and equity capital;
    >   Credit, liquidity and commodity price risks;
    >   The demand for seismic data and;
    >   The pricing of data library licence sales;
    >   Cybersecurity;
    >   Relicensing (change-of-control) fees and partner copy sales;
    >   Environmental, health and safety risks;
    >   Federal and provincial government laws and regulations, including those pertaining to taxation, royalty rates, environmental protection, public health and safety;
    >   Competition;
    >   Dependence on key management, operations and marketing personnel;
    >   The loss of seismic data;
    >   Protection of intellectual property rights;
    >   The introduction of new products; and
    >   Climate change.
         

    Pulse cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. Additional information on these risks and other factors which could affect the Company’s operations and financial results is included under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual information form, and in the Company’s most recent audited annual financial statements, most recent MD&A, management information circular, quarterly reports, material change reports and news releases. Copies of the Company’s public filings are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    When relying on forward-looking information to make decisions with respect to Pulse, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Furthermore, the forward-looking information contained in this document is provided as of the date of this document and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking information, except as required by law. The forward-looking information in this document is provided for the limited purpose of enabling current and potential investors to evaluate an investment in Pulse. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking information may not be appropriate, and should not be used, for other purposes.

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/f55ea14e-e8ea-4d49-975a-eedb00bb9aa3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the US has put a conspiracy theorist in charge of public health

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University

    Overnight, Robert F. Kennedy Jr was confirmed as the secretary of the US Health and Human Services Department. Put simply, this makes him the most influential figure in overseeing the health and wellbeing of more than 330 million Americans.

    As health secretary, Kennedy will be involved in overseeing federal health agencies that regulate medical research, disease prevention, drug approvals and health-care programs.

    This includes oversight of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health, which are among the most crucial public health agencies in the country.

    Reports suggest he’ll oversee a budget in the order of US$1.8 trillion (A$2.8 trillion) annually.

    In the era of Trump 2.0, there’s little that shocks me anymore. But Kennedy would have to be the most unqualified person ever to hold this crucial role of protecting the health of the American people.

    A history of discounting science

    The absolute minimum requirement for someone occupying such as role should be an understanding of science and respect for scientific evidence and expertise. Yet, Kennedy fails spectacularly in this regard.

    Here are just some of the false claims he has made over the years:

    None of these positions has even the smallest amount of scientific support.

    It’s hard to predict what Kennedy will do as health secretary, especially given his confirmation hearings looked to be an exercise in being vague, evasive and denying or downplaying his prior controversial statements to secure support.

    But there are three areas where his views are fairly clear and his appointment could be expected to have a significant impact. These are water fluoridation, infectious diseases research and vaccines.

    Fluoridation of water

    Kennedy has been a long-term opponent of water fluoridation, despite its proven benefits in preventing tooth decay. He has consistently questioned its safety and claimed it’s linked to a range of illnesses such as arthritis, bone cancer, IQ loss and neurodevelopmental disorders.

    While a recent review suggested a link between water fluoridation and lower IQ in children, the levels of fluoride in the water in countries included in this review were generally several times higher than the levels in public water fluoridation programs in countries such as the US and Australia. There were also other limitations that make interpreting these findings challenging.

    The CDC has identified community water fluoridation as as one of the ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. And it continues to benefit dental health today, without any convincing evidence of possible harms.

    Nonetheless, it seems likely that in keeping with his longstanding views one of Kennedy’s first priorities will be to try to halt water fluoridation in the US.

    Infectious diseases

    Alongside his confirmation as health secretary, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing “The President’s Commission to Make America Healthy Again”, with Kennedy as the chair.

    The Make America Healthy Again movement (MAHA) is an initiative driven by Kennedy focusing on improving nutrition, increasing transparency in medical practices and reducing the corporate influence in health.

    Though premised primarily on combating chronic diseases, the movement also embraces scepticism of established medical practices, unproven alternative therapies and a general mistrust of institutions.

    What’s more, Kennedy’s focus on chronic diseases seems to be coming at the expense of continued work on infectious diseases.

    He has proposed directing the National Institutes of Health to pause infectious disease research for eight years to prioritise research into chronic diseases and alternative treatments.

    As health secretary, Kennedy has the power to shift research priorities. If he were to effectively halt infectious diseases research – in the wake of COVID and with a looming threat of future pandemics – this would be catastrophic for the US and global health.

    Vaccine scepticism

    Related to infectious diseases, there’s little doubt the area in which Kennedy has done the most damage relates to vaccines.

    He has dedicated a large part of his life to undermining public confidence in vaccines. This is despite overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrating their safety and effectiveness, and the millions of lives they’ve saved.

    Although he has subsequently denied it, Kennedy is on record as falsely stating there is no such thing as a safe and effective vaccine. Notably, he has continued to push the debunked claim that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is linked to autism, despite the single study finding this having been widely discredited.

    Kennedy’s frequent assertion that he’s not anti-vaccine, but “pro-safety”, is also deeply disingenuous. Being “pro-safety” is a deliberately vague notion designed to appear reasonable while at the same time undermining the scientific evidence.

    The impact of Kennedy’s appointment as health secretary on vaccine confidence will not just be limited to the US. Vaccine hesitancy has been recognised as one of the greatest threats to public health. Having a vaccine sceptic leading the US health agencies has the potential to harm vaccine uptake worldwide.

    As we’ve seen during the COVID pandemic, producing a vaccine is only half the battle. Convincing people to take it is just as important. There’s no doubt Kennedy’s influence on public health messaging could further erode vaccine confidence at a time when vaccine messaging must be clear.

    It’s bad news for the US and the world

    One of the reasons Kennedy poses such a threat to public health in the US and globally is his lack of trust in science. He believes a narrative can be crafted by picking and choosing any study that fits with his world view, regardless of its quality.

    In addition, he personifies the bad-faith tactics of conspiracy theorists globally, “selling” the flawed premise that any assertion is valid until others prove it false.

    What the world needs now is a safe pair of hands leading public health in the US. Someone who is guided by evidence – not someone who promotes anti-science propaganda and conspiracy theories.

    Hassan Vally 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. In Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the US has put a conspiracy theorist in charge of public health – https://theconversation.com/in-robert-f-kennedy-jr-the-us-has-put-a-conspiracy-theorist-in-charge-of-public-health-249601

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing launches satellite internet industrial park, key laboratories

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Beijing has officially unveiled a satellite internet industrial park and granted licenses to eight key laboratories in commercial space industry.

    These happened at the Beijing Commercial Space High-quality Development Conference, which was held in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, also known as Beijing E-Town, and concluded on Wednesday. The conference mainly focuses on implementing major projects and accelerating the high-quality growth of China’s commercial space industry.

