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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: JLT Mobile Computers showcases JLT6015 at TOC Europe, June 17-19, 2025 – a new innovative rugged vehicle-mount computer enabling container terminal automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Image description: TOC Europe 17-19 June 2025
    Image available: pr@jltmobile.com

     Växjö, Sweden, 3rdJune, 2025 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, a leading developer and supplier of reliable computers for demanding environments, invites media to experience its latest rugged vehicle-mount computers at TOC Europe on June 17-19, 2025. The annual conference in Rotterdam, Netherlands, brings together global port and terminal supply chain leaders.

    JLT will be at stand E:32 alongside Visy, a pioneer in optical character recognition (OCR) that integrates AI and deep learning into its vision-based terminal automation solutions.

    JLT’s rugged computers support thousands of critical tasks every day and are essential for executing routines in container terminals. For example, Visy’s latest user applications for crane operations run on JLT computers – helping terminal personnel work more efficiently and maintain the planned sequence of operations.

    At TOC Europe, JLT will showcase its portfolio of rugged vehicle-mount computers, spearheaded by JLT6105, the industry’s first rugged vehicle-mount computer with a 15-inch full high-definition (HD) widescreen, alongside the field-proven Navis Ready validated VERSO Series. Designed specifically for container terminals, these rugged computers enable 24/7 container throughput and optimize productivity in even the harshest environments.With over 25 years of experience in container handling environments, JLT’s rugged devices are trusted by leading container terminals worldwide. They serve as the digital backbone for real-time data capture and reliable communications.

    Together, JLT’s rugged hardware and Visy’s smart automation solutions create value across the terminal – from wharf and yard to gates and parking areas.”

    Introducing JLT6015: engineered to boost productivity and maximize TEU capacity
    JLT6015 is the industry’s first to combine a superior full HD display, 1920 x 1080, with a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. It delivers exceptional clarity and performance in harsh, constrained terminal environments. JLT6015 is future-ready with 5G (in Europe) and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, split-screen capabilities, and a rugged, dock-free design. JLT6015 gives operators the visibility and computing performance to keep terminals productive and connected.

    Peter Lundgren, Container Terminal Business Development Manager at JLT Mobile Computers, says, “JLT6015 harnesses the full potential of the latest software applications from Visy and opens new opportunities to optimize container terminal productivity and throughput.”

    VERSO Series: Navis Ready validated for N4 Terminal Operating System
    Built for 24/7 operations in the most challenging terminal environments, VERSO Series is the optimal rugged computer for container terminals. Engineered to withstand salt, sand, or harsh weather, constant vibration, and round-the-clock shifts, it provides reliable performance throughout the terminal. It is designed to keep terminal operations moving, enhancing capacity, productivity, and container throughput. It is Navis Ready, allowing terminal operators to benefit from seamless integration, as compliance with the container terminal operating system is pre-verified.  

    On display also the latest developments of JLT Insight, a software tool to assist in real time location and tracing of CHE:s, hence optimizing the use of the CHE fleet.

    Visit us at TOC Europe
    Be the first to experience JLT6015, explore VERSO Series and JLT’s rugged vehicle-mount computers at TOC Europe at Visy’s stand E:32. Peter Lundgren, Business Development Manager Ports and Terminals Container Terminals, will be onsite to demonstrate.

    Book a meeting with Peter Lundgren.

    To learn more about JLT Mobile Computers, and the company’s products, services and solutions, visit jltmobile.com. Financial information is available on JLT’s investor page.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    JLT Mobile Computers is a leading developer and supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for global and local port operators, in particular container terminals. Almost 30 years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled us to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support, and solutions. Operators depend on JLT computing devices in all their container handling equipment (CHE) to ensure trouble-free business operations 24/7. JLT participates in the Navis Ready Validation program to ensure interoperability with Navis N4. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994 and its shares have been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at www.jltmobile.com.

    The MIL Network –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: 1 in 3 men report using intimate partner violence. Here’s how we can better protect women – and help men

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anastasia Powell, Professor of Family and Sexual Violence, RMIT University

    One in three men (32%) aged 18 to 57 years report using emotional abuse towards a partner. One in ten (9%) say they have used physical violence.

    These are some of the statistics from the latest report of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health – the Ten to Men study.

    The report also shows 2% of men have engaged in sexual abuse towards an intimate partner. Overall, among the 120,000 men surveyed, one in three (35%) said they’d used a form of violence towards an intimate partner in their adult life.

    The findings give us important new insights into men’s use of partner violence. It is among the first Australian studies to explore the factors linked with men’s use of partner violence in a large, general community sample.

    Being a longitudinal study – which surveys the same men at different points in time – also gives unique insights into the onset of intimate partner violence.

    And crucially, it points to some key priorities for policy and programs to prevent this violence.

    Which men use partner violence?

    Young men (aged 18–24) reported the lowest rates of using violence towards an intimate partner.

    As the report notes, this is not surprising, as younger men will have had less time in intimate relationships.

    Importantly, the use of intimate partner violence increased over time for all age groups between the two surveys.

    This suggests previously non-violent men can still start to use intimate partner violence later in their lives. However, it is worth noting that some men’s understanding and willingness to disclose use of violence may have also improved since the earlier survey.

    A crucial result of the Ten to Men report is that men’s use of violence does not differ meaningfully according to demographic background.

    It didn’t matter whether men were from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds, whether they had high or low incomes, whether they lived in cities or regions, and whether they were heterosexual or not. The overall rate of using intimate partner violence was the same.

    This is a highly important finding as it shows us that we cannot assume intimate partner violence is more or less likely among particular regions, classes, sexualities or cultures.

    What factors contributed to violence?

    Perhaps the most important findings from the report are the crucial roles mental health, social connections, and positive relationships with fathers and father-like figures, play in men’s risk of using partner violence.

    While much research has shown that mental health is linked with men’s likelihood of using violence, this study goes further. Because it surveyed men at different points in time, it can tell us that men who were depressed or experiencing suicidal thoughts in the earlier survey (2013), were more likely to report the onset of using partner violence in the later survey (2022).

    This was not the case for men with other mental health concerns, such as anxiety diagnoses, nor for measures of men’s overall life satisfaction.

    Another important trend was found for social supports and connection. Those men who described feeling that they had social support around them “all of the time” in the earlier survey, were less likely to have started using intimate partner violence by the time of the later survey.

    Receiving affection from a father or father-like figure when growing up was also associated with significantly less risk of using partner violence in later life.

    This finding is of particular relevance to our national policies and programs that are aiming for generational change to prevent partner violence.

    Where to from here?

    The findings of the Ten to Men report really point to a need for violence prevention and early intervention with men at different points in their life.

    For example, programs that support men’s parenting and positive father-child emotional connection not only have a role to play in violence prevention, but are known to have beneficial outcomes for children’s development more generally.

    Part of these programs often involves breaking down traditional and rigid ideas about gender roles that place more responsibility for emotional caregiving with mothers than with fathers.

    Supporting men’s mental wellbeing is also crucial. Research has long shown many men experience barriers to seeking help and support for mental health, partly due to expectations of men as needing to be “tough”, “independent” and “resilient”. These expectations can cause shame and fear in turning to others for support.

    Programs such as The Man Box have further shown how such rigid gender expectations can have a negative impact on men and boys’ mental wellbeing, as well as their risk for using violence.



    Read more:
    Aggressive? Homophobic? Stoic? Here’s what thousands of Australian men told us about modern masculinity

    We need to continue to break down the barriers to men’s access to mental health and wellbeing supports. Yet the Ten to Men findings also suggest knowledge of how to identify and work with people using violence, or at risk of using violence, may be especially important among health and mental health practitioners.

    Much of our policy addressing intimate partner violence talks about accountability and improving responses to men’s use of violence. And it is urgent that we respond to – and not make excuses for – men’s use of violence.

    But there is a lot more we could be doing to work with men throughout their lives before they use violence.

    Supporting men’s positive parenting relationships, breaking down rigid gender expectations, encouraging men to connect socially and seek support, as well as identifying men at risk, all have a role to play in ending partner violence.

    Anastasia Powell receives funding from the Australian Research Council. Anastasia is also a director of Our Watch (Australia’s national organisation for the prevention of violence against women), and a member of the National Women’s Safety Alliance (NWSA). Anastasia teaches family violence specialist casework in the Graduate Certificate in Domestic & Family Violence at RMIT University.

    – ref. 1 in 3 men report using intimate partner violence. Here’s how we can better protect women – and help men – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-men-report-using-intimate-partner-violence-heres-how-we-can-better-protect-women-and-help-men-258058

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pre-filling 2022–24

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Available pre-filling reports

    The pre-filling report is available through:

    • Online services for agents
    • Practitioner lodgment service (PLS) – the PLS pre-filling report will return the same data as the Online services for agents pre-filling report in 2022, with some exceptions. MyDeductions is included in PLS.

    For prior year pre-filling reports and more information, refer to:

    The following data will be available in the pre-filling report if there is information for your client.

    Taxpayer details

    We will provide the following information from our records:

    • name
    • Australian residency (at the report creation date)
    • postal and residential address
    • date of birth.

    PAYG payment summaries and STP income statements

    We will provide information from all original and amended PAYG payment summaries and Single Touch Payroll income statements as they are reported to us by employers and super funds. We generally make this information available within a couple of days of receiving it.

    Single Touch Payroll (STP)

    • The employer payment information will be available in ATO Online services after each pay event. STP provides an income statement in your client’s ATO Online services at the end of the financial year.
    • Generally, STP reporters must make a finalisation declaration by 14 July each year, except
      • if the employer has 20 or more employees, the finalisation due date for closely held payees is 30 September each year
      • if the employer has 19 or fewer employees and they are all closely held payees, the finalisation due date will be their income tax return due date
      • if the employer has 19 or fewer employees and they are a mixture of both closely held payees and arms-length employees, the finalisation due date is
        • 30 September each year for closely held payees
        • 14 July each year for arm’s length employees.

    You should wait until the income statement is finalised before completing your client’s tax return.

    STP will pre-fill:

    • from 1 July 2019 – for small employers with 19 or less employees
    • from 1 July 2018 – for large employers with 20 or more employees.

    The pre-filling service will include:

    • ‘Unfinalised’ data – being year-to-date payment data reported by the payer but the payer has not yet ‘finalised’ the data via STP
    • a new status – to identify the data as ‘Unfinalised’ or ‘Finalised’
    • a message where ‘Unfinalised’.

    STP reports only the following income statement types:

    • individual non-business – only income types of ‘S’ and ‘H’
    • employment termination
    • foreign employment
    • business and personal services income – types VOL, LAB, and OTH.

    Individual non-business

    We will provide the following details if reported:

    • payer details and income type (S – salary, P – pension, H – working holiday makers)
    • item 1 – salary or wages (including paid parental leave)
    • item 2 – allowances, earnings, tips, director’s fees, etc
    • item 3 – lump sum payments
    • item 5 – Australian Government allowances and payments
    • item 6 – Australian Government pensions and allowances
    • item 7 – Australian annuities and superannuation income streams
    • item 20 – foreign source income
    • item 24 – other income, including lump sum E payments
    • item D5 – union or professional association fees
    • item D9 – workplace giving
    • item IT1 – reportable fringe benefits (FBT exempt payer)
    • item IT1 – reportable fringe benefits (FBT non-exempt payer)
    • item IT2 – reportable employer superannuation contributions.

    Employment termination payment

    We will provide the following detail if reported:

    • item 4 – employment termination payments
    • employment termination payment code.

    Australian annuities and superannuation income stream

    We will provide the following details if reported:

    • item 7 – Australian annuities and superannuation income streams
    • item T2 – Australian superannuation income stream
    • lump sum in arrears information
    • taxable components – taxed and untaxed
    • reversionary income stream indicator
    • transfer balance cap messaging.

    Superannuation lump sum

    We will provide the following detail if reported:

    • item 8 – Australian superannuation lump sum payments
    • taxable component – taxed and untaxed elements
    • death benefit and code.

    Business and personal services income

    We will provide the following detail if reported:

    • item 9 – attributed personal services income
    • details of payments made under voluntary agreements, labour hire and other specified payments will display as information only. Check with your client and declare this income for the appropriate item (14 or 15) on the tax return
    • item IT2 – Reportable employer super contributions report.

    Foreign employment

    We will provide the following detail if reported:

    • payment type code
      • J – joint petroleum development area
      • F – foreign employment income
    • lump sum information.

    Government payments

    We will provide information within a couple of days of receiving it from:

    • Centrelink – Services Australia
    • Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)
    • Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE).

    This information consists of:

    • taxable payments, including pensions and allowances
    • tax-free government pensions.

    The information provided includes details for:

    • item 1 – salary or wages
    • item 5 – Australian Government allowances and payments
    • item 6 – Australian Government pensions and allowances
    • item 24 – other income
    • item IT3 – tax-free government pensions
    • remote area allowance paid (information for zone tax offset calculations).

    Informative messaging will display where payments have been reported for the following payment types:

    • Parental leave pay (PPL)
    • Dad and partner pay (DAP).

    The JobSeeker Payment (JSP) commenced from 20 March 2020. Newstart Allowance recipients and some Wife Pension recipients were transitioned onto it. Sickness Allowance recipients were transitioned onto JSP from 20 September 2020.

    Changes for 2024

    High-certainty government payments data

    Our pre-fill service now provides greater certainty for your government payment data. When you access your client’s pre-fill information, you’ll see an indicator when the payment record is high-certainty data. This indicator will appear in both the Online services for agents pre-filling report and the PLS pre-fill service.