    The satellite internet industrial park will leverage Beijing E-Town’s advantages in aerospace industry and strengths of new-type industries to develop satellite internet projects, building a complete industrial chain of satellite internet research and intelligent manufacturing.

    The eight key laboratories focus on frontier fields, including aerospace vehicle design, satellite internet applications and satellite interconnection and control, among others. They aim to foster top talent and drive technological innovation in the industry.

    Beijing E-Town hosts over 160 aerospace companies, including over 70 national high-tech firms, with 16 ranked among China’s top 100 commercial space companies, said an official of E-Town.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Disabled people languishing in psych wards due to Govt cuts

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    National’s cuts to disability support funding and freezing of new residential placements has resulted in significant mental health decline for intellectually disabled people.

    “It’s unacceptable that government decisions have resulted in trauma for disabled people, their families, and carers. Clinicians are clearly seeing a decline in the mental health of their intellectually disabled patients as a result,” Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.

    “A report in the New Zealand Medical Journal published today, outlines clinicians’ concerns that intellectually disabled people are being declined residential placements because of the government’s freeze on new placements. They note this is leading to an increase in high-risk suicidal and violent behaviour.

    “We have been down this road before and know the dangers which come with institutionalisation. We’ve seen in the Royal Commission of Inquiry, the risks of returning to a time where individuals were placed into care completely unfit for their needs.

    “These cuts take us back decades and are causing years of irreversible harm for disabled people and their families. Some have been unable to transition back to the community, and are effectively trapped in hospitals, blocking access to others who need care.

    “With the funding freeze meaning no new residential places are funded, families who’d already made the decision to place a loved one in a care home after visiting the residence have now been locked out of this option.

    “Louise Upston needs to start taking responsibility for this and stop blaming Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) services.

    “She must reverse these changes immediately and ensure that NASCs are supported to honour the care packages previously agreed upon so that all disabled people, their families and carers can access the support they need,” Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 39-2025: List of treatment providers: treatment provider suspended – Real Port Lojistik limited sirketi (AEI: TR4032SB), Advancer IFM PTE LTD (AEI: SG4012SB), Chemifume Pte Ltd (AEI: SG4017SB)

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    14 February 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, offshore treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents and master consolidators.

    What has changed?

    Following identification of critical non-compliance, we have suspended Real Port Lojistik limited sirketi (AEI: TR4032SB), Advancer IFM PTE LTD (AEI: SG4012SB) and…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Japan venture producing automotive aluminum sheets unveiled

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on May 22, 2024 shows a “light-out” factory of Baosteel in east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Kobelco Baosteel Automotive Aluminum Rolled Products Co., Ltd., a Sino-Japanese joint venture specializing in automotive aluminum sheets, was officially unveiled in Shanghai on Thursday. The occasion signified strengthened collaboration between Chinese and Japanese enterprises in the automotive materials sector.

    The company, jointly established by China’s Baoshan Iron and Steel Co., Ltd. (Baosteel), Baowu Aluminum Technology Co., Ltd. and Japan’s Kobe Steel, has a registered capital of nearly 1 billion yuan (about 139.4 million U.S. dollars).

    With an equal investment from China and Japan, the joint venture will supply environmentally friendly aluminum sheets to automakers.

    As aluminum plays a crucial role in vehicle lightweighting, the rapid expansion of electric vehicle production presents a significant market opportunity. China’s demand for automotive aluminum sheets is projected to grow from 442,000 tonnes in 2024 to 657,000 tonnes by 2027.

    The company said that it aims to leverage Baosteel’s and Kobe Steel’s technological expertise, manufacturing efficiency and global market strategy to enhance the supply of high-end automotive aluminum sheets.

    Zou Jixin, chairman of Baosteel, said that the joint venture strengthens Sino-Japanese strategic cooperation, fostering complementary advantages while aligning with the industry’s shift toward green and low-carbon development.

    The unveiling of the venture follows a trend of increased foreign investment in China’s automotive sector, with Shanghai serving as an important base.

    Earlier this month, Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. announced plans to build a new wholly-owned electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Shanghai. U.S. carmaker Tesla’s new Megafactory, dedicated to making energy-storage batteries known as Megapacks, began production on Tuesday in Shanghai.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ derivatives ride blockbuster wave, eye global market

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Feb. 13, 2025 shows a poster for the Chinese animated film “Ne Zha 2” at a cinema in Chaoyang District of Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fans of record-breaking blockbuster Chinese movie “Ne Zha 2” are making significant waves in the derivatives market, clearing out retailer inventories and even creating DIY character-shaped dolls and food items.

    Since the film’s debut on the first day of the Chinese New Year, which was Jan. 29 this year, sales of its collectibles, ranging from mystery toy boxes and cards to fridge magnets and badges, have reportedly topped 50 million yuan (about 6.97 million U.S. dollars) on Taobao, a leading e-commerce platform in China.

    This sequel to the 2019 hit “Ne Zha,” with inspirations derived from Chinese mythological tales, has already drawn over 200 million cinema-goers, the highest number in the country’s film history.

    The film became an instant holiday box office hit thanks to its contemporary re-imagination of Ne Zha, a well-known mythical figure with extraordinary powers, and via its intriguing plot twists. As of Wednesday, it had grossed over 9 billion yuan, igniting high public enthusiasm for its collectibles.

    Customers inquiring about toys featuring characters from the film are often left disappointed at stores across China. A salesperson at a trendy toy store in downtown Nanjing in east China’s Jiangsu Province said even display samples were sold out. “We expect to restock items like laser cards later.”

    Notably, Hunan Sunny & Sandy Toys Manufacturer Co. Ltd., the film’s sole licensed manufacturer of 3D food-grade plastic toys in China, reported sales of over 450,000 mystery toy box sets through live-streaming in just 11 days — ranking first in terms of the sales of board-game merchandise on the video platform. In addition, more than 10 million of these sets have been sold through offline partnerships.

    Yang Zhenlin, assistant to the company’s chairman, said their factory workshops had to resume operations ahead of schedule after the Spring Festival holiday, with their hundreds of staff members working tirelessly to replenish inventory. “We had great confidence in the film even before its release, so we promptly secured the copyright,” Yang told Xinhua.

    This week, on e-commerce platforms, some stores have gradually restored supplies. Businesses in the second-hand market have remained brisk.

    Fans have also discovered that the gold bracelets they had purchased after the first Ne Zha film came out in 2019, with designs inspired by the “universe ring” on Ne Zha’s arm, have tripled in value on the second-hand market, thanks to both the success of “Ne Zha 2” and a higher gold price.

    Some fans have gone so far as to make their own versions of it, using wood, plasticine, flour and even thread. Coinciding with the Lantern Festival on Feb. 12, netizens shared creative improvisations of Ne Zha-shaped glutinous rice dumplings, a festive food.