    From 1 July 2024, a certainty indicator will be pre-filled for government allowance and pension payment types that are to be reported at Items 5 or 6 in their tax return.

    In PLS, if you want to change the government allowance or pension data, or the tax withheld being reported at items 5 or 6, where a high-certainty indicator is present, you’ll need to provide a reason for the change. If the reasons we provide don’t apply to your client’s situation, select ‘Other’ and provide details.

    Valid reasons you can choose from are:

    • Unknown amount = This amount doesn’t belong to me
    • Repaid amount = Incorrect amount reported – part or full amount repaid
    • Payment summary = Incorrect amount reported – payment summary has different amounts
    • Other = Other (Specify why).

    These high-certainty indicators won’t be included on government data records for clients or situations where we know there’s a likely reason for exclusion, such as a client who has a record of bankruptcy. In these situations, you can still alter the government benefit data without providing a reason.

    ATO interest

    We will provide interest amounts from all client accounts held by individual taxpayers in our integrated core processing system including income tax, fringe benefits tax and integrated client account (ICA).

    Assessable interest amounts we pay will display at item 10L – Gross interest, and will include:

    • interest on early payments (IEP)
    • interest on overpayments (IOO)
    • delayed refund interest (DRI).

    The total net ATO interest amount at either item 24X or D10N as follows:

    • A total net assessable interest income amount will display at item 24X Other income – Category 2 (ATO interest), and will include remitted or reimbursed
      • general interest charge (GIC)
      • shortfall interest charge (SIC)
      • late payment interest (LPI).
    • A total net deductible interest expense amount will display at item D10N Cost of managing tax affairs – Interest charged by the ATO, and will include imposed
      • GIC
      • SIC
      • LPI.

    From 1 July 2015, we introduced a new way of capturing and reporting pre-fill information for ATO interest. If you choose not to rely on our pre-fill information you will need to manually calculate the interest amounts using your client’s statement of account. For help, refer to Calculate and report ATO interest.

    ATO interest – recurring data issues

    In some circumstances, we may not provide pre-fill data but will display a message that the client has interest. In this case, you will need to manually calculate the deductions or income amounts, using either reporting method.

    In addition, pre-fill reports may not capture your clients’ specific circumstances and you may need to adjust the interest amounts reported.

    From 2019 a new message will display with a link to Recurring data issues – calculating ATO interest to provide information on when adjustments may need to be made for:

    • recoupments of interest charged
    • change in residency status
    • movement of transactions across the ICA.

    Interest income

    Information reported to us by financial institutions and private companies is available for pre-filling at item 10 – Gross interest.

    Information is generally available within a couple of days of being reported and consists of:

    • interest-bearing accounts, including savings accounts, term deposits and fixed interest securities
    • interest distributed by private companies
    • individual sole and joint accounts – for example
      • husband and wife joint accounts will be displayed
      • business partnership, trust, and superannuation accounts will not be displayed
    • a message displayed where all interest income may not have been reported in the previous year.

    Apportioned amounts are calculated according to the number of investment owners reported by the financial institution.

    There may be instances where the interest from children’s bank accounts is pre-filled for the parent.

    You may also notice an amount of investment income that belongs to a linked non-individual, such as a superannuation or trust fund.

    Changes for 2022

    High-certainty interest data

    Our pre-fill service now provides greater certainty for your client’s bank interest. When you access your client’s pre-fill information, you’ll see an indicator when the interest record is high-certainty data. This indicator will appear in both the Online services for agents pre-filling report and the PLS pre-fill service.

    In PLS, if you want to change any bank interest pre-fill information where there is a high-certainty indicator, you’ll need to provide a reason for the change. If the reasons we provide don’t apply to your client’s situation, select ‘Other’ and provide details.

    Valid reasons you can choose from are:

    • Child account = Child or minor’s account
    • Joint account partner = Joint account with my spouse/partner
    • Joint account individual = Joint account with another person
    • Joint account non-individual = Joint account with a non-individual entity, for example a company
    • Unknown amount = This amount doesn’t belong to me
    • Duplicate amount = This amount is duplicated
    • Previously declared = Interest was declared in another income year
    • Incorrect amount = Incorrect amount reported by bank/financial institution
    • Family law agreement = Family law agreement
    • Other = Other (Specify why).

    These high-certainty indicators won’t be included on bank interest records for clients or situations where we know there’s a likely reason for exclusion, such as a client who has a record of bankruptcy. In these situations, you can still alter the interest income without providing a reason.

    This enhanced pre-fill solution benefits you by:

    • allowing you to alter incorrect information in channel to minimise the impact of incorrect data, resulting in a more timely and simplified process
    • enhancing the client experience by avoiding processing delays and improving the simplification of tax return process
    • allowing for quicker processing once the return is lodged
    • creating more certainty for you and your clients.

    These new indicators also help by reducing the likely amount of pre-issue and post-issue compliance work.

    Changes for 2023

    High-certainty interest data

    In PLS, if you want to change any bank interest pre-fill information where there is a high-certainty indicator, you’ll need to provide a reason for the change.

    The additional valid reason you can choose from for 2023 is:

    • Foreign Resident = Foreign Resident.

    Changes for 2024

    High-certainty interest data

    From 1 July 2024, bank interest data for joint account holders will now appear with a ‘certainty indicator’. This is because the ATO has high confidence in the data that has been supplied by your client’s financial institution.

    For more information, see:

    Dividend and interest schedule

    Dividend and interest information reported by companies through the company tax return is available for pre-filling at item 10 – Gross interest and item 11 – Dividends.

    Information is generally available within a couple of days of being reported.

    Apportioned amounts are calculated according to the number of investment owners reported by the financial institution.

    Dividend income

    Information reported to us by share registries, private companies and most listed public corporations is available for pre-filling at item 11 – Dividends.

    Apportioned amounts are calculated according to the number of investment owners reported by the financial institution.

    Information is generally available within a couple of days of being reported, and consists of:

    • investment accounts that are issuer or Clearing House Electronic Subregister System (CHESS) sponsored
    • dividends paid by private companies
    • individual sole and joint accounts – for example
      • husband and wife joint accounts will be displayed
      • business partnership, trust, and superannuation accounts will not be displayed
    • listed investment company capital gain deduction (shown at item D8)
    • a message displayed where all dividend income may not have been reported in the previous year.

    Employee share schemes

    We will provide details of your client’s employee share scheme (ESS) interests as reported by employers and other payers on the ESS annual report.

    From 2018, new and amended ESS data reported for 2015 and prior years will not be updated in pre-fill. New and amended ESS data reported for 2016 and later years will continue to be updated in pre-fill.

    Information is generally available within a couple of days of being reported and consists of:

    • employer’s name and Australian business number (ABN)
    • shareholder registration number (SRN) or holder identification number (HIN)
    • plan reference number
    • discount from taxed upfront schemes – eligible for reduction (12D)
    • discount from taxed upfront schemes – not eligible for reduction (12E)
    • discount from deferral schemes (12F)
    • TFN amounts withheld from discounts (12C).

    A message will display when amounts either:

    • have been adjusted to exclude foreign service period
    • have not been adjusted to exclude foreign service period.

    Changes for 2023

    From 1 July 2022 cessation of employment is no longer a deferred taxing point.

    Managed funds distributions

    Managed investment funds and attribution managed investment trusts (AMIT) will provide income details as reported in the Annual investment income report (AIIR).

    Information is generally available within a couple of days of being reported and consists of:

    • item 13 – partnerships and trusts
    • item 18 – capital gains
    • item 19 – foreign entities
    • item 20 – foreign source income and foreign assets or property.

    You will be able to view details of:

    • a list of managed fund accounts
    • sole and joint investments (as an individual) – for example husband and wife joint investments will be displayed.

    Apportioned amounts are calculated according to the number of investment owners reported by the financial institution.

    If the pre-filled information doesn’t match your client’s distribution statement, use the information the fund manager provided to your client. Contact the managed fund if you have any questions.

    For more information, see Recurring data issues – managed fund data reporting discrepancies.

    Partnership distributions

    Statement of distribution information reported by partnerships through the partnership tax return will be available for pre-filling in the partner’s individual tax return.

    Information will generally be available within a couple of days of it being reported and consists of:

    • item 13 – partnerships and trusts
    • item 20 – foreign source income and foreign assets or property
    • item T9 – other refundable tax offsets (share of exploration credits)
    • item IT5 – net financial investment loss
    • item IT6 – net rental property loss.

    You will be able to view details of partnerships.

    If the pre-filled information doesn’t match your client’s statement of distributions, use the information the partnership provided to your client – contact the partner who notices are sent to if you have any questions.

    Foreign source investment income

    Foreign source investment income reported to us by financial institutions and private companies will be available for pre-filling at item 20 – Foreign source income and foreign assets or property.

    Information will generally be available within a couple of days of it being reported.

    Apportioned amounts are calculated according to the number of investment owners reported by the financial institution.

    Informative messaging will display where foreign income from foreign sources have been reported.

    Cryptocurrency disposal

    Informative messaging will display where individual taxpayers who may have disposed of cryptocurrency asset during the financial year.

    Informative messaging will display where an individual taxpayer has a novated lease during the financial year.

    Share and unit disposals

    Details of share disposals are provided to remind taxpayers about possible capital gains tax events and will contain the:

    • issuer name or name of investment
    • investment code
    • HIN or SRN
    • date of disposal
    • number of shares or units sold
    • number of investors
    • capital proceeds (where available)
    • original (O) or amended (A) data indicator.

    The following types of transactions will be included:

    • PRF – preference shares
    • ORD – ordinary shares
    • CDI – CHESS – depository interest transactions
    • share buybacks – messaging where your client participated in a share buyback that may have resulted in a capital gains tax event.

    Where more data exists, a message will be displayed with instructions on how to access the additional information in Online services for agents.

    Changes for 2022

    Informative message will display regarding to brokerage fee.

    Property transfers

    Details of property transfers are provided to remind taxpayers about possible capital gains tax events and will contain:

    • messaging where your client may have transferred a property resulting in a capital gains tax event
    • property address
    • contract date
    • settlement date
    • sale price.

    We are able to display a maximum of 5 property transfers only.

    Changes for 2023

    New informative messaging for disposal of property used to provide affordable housing.

    Business transactions

    Data about payments received through an electronic payment system will be pre-filled from 2019 as information only. Electronic payment systems can include BPAY®, PayPal, credit card facilities and others.

    Data displayed will include:

    • provider name
    • net annual payments
    • transaction currency
    • more data exists indicator (maximum of 25 records can be displayed).

    Taxable payments

    We will pre-fill payment and grant information reported to us in the Taxable payments annual report by:

    • businesses in the building and construction industry
    • government entities
    • cleaners and courier services from 2019
    • road freight services, security, investigation, surveillance or IT services from 2020.

    Contractor payments

    Contractor payment information reported to us in the Taxable payments annual report (TPAR) will be pre-filled.

    Where a contractor has received payments for services from multiple businesses or government entities (or both), the information will be available as reports are received and processed. It may take some time for all this information to be reported.

    Only high-quality data will be pre-filled, but all data may be used for compliance purposes at a later time. Amounts invoiced but not actually paid to the contractor in the financial year are not included in this year’s information. Contractors should check their own records to ensure all income is included in their tax returns.

    The contractor payment information will not be mapped to a specific label – it will be provided in a summary.

    As with other pre-filled items, information will only be available for individual contractors – it will not be available for contractors that operate as companies, trusts or partnerships.

    The contractor payment information will include:

    • payer name
    • payer ABN
    • date available for pre-filling
    • type – (original or amended)
    • gross amount paid
    • GST
    • tax withheld.

    Note:

    • the gross amount includes GST, if it has been charged
    • amounts invoiced but not actually paid in the financial year, are not included.

    Government grants

    Government grant information reported to us in the Taxable payments annual report (TPAR) will be pre-filled.

    Government grant information will not be mapped to a specific label – it will be provided in a summary. Consider the nature of the grant to determine if it should be included as income in your client’s tax return.

    Certain government grants are potentially treated as non-assessable, non-exempt income for the grant recipient. Informative messaging will display where a government grant has been reported as potentially non-assessable, non-exempt income. Refer to Non-assessable non-exempt government grants.

    Government grant information will include:

    • payer name
    • payer ABN
    • name of grant or grant program
    • date of grant payment
    • gross amount paid
    • GST
    • date available for pre-filling
    • type (original or amended).

    Note:

    • gross amount paid includes GST, if it has been charged
    • report may not include all government grants paid
    • nature of the grant must be considered before including it in the tax return.

    For more information see Payments government entities need to report in their TPAR.

    Net farm management deposits or repayments

    Information is reported by financial institutions and will include:

    • company name
    • investment reference number
    • account name
    • details of deposits, repayments, transfers in and transfers out
    • interest offset account
    • date available for pre-filling
    • amount of closing balance.

    If the pre-fill data provided do not match your client’s records, you should use the information provided by the client.

    Tax offsets

    A reminder message will be displayed when your client may be eligible for item T1 –seniors and pensioners tax offset (SAPTO) because they either:

    • were in receipt of a qualifying Australian Government pension or allowance (declared at label 6 in the tax return)
    • were not in receipt of an Australian Government pension or allowance (declared at label 6 in the income tax return) however they both
      • satisfy the age requirement for the Centrelink age pension, as at 30 June of the current financial year
      • were eligible for an Australian Government age pension.