    Miao Lingyi, a 10-year-old girl living in east China’s Shanghai, expressed her admiration for the character Ao Bing, the son of the Dragon King, stating her desire to use her pocket money to buy a collectible featuring him. “I really love the character and I don’t mind waiting a while for the collectible,” she said.

    According to experts, the film’s huge success stemming from its captivating plot and stunning special effects, has evoked emotional attachment and resonance with characters among its audiences, while some related products feature limited edition designs — thereby enhancing their value as collectibles and stimulating consumer purchasing enthusiasm.

    Ye Guofu, founder of MINISO, a Chinese retailer known for its fashionable but affordable household products, said that Chinese consumers’ growing focus on emotional value attached to commodities, particularly among the younger generations, is expected to further drive the consumption of IP-featured products, such as those related to domestic animated films and games.

    With this lucrative market rapidly expanding, experts have stressed the importance of both IP innovation and product quality, while warning against risks of market irregularities and intellectual property rights violations.

    Law professor Zheng Ning with Communication University of China suggested that market regulators strengthen oversight to combat potential price gouging and the sale of substandard products — thereby ensuring a more orderly market environment.

    Zhao Liangshan, a lawyer in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, cautioned that handcrafted items made for personal use are not allowed for commercial purposes.

    As “Ne Zha 2” enters international markets, Hunan Sunny & Sandy Toys Manufacturer Co., Ltd. aims to target global markets — particularly in Asia, North America and Europe.

    The film is set to be screened in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Egypt, Singapore, Japan and the Republic of Korea, with premieres in Los Angeles and Sydney having received positive responses from professionals and fans alike.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: AI surge fuels optimism on A-share market

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    While the surge of Chinese domestic artificial intelligence companies has led to upbeat sentiment in the A-share market recently, the inflow of more long-term and patient capital and improving fundamentals will be the major drivers of the market’s bullish performance in a more sustained manner, said experts.

    Although the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index and Shenzhen Component Index declined 0.42 percent and 0.77 percent, respectively, on Thursday, trading remained vibrant, as the combined trading value at the Shanghai and Shenzhen bourses topped 1.8 trillion yuan ($250 billion), up 5.9 percent from a day earlier. This marked the 17th consecutive trading day that the trading value stood above the 1-trillion-yuan level.

    Zhang Jiqiang, head of the research institute of Huatai Securities, said that trading capital in the A-share market has increased significantly since Spring Festival. The activity level of financing transactions has reached a new high since mid-November. The net inflow of retail funds exceeded 40 billion yuan from Feb 5 to 7, the highest level since mid-November.

    The performance of property developers, which are market heavyweights, was worth noticing on Thursday when the A-share market fluctuated. The sector rallied for the second consecutive day by 0.79 percent. These companies have seen their prices rise 6.3 percent since trading resumed on Feb 5 after the Spring Festival holiday.

    This can be largely attributed to the progress that leading property developers have made in addressing their debt pressures.

    Shenzhen-based China Vanke announced on Monday that Shenzhen Metro, its largest shareholder, plans to provide a 2.8-billion-yuan loan, with which Vanke will repay debt in the open market.

    Country Garden, another major developer, said on Jan 9 that it has proposed a deal to restructure offshore debt worth $10.3 billion, providing its creditors with multiple options including converting debt into cash and extending the maturity. At the end of November, Sunac China Holdings proposed restructuring plans for 10 debts in the onshore market, of which eight have been supported until now.

    Gloomy expectations about US tariff policies and A-share companies’ business results suppressed market sentiment before the holiday, but since these have been released after the holiday, and catalyzed by the DeepSeek surge, market sentiment has been buoyed, said Zhang from Huatai Securities.

    Similarly, China’s hedge fund managers’ confidence index for A shares rose 2.2 percent on a monthly basis in February, with technology companies as their focus, according to private market tracker Simuwang.

    Qiu Xiang, chief strategist at CITIC Securities, said the revaluation of A-share AI companies has served as a major catalyst of sentiment in the first half of February. During this period, risk appetite picked up, with the bullish sentiment immediately priced in and trading activities being quite extreme.

    As such a mood gradually cools down, investors’ defensive demand will increase and less-volatile stocks will be more preferred, he said.

    Indeed, companies that previously benefited from the DeepSeek surge underwent some significant price adjustments on Thursday. Zhejiang Daily Digital Culture Group and MeiG Smart Technology, which both touched the daily price increase limit of 10 percent for six consecutive days since Spring Festival, saw their prices plunge 7.18 percent and 9.54 percent, respectively, on Thursday.

    The current success of DeepSeek is mainly represented by spiking user traffic. The success of AI companies in the medium term is defined by the proliferation of AI-related devices and the wider application of AI, said Chen Guo, chief strategist at China Securities.

    Companies’ improving profitability is also key to the sustained bullish performance of these listed AI companies, he said.

    Zhang, from Huatai Securities, said the medium- and long-term bull market in A-shares is inseparable from the recovered trading enthusiasm of foreign investors and the inflow of more long-term capital.

    The guideline to promote the inflow of more medium to long-term capital released by top regulators earlier this year is likely to usher in the inflow of more annuity, which has a higher risk appetite, as well as more insurance capital by lowering the latter’s investment risks, he said.

    The People’s Bank of China, the nation’s central bank, said on Thursday that it will continue to complete the design of various tools to facilitate the high-quality development of the Chinese capital market.

    As of the end of January, it has conducted two operations under the Securities, Funds and Insurance Companies Swap Facility, totaling 105 billion yuan. This has led to a significant increase in the scale of proprietary stock investment by securities companies.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shopping centers have stellar year

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    People shop at Haikou International Duty-Free Shopping Complex in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, Feb. 11, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s shopping centers saw broad growth in sales, foot traffic and rental income in 2024, according to a shopping center industry report, recently released by the China Chain Store & Franchise Association.

    The report found that 73 percent of surveyed venues recorded year-on-year sales growth, with the majority seeing moderate increases.

    Nearly half achieved growth of up to 10 percent, while 20 percent posted gains exceeding that threshold.

    More than half of venues surveyed also reported an increase in online sales, underscoring the effectiveness of an omni-channel strategy that integrates digital and offline operations with innovative marketing.

    Shopping centers have actively expanded their online business to drive sales. For instance, Wushang Group, a leading shopping mall operator in Wuhan, Hubei province, saw its online transaction volume rise 20 percent year-on-year in 2024, with online orders surging 77 percent and the number of online users 25 percent higher, according to the company.

    The report’s findings were based on a survey of CCFA member companies, including the top 100 shopping centers and major comprehensive retailers. A total of 113 venues spanning 41 enterprises participated in the survey.

    Foot traffic also saw an overall uptrend, with 15 shopping centers reporting increases of up to 20 percent, while others experienced more moderate gains. The data highlight a steady rise in consumer visits throughout the year, contributing to stronger overall sales performance, said the report.

    Member-driven consumption remained a key contributor to total annual sales, with 76 venues reporting an increase in the proportion of revenue generated by their membership programs, while 31 saw no change.

    Rental income also improved, with 70 percent of surveyed locations reporting year-on-year growth. Among them, several recorded increases of more than 10 percent, while a smaller proportion achieved gains exceeding 20 percent.

    Despite China’s vast retail market and diverse business entities, the sector still faces challenges such as uneven development and intensifying competition.

    Industry experts said that diversified supply will shape the next phase of retail growth, as new national policies create fresh opportunities in previously overlooked segments.

    Meng Yi, head of the northern commercial department at Cushman & Wakefield, said the commercial sector is shifting back to a demand-driven, people-oriented model.

    Meng told the Beijing News that both population density and increasing demand for high-quality services will drive future retail transformations.

    Sectors catering to the silver economy, healthcare, multigenerational education, and cultural, commercial and sports-related experiences are all poised for expansion, he said.

    With strong government policy support, these segments are expected to become key drivers of China’s next wave of retail growth, Meng added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel strikes Gaza after failed rocket launch

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Displaced Palestinians who take their way home from the southern Gaza Strip to the north, are seen near the Netzarim Corridor in the central Gaza Strip, on Feb. 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Israel’s military said it struck Gaza on Thursday in retaliation for an earlier alleged attempt to fire a rocket from the enclave.

    The attack targeted “the launcher from which the rocket launch in the Gaza Strip was identified,” a military spokesperson said in a statement.

    The rocket did not cross into Israel but killed a 14-year-old boy in Gaza, according to Israel’s Haaretz newspaper.

    No group immediately assumed responsibility for the rocket launch.

    It was the first reported attempt by Gaza militants to fire a rocket toward Israel since a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on Jan. 19.

    The incident occurred amid a crisis that threatened to collapse the fragile truce. Hamas said Thursday it would release three more hostages on Saturday as agreed and reaffirmed its commitment to the ceasefire agreement following talks with mediators. However, Israel denied that any understanding had been reached and did not withdraw its threat to resume attacks on Gaza.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Romantic Love: A Great Feeling or a By-Product of Evolution

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    From ancient times to the present day, philosophers and writers have tried to answer the question “what is love?” Scientists have not stood aside either. They have their own special view on this matter. Romantics believed that this great feeling is born in the heart, but scientists disagree with them. Research has shown that it is all about complex processes occurring in the brain. From the point of view of modern science, romantic love is not a gift of fate, but an adaptation that arose in the process of evolution.

    Portrait of a phenomenon

    -Since the late 70s of the last century, various science definitions of romantic love began to appear. I highlight only two. According to the first, which was given in 2015, romantic love is a powerful mechanism of obligations, consisting of passion, proximity and care. It is universal, and is associated with the formation of steam in different cultures; Automatically suppresses the attention given to alternative partners, has pronounced emotional, hormonal neuropsychic features and is the predictor of better health and survival of both the lovers themselves and their offspring. The second definition is formulated somewhat later. Romantic love is a motivational state, usually associated with the desire for prolonged mating with a particular physical face. It is observed throughout life and is associated with various cognitive, emotional, behavioral, social, genetic, nervous and endocrine activity in both sexes. For most of life, love serves the choice of a partner, the functions of courtship, sex and the creation of steam. This is a set of adaptations and their by-products that once arose in the recent evolutionary history of man. This definition contains a hint that love has its own story. You can look at it as an adaptation, or, as a combination of side adaptations, but, nevertheless, this issue should be considered in the evolutionary aspect, ”says the candidate of biological sciences, a researcher at the laboratory of the behavior of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the SB RAS, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Physiology Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU Anton Tsybko.

    Interestingly, our genes play a significant role in forming attachments and romantic love, but that doesn’t mean they determine who we fall in love with. Our genes only determine how strong our romantic relationships will be.

    Interesting studies were conducted in 2012. The object of the study were married couples who had been married for more than 20 years. It turned out that the activation of dopamine areas in their brains was at the same level as in newlyweds. Most likely, there is a relationship between the activity of certain areas of the brain and the strength of the marriage. In order to maintain such a vividness of feelings for two decades, some powerful mechanisms are definitely needed.

    Kindred spirits

    Scientists have found that when a person falls in love, the ventral tegmental area of the brain is activated. It produces a natural stimulant, the neurotransmitter dopamine. It is also believed to be responsible for the feeling of pleasure or reward. Dopamine is released not only when a person in love sees or touches the object of adoration. Such a reaction can be caused by a photograph or a message. Even a thought or a memory is enough.

    In 2010, foreign experts conducted a study in which they compared the areas of the cerebral cortex that are activated by maternal love with those that correspond to romantic love. In general, in both cases, the activated areas of the brain overlap, but if you pay attention to the “behavior” of the basal ganglia, the differences between maternal love and romantic love become clearly noticeable. In particular, in lovers, the thalamus area is strongly activated, which is practically inactive in loving mothers. It is this area that is “responsible” for sexuality. Indeed, the sexual component is completely excluded from maternal love, whereas in romantic love it is of great importance.

    — Researchers have noted another very interesting feature. If we consider the “behavior” of various areas of the brain when falling in love, we can see that not all of them are activated; some, on the contrary, are switched off. For example, the lateral prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for our moral judgments. That is why we tend to idealize our partner, not notice his shortcomings and forgive various rather questionable actions from the moral side of our beloved. Perhaps this is the only way to explain why Eva Braun loved Hitler, — says Anton Tsybko.

    The “behavior” of other parts of the brain is also important. Activation of the insular cortex creates a feeling of unity in love, the so-called kinship of souls. Increased activity of the amygdala, unlike other brain structures, does not create an emotional upsurge, but on the contrary, awakens anxiety and fear of being rejected.

    Transformation of passion

    As Anton Tsybko explained, love experiences change the neurochemistry of the brain, and at each stage of this feeling – in its own way. During the period of falling in love, when feelings are most vivid, and experiences are acute, dopamine is actively produced. Oxytocin, a hormone that stimulates the production of endorphins, causing a feeling of “happiness”, begins to be intensively secreted, as well as vasopressin, responsible for affection, the desire to care for another person and marital fidelity.

    Cortisol, a hormone that protects the body from stress and affects sleep and wakefulness, is also actively secreted. During the first few months of a relationship, its level becomes so high that it negatively affects the secretion of serotonin, a decrease in the level of which causes symptoms of anxiety in lovers, loss of sleep and appetite, and constant thoughts about the object of passion. By the way, this is very similar to the manic stage of bipolar disorder, so some researchers try to approach the analysis of falling in love from the point of view of neuropathology. Other scientists believe that this is nothing more than a coincidence.