    The following items will be displayed:

    • Australian superannuation income stream – item T2
    • remote area allowance (used in zone offset calculations at T4)
    • early stage venture capital limited partnership – current year tax offset for managed funds at item T7K
    • early stage venture capital limited partnership (ESVCLP) – tax offset amount carried forward from previous year at item T7M
    • early stage investor – current year tax offset for managed funds at item T8L
    • early stage investor – tax offset amount carried forward from previous year at item T8O
    • the total exploration credits reported by private companies and managed funds will be displayed at item T9.

    Medicare levy surcharge (MLS)

    We will provide details reported to us by health funds to help you confirm that your client held an adequate level of private patient health insurance.

    Information will be processed using our enterprise systems and will be updated throughout the week, for the current financial year and the previous financial year only. No updates will occur on weekends.

    Information will include:

    • health insurer ID and name
    • membership number
    • start and end date of the policy.

    From 2020 a new message will display with a link to Medicare levy surcharge (MLS) information. MLS is to be determined by the agent completing the return. In respect of whether the client has private patient hospital cover or not for the full year, the tax agent will need to calculate the number of days based on the MLS start and end dates provided. They will first need to check if the client’s dependants, including their spouse (if any), also had an appropriate level of private patient hospital cover for the income year.

    If private health insurance policy details have pre-filled, but there is no MLS information pre-filled, it means there was no private patient hospital cover for that policy, for that year, from that fund. The client may have had ancillary cover only. If there are start and end dates within the relevant financial year, then the policy provided private patient hospital cover between (inclusive) the dates specified.

    If the client has private health insurance (PHI) and the MLS details or PHI policy details (or both) and are not yet available when you request the pre-fill information, you will need to use the details provided in your private health insurance statement from your client’s fund or funds.

    From 2019, health insurers are not required to send private health insurance statements to clients, unless requested. You will need to contact the health fund for a statement.

    Private health insurance (PHI) policy details

    From 2019, health insurers are no longer required to send a private health insurance statement to their clients, unless their client requests one.

    Information will be processed using our enterprise systems and will be updated throughout the week, for the current financial year and the previous financial year only. No updates will occur on weekends.

    All rebate percentages are adjusted annually on 1 April.

    This means your client’s rebate percentage for premiums paid before 1 April will be different to the rebate percentage for premiums paid on or after 1 April. The benefit codes distinguish which period the data relates to.

    Information will include:

    • health insurer ID and name
    • membership number
    • premiums eligible for Australian Government rebate
    • Australian Government rebate received
    • benefit code
    • a message and link to more information about private health insurance statement availability.

    For more information, see Private health insurance rebate.

    Early stage innovation company

    The following data will be displayed:

    • company name
    • share issue date
    • amount paid.

    We are able to display a maximum of 20 share disposals only.

    We will display the following data as reported on payment summaries:

    • total reportable fringe benefits amounts – item IT1
    • reportable employer superannuation contributions – item IT2
    • tax-free government pensions – item IT3.

    Ensure compulsory super amounts are not included.

    For more information, see Recurring data issues – reportable employer super contributions on payment summaries or income statements.

    ATO data

    This section includes amounts to help you estimate your client’s refund or debt.

    Help and other income-contingent loans debts

    Information will be displayed for repayable amounts of income- contingent loans for:

    • Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)
    • Vocational Education and Training student loan (VSL) – separated from HELP from 2020
    • Student Financial Supplement Scheme (SFSS)
    • Trade Support Loan (TSL)
    • Student Start-up Loan (SSL)
    • ABSTUDY Student Start-up Loan (ABSTUDY SSL).

    The repayable balance provided by pre-filling may be different to your client’s account balance. The repayable balance does not include new debts until they become repayable. There is a lead time between when the debt is incurred and when it becomes repayable.

    Indexation is applied to repayable amounts each year on 1 June.

    For 2022, the pre-fill amount displayed includes the repayable balance at 1 June 2022, less any repayments made after that date.

    Where the pre-fill request is made between:

    • 1 January and 31 May of the current year – the repayable balance will only include debts incurred up to (but not including) 1 January of the previous calendar year
    • 1 June and 31 December of the current year – the repayable balance will only include debts incurred up to (but not including) 1 January of the current calendar year.

    Changes for 2024

    Trade Support Loan was renamed as the Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan (AASL) on 1 January 2024. The change was fully implemented on 1 January 2025.

    Prior year amounts

    If the pre-fill request is for an outstanding prior year return, the repayable amount is shown as at the date the pre-fill request is made. This means if a pre-fill request is made for a prior year return, the current repayable loan balance is shown and will be the repayable amount regardless of the income year of the return.

    PAYG instalments

    The total amount displayed represents the calculated liability regardless of payment.

    Accumulative low-rate cap

    Information will include:

    • accumulative low-rate cap amount
    • year
    • low-rate cap used
    • messaging where client has exceeded the low-rate cap.

    Income averaging for primary producers and special professionals

    We will display the following amounts for:

    • primary producers – basic taxable income amounts by year
    • special professionals – taxable professional income amounts by year
    • new message to manually calculate average taxable professional income for foreign residents.

    Overdue income tax returns

    An overdue income tax returns advisory message will display the year-specific outstanding tax returns in the 3 years immediately prior.

    Personal superannuation contribution deductions

    Information will include:

    • total superannuation contributions claimed on notice of intent (NOI)
    • provider name
    • provider ABN
    • member account number
    • indication of fund NOI receipt and acknowledgment.

    Changes for 2023

    New informative messaging on work test requirements for taxpayers claiming the PSCD who are between 67 and 75 years old.

    First home super saver scheme (FHSS)

    Information will include:

    • total assessable FHSS released amounts – item 24R
    • total tax withheld – assessable FHSS released amounts – item 24S.

    Prior-year tax return details

    This data is provided by our systems from the previous year’s tax return:

    • occupation description and code (not available in PLS)
    • sources of supplementary income reported (not available in PLS)
    • rental property address and date first earned income
    • net capital losses carried forward to later income years
    • business income and expenses – closing stock
      • total closing stock amount
      • subtotals for primary and non-primary production amounts (not available in PLS)
      • valuation method type – C cost, M market selling value or R replacement value (not available in PLS)
    • deductions reported (not available in PLS)
      • includes a message where work-related expenses were high compared to clients in the same occupation with similar income (now also available in PLS)
      • cost of managing tax affairs amount will display as split components D10N, D10L and D10M for 2020
    • dependents
      • number of dependent children and students for Medicare (M1)
      • number of dependent children for Income test IT8 – (available in PLS)
    • spouse details – name and date of birth (not available in PLS).

    A new message refers to Online services for agents, lodgment history, to view all labels completed in your client’s prior year income tax return.

    Current data issues

    Check for current data issue with pre-filing data.

    Resolving discrepancies

    Discrepancies between the information sent to your clients and the information reported to us for pre-filling need to be resolved with the data provider before you lodge your client’s return.

    If you are unable to resolve the discrepancy or have notification that an income or account does not belong to your client, we prefer you to contact us in Online services for agents. To send a new message:

    • from the Agent home page, select Communication, then Practice mail, or from Client summary, select Profile, then New messages
    • select New message
    • select the topic Income tax
    • select the subject Pre-filled tax return data incorrect
    • complete the required fields and attach the relevant form if required
    • select the Declaration, then select Send
    • select Print friendly version to print or save a copy.

    You’ll receive an ATO receipt ID when the message has successfully been sent. You’ll need to quote this number to us when enquiring about the request.

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for witnesses – Pedestrian strike – Eaton

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force responded to a pedestrian strike along Bagot Road last night.

    About 8:30pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a female being struck by a vehicle in the outbound lanes of Bagot Road near Eaton.

    The female was conscious and sustained serious injuries including a compound leg fracture and head injuries. St John Ambulance conveyed the female to Royal Darwin Hospital in a critical condition.

    The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and tested negative to alcohol and drugs.

    Anyone who witnessed the incident, particularly those who may have dash cam footage, are urged to contact police on 131 444. Please reference job number P25149310.

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSUJobs Named Best Student Startup at Startup Lynch’25

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    NSUJobs project created by students Faculty of Economics, NSU, took first place at the annual Startup Lynch’25 event, which took place at the end of May. This year, 15 student teams took to the stage to present their startups in three minutes and compete for the main prize and the attention of investors. The winner was chosen based on the reaction of the audience and the jury’s assessments – NSUJobs received 100,000 rubles and recognition as the best project of the event.

    NSUJobs is a digital platform that helps NSU students and graduates find internships, part-time jobs, and their first serious job. And this is not just another job aggregator. NSUJobs is aimed specifically at young professionals: those who want to find a job that suits their brains. Lev Lobov, a student at the NSU Faculty of Economics, is behind the project. He launched the first version of the platform in January 2024 — entirely by himself: he thought out the architecture, wrote the code, ran the first campaigns, communicated with users, and supported the site.

    — When I created NSUJobs, I was driven not just by an idea, but by a mission: to help every student and graduate realize their potential. Students and graduates are constantly faced with the task of finding a job, part-time jobs, internships. Until now, no service has been able to fully and qualitatively satisfy these requests. Popular platforms are focused on the mass market, mostly line personnel. Students and university graduates, in turn, would like to find a job in their specialty, where they could apply all their intellectual abilities and grow as great specialists, — said Lev.

    The NSUJobs team is small. The core of the project is Lev Lobov and Olga Somova (works with employers). Together they are developing the platform and preparing the next step — launching it on the all-Russian market. Several Novosibirsk universities will be connected to the platform starting in September, and the service will be scaled up to other regions of Siberia in the future. Plans call for the Far Eastern and Ural Federal Districts to be covered by the end of the year.

    At the moment, the guys have managed to form a base of more than 2,500 active users from NSU and build trusting relationships with more than 100 employers, including 2GIS, Kept, MTS, Sberbank, RENEWAL, Beeline, B1, Sovcombank, SDEK.

    — In my opinion, one of our main success factors is our obsession with our users. We constantly collect feedback and improve the experience of interacting with the platform. Our users — students, graduates, employers — are our top priority, — Lev emphasized.

    The NSUJobs app offers free job posting, internal chats with candidates, an advanced employer account and the ability to promote the company’s HR brand.

    — Our team was incredibly surprised when we were announced as the winners of StartupLynch’25. We are grateful for the recognition and support of our work. This, along with the gratitude of our users, inspires us to work even harder, even better, so that every student and graduate can fully realize their professional potential. We believe that we can build an effective all-Russian platform for the career development of young specialists, — concludes Lev.

    Startup Lynch is a project of the NSU Startup Studio, a presentation of technology projects to experts. This is not just a pitch battle, but a full-fledged entry point into entrepreneurship for NSU students.

    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 –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Easing your evening commute on Mount Smart Road

    Source: Auckland Council

    Smart changes proposed for Mount Smart Road will mean less time stuck in traffic at the end of a long day.

    As Royal Oak continues to grow, so does the need for smarter, more efficient ways to get around. That’s why Auckland Transport (AT) is seeking feedback on a plan to help keep Mount Smart Road moving from Victoria Street to the busy Royal Oak roundabout.

    Mount Smart Road connects Penrose with Onehunga and Royal Oak, carrying around 18,000 vehicles daily. In the evening, trips through this area can take more than twice as long as off-peak, with average speeds dropping to as low as 15km/h.

    To help ease congestion, a new T3 transit lane heading towards the roundabout, has been proposed. This will operate from 4-7pm on weekdays and be reserved for buses, motorcycles, cyclists, and vehicles with three or more people.

    Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board chair Maria Meredith said a quick-fix, low-cost solution will enable more efficient traffic movements in the early evenings. 

    “Mount Smart Road is often gridlocked in the evenings, but widening it isn’t an option without affecting nearby homes. Adding a transit lane is a smart, low-cost way to keep people moving,” she said. 

    “This initiative targets one of our community’s busiest roads, which currently sees evening travel times more than double compared to off-peak hours. We want to see congestion eased, so people can spend less time in traffic.” 

    Broken yellow lines will also need to be added at four bus stops along Mount Smart Road to ensure that buses can enter and exit the stops safely.

    AT is seeking feedback from the community on this proposal, with a second community drop-in session planned for Oranga Community Centre, 1 – 3pm on Saturday 07 June 2025.

    Have your say on the Auckland Transport website by 15 June 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do some people need less sleep than others? A gene variation could have something to do with it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Sansom, Research Associate, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University; Research Associate, Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University

    Maria Korneeva/Getty Images

    Have you ever noticed how some people bounce out of bed after just a few hours of sleep, while others can barely function without a solid eight hours?

    Take Margaret Thatcher, for example. The former British prime minister was known for sleeping just four hours a night. She worked late, rose early, and seemed to thrive on little sleep.

    But for most of us, that kind of sleep schedule would be disastrous. We’d be groggy, unfocused, and reaching for sugary snacks and caffeinated drinks by mid-morning.

    So why do some people seem to need less sleep than others? It’s a question that’s fascinated scientists for years. Here’s what we know so far.

    Natural short sleepers

    There is a small group of people who don’t need much sleep. We call them natural short sleepers. They can function perfectly well on just four to six hours of sleep each night, often for their entire lives.

    Generally they don’t feel tired, they don’t nap, and they don’t suffer the usual negative consequences of sleep deprivation. Scientists call this the natural short sleep phenotype – a biological trait that allows people to get all the benefits of sleep in less time.

    In 2010 researchers discovered genetic mutations that help explain this phenomenon. Natural short sleepers carry rare variants in certain genes, which seem to make their sleep more efficient.

    More recently, a 2025 study assessed a woman in her 70s with one of these rare mutations. Despite sleeping just six hours a night for most of her life, she remained physically healthy, mentally sharp, and led a full, active life. Her body, it seems, was simply wired to need less sleep.

    We’re still learning about how common these genetic mutations are and why they occur.

    Not everyone who sleeps less is a natural short sleeper

    But here’s the catch: most people who think they’re natural short sleepers aren’t. They’re just chronically sleep-deprived. Often, their short sleep is due to long work hours, social commitments, or a belief sleeping less is a sign of strength or productivity.

    In today’s hustle culture, it’s common to hear people boast about getting by on only a few hours of sleep. But for the average person, that’s not sustainable.

    The effects of short sleep build up over time, creating what’s known as a “sleep debt”. This can lead to poor concentration, mood swings, micro-sleeps (brief lapses into sleep), reduced performance and even long-term health risks. For example, short sleep has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease (heart disease and stroke).

    The weekend catch-up dilemma

    To make up for lost sleep during the week, many people try to “catch up” on weekends.

    This can help repay some of the sleep debt that has accumulated in the short term. Research suggests getting one to two extra hours of sleep on the weekend or taking naps when possible may help reduce the negative effects of short sleep.

    However, it’s not a perfect fix. Weekend catch-up sleep and naps may not fully resolve sleep debt. The topic remains one of ongoing scientific debate.

    A recent large study suggested weekend catch-up sleep may not offset the cardiovascular risks associated with chronic short sleep.

    Catching up on sleep on the weekends may not fully resolve your ‘sleep debt’.
    Ground Picture/Shutterstock

    What’s more, large swings in sleep timing can disrupt your body’s internal clock, and sleeping in too much on weekends may make it harder to fall asleep on Sunday night, which can mean starting the working week less rested.

    Increasing evidence indicates repeated cycles of irregular sleep may have an important influence on general health and the risk of early death, potentially even more so than how long we sleep for.

    Ultimately, while moderate catch-up sleep might offer some benefits, it’s no substitute for consistent, high-quality sleep throughout the week. That said, maintaining such regularity can be particularly challenging for people with non-traditional schedules, such as shift workers.

    So, was Thatcher a true natural short sleeper?

    It’s hard to say. Some reports suggest she napped during the day in the back of a car between meetings. That could mean she was simply sleep-deprived and compensating for an accumulated sleep debt when she could.

    Separate to whether someone is a natural short sleeper, there are a range of other reasons people may need more or less sleep than others. Factors such as age and underlying health conditions can significantly influence sleep requirements.

    For example, older adults often experience changes in their circadian rhythms and are more likely to suffer from fragmented sleep due to conditions such as arthritis or cardiovascular disease.

    Sleep needs vary from person to person, and while a lucky few can thrive on less, most of us need seven to nine hours a night to feel and function our best. If you’re regularly skimping on sleep and relying on weekends to catch up, it might be time to rethink your routine. After all, sleep isn’t a luxury – it’s a biological necessity.

    Peter Eastwood has previously received funding from Research Funding Organisations (e.g. NHMRC, MRFF, NHRIF, Raine Study) and has been a consultant for several sleep-related biomedical device companies. He is currently involved in several initiatives with the World Sleep Society, including its Global Sleep Health Taskforce.

    Kelly Sansom 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. Why do some people need less sleep than others? A gene variation could have something to do with it – https://theconversation.com/why-do-some-people-need-less-sleep-than-others-a-gene-variation-could-have-something-to-do-with-it-256342

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Independent Water Commission publishes interim findings

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Independent Water Commission publishes interim findings

    Interim report sets out scale of change needed to reform water sector

    The interim findings from the Independent Water Commission have been published today (Tuesday 3 June) ahead of its final report this summer.

    Sir Jon Cunliffe, Chair of the Commission, has set out five areas where he believes wide-ranging and fundamental change is needed to reset the water sector in England & Wales.  

    These include clearer direction from government, stronger regulation of water companies, bringing decisions on water systems closer to local communities, and greater focus on responsible, long-term investors.

    The Commission’s full conclusions and detailed recommendations will be published later in the summer.  This interim report sets out the Commission’s preliminary conclusions and direction of travel; several key decisions will be covered in the final report.

    The findings are informed by the Commission’s Call for Evidence, which ran from 27 February – 23 April and received more than 50,000 responses from the public, campaigners, industry, the regulators and many others.

    Sir Jon Cunliffe said:

    “There is no simple, single change, no matter how radical, that will deliver the fundamental reset that is needed for the water sector.

    “We have heard of deep-rooted, systemic and interlocking failures over the years – failure in Government’s strategy and planning for the future, failure in regulation to protect both the billpayer and the environment and failure by some water companies and their owners to act in the public, as well as their private, interest. 

    “My view is that all of these issues need to be tackled to rebuild public trust and make the system fit for the future. We anticipate that this will require new legislation.”

    The five areas are:

    1.Strategic Direction & Planning

    • At a government level, there needs to be clearer, long-term direction on what it wants from the water system. We want clean and healthy waterways and we need to balance the different pressures on water – from the water industry, agriculture, energy, transport and development – and take account of cost.  This requires government to set out its priorities and timescales for the system much more clearly than it does at present.

    • Our water systems – rivers, aquifers and coasts – need much better planning and coordination at a regional level. The Commission is considering options to move from the complex planning process we have now to a regional “systems planning” approach in England, bringing better coordination with local authorities and a stronger voice for local communities. It means bringing decisions on water systems, such as where new infrastructure is built or how pollution from different sources should be tackled, closer to the communities who depend on them.

    2.Legislative framework

    • Water legislation has evolved in a piecemeal fashion over a long period of time – there are currently around 80 pieces of legislation covering the sector. As a result, the legislative framework for water is complex, inconsistent in places and very difficult to navigate.  
    • The Commission sees a strong case for review, rationalisation and consolidation of existing legislation, to simplify the framework, to create greater flexibility for regulators, and to update standards and broaden objectives. This could include new objectives around public health given the growing recreational use of water.

    3.Regulatory reform

    • The Commission believes a fundamental strengthening and rebalancing of Ofwat’s regulation is needed with the introduction of a ‘supervisory’ approach, as found in sectors such as financial services. The current model relies heavily on ‘comparability’ – benchmarking companies against one another to assess efficiency and justify customer bills.  A ‘supervisory approach’ means a deeper understanding of circumstances and finances to enable intervention early before issues arise, as well as supporting companies when they are going in the right direction.
    • On environmental regulation, the Commission is clear that we need to equip a more capable regulator, with the right technology and skills, a stable and consistent approach to funding, and the flexibility to enable innovative solutions that deliver the greatest environmental benefits. 
    • Much of the friction, cost and complexity in the regulatory system comes from the way in which economic and environmental regulators with different remits interact. The Commission is considering options for significant streamlining and alignment of the regulators to address this. It will make its recommendations in its final report.

    4.Company Structures, Ownership, Governance and Management

    • The Commission is looking at the ownership, governance and management of private water companies and whether more needs to be done to support transparency and accountability, which could include stronger duties for management. Further recommendations will follow in the final report.
    • On ownership, the Commission is clear that the water industry should aim to attract and retain long-term investors seeking low risk, low return investment. This will require restoring investor confidence in the predictability and stability of the regulatory system.

    5.Infrastructure & Asset Health

    • There is not sufficient understanding of the health and resilience of the water industry’s asset base – its pipes, water treatment plants and pumping stations. Assets have not been, and have not been required to be, fully mapped and there is variation between companies in how they assess asset health.
    • The Commission is considering new infrastructure resilience standards at a national level, as well as requiring companies to assess and report asset health, at set intervals, to regulators. This means companies do not just fix failures when they fail, but responsibly plan for the long-term condition and resilience of these critical assets.

    Sir Jon Cunliffe continued:

    “I have heard a strong and powerful consensus that the current system is not working for anyone, and that change is needed. I believe that ambitious reforms across these complex and connected set of issues are sorely needed.  

    “I have been encouraged to see, on all sides of the debate, that people have been prepared to engage constructively with our work; I look forward to that continuing as we enter the final stages.”

    The Independent Water Commission was announced by the UK and Welsh governments in October 2024. It is operating independently of UK and Welsh Ministers.

    It is supported by an advisory group, with leading voices from areas including the environment, public health and investment.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Changes to car thresholds from 1 July

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The car limit for 2025–26 is $69,674 This is the highest value you can use to calculate depreciation on a car where: 

    • you use the car for business purposes, and 
    • you first use or lease the car in the 2025–26 income year. 

    As a business owner, you can claim a tax deduction on expenses for motor vehicles you use for business purposes. 

    If you’re using a motor vehicle for both business and private purposes, you can only claim a deduction for the business part. You must be able to show the percentage you claim as business use and have records to support your claim.  

    Goods and services tax (GST)

    If you’re buying a car and the price is more than the car limit, the most GST credit you can claim (except in certain circumstances) is one-eleventh of the car limit. For 2025–26, the most GST credit you can claim is $6,334 (that is, 1/11 × $69,674).

    You need to claim GST credits within the 4-year time limit.

    You can’t claim a GST credit for luxury car tax when you buy a luxury car. This is even if you use it for business purposes. 

    Luxury car tax (LCT)

    The LCT threshold for 2025–26 is: 

    • $91,387 for fuel-efficient vehicles – In line with an increase to the motor vehicle purchase sub-group of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) 
    • $80,567 for all other luxury vehicles – In line with an increase in the ‘All Groups’ CPI.  

    From 1 July, the definition of a fuel-efficient vehicle will also change, affecting vehicles with a fuel consumption rate of 3.5 and 7 litres per 100km. The indexation rates applying to the thresholds for fuel-efficient vehicles and other vehicles will be aligned.

    If you’re a dealer buying luxury cars under quote, you need to properly quote to meet your obligations.

    For more information, visit Get your LCT right.

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Death following Somerset crash on 27 May

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Death following Somerset crash on 27 May

    Tuesday, 3 June 2025 – 3:00 pm.

    Sadly, police can confirm a 78-year-old woman has died following a crash at Somerset on 27 May.
    The woman was involved in a two-vehicle crash involving a Toyota Corolla hatch and a Ford F250 truck at the intersection of Wragg and Falmouth Streets.
    At the time of the crash, the woman was the driver of the Toyota Corolla, and was subsequently transported to the North West Regional Hospital.
    Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the crash.  
    A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
    Police are continuing to investigate the crash. Anyone with information or dash cam is asked to contact Western Crash Investigation Services on 131 444 and quote reference ESCAD 199-27052025 and OR776030. 
    Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000. 

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • PM congratulates Gukesh, lauds wrestlers’ golden run

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated world chess champion D Gukesh for his maiden victory over Magnus Carlsen at the Norway Chess 2025 tournament. The win came in Round 6 of the prestigious event, marking a significant moment in the young grandmaster’s career.
     
    Calling it an “exceptional achievement,” the Prime Minister praised Gukesh’s talent and commitment. In a post on X, PM Modi said, “An exceptional achievement by Gukesh! Congratulations to him for triumphing over the very best. His first-ever win against Magnus Carlsen in Round 6 of Norway Chess 2025 showcases his brilliance and dedication. Wishing him continued success in the journey ahead.”
     
    In another message, Prime Minister Modi lauded the Indian wrestling team for their remarkable performance at the 3rd Ranking Series of the Ulaanbaatar Open 2025. Indian wrestlers brought home a total of 21 medals, including six golds, with women athletes delivering their best-ever performance at the event.
     
    Congratulating the team the Prime Minister said on X, “India’s accomplishments in sports continue! Congrats to our wrestlers for their phenomenal performance at the 3rd Ranking Series in the Ulaanbaatar Open 2025, bringing home 21 medals including 6 Golds. Our Nari Shakti has given their best ever performance at the Ranking Series, making this feat even more memorable. This sporting performance will inspire several upcoming athletes.”
    June 3, 2025

  • Kohli closes in on long-awaited IPL title

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Virat Kohli’s trophy cabinet is chock full of awards from his international career but the batsman can end the long wait to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title when his Royal Challengers Bengaluru play Punjab Kings in Tuesday’s final.

    The 36-year-old has been with Bengaluru since the inaugural edition of the league in 2008, including nine seasons as captain of a franchise that made the finals in 2009, 2011 and 2016 but lost every time.

    They have looked a different side altogether under Rajat Patidar this season though, winning all seven away games in the group stage and crushing Punjab in the first qualifier.

    Veteran Kohli is their leading scorer in the tournament but while Bengaluru have been criticised in the past for ignoring team balance and packing the side with marquee players they have finally clicked as a team this season.

    “It’s a better balanced side, far better balanced side,” former Australia player Tom Moody, who has coached Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, told ESPNcricinfo website.

    “It’s not top heavy. There’s opportunities for other players to have an impact in the game, whereas previously, you look at RCB and it was always the top three and then you’re concerned about what follows that.”

    Bengaluru were reinforced by Josh Hazlewood’s return from a shoulder injury ahead of the playoff and he had an immediate impact as they dismantled Punjab for 101 on Thursday.

    Down but not out, Punjab managed to claw their way into the final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium after beating Mumbai Indians in Sunday’s qualifier.

    Shreyas Iyer, who captained Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title last year, has led from the front and is Punjab’s top scorer this season.

    He produced a captain’s knock of 78 not out to help Punjab chase down a tricky target set by powerhouse Mumbai in the qualifier.

    “I love big occasions,” Iyer said after his match-winning knock.

    “I say to myself and my colleagues, the bigger the occasion, the calmer you are, and you’ll get the best results.

    “Today I was focusing on my breathing rather than sweating it out.”