    Then the period of passionate love begins. It can last a year or more. Oxytocin and vasopressin continue to “work” with high activity. Moreover, oxytocin is secreted to a greater extent in women, and vasopressin – in men. After several months, the concentration of cortisol normalizes and begins to decrease, the level of serotonin increases and the mood of lovers stabilizes.

    After a few years of marriage, the time of so-called companionable love comes, when feelings lose their former brightness, the sexual component is less pronounced and the lovers become good friends. Their serotonin and cortisol levels normalize, the dopamine level remains above average, but does not “gush” as much as at first, but the levels of oxytocin and vasopressin are still high. And what next? Either the couple freezes in this state, or, sadly, breaks up. The fact is that a person is characterized by so-called serial monogamy. He is able to experience romantic love several times in his life, going through the full cycle of its development again and again.

    This is not normal!

    — Many researchers note that the state of being in love goes far beyond the normal range. Low levels of serotonin can cause depression, and for this reason, lovers experience a breakup painfully. In addition, high and fluctuating levels of dopamine have long forced researchers to compare being in love with drug addiction. It is not without reason that there are many songs and catchphrases in which love is compared to a drug, — says Anton Tsybko.

    The thing is that in addition to the dopamine system, another part of the brain of a person in love is activated – the nucleus accumbens. It is included in all forms of behavioral addiction, be it drugs, gambling or alcohol.

    There are many similarities between romantic love and drug addiction. For example, the desire to take the substance again and again, increasing the dose. The person in love also wants to spend as much time as possible with the partner. Or unsuccessful attempts to stop using. Not all romantic relationships are cloudless. Many couples break up and then get back together. And what about withdrawal syndrome? What suffering lovers sometimes experience after a breakup!

    Anton Tsybko notes that, from a neurobiological point of view, some areas of the brain are activated in almost the same way in people in love and drug addicts. For example, parts of the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, as well as the nucleus accumbens. The networks that are built between the cingulate cortex, the nucleus accumbens, and the amygdala are also similar. However, this may be another coincidence.

    Hormones of fidelity

    — Animals provide a huge amount of valuable, necessary information. If we consider the currently known neuronal pathways and brain areas associated with pair formation in animals, we will notice the same nodal structures that are characteristic of humans. The animal brain is certainly simpler, but the processes in it are similar, — says Anton Tsybko.

    For their research, the scientists chose the only rodents that are characterized by monogamy – prairie voles. These small mice form pairs for life, perform parental duties equally and categorically reject other individuals of the opposite sex, often even showing real aggression towards them. For rodents, and mammals in general, such behavior is not typical. For example, close relatives of prairie voles – mountain voles – are distinguished by promiscuity and do not form pairs.

    Scientists have managed to solve this mystery. As a result of the research, it was found that prairie voles have a pronounced anomaly in the density of oxytocin receptors – it is incredibly high. A similar anomaly is characteristic of vasopressin. When mating occurs, the effect of vasopressin increases in males, and oxytocin in females. The researchers decided to interfere with the biochemistry of the brain of both types of voles. Females were given oxytocin receptor antagonists, and males were given vasopressin receptor antagonists. The subjects did not lose interest in mating, but they no longer formed stable pairs; now they were interested in random relationships.

    And the specialists continued their experiments with their polygamous “relatives” – mountain voles. Using viral constructs, they stimulated overexpression of the vasopressin receptor in the superior pallidum and the nucleus accumbens, and a miracle happened – the polygamous mice settled down – began to form marital ties and concentrate only on their partner, showing no interest in other individuals of the opposite sex.

    It is considered quite likely that oxytocin receptors influence the desire to form a stable pair in humans, but these hormones do not make people faithful, unlike prairie voles.

    — If we look at this phylogenetic tree, we will see that pair formation is a rare phenomenon. The share of monogamous species among mammals is from 5 to 8 percent of species. There is an opinion that, most likely, romantic love is a distinctive feature of our species, Homo sapiens. And it is unlikely that it existed in Homo erectus and Heidelberg humans. The rudiments and basic mechanisms for pair formation in mammals were present from the very beginning of their existence. However, the formation of romantic love most likely occurred at later stages of human evolution, but scientists cannot yet say how and when exactly this happened. And this is good, because researchers can expect many interesting discoveries in the future, — says Anton Tsybko.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Lantern festival illuminates Auckland for Chinese New Year celebration

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The Auckland Lantern Festival returned on Thursday with a dazzling display of over 500 handmade lanterns, celebrating the Chinese New Year and welcoming the Year of the Snake.

    This year’s festival, which runs for four days, is expected to attract an estimated 110,000 visitors from across the region.

    A highlight of the festival is the magnificent handmade snake lantern, which will be prominently displayed beside the main stage. This lantern, along with zodiac lanterns commissioned especially for the Auckland Lantern Festival from previous years, including the Year of the Dragon (2024), Year of the Rabbit (2023), Year of the Tiger (2022), Year of the Ox (2021), and Year of the Rat (2020), adds a touch of tradition and continuity to the celebrations.

    The opening ceremony on Thursday was a vibrant spectacle featuring traditional lion and dragon dances and firecrackers. The crowd gasped in awe as the fire-breathing machine sent flames into the night sky, adding excitement to the auspicious celebration.

    In addition to the stunning lantern displays, the festival offers a variety of traditional and contemporary performances, street food, and activities for the whole family. Over 60 food stalls offer delicious cuisine from various cultures. From lamb skewers to sausages, bubble tea to sugar-coated fruits, dumplings to pork buns, even the pickiest gourmets indulge themselves with all the delicacies. Visitors can also explore 26 retail stalls selling colorful lanterns and souvenirs, ensuring there is something for everyone.

    Auckland resident Rana Toma and her two children have attended the Auckland Lantern Festival every year. Her 9-year-old daughter Ella was fascinated with the performances, particularly the Chinese cultural dances. “Ella loves it and is thinking about learning Chinese because she likes the culture so much,” said Toma.

    A cultural courtyard allows attendees to hire traditional Chinese clothing and appreciate traditional and contemporary art. An outdoor movie screening is available for those looking to relax, adding to the festive atmosphere. The main stage hosts culture and festive performances catering to all ages, ensuring entertainment for both young and old.

    As part of the celebrations, local light provider Vector Lights presents a dazzling Year of the Snake-inspired animated light show on the Auckland Harbour Bridge at the same time. The light shows will run every 15 minutes between 9 p.m. and midnight.

    This year, the organizer, Tataki Auckland Unlimited, an Auckland Council-controlled organization, introduced free ticketing for the first time. Every ticket includes free public travel for visitors.