    Iyer, with the full backing of coach Ricky Ponting, has instilled a fearlessness in Punjab’s approach that has given them hope of winning a first IPL crown.

    (Reuters)

    June 3, 2025

  • Djokovic hits French Open ton, Sinner sublime, Bublik stuns Draper

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Three-times champion Novak Djokovic reached a century of wins at the French Open in a straight sets victory against Cameron Norrie on Monday and top seed Jannik Sinner produced another masterclass to also blaze into the quarter-finals.

    Men’s fifth seed Jack Draper bowed out though, as did women’s third seed Jessica Pegula who was stunned by world France’s world number 361 Lois Boisson.

    Serbian Djokovic, the sixth seed, looked serene in outclassing Britain’s Norrie 6-2 6-3 6-2 to edge closer to a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.

    Djokovic became the second man to win 100 matches at the Paris Grand Slam after retired 14-times champion Rafael Nadal (112), to set up a last-eight clash against Alexander Zverev.

    “It’s a number which is very good and nice, but a 101st win is even better,” Djokovic, who won the Olympic gold medal last year in Paris to complete his trophy cabinet, told the appreciative crowd in fluent French.

    “It’s not finished for me here the tournament and I feel very good and good to make history here. I hope there will be another win here in two days.”

    His German opponent in the last eight spent even less time on the court, third seed Zverev punching his ticket when Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor retired midway through the second set with an abdominal injury.

    Zverev has reached his seventh French Open quarter-final in the last eight years and is still looking to secure a maiden Grand Slam title.

    “From now on I have the toughest draw in the tournament,” Zverev said. “I’m looking forward to the battles ahead, and I’m looking forward to playing the best in the world.”

    SUBLIME SINNER

    World number one Sinner lit up the night session with a sublime display to beat Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-3 6-4 and stretch his winning streak in Grand Slam play to 18 matches.

    Italian Sinner, the U.S. and Australian Open champion, has won all 12 sets he has played this year on Parisian clay and looks in ominous form as he closes on a first French Open title.

    While Djokovic, Sinner and Zverev were all smiles, Britain’s dark horse Draper was heading for home after succumbing to a mesmeric display by Kazakh Alexander Bublik, who a few months ago questioned his future having dropped down the pecking order.

    The 27-year-old, among the most naturally gifted players on tour who has admitted to lacking the commitment of other top professionals, seized his moment to drop shot his way past young gun Draper to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final.

    Bublik, who had never got past the second round in Paris, hit a staggering 37 drop shots in his 5-7 6-3 6-2 6-4 win.

    “Standing here is the best moment of my life, period,” Bublik, in tears, told the crowd.

    “I’m standing here like I won the thing. I can’t cry here, let me be in peace, I’m a professional tennis player, I’ve got one more match, I’ve got to get ready.”

    Bublik’s victory was the second upset of the day after unheralded Boisson shook up the women’s draw with a shock 3-6 6-4 6-4 win over Pegula.

    Wild card Boisson outplayed the American favourite with the aid of a fierce forehand that had the Chatrier crowd on their feet.

    As if that was not enough for the home crowd, they also got to see the Champions League soccer trophy minutes later, after Paris St Germain’s victory over Inter Milan on Saturday.

    PSG forward Ousmane Dembele carried it onto the court to ear-splitting cheers as his team became the second French outfit to lift the European Cup after Olympique de Marseille in 1993.

    Second seed Coco Gauff was in no mood for surprises, however, as she brushed aside Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-0 7-5 to stay on course for her first title in Paris.

    Gauff, who got to the final in 2022 and semis last year, is the youngest American to reach at least the fourth round at seven straight Grand Slams since Venus Williams from 1997-1999.

    The Americans are guaranteed a semi-finalist with Gauff next facing Australian Open champion Madison Keys, who eased past Hailey Baptiste.

    Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva also booked a last-eight spot by overcoming Australian 17th seed Daria Kasatkina 6-3 7-5 to become the youngest player to reach back-to-back French Open quarter-finals in nearly three decades.

    (Reuters)

    June 3, 2025

  • What’s the point in standard chess, Carlsen wonders after table slam

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A seething Magnus Carlsen slammed his fist into a table after suffering his first defeat by world champion Gukesh Dommaraju in a classical game in Stavanger before the Norwegian wondered why he was still playing standard chess.

    On Sunday, Carlsen had his opponent on the ropes for much of the match in the Norway Chess 2025 tournament but his composure cracked under the pressure of a ticking clock and he committed a blunder that handed India’s Gukesh a decisive advantage.

    Carlsen slammed his fist on the table after the defeat before exchanging a quick handshake with Gukesh, apologising for his outburst and storming off.

    Norway Chess 2025 marks Carlsen’s first appearance in a standard tournament since the Chess Olympiad last September as the 34-year-old has been turning his focus onto Freestyle Chess, having relinquished his world title citing a lack of motivation.

    In Chess960/Freestyle chess, the starting position of the pieces on the back rank are reshuffled, meaning computer-backed preparations leading to sometimes dull openings are meaningless.

    “Losses are painful no matter what but at least if you can lose doing something you really enjoy it’s easier,” Carlsen said on Monday after a quick draw with world number two Hikaru Nakamura.

    “(In Freestyle chess) I don’t have situations like yesterday where I’m just wondering why am I doing this, what’s the point?

    “I will do my best in the last three games (here) and then we’ll see I suppose.”

    Carlsen’s outburst left Gukesh shell-shocked on Sunday, although the world champion said he also sometimes loses his temper over the board.

    “I mean, (the win was) not the way I wanted it to be, but okay, I’ll take it,” Gukesh told Chess.com.

    “… I’ve also banged a lot of tables in my career.”

    (Reuters)

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Censorship into art: why Iranian director Jafar Panahi’s subversive stories are getting the world’s attention

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Habib Moghimi, Academic, University of Sydney

    Iranian director Jafar Panahi has spent his career turning barriers into creative inspiration.

    Working under travel bans, house arrests and periodic detention, he had made powerful films that show everyday life in Iran through quiet moments, daily struggles, and small talk on streets under surveillance. He shows people who are restricted by repressive rules, yet who hold onto hope – albeit fragile.

    Although Panahi is banned from making films in Iran, he has managed to make a new film “underground” almost every two years. He recently stood triumphant as he received the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his thriller It Was Just an Accident (2025).

    The 2025 Sydney Film Festival’s retrospective Jafar Panahi: Cinema in Rebellion provides a valuable opportunity to look deeper into Panahi’s work, and understand how he makes impossible cinema possible through his unique position.

    A slice of life under censorship

    Panahi is one of Iran’s most important filmmakers – both because of the international recognition he has received, and because of the symbolic power he has gained through his fight for freedom of speech.

    His form of storytelling is rooted in the tradition of Iranian “social films”: dramas and melodramas focusing on everyday, ordinary life.

    He blends this tradition with the style and aesthetics of late director Abbas Kiarostami (who he worked with for some years), using elements such as long sequences, vehicles as a recurring motif, and self-reflexive approaches to storytelling.

    Panahi’s films not only focus on daily life, but treat cinema as part of that life. In other words, the filmmaking process becomes part of the narrative.

    He sometimes places himself within his films. In No Bears (2022), he plays a version of himself to explore the complexities of trying to tell a story while battling surveillance, the threat of exposure, and extreme cultural dogma.

    Panahi’s films feature characters rarely seen other works. For instance, in the short film Hidden (2020), the protagonist is a young woman who must perform out of sight due to restrictions on female voices in public.

    Similarly, in 3 Faces (2018), a girl from a small village sends a video to a famous actress, begging for help to study acting because her family won’t allow her.

    And Offside (2006) follows a group of girls who try to enter a football stadium by dressing up as boys to watch a World Cup qualifying match – highlighting Iran’s historical ban on women attending men’s football matches.

    Cinema as reality

    Panahi’s films try and look behind the curtains to construct a filmic representation of daily life in Iran. In doing so, they often blur the line between fiction and reality.

    In The Mirror (1997), a young actress suddenly stops acting and refuses to follow the script. Although this moment is not actually unscripted, it challenges the viewer’s sense of what is real and what is performed. The film turns into a kind of documentary as the cameras follows the girl on her journey home.

    His work also investigates how external forces can shape one’s internal world. In Closed Curtain (2013), a man hides his dog inside a dark house as dogs are viewed as “impure” by the public authorities.

    Halfway through the film, Panahi himself appears – again in the form of a filmmaker facing bans. While the film remains fictional, Panahi’s presence turns the narrative into a reflection on cinema and lived experience.

    We also see this approach in his subversive documentary This Is Not a Film (2011). Forced into house arrest, and facing a 20 year ban on filmmaking, Panahi films himself inside his apartment while exploring what it means to be banned from filmmaking – and whether filmmaking is possible without a crew or script.

    The tragedy in small hurts

    Panahi’s films are full of small moments that build into bigger truths – part of the heritage of Iranian social cinema.

    In The Circle (2000), different women move through Tehran facing rules that limit their freedom. At the end, the film loops back to its start, showing how their problems don’t end, but simply repeat.

    In Crimson Gold (2003), co-written with Abbas Kiarostami, a deliveryman is repeatedly humiliated throughout his daily life because of his social status. The film begins by showing the man attempting to rob a jeweller, before taking his own life – then moves backward to show how he built-up enough despair to commit the act.

    The real shock isn’t the act itself, but everything that led to it.

    Vehicles as a safe space

    Vehicles are everywhere in Panahi’s work: mobile spaces reside on the boundary between public and private life.

    In Taxi (2015), Panahi plays a cab driver whose taxi becomes a small stage for passengers to share their stories and opinions.

    In No Bears (2022), although Panahi is largely confined to a rural village setting, cars and motorbikes function as transitional spaces between different zones of privacy and publicity.

    Nothing onscreen is unintentional

    Panahis’s work resists simplistic ideas of the oppressed and the oppressor. These are not just stories about a heroic artist against an authoritarian state. They prompt us to ask: who really benefits from this binary? And what deeper political and cultural dynamics are at play?

    And he does this by using the restrictions imposed on him – and even his silence – as narrative tools. Censorship becomes part of the creative process. Not an obstacle, but a resource.

    Habib Moghimi 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. Censorship into art: why Iranian director Jafar Panahi’s subversive stories are getting the world’s attention – https://theconversation.com/censorship-into-art-why-iranian-director-jafar-panahis-subversive-stories-are-getting-the-worlds-attention-255221

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • South Koreans vote for president in hope of restoring stability after martial law crisis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Koreans were voting for a new president on Tuesday to cap six months of turmoil triggered by a shock martial law briefly imposed by former leader Yoon Suk Yeol that marred the country’s reputation as a vibrant, if at times chaotic, democracy.

    The new leader will face the challenge of rallying a society deeply scarred by the attempt at military rule and an export-heavy economy reeling from unpredictable protectionist moves by the United States, a major trading partner and a security ally.

    Turnout is expected to be high with polls open between 6 a.m. (2100 GMT Monday) until 8 p.m. following early voting when more than a third of the 44.39 million eligible voters cast their ballots.

    As of 11 a.m., 8.1 million people, or just over 18% of the electorate, had voted at 14,295 polling stations around the country, according to the National Election Commission.

    Leading candidates ended three weeks of official campaigning late on Monday, crisscrossing the country before converging on Seoul for final rallies, as they vowed to put months of turmoil behind them and breathe new life into an ailing economy.

    Both liberal frontrunner Lee Jae-myung and his conservative rival Kim Moon-soo have pledged change for the country, saying a political system and economic model set up during its rise as a budding democracy and industrial power are no longer fit for purpose.

    Their proposals for investment in innovation and technology often overlap, but Lee advocates more equity and help for mid-to-low-income families while Kim has campaigned on giving businesses more freedom from regulations and labour strife.

    Overshadowing any social policy initiatives, however, is Yoon’s botched attempt to impose martial law that has loomed large over the poll.

    Lee has called the election “judgment day” against Kim and his People Power Party accusing them of having condoned the martial law attempt by not fighting harder to thwart it and even trying to save Yoon’s presidency.

    Kim was Yoon’s labour minister when the former president declared martial law on December 3.

    The conservative Kim, on the other hand, has branded Lee a “dictator” and his Democratic Party a “monster,” warning if the former human rights lawyer becomes president, nothing will stop them from working together to amend laws simply because they do not like them.

    ‘POLARISED’

    The frontrunner Kim and his rival Lee cast their ballots during early voting last week. Yoon and his wife voted at a school near their private residence on Tuesday, appearing relaxed but ignoring questions as they left the polling station.

    Regular voters in Seoul urged the next leader to ease discord and restore stability and address urgent challenges from the fallout of the crisis that have touched their families personally.

    “The economy has gotten so much worse since December 3, not just for me but I hear that from everybody,” Kim Kwang-ma, 81, said. “And we as a people have become so polarised… and I wish we could come together so that Korea can develop again.”

    Lee is favoured to win, according to polls released a week before the vote, leading Kim by 14 percentage points with 49% public support in a Gallup Korea survey, although Kim had narrowed an even wider gap at the start of the campaign on May 12.

    Exit polls conducted by three television networks will be released at the close of the polls at 8 p.m. Ballots will be sorted and counted by machine first, then triple-checked by election officials by hand to verify accuracy.

    It was not clear when the result would emerge. In 2022, Lee conceded to Yoon at around 3 a.m. the day after the vote in the closest presidential race in the country’s history, which was decided by a margin of less than 1 percentage point.

    The National Election Commission is scheduled to certify the result on Wednesday and the winner’s inauguration is expected within hours. There will be no presidential transition as the office has remained vacant since Yoon was impeached by parliament and then removed by the Constitutional Court on April 4.

    (Reuters)

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing conference commemorates U.S. journalist whose 1937 book introduced Chinese communists to the West

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

    Beijing conference commemorates U.S. journalist whose 1937 book introduced Chinese communists to the West

    A commemorative conference on the 120th anniversary of U.S. journalist Edgar Snow’s birth was held on Friday at Peking University in Beijing.

    The commemorative conference on the 120th anniversary of Edgar Snow’s Birth and the academic symposium on establishing a more effective international communication system is held in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua)

    Snow was born in 1905 to an ordinary farming family in Missouri. In 1936, at a time when China was embroiled in internal conflict and faced external aggression, Snow made his way to the remote headquarters of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, where he conducted extensive interviews with top Party leaders, including late Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

    Snow’s firsthand reporting culminated in “Red Star Over China,” which was published a year later and provided not only the West but also China with a rare and authentic account of the Red Army, its leadership and its steadfast commitment to improving the lives of the Chinese people.

    After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Snow visited the country three times and was warmly received by its top leaders. He remained concerned about China following his visits, firmly supported the just cause of the Chinese people, and actively promoted friendly relations between China and the United States.

    Speaking at the conference’s opening ceremony, Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency, said that Snow was a sincere friend of the Chinese people, an envoy for China-U.S. relations, and a revered journalist.

    “Through his cross-border, cross-cultural journalistic practice, Snow provided the world on both sides of the Pacific with an accurate, multi-dimensional and panoramic view of China,” Fu said.

    “The values contained in Snow’s work — honesty, curiosity, courage in the face of political pressure — are ones that must be reaffirmed, renewed, even amplified to truly honor his memory,” said Samuel Colin Maclean, a relative of Snow and a representative of the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University.

    “Snow believed communication — unsentimental, unfiltered — was the only way to bridge the gap between the two countries and to prevent unnecessary conflict,” Maclean noted.

    As this year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Sun Hua, director of Peking University’s China Center for Edgar Snow Studies (CCESS), noted that “Red Star Over China” played a crucial role in introducing the CPC’s idea of forming a united front against Japanese aggression.

    Sun explained that as a result of Snow’s work, U.S. groups, including military observers, traveled to northern Shaanxi to support China’s anti-fascist efforts. “The book not only helped unite the Chinese people but also played a significant role in rallying international support, including support from the United States and Britain.”

    “Let us carry forward Snow’s spirit, bridging not only geographical distance but also divides in ideologies and worldviews, while promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning between nations and regions,” Fu said.

    Co-organized by Peking University and the Xinhua Institute, the event was attended by Snow’s relatives and close friends, as well as seasoned journalists and specialists on Edgar Snow studies and international communication.

    During the event, guests explored how China can focus on building a more effective international communication system, centering on topics such as “Presenting the real China to the World” and “Talent development & the legacy of Edgar Snow’s spirit.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: 600-year-old dragon kiln keeps tradition alive in China’s pottery capital

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

    In the heart of China’s pottery capital Yixing in the eastern province of Jiangsu, the ancient ritual of firing the 600-year-old Qianshu Dragon Kiln persists, a testament to enduring craftsmanship despite modern alternatives.

    This photo taken on May 22, 2025 shows teapots at a workshop in Yixing, east China’s Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/He Leijing)

    For more than 40 hours, workers meticulously fed firewood into the kiln, driving temperatures above 1,000 degrees Celsius. The climax comes with the opening of the kiln, revealing thousands of ceramic pieces like “blind boxes,” a major local event.

    Nestled amidst the rustic village houses of Dingshu Township in Yixing, the Qianshu Dragon Kiln is unmistakable — a long, black-tiled roof structure snaking up a slope, sheltering an earthen core built from rammed yellow soil.

    Dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), this kiln holds a unique status as the only one in Jiangsu still firing ceramics using traditional wood-burning methods. Measuring 43.4 meters long with a distinct north-south orientation, it comprises a head, a body and a tail, capable of holding roughly 8,000 ceramic pieces per firing.

    At precisely 9:58 a.m. on the Dragon Boat Festival, which fell on Saturday, the centuries-old Qianshu Dragon Kiln unveiled its latest treasures amid thunderous drums and undulating dragon dances. Over a thousand spectators gathered as a kiln master meticulously inspected each fireproof sagger container, his experienced hands assessing the integrity of every ceramic piece emerging from the dragon’s belly.

    Kiln firing remains the key to good ceramics. In southern China, the most popular kiln type is the dragon kiln, named for its dragon-like shape as it slopes along hillsides. Dating back thousands of years, the distinctive and efficient dragon kilns have played an indispensable role in China’s ceramic history.

    The dragon kiln was instrumental in forging Yixing’s reputation as the nation’s “pottery capital.” Recognized for its historical significance, the Qianshu Dragon Kiln was listed as a major historical and cultural site protected at the national level in 2006.

    “Originally, the dragon kilns fired daily necessities. Now, they primarily fire purple clay products, which is an invaluable cultural treasure here,” said Wu Xiaoyang, a local kiln master with over 50 years of experience.

    According to Wu, the purple clay from Huanglong Mountain in Dingshu is truly unique in China. Also known as “five-colored earth,” the surface layer of this clay appears reddish, while deeper layers take on a purplish hue. Remarkably, even the same clay can exhibit different colors when fired at the same temperature.

    Also in 2006, Yixing’s purple clay pottery-making techniques gained national intangible cultural heritage status. Evidence of this deep-rooted craft is visible throughout the area, with numerous family workshops advertising their ceramics and purple clay teapots.

    The Qianshu Dragon Kiln now stands as the last of its kind, mostly producing miscellaneous wares like tea caddies and other decorative or functional objects, with limited teapot firings, according to Yin Qiuxia, a local artisan who runs a family workshop. She’s been making purple clay teapots for 16 years.

    “Traditional dragon kilns symbolize Yixing’s ceramic artistry,” said Fan Weiqun, a national-level intangible cultural heritage inheritor. A fourth-generation purple clay artisan, Fan works from a studio adjoining the Dasheng Art Museum — which showcases his family’s legacy. “Dasheng” was the pseudonym of Fan Guangshan (1847-1902), a master potter whose teapots became so coveted that “a thousand taels of gold couldn’t buy one.” His son Fan Qinren (1875-1941) inherited the name, elevating its prestige with award-winning works exhibited across Europe and North America.

    “While kiln technology has evolved, dragon kiln firing preserves traditional techniques and aesthetics. This ceremonial aspect helps the younger generation understand intangible heritage,” Fan said. Honored as a master of arts and crafts in Jiangsu, the craftsman has also trained his daughter into a skilled purple clay potter.

    Contrasting sharply with the ancient kiln, most family workshops in Yixing now utilize electric kilns, where calibrated heat ensures uniform finishes without ash imperfections, Yin noted. Estimates suggest these modern kilns significantly reduce emissions compared with traditional wood firing — cutting annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 40,000 tonnes, sulfur dioxide by 131 tonnes, and nitrogen oxides by 114 tonnes.

    “For everyday ceramic work, electric kilns offer better temperature control, stability and higher efficiency, which is particularly suitable for young learners like us,” said Fan Qianwen, Fan Weiqun’s daughter. From childhood, she apprenticed at her father’s clay workbench, absorbing the artistry of Yixing’s purple clay pottery tradition through years of immersion in this renowned ceramic family.

    “The dragon kiln primarily serves to preserve traditional techniques, representing our cultural inheritance. For the youth, it’s also a psychological cultural landmark, signifying our roots,” she said.

    Despite the dominance of electric kilns, the ancient Qianshu Dragon Kiln is fired during special traditional Chinese festivals, accompanied by public opening ceremonies. These events have attracted crowds of local residents and tourists, with online livestreams garnering millions of views in recent years.

    When Fan Qianwen first turned to short videos and livestreaming in 2019, her father resisted. “He saw it as a break from our craft’s heritage,” she recalled. But the effort paid off. Sales figures that once took a decade of toil to achieve can now be reached in a mere two to three years — all by plugging Yixing’s time-honored purple clay teapots into the digital age.

    The “ancient craft meets algorithm” formula has proven successful for local artisans. Dingshu has established China’s first dedicated purple clay industry livestreaming base on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok. The hub now hosts over 8,000 businesses and employs 55,000 workers, with sales of purple clay products surging over the past two years, underscoring the sector’s rapid digital transformation.

    Yin began livestreaming her purple clay teapot-making process three years ago. In her studio, cameras now capture what was once a trade secret: the rhythmic kneading, sculpting and polishing of purple clay.

    “This is our way to authentically showcase traditional craftsmanship to collectors and enthusiasts,” she said. “Ultimately, it’s about preserving the purple clay culture.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Artist and location named for Barbara Rae bronze sculpture

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is delighted to unveil the artist and location for a new public statue to honour pioneering cricketer Barbara Rae, the top scorer at Australia’s first women’s cricket match held during the Bendigo Easter Fair in 1874.

    The permanent statue will take pride of place at the entrance to Queen Elizabeth Oval (QEO), a fitting tribute as Greater Bendigo’s premier sports stadium for cricket and football, and part of the Rosalind Park Precinct where the birthplace of women’s cricket occurred.

    Lis Johnson, a central Victorian artist and one of Australia’s most respected figurative sculptors, has been commissioned to create the permanent sculpture to celebrate the trailblazing cricketer.

    The artist has an impressive portfolio of crafting lifelike bronze figures. Her sculptures include the iconic Rod Laver statue at Rod Laver Arena, works at the Vietnam War Memorial, and the Avenue of Legends at the MCG. She is also known for celebrating the contributions of women and First Nations people through public art.

    The inaugural women’s cricket match between the Blues and the Reds at the Bendigo Easter Fair in 1874 raised funds for the Bendigo Hospital and Benevolent Asylum. It marked a bold step forward for women in sport.

    Primary school teacher Barbara Rae, who was 19, was pivotal in organising the inaugural match, recruiting players and enlisting coaches for training sessions at the local cricket grounds. Barbara captained the winning team and was top scorer.

    The sculpture is expected to be installed later this year following the City’s successful submission to the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program. It was developed to support the recognition of women’s contributions through public art. Barbara Rae’s was the first of six funded public artworks announced earlier this year to address the under-representation of women and their achievements in public life.

    Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said she was thrilled that Barbara Rae’s legacy was being celebrated in this way.

    “Barbara Rae was a trailblazer who defied the social norms of her time. This sculpture not only honours her courage and leadership but also sends a powerful message to women, girls and anyone who doesn’t fit the stereotypical mould—that cricket, and sport more broadly, is for everyone,” Cr Metcalf said.

    “Barbara’s public art will be only the second public statue in Australia commemorating a female cricketer. The QEO is the perfect location—our premier cricket and footy venue and part of the very precinct where Barbara made history.

    “This sculpture will ensure her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

    “The artwork is expected to be unveiled later this year marking a significant moment in both local history and the broader recognition of women in sport.”

    Lis Johnson said the commission was very special.

    “I’m especially happy in recent times to see the gender and diversity imbalance being addressed in commemorative public artworks, and to contribute to that,” Lis Johnson said.

    “I want to capture Barbara Rae’s youthful confidence and determination and to faithfully sculpt her many-layered intricate period outfit. The bronze sculpture will portray her poise and determination in a moment of free-spirited celebration.

    “I hope when people observe the Barbara Rae sculpture, they will see a renewed invitation to play, as if Barbara is saying ‘come on ladies, we can do this, ignore those ignorant critics, follow me – let’s play cricket!’.

    “I look forward to seeing Barbara’s sculpture proudly displayed in front of the QEO, inspiring curiosity and discussion for many years to come.” 

    Having created a maquette of the sculpture, Ms Johnson has used historical imagery to recreate the period cricket attire alongside leading costume designer Larry Edwards and is currently sculpting the full-sized piece in clay.

    Once the mould is created, a cast will be made in museum grade silicon bronze, lasting up to 1000+ years.

    The bronze statue will weigh 140kg and reach a height of 1900mm, set on a plinth sympathetic to the surrounding garden beds outside the QEO entrance gates. The statue will be unveiled in late 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Tiny dancers, timeless rhythms: children move to China’s cultural beat

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

    At only six years old, Zhuang Enqi is already on the road to mastering a centuries-old art — even if it means a long ride beneath the starry skies in Chaoshan, a region in south China’s Guangdong Province.

    Zhuang Enqi practices Yingge dance in Yujiao Village of Guiyu Township, Shantou City, south China’s Guangdong Province, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

    The journey often lulls the little girl to sleep in the back seat of her father’s car, but as soon as they arrive, she perks up with excitement. “Yingge is fun,” she said.

    At the Dragon Boat Festival on Saturday, Zhuang is set to perform Yingge — or “dance to the hero’s song” — in her home province. Dating back over 300 years, it blends theater, dance, and martial arts. With its forceful moves and bold, unrestrained style, Yingge remains one of the most festive and iconic traditions in the region.

    Zhuang’s enthusiasm mirrors a growing trend among the youngest generation in the country, who are increasingly discovering joy and a sense of identity in the rhythm of traditional culture.

    China has created a splendid civilization over millennia, but the hundred years following its military defeat in the 19th century were marked by humiliation, suffering, and a cultural decline.

    In recent years, as China strives for national rejuvenation, the country has elevated its cultural confidence to an unprecedented level. True rejuvenation, it is believed, requires not only material strength, but also spiritual strength — with fine traditional culture seen as the root and soul of the nation.