    Chief Executive Nick Hill says, “This year’s BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is set to be one of the best yet. I encourage everyone to get their tickets, take advantage of the free transport options and enjoy the many lanterns, performances and whanau activities at what will be a spectacular event for the region.”

    The first Auckland Lantern Festival was delivered in 2000 by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in partnership with then Auckland City Council at Albert Park. The event has since grown to be the largest cultural festival in the region, taking place over four days. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese paper cutting master brings traditional art to global stage

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    As dawn breaks over a village in suburban Beijing, 75-year-old Hao Lanying sits at her desk, scissors in hand, cutting red paper into the shape of a snake winding around a bird. The design is part of a series she has created to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

    “I designed the ‘auspicious snake’ series as gifts for elderly locals,” said Hao, who is from Jishanying Village in Beijing’s Shunyi District and is a practitioner of the art of paper cutting, which is recognized as a form of intangible cultural heritage.

    The distinct water-ripple paper cutting technique that Hao has mastered originated in a Shunyi household in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). What makes Hao’s work unique is her use of scissors instead of knives. With skilled hands, she creates intricate patterns of rippling water and falling raindrops on single-layer red paper, bringing her designs to life.

    This humble folk artist has spent over half a century promoting what has been called a dying art form, bringing it to the global stage.

    In 2004, UNESCO acquired a piece of her work for its collections. And over the past 20 years, her works have been presented as national gifts to leaders of many European countries.

    A map of the world in Hao’s studio documents her cultural journey: a total of 193 red pins show the countries and regions where her works have traveled, while 28 marked flight paths weave together her stories of cultural exchange.

    Below the map, a handwritten note reads, “I hope the roots of Chinese paper cutting will grow in every continent.”

    Hao’s personal mission to take paper cutting beyond China began in 2005, when she traveled to Brazil with an All-China Women’s Federation delegation.

    In a Rio de Janeiro art center, she collaborated with local women to create a work blending Brazilian carnival feathers with vibrant Chinese Yangge dance ribbons. The piece was later incorporated into a commemorative stamp for the 40th anniversary of China-Brazil diplomatic ties.

    “She cuts not just patterns, but the flowing story of China,” a media report remarked at the time, referring to the work.

    From a small courtyard in Shunyi to Rio de Janeiro, and from Alpine craft markets to African cooperatives, travel and cross-cultural collaboration have become commonplace for Hao.

    On a wall in her studio, two photographs present a striking contrast. One shows Hao in 1984, cutting paper in her courtyard and surrounded by drying works. The other is a recent image of Hao in the same courtyard, surrounded this time by students from the United States, France, Italy and other countries as she teaches them her craft.

    Now facing the digital age, Hao has taken an open-minded approach to continuing her work. She has led the development of an augmented reality (AR) teaching system for paper cutting, which allows users to scan her works to experience the entire process of its creation in holographic form.

    Her water-ripple style of paper cutting has been explained in educational materials for children, simplifying techniques for younger generations. She has also launched a paper-cutting cultural and creative brand, breathing new life into traditional culture.

    At the opening of a United Nations exhibition, she said, “Each paper-cutting is a window into Chinese culture, and when millions of windows open, we see the starry sky of human civilizations.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Demands Investigation Into Elon Musk’s Access To Americans’ Personal Information

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 13, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) sent a letter to Gene L. Dodaro, U.S. Comptroller General and head of the Government Accountability Office (GAO), calling for an investigation into the legality and scope of the agreement authorizing Elon Musk and his aides to use private servers to access sensitive and classified information. Murphy also requested a review of their designation as ‘special government employees’ (SGEs) and urged the GAO to assess whether they adhered to federal ethics and security requirements.

    “While the designation absolves Musk and his aides of some government requirements that apply to most federal employees, it does not absolve them of all obligations, nor does such a designation afford Musk and his aides carte blanche access to government data and servers,” Murphy wrote. “I also believe that Musk and his aides are subject to various conflict of interest statutes which prohibit federal employees from participating in matters that impact their own financial interests. Given the authority that President Trump has ceded to Musk and his aides, it is imperative the public understands whether Musk and his aides have complied with the law and whether highly sensitive data could be at risk if accessed by private actors who seek to benefit from the information illegally, or worse, by foreign adversaries who wish to attack this country.”

    Murphy warned the SGE designation could be exploited to give Trump’s political allies access to sensitive data without complying with ethics rules, referencing concerns of his colleagues from 2015: “As Senator Charles Grassley has rightly noted, the use of this designation at times has allowed some of the President’s political allies to work for the government while keeping their private sector jobs. Under this designation, many standard ethics and disclosure requirements are circumvented, but not all. In this case, press reports state Musk and his aides have set up private servers in at least one, and possibly multiple, federal agencies. This is very alarming if true. As Senator Grassley noted, “[t]he public’s business ought to be public with few exceptions…When employees are allowed to serve the government and the private sector at the same time and use private email, the employees have access to everything and the public, nothing.”

    In 2013, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and other Senate Republicans raised repeated concerns about Hillary Clinton’s use of the SGE designation as U.S. Secretary of State and the use of private emails and servers to conduct government business. At the time, Grassley warned, “This is worrisome because if the government isn’t properly tracking who holds this designation, it may be failing to catch conflicts of interest between government service and private-sector jobs.”

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

    Dear Comptroller General Dodaro,

    I write to request an investigation into the legality and scope of the agreement authorizing Elon Musk and his private aides to utilize private servers to access, obtain information on, and otherwise enter varying levels of sensitive and classified information that belongs to the federal government, and to work in the federal government as ‘special government employees’ (SGE).

    On Monday, February 3, 2025, a White House official confirmed that Elon Musk (and by extension, his aides) have been designated SGEs. While the designation absolves Musk and his aides of some government requirements that apply to most federal employees, it does not absolve them of all obligations, nor does such a designation afford Musk and his aides carte blanche access to government data and servers. I also believe that Musk and his aides are subject to various conflict of interest statutes which prohibit federal employees from participating in matters that impact their own financial interests. Given the authority that President Trump has ceded to Musk and his aides, it is imperative the public understands whether Musk and his aides have complied with the law and whether highly sensitive data could be at risk if accessed by private actors who seek to benefit from the information illegally, or worse, by foreign adversaries who wish to attack this country.

    As Senator Charles Grassley has rightly noted, the use of this designation at times has allowed some of the President’s political allies to work for the government while keeping their private sector jobs. Under this designation, many standard ethics and disclosure requirements are circumvented, but not all. In this case, press reports state Musk and his aides have set up private servers in at least one, and possibly multiple, federal agencies. This is very alarming if true. As Senator Grassley noted, “[t]he public’s business ought to be public with few exceptions…When employees are allowed to serve the government and the private sector at the same time and use private email, the employees have access to everything and the public, nothing.”