    The world’s second-largest economy has since poured resources into the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage. More museums and libraries have been built to preserve and showcase the nation’s rich legacy.

    With International Children’s Day falling within the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday, which runs through Monday, more children are likely to explore traditional culture with curiosity and wonder.

    Children race “dragon boats” at a kindergarten in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, May 28, 2025. (Photo by Ma Huabin/Xinhua)

    On Friday, in Changsha, central China’s Hunan Province — the birthplace of a story behind the Dragon Boat Festival — more students tried their hand at crafting miniature dragon boats from wooden pieces.

    Dragon boats are a hallmark of the festival in the region, celebrated with spirited races and the sharing of zongzi — sticky rice dumplings — in honor of Qu Yuan, a loyal statesman and patriotic poet from the State of Chu during the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.)

    While adults prepare their long, narrow boats for races, kids scurry nearby, lending their small hands and big cheers. Nearby, middle schoolers rehearse their paddle strokes in sync, gearing up for their turn on the water.

    Chinese travel platform Tuniu predicts a boom in “traditional culture-plus-family” tourism during the three-day holiday. In Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, ticket sales for classical operas and puppet shows at one theater have surged 12.6-fold compared to the same period last year, according to another tourism platform Tongcheng Travel.

    STRONGER IDENTITY

    Generation Alpha, those born after 2010, is being raised in a time when traditional culture is more robustly preserved and proudly celebrated, said Xu Junxian, a member of Guangdong’s intangible cultural heritage protection panel.

    From a young age, they immerse themselves in traditions like Yingge dance and dragon boat racing, forging a deep identification with their cultural heritage, Xu added. Zhuang is one notable example of this.

    Born into a family with a legacy of Yingge, Zhuang often followed her father to rehearsals, where she watched the dancers leap, spin, and roar with infectious energy. At home, the living room tells its own story: a toy drum, a black-and-white miniature snake prop, and tiny sticks — all playful versions of Yingge dance props — are strewn about, shared between her and her younger sister.

    In April 2024, the little girl charmed millions online as she was filmed spontaneously joining a Yingge parade on a street in Shantou — waving two sticks, dancing confidently, and roaring along to the beat of the drums.

    Her cool gaze and sharp moves captivated the Yingge dancers, who exchanged handshakes and fist bumps with her. Later, she was invited to train on Friday or Saturday evenings with a prestigious troupe.

    In Lixian County, Hunan, 11-year-old Jie Yutong joins his peers in chanting songs that local boatmen sang 500 years ago. Originally sung to rally the oarsmen braving rocky rapids, the songs have been adapted in pitch and technique for young singers.

    Why sing these songs today, when engines have long replaced manual paddling? Jie offers a simple answer: “Before engines, boatmen had to paddle. Their hard work deserves to be remembered.”

    Sometimes, children prove to be reliable custodians of traditional culture.

    Jin Chenle, a fifth-grader from east China’s Zhejiang Province, recently made headlines after spotting a typo in an exhibition on a classical opera at a local museum.

    He wrote to the provincial official in charge of cultural and tourism affairs, who not only corrected the mistake, but also sent Jin a handwritten letter of thanks. “I was surprised and excited,” Jin said. “They took it seriously.”

    The new generation, growing up in the era of mobile internet, are not passive recipients in global cultural exchanges, but active participants and communicators, said Lian Si, vice president of the Central School of the Communist Youth League of China.

    They are able to embrace diverse cultures from around the world while developing a keener appreciation for the unique appeal of Chinese culture, he added.

    At the Suzhou Archaeological Museum in Jiangsu, east China, nine-year-old Xu Xuhan marveled at a delicate hairpin from an ancient tomb recreated to full scale. “I want to know how our civilization began,” said the third-grader.

    Though she has yet to study history in school, her visits to exhibitions with her parents, including one on ancient Greece, have fueled her dream: “I hope to be an archaeologist.”

    INNOVATIVE PRESENTATIONS

    Lin Lunlun, former president of Hanshan Normal University in Guangdong and a scholar on cultural inheritance, attributed children’s fascination with cultural heritage to innovative presentation and interpretation.

    Immersive festivals, digital museum tours, and trendy cultural programs have opened vibrant gateways for young audiences to connect with their roots, he noted.

    Yingge exemplifies this transformation. Chen Pingyuan, a Guangdong native and Boya Chair Professor at Peking University, said, “When I was a kid, the dance wasn’t nearly as cool as it is now — they’ve mixed in elements from street dance.”

    Modern-day Yingge dazzles with dynamic choreography, bold formations, and striking costumes and props — far surpassing its past iterations.

    The troupe training Zhuang Enqi, for example, stands out with its vibrant branding and inclusive approach. Breaking from tradition, it welcomes members from outside the village and even provides free instruction.

    In Zhuang’s hometown, a women’s Yingge troupe is redefining the traditionally male-dominated art form, drawing inspiration from legendary heroines like Hua Mulan. Their graceful yet powerful routines radiate a fierce spirit that rivals any warrior’s.

    “I’ll dance until I’m 100,” Zhuang declared.  

    MIL OSI China News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, B&B Gates & Supply

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: B&B Gates & Supply of Lyon County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “The Pollema family has built B&B Gates & Supply on a foundation of community, craftsmanship, and care—creating American-made products paired with excellent customer service,” said Chair Ernst. “What began in an unheated shop has grown into a thriving family business, dedicated to keeping family farms and clients across the Midwest gated and moo-ving livestock where they need to go.”  
    In 1996, hog and cattle farmers Barry and Patty Pollema started B&B Gates & Supply on their family farm in Doon, Iowa. The business steadily grew from a part-time operation into a full-service livestock gates manufacturer. Due to its growth, the B&B Gates & Supply moved its operation into a 50,000-square-foot facility along Highway 75 in 2021. That same year, they built a retail store that served as a one-stop shop for agricultural necessities. Today, the family business has grown to employ more than 34 team members, with several of Barry and Patty’s children taking on key roles in the business. This year, B&B Gates & Supply will celebrate its 29th anniversary.
    Stay tuned as Chair Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Joining the Dots: Exploring Australia’s Economic Links With the World Economy

    Source: Airservices Australia

    Introduction

    I’d like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet today, the Yuggera and Turrbal people of Meanjin and pay my respects to Elders past and present.

    And thank you to the Economic Society of Australia [Queensland Branch] for giving me this opportunity to talk to all of you.

    I’m sure many are familiar with the Lenin quote ‘There are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen’. It certainly feels like the last few months fit into the latter category. The broad-based nature of the proposed US tariffs, retaliation from major partners and other policy shifts all have the potential to structurally alter the world economy. As recently discussed by our Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser, what happens overseas matters for the Australian economy and is therefore a key factor in monetary policy settings.

    In the recently released Statement on Monetary Policy (SMP) we outlined our thinking on how recent developments will influence the Australian economy. To help us understand the implications for Australia, we have developed a framework that captures the key transmission channels and combined this with a set of alternative scenarios that flex key assumptions and judgements. Together they underpin our thinking about how this environment will flow through the global economy and how Australia is exposed. The key transmission channels we have identified are:

    • Trade flows between countries are likely to realign, and over time multinational businesses could start moving production to different countries.
    • Households and businesses in the countries that apply tariffs are likely to change what they consume, as some products become relatively more expensive, and as prices change more generally.
    • Until it’s clearer where policy will settle, businesses and households are likely to become (understandably) more cautious, and potentially delay major decisions such as capital investment.
    • Fiscal and monetary policy can respond, potentially helping to offset adverse impacts.
    • Financial markets will respond by repricing all assets including equities, bonds, commodity prices and exchange rates. These moves impact financial conditions, which further impact firms’ and households’ decisions.

    I will now discuss these channels in more detail, including how they are embodied in the scenarios in the May SMP.

    Tariff policy and global trade flows

    Economic theory and evidence suggest that higher global tariffs will put a drag on the global economy. This is true in both the short and long run, though here I’ll focus on the short run as that is what is most relevant for monetary policy.

    For the country imposing them, tariffs are a tax on imports. In the short term, this makes imported goods more expensive and pushes up domestic prices, to the extent the tariff is not offset by lower profit margins in overseas producers and exchange rate adjustments. Higher import prices will mean less imports and shifts in demand towards locally produced products. But it takes time for domestic businesses to invest and expand, and for some products (such as raw materials) it may not be possible for domestic production to fill the gap. This means prices are likely to remain higher in the near term, which will reduce households’ purchasing power and therefore drag on business incentives to invest.

    Collectively, domestic demand in the tariff-imposing country falls, all else equal. If households expect the tariffs to have a sustained effect on economic growth, and so their future incomes, they may also cut back further on spending today. For the countries that are subject to higher tariffs, they will weigh on export demand and in turn their broader economic conditions. Domestic stimulus may offset some of these effects; in the May SMP our baseline scenario assumes that China will support its economy through expansionary fiscal policy. But for both sets of countries, any net weakening in demand growth will spill over to their trading partners.

    Overall weaker global growth would put near-term downward pressure on the prices of globally traded goods. For countries that are not imposing higher tariffs, such as Australia, this could flow into import prices, making products cheaper and lowering inflation. In the current episode, this ‘trade diversion’ channel could be amplified by the nature of the changes, in particular the US authorities’ focus on China. As a lynchpin of the global manufacturing supply chain, Chinese goods represent a large share of imports for many countries (including Australia). With the US market harder to access, Chinese producers could lower their prices and try to redirect their products to other markets.

    But working in the other direction, the broad-based nature of the increase in tariffs and increased use of non-tariff barriers such as export bans could create a new bout of supply chain disruptions. By increasing the cost of intermediate inputs that cross borders, such as commodities, machinery and equipment and components, tariffs could potentially lift the cost of production globally. This could push up consumer prices in all countries, particularly for more complex products, such as cars, whose components are sourced from a wide range of countries.

    Our current baseline scenario assumes that, overall, the weaker global growth environment will moderately dampen prices for tradable goods, all other things equal. That is, we expect weaker demand to outweigh the inflationary impact of any supply chain disruptions. We will be monitoring global trade flows and inflation data closely in the coming months to assess whether this judgement is correct.

    Uncertainty’s drag on economic activity

    Aside from the effects of changes to global trade that I’ve talked about so far, the unpredictability of where tariffs will settle and changes to other policy settings has the potential to create significant uncertainty, both around the nature of the policies themselves as well as their impact. And there is ample research showing that higher uncertainty can lead to declines in investment, output and employment.

    Typically, higher uncertainty leads firms to delay decisions that are costly to reverse, like investment and hiring. This makes sense intuitively, because there is value in waiting to see how things are playing out before making a decision that is (at least partially) non-reversable – something often referred to as ‘real options’ value. These ideas are borne out in the historical data. Research suggests that the negative impacts of higher policy uncertainty – including trade policy – are largest for businesses, as they typically pull back on investment. Some studies find higher uncertainty also has a measurable impact on household consumption, but this is typically more modest.

    Uncertainty is a bit of a slippery concept and there are lots of different ways of trying to measure it, but the graph below shows two (Graph 1). One – the global economic policy uncertainty index – is based on the number of news articles that talk about policy uncertainty. The other – the VIX – is a measure capturing how uncertain markets are about near-term equity prices. Both show a sharp rise in uncertainty recently, though the VIX index has declined in recent weeks.

    If we see businesses and households respond as they have in the past, then the current level of uncertainty will weigh materially on global activity. But the unpredictability and unprecedented nature of the current situation makes it hard to be precise on the size of the impact. In the SMP we have tackled this by using alternative scenarios that capture smaller and larger responses to uncertainty. The baseline scenario assumes a relatively modest drag, the trade peace scenario no significant drag, and the trade war scenario a substantial pull back in activity. Going forward we will be monitoring carefully which assumption is closest to how things unfold.

    Financial markets’ response

    This brings us neatly to financial markets. Movements in global asset prices after the United States announced its tariffs on April 2 capture how financial market participants initially evaluated their likely impact, and these movements broadly aligned with the channels I’ve already discussed. Equity prices declined sharply – particularly in the United States – at least in part reflecting expectations for the direct impact of the tariffs and the indirect impact via slower economic growth on company earnings. Expectations of lower future growth also meant that expectations for future central bank policy rates declined, which flowed through to bond yields (Graph 2).

    At the same time, increased uncertainty and risk led investors to require larger risk premia to hold risky assets. This was reflected in increased spreads on corporate bonds, and some increases in equity risk premia that put further downward pressure on equity prices (Graph 3). In other words, investors wanted more compensation for holding riskier assets.

    Some of these movements unwound in the following weeks after pauses in implementation of some tariffs. As of 30 May, financial market participants appear to be pricing in some downside risk to global growth, but they are no longer pricing in a material economic downturn. Consistent with this, expectations for central bank rate cuts have also been pared back.

    Still, there remains a risk that further changes to tariffs or other policy settings, or actual economic outcomes prompt financial markets to downgrade the outlook, which leads risky asset prices to fall sharply. If this were to occur, it would lead to a more sustained tightening in financial conditions, which would make it more expensive for businesses in particular to borrow or raise funds for investment. This outcome is embodied in the trade war downside scenario we presented in the May SMP and is a significant amplifier of the initial shock generated by the sharp hike in tariffs.

    Exchange rates

    One financial market that deserves some deeper discussion is the exchange rate. When the outlook for global growth weakens, the Australian dollar typically depreciates (falls in value) as investors expect our economy to be buffeted by the global headwinds and the RBA to respond with cuts to the cash rate. This makes our exports cheaper in foreign currency terms, which offsets some of the effect of weaker global demand.

    An additional driver of the Australian dollar in times of uncertainty is its status as a ‘risk-sensitive’ currency. When global investors are worried, they tend to focus on reducing risk exposure, moving their capital to low-risk assets in countries like the United States, Switzerland and Japan. This means the Australian dollar tends to lose value against these currencies, over and above the depreciation linked to weaker growth and expected cuts in the cash rate. This dynamic partly explains the movements during the global financial crisis (GFC) when the Australian dollar declined very sharply, even though the Australian economy was much less exposed to the global downturn (Graph 4).

    While the initial response of the Australian dollar during the current episode was in line with historical experience, the recent recovery against the US dollar in particular has been more unusual (Graph 5). The exchange rate has been volatile over recent months, but on a trade weighted basis is overall little changed in response to global events. It has appreciated against the US dollar (and therefore also the Chinese renminbi and other currencies pegged to the US dollar) but depreciated against most other major currencies.

    This appears to reflect some offsetting factors. Concerns about the growth outlook and related ‘risk-off’ dynamics contributed to the Australian dollar’s depreciation relative to several other currencies. But at the same time some investors have reduced their exposure to US assets, leading to broad US dollar weakness.

    The weakness in the US dollar during a period of heightened risk is in contrast with many previous episodes, though it’s too early to know whether this dynamic will continue. The return of the trade weighted index to its pre-shock value means that, on average, the price of our exports in foreign currency terms hasn’t changed. But the relative move of capital towards Australian assets compared to the United States reflects an increase in capital inflows, which could support domestic investment activity. We’ll be monitoring how these channels play out over time.

    The economy’s exposure to the current episode

    Trade flows linkages

    As previously outlined, when global conditions deteriorate and uncertainty increases Australia’s exports typically benefit from the currency depreciating, as this improves competitiveness. Although this channel may be less pronounced than in other episodes, Australia’s exporters are relatively well-placed to weather the storm.

    The fundamentals underpinning our exports make it likely that in volume terms at least they’ll be less impacted than other countries. Higher US tariffs on Australian exports are unlikely to have a material direct impact as Australian exports to the United States only account for around 1.5 per cent of Australian GDP, a low share compared with other countries (Graph 6).

    Furthermore, the structure and composition of Australia’s exports will potentially provide an additional buffer to export volumes. Resources make up 75 per cent of Australian good exports, and despite the exposure of China and other resource intensive countries to the tariff shock, we might expect export volumes to remain resilient in the short run.

    This is because Australia’s resource export volumes are less sensitive to movements in global demand than other exports as we are a relatively low-cost producer of bulk commodities like iron ore. You can see this on this chart, where most Australian iron ore miners sit on the lower left end of the production cost curve (Graph 7). Short-run declines in commodity prices tend to lead to reduced volumes from other higher cost producers, while Australian producers feel the impact via lower prices and so earnings.

    So far, the current episode has not seen a sharp correction in Australia’s key commodity prices, underpinned by a relatively positive outlook for China. This view assumes that the Chinese authorities will support their economy through fiscal stimulus and is embodied in our baseline scenario, with the downside trade war scenario encapsulating a correction. If this were to occur the income flows from commodity exports would fall significantly.

    By contrast, trade in services, which comprise around 20 per cent of Australian exports to the world, are more responsive to changes in global demand and the exchange rate. We can see this in the below chart, which shows historically how movements of services export volumes have correlated with changes in the real exchange rate, a measure of competitiveness (Graph 8). In the years following the GFC, the appreciation and depreciation in the exchange rate contributed to a decline and then strong rebound in services export volumes.

    Trade in services tends to react more strongly because some exported services tend to be easier to substitute and more discretionary. Travel services, for example tourism, are a key Australian export that might be affected by recent developments. Weaker global growth is likely to dampen demand, but any exchange rate depreciation will make Australia a more attractive destination. Simultaneously, travel service imports (i.e. outward tourism) may decline if the Australian dollar depreciates; holidaying overseas will become more expensive than taking a trip locally.

    Uncertainty dampener on households and businesses

    While key parts of Australia’s export volumes may be relatively resilient to global demand conditions and uncertainty, domestic demand is unlikely to be completely insulated. As discussed earlier, greater uncertainty about the future can lead households and businesses to save instead of spending and investing, and this is likely to be the case for Australian households and businesses too. And increased borrowing costs and risk premia in global financial markets are likely to spill into domestic markets, further weighing on activity.

    Previous research by RBA economist Angus Moore found exactly this. Higher global uncertainty has a large negative effect on Australian business investment, while the negative effect on consumption is more modest (Graph 9). Though the magnitude of these effects is itself very uncertain, this does suggest that global uncertainty may weigh substantially on domestic activity if uncertainty remains elevated. As with all of the other channels, we explore different assumptions for the size of this channel in the scenarios in the May SMP.

    Putting it all together for policy

    So how will the current unpredictable and uncertain global environment transmit through to the Australian economy? The short answer is we can’t be completely sure. The framework I have outlined identifies what we think are the key transmission channels, and we have used scenarios to simulate different alternatives. Within this range, the baseline forecast is for recent global developments to contribute to slower economic growth in Australia and a slightly weaker labour market. We also anticipate that, overall, the price of tradable goods will be slightly dampened. Together, these two outcomes mean that inflation is forecast to be a little lower than at the February SMP, settling around the midpoint of the 2–3 per cent target range.

    This forecast is based on several judgements, and assumptions about the potency of the transmission channels I have discussed today. These include how tariff policies evolve, how fiscal and monetary authorities around the world respond, whether trade diversion reduces the price of imports or global supply chains become heavily disrupted, and how much uncertainty weighs on economic activity.

    By using the framework and scenarios together we have anchored our thinking and cut through some of the uncertainty about the outlook. These were provided to the Monetary Policy Board to help inform their decision-making; taking all the information into account and considering the risks to the outlook, they decided to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points.

    What will happen from here? Going forward, the RBA will continue to monitor domestic and international outcomes and global policy developments. Benchmarking these against the scenarios in the May SMP will help us identify the scenario that best reflects current conditions and the outlook, enabling the Board to adjust policy settings accordingly.

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Hooning incident on new Bridgewater Bridge

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Hooning incident on new Bridgewater Bridge

    Tuesday, 3 June 2025 – 12:39 pm.

    Police are investigating reckless driving on the new Bridgewater Bridge overnight, involving dangerous and irresponsible hooning behaviour.
    The incident happened about 1.15am Tuesday in the northbound lanes. It was reported to police shortly after it happened and is now the subject of an active investigation.
    Police are working to identify those responsible and have urged members of the public to assist the investigation if they can.
    Hooning – including street racing, burnouts, and other dangerous driving behaviour – places innocent road users at serious risk. These actions are not only illegal, but demonstrate a complete disregard for the safety and wellbeing of others.
    Tasmania Police is increasingly frustrated by the selfish and reckless actions of a small number of individuals who continue to engage in this type of behaviour.
    The reality is simple. Sooner or later, someone will get seriously hurt or killed. And when that happens, the responsibility will rest solely with those who made the decision to break the law.
    In Tasmania, hooning offences carry significant penalties of up to 40 penalty units (currently $8080), imprisonment for up to six months, and vehicle confiscation
    Police urge anyone with information, or has access to dash-cam footage, to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
    Footage of dangerous driving can be uploaded via the evidence portal on the Tasmania Police website (police.tas.gov.au/report)

    MIL OSI News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: As government cuts bite, public service unions can use ‘soft power’ as well as strikes to win support

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jim Arrowsmith, Professor, School of Management, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University

    Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

    Cuts to the public service, the decision to halt all pay equity claims, and the tight 2025 budget mean public service workers are facing an uncertain future.

    Nowhere is this more apparent than in the health sector. Since the 2024 budget, Health NZ has faced several reductions across its workforce. Nurses and rest home workers were also among the 33 pay equity cases stopped to save nearly NZ$13 billion over four years.

    Last week, doctors at Gisborne Hospital announced plans to strike due to staffing shortages.

    Industrial unrest could well be a feature of the next 18 months and an influence on the current government’s fortunes.

    My ongoing research with union leaders, to be published later this year, maps out how they could emerge as a major force mobilising public opinion ahead of the 2026 general election – and how using “soft power” rather than just strikes could be key to success.

    This research is part of an international project looking at health sector union strategies in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

    The power of unions

    Public sector unions have the power to influence change thanks to their concentrated membership in certain sectors, and their ability to cause significant disruptions with strikes. The New Zealand Nurses Organisation, for example, represents 77% of the registered nurse workforce.

    But the potential power of New Zealand’s public service unions is tempered by their members’ commitment to the needs of the people they serve – for example, ensuring sick people still receive care.

    Public service unions also need support from the public, given the state is their ultimate employer. This means unions first have to use the soft power available to them before deciding to strike.

    For unions, soft power includes using employment rules and laws (“institutional” sources of power), alliances with groups representing people who use the sector’s services (“coalitional” sources), and messaging (“ideational”).

    In the fight over pay equity, for example, unions are using institutional means (equal pay legislation) to fight for increased wages. They are also building coalitions with groups that use their services, and are articulating a clear case of fairness and efficiency to build wider support.

    Even some lobby groups, such as Aged Care Association which represents aged-care facilities, have publicly supported union efforts towards pay equity, recognising the need for higher wages to address labour shortages.

    Many people in the public service such as nurses face a tension between industrial action while still meeting their commitment to caring for New Zealanders.
    Hannah Peters/Getty Images

    Healthcare is a political frontline

    In healthcare, the government pledged $8.2 billion in funding over four years in its first budget in 2024. In 2025, it set aside an extra $447 million for primary and out-of-hours care.

    But unions representing doctors and nurses say the government is “just treading water”, identifying 4,800 vacancies in the current plan.

    According to the unions, gaps include one in five senior hospital doctor positions and a quarter of hospital shifts lack sufficient nurses or midwives (the government has disputed these figures).

    The situation is exacerbated by Australia and other countries actively recruiting for healthcare staff. Rising living costs also make New Zealand a less attractive proposition to new migrants.

    Recent surveys by other major health unions focus on the impact of staff shortages on worker wellbeing and patient care. The scientific and technical union APEX reports a “workforce in survival mode” and the Public Service Association talks of “healthcare in crisis”.

    In the care sector, members of trade union E tū have detailed how chronic understaffing leads to work intensification and insufficient time to care for residential or home-based clients.

    A battle of messaging

    The unions’ message is one of a vicious circle where staff shortages increase workloads in already demanding jobs, accelerating the number of departures and damaging the provision of care.

    Addressing this, unions argue, requires better pay and more staff, including investment to grow the domestic pipeline of healthcare staff over the longer term.

    The government’s message, however, refers to past blowouts, fiscal discipline and the need for more private sector involvement, and longer hours to meet its targets.

    The question for unions is whether they will be able to get their messaging out to voters more effectively than the government.

    In general, the profile of healthcare workers in people’s lives can create a more sympathetic message. Unions have also begun a coordinated strategy to unify and actively engage members as a platform for political outreach.

    Campaigns such as the nurses union “Marangi Mai” (Rise Up) and E tū’s “Transforming Care” speak to workers more effectively than remote and protracted equal pay negotiations.

    Finally, legal action and protests marshal media attention.

    Cases filed under employment and health and safety laws expose “good employer” obligations and the need to ensure safe working conditions. “Informational pickets”, market stalls and alliances with user groups also get the message out, as do short sharp work stoppages.

    Amid the ongoing debate around healthcare and what the sector needs, it is clear unions will need to use soft power tactics as well as strikes to advocate for workers. The strategies implemented in the public sector may also provide a road map for private sector workers considering their own actions.

    Jim Arrowsmith 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. As government cuts bite, public service unions can use ‘soft power’ as well as strikes to win support – https://theconversation.com/as-government-cuts-bite-public-service-unions-can-use-soft-power-as-well-as-strikes-to-win-support-257006

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do our pupils dilate when we’re aroused? Anatomy experts explain

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amanda Meyer, Senior Lecturer, Anatomy and Pathology in the College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University

    His gaze softens as he draws closer to you. With one hand around your waist and the other cradling your jaw, he pulls you in. You look into his eyes, and notice his pupils have grown large and hungry.

    So the story goes in every other romance novel, where enlarged pupils are commonly enlisted as imagery to indicate sexual arousal. And it’s not unusual to read advice online suggesting dilated pupils are a sure sign someone you like also likes you back.

    But what does the science say?

    In fact, it’s true: our pupils really do tend to grow large when we’re aroused. Here’s why.

    What is the pupil?

    The pupil is an opening in the iris (the coloured part of the eye) which directs light through the eyeball and onto the retina.

    Typically this opening is 2-4 millimetres in diameter in bright light, and 4-8 millimetres in darkness.

    The black colour of the pupil is the colour of the inside of your eye. Surrounding the pupil are two tiny muscles of the iris which are under separate control.

    The muscle around the edge of the pupil acts like a sphincter. When stimulated by the parasympathetic nervous system (sometimes known as the “rest and digest” system), it contracts to close down the pupil.

    On the outside of the sphincter, another muscle acts like the springs holding the trampoline mat.

    When stimulated by the sympathetic nervous system (the “fight or flight” system), it shortens to enlarge the pupil.

    The pupil is an opening in the iris.
    rtem/Shutterstock

    Your pupils and the six ‘fs’

    There are two different mechanisms to make the pupils dilate.

    The first is by direct sympathetic nervous system stimulation causing the