    Specifically, I ask you to examine, and make publicly available, the following:

    1. any agreements, and any related documents, concerning the designation of Musk and his aides as ‘special designation employees;’
    2. all documents associated with required ethics compliance for Musk and his aides, including whether the required financial disclosures have occurred;
    3. whether all ethics officers at the relevant agencies were consulted or aware of the presence of Musk and his aides and compliance with federal law;
    4. the security of the private servers, including whether such servers can be exploited or accessed by individuals without appropriate security clearances;
    5. the names of the individuals who used, or continue to use, private e-mail addresses to conduct the business of the federal government (and for these individuals, identify any dual employment);
    1. whether any work-related emails from such servers have been deleted;
    1. whether any “Department considered any other candidates besides [Musk and his aides] for the expert position requiring expert knowledge on policy, administrative, and other matters? If so, please provide the supporting documentation. If not, why not?”
    2. whether [Musk and his aides] will be “reminded before [their] departure from government employment about [their] obligations in preserving [their] email communications and records;”
    3. whether Musk and his aides have adhered to legal obligations and otherwise to safeguard data, including, but not limited to, creating data inventories, undertaking data minimization and purpose limitation, and adhering to the highest levels of cybersecurity to protect the data from exploitation and exfiltration; and
    4. whether Musk and his aides can identify whether any data that they have accessed (within their authorized access level or not), has also been accessed impermissibly by any other party without authorization, and if so, what remedial measures have taken place.

    Given the stakes of what has occurred, I request that you expedite this investigation.

    Respectfully submitted,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fleeing driver runs out of road in Waikato

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Waikato District Police Shift Commander Senior Sergeant Leo Belay:

    Police are praising members of the public for helping officers track a fleeing driver in the Waikato today.

    About 11am, Police received reports of a Subaru vehicle driving dangerously and overtaking vehicles through road works in Te Kuiti. After being located and signalled to stop, the vehicle fled but was not pursued. 

    It continued to drive in a dangerous manner on State Highway 3 towards Hamilton, where more members of the public called to report its erratic driving. These updates of the vehicle’s location greatly assisted the Police response, by allowing resources to be deployed ahead of the offending vehicle.

    The vehicle was sighted by Police in Te Awamutu, where it was followed towards the town by an unmarked Police unit.

    Tyre Deflation Devices (TDDs) were successfully deployed by Police in Ohaupo, which slowed the vehicle as it approached the Hamilton Airport.

    The vehicle continued toward Glenview in Hamilton, where TDDs were successfully deployed a further four times in quick succession.

    Police then engaged in a low-speed pursuit of the vehicle into Hamilton.

    The offending vehicle was eventually stopped on Tristram Street in Hamilton by utilising a tactical vehicle intervention.

    Two people were taken into Police custody without further incident.

    A 33-year-old male from New Plymouth will appear tomorrow in the Hamilton District Court on charges of dangerous driving, aggravated failure to stop, and driving while disqualified third and subsequent.

    A 30-year-old woman, also from New Plymouth, is assisting with enquiries.

    This event demonstrates the importance of reporting dangerous driving behaviour and the assistance it provides to Police with investigating and holding offenders accountable for their actions. We want to thank all those people who called us, allowing frontline officers across the District to carry out excellent work that keeps the community safe.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stitch up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy

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

    Federal parliament has passed the biggest changes to Australia’s electoral funding laws in decades.

    The Albanese government’s Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024 cleared the Senate on Wednesday night after just two hours of debate on amendments agreed to earlier by the Coalition. In blatant disregard for democracy, the government refused to refer the bill to a parliamentary committee for proper scrutiny.

    The amendments fail to address numerous deficiencies in the original bill that was introduced last November. Transparency has been wound back and hollow contribution caps have been locked in.

    In significant respects, however, the package is an improvement on the status quo, which has seen unrestricted donations and spending flourish. So, too, secrecy.

    We need to penetrate the sound and fury of partisanship and assess the substance of these laws. This will yield a much more nuanced picture than conveyed by cross bench claims of a major party stitch up.

    Some improvement to transparency

    The government originally proposed lowering the disclosure threshold for donations from $16,000 to $1,000. The revised bill settles on a new threshold of $5,000.

    The amendments fail to plug a loophole that allows a donor to give separately to all of the branches attached to a political party if each individual contribution is just under the threshold. For example, a donor could spread almost $45,000 to the nine state and federal branches of the ALP without being required to declare the amounts.

    But the new laws will usher in near-real time disclosure and substantially reduce “dark money”, a seismic shift from the secrecy and lack of timeliness in the regime it replaces.

    Hollow donation caps

    Under the reforms, a series of contribution caps have been introduced to curb the influence of big money in politics.

    In my assessment of the original bill, I highlighted how the caps would prevent multi-million dollar contributions from cashed-up individuals.

    The amendments go further by closing a number of sizeable loopholes. Self financing candidates, such as Clive Palmer and Malcolm Turnbull will be subject to the contribution caps. The current exclusions for membership and affiliation fees to associated entities – “disguised donations” – will also be caught by the caps.

    But any positives are emphatically outweighed by the “annual gift cap” more than doubling to $50,000. The same “spreading” loophole that applies to the disclosure obligations would allow a donor to to give just shy of this amount to each of a party’s state and federal branches across the country. The major parties could reap up to almost $450,000 per annum from a single donor.

    And the “overall gift cap” on total donations made to political parties and candidates is a generous $1.6 million, which means large contributions will still be permissible under the new framework.

    The government has also failed to remove the patently unfair provisions relating to “nominated entities”, which are likely to be used by the major parties as investment vehicles.

    As the Victorian Electoral Review Expert Panel has rightly noted, such entities:

    provide some (parties) with significantly more funds, creating a risk that those (parties) drown out other voices.

    Election spending contained and fairer

    The spending caps in the new finance laws are fundamentally unaltered by the government’s amendments.

    The $800,000 per electorate limit, and $90 million per party nationally, will contain the “arms race” that has necessitated “big money” fundraising and fuelled unfair contests.

    However, the limits are set too high and will benefit the established parties due to the narrow scope of the spending caps in individual electorates. This means the major parties will be able to shift funding to must-win seats without being caught by the electorate caps.

    This shortcoming has been seized upon as clear evidence that Labor and the Liberals are seeking to kneecap Teal election campaigns. While having some force, these criticisms should be viewed in the context of the current situation where the major parties have an unfettered ability to direct spending to marginal seats, a situation which the Teals are ironically defending with their opposition to spending caps.

    The importance of public funding

    The new regime includes a substantial jump in public funding from $3.50 to $5 per vote.

    Crossbenchers, such as Kate Chaney, are opposed, to the increase, saying it will entrench the might of the majors while making it harder for new independents:

    The effect of increasing public funding is that political parties don’t have to fundraise because they’ve got their war chests. But any challengers do have to fundraise.

    While there is a clear risk of unfairness, the crossbench position throws the baby out with the bathwater. It romanticises the role of private funding, skating over the risks of corruption and undue influence via large donations.

    The public funding of political parties and candidates is warranted. But there should be a conversation about the design and scope of taxpayer support.

    The political finance laws could be made considerably fairer by fixing the structural bias that favours incumbents, including teal MPs. And they don’t need to be as generous given the large flows of private funding that will continue under the shallow contribution caps.

    Unfinished business

    Bad processes tend to make bad laws. The government’s actions have cast a pall of illegitimacy over its political finance regime. The new framework is unfair and ineffectual in significant ways and yet democracy enhancing in others.

    We are all trustees of democracy, with an obligation to protect and deepen democratic practices. An urgent task in that continuing struggle is to protect the strengths of these laws while jettisoning the elements that are egregiously bad.

    Joo-Cheong Tham has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, European Trade Union Institute, International IDEA, the New South Wales Electoral Commission, the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Victorian Electoral Commission. He is a Director of the Centre for Public Integrity; Expert Network Member of Climate Integrity; a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia; and the Victorian Division Assistant Secretary (Academic Staff) of the National Tertiary Education Union.

    – ref. Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stitch up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy – https://theconversation.com/parliament-has-passed-landmark-election-donation-laws-they-may-be-a-stitch-up-but-they-also-improve-australias-democracy-249588

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Suicide or accident? The hidden complexities of intentional road crashes in Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne

    Juris Teivans/Shutterstock

    In Australia, fatal road crashes are climbing again, especially since the pandemic, and despite years of attempts to reduce road trauma, the numbers remain stubbornly high.

    Strategies to reduce the road toll have largely focused on speeding, distractions and enforcement gaps, such as roadside drug testing.

    But hidden in these statistics is a lesser-known, deeply troubling reality: some of these crashes are not unintentional at all.

    A difficult area to explore

    A portion of road fatalities each year are deaths by suicide.

    For some, cars and trucks are not just modes of transport – they become a means to intentionally end their lives.

    The true scale of this issue is difficult to determine, as coroners and crash investigators often struggle to distinguish suicide from accidental death.

    The phenomenon is not confined to Australia – it has been studied and documented in several countries including the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland, and the United States.

    International research suggests driver suicides may account for up to 8–9% of all fatal road crashes. But studies indicate up to half of these cases may go unreported.

    So what do we know about these cases? Why are they so difficult to identify and what patterns exist in these incidents?

    How bad is the problem?

    Between 2001 and 2017, the rate of suicide involving a road vehicle collision in Australia nearly doubled from 0.125 per 100,000 people to 0.25 per 100,000.

    These suicides take several forms.

    Some involve single-vehicle crashes, where a driver deliberately collides with a tree, pole, or concrete barrier.

    Others are multiple-vehicle collisions, where a driver or rider intentionally steers into oncoming traffic, often targeting trucks.

    There are also pedestrian suicides, where people step or lie in front of moving vehicles.

    Among driver suicides, single-vehicle crashes are the most common, with studies estimating more than half of driver suicides involve collisions with fixed objects (some studies suggest the figure is more than 70%).

    For multiple-vehicle collisions, almost 82% of cases involve colliding with an oncoming truck.

    More than half of pedestrian deaths by suicide also involve trucks.

    While there are variations in research findings, current evidence suggest males make up between 78% and 91% of those who die by road transport suicide.

    Certain demographics have been found to be more likely to die in a road suicide in Australia compared to other methods of suicide:

    This includes those who are:

    • male (15% more likely than females)
    • younger than 25 (nearly five times more likely than those older)
    • non-Indigenous (three times more likely than First Nations people)
    • born overseas (40% more likely than those born in Australia)

    The ripple effects

    Unlike most other suicide methods, road vehicle collisions pose a significant risk to others.

    Intentional crashes can involve unsuspecting drivers, passengers and pedestrians, turning a personal act of self-harm into a broader public safety issue.

    Studies show that when a suicide collision involves vehicles with a large weight disparity — such as a car colliding with a truck — nearly 30% result in injury to another person and almost 4% result in the death of another person.

    Beyond the immediate loss of life or injury, these incidents leave lasting psychological scars on the drivers involved.

    Why is it difficult to establish suicide on the road?

    Determining whether a fatal road crash was intentional or unintentional is fraught with challenges. Unlike other suicide methods, there is often no definitive proof of intent.

    Coroners and crash investigators rely on a patchwork of evidence: eyewitness accounts, vehicle behaviour before impact, the driver’s psychological history and physical crash characteristics.

    Even when red flags are present — such as high-speed impacts with no signs of braking, the driver not wearing a seat belt, collisions with trucks, or cases where drivers abruptly veer into oncoming traffic — these alone are not always enough to confirm intent.

    Investigators must also navigate the cultural and social sensitivities surrounding suicide, which can lead to hesitation in formally classifying a death as intentional. Families, religious beliefs and even financial factors such as life insurance claims can influence how these cases are handled.

    In many instances, those who use this method do so in a way that obscures their intent, deliberately staging a crash to appear unintentional.

    Without conclusive evidence, such as a documented history of suicidality or a suicide note, these cases often remain in statistical limbo — unconfirmed, unclassified, and possibly unreported.

    What can be done?

    While broader suicide prevention efforts are always relevant, reducing suicide-related road crashes requires targeted, practical interventions that make vehicles less likely to be used for suicide. Some ideas include:

    1. Vehicle safety features that reduce lethality, such as automatic emergency braking and collision avoidance systems, can make intentional high-speed crashes less likely to be fatal. As such, they could discourage the use of vehicles as a suicide method. Airbags, in particular, can play a crucial role, as they can make the outcome of a crash less predictable for people attempting suicide.

    2. A national standardised process for classifying intentional crashes would improve detection and data accuracy. Incorporating psychological autopsies and mandating coroners consider behavioural indicators (such as lack of evasive action) could help identify cases that currently go unreported.

    3. Heavy vehicle drivers and first responders should receive specialised training to recognise potential suicide crash indicators and manage the psychological toll of being involved in such incidents.

    Together, these measures can make vehicle-related suicide, as a very complex issue, less likely and more detectable.

    If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 for confidential support.

    Angela J Clapperton receives funding from Suicide Prevention Australia.

    Lay San Too receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council for a fellowship.

    Matthew J. Spittal receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council for an Investigator Grant (GNT2025205).

    Milad Haghani 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. Suicide or accident? The hidden complexities of intentional road crashes in Australia – https://theconversation.com/suicide-or-accident-the-hidden-complexities-of-intentional-road-crashes-in-australia-248673

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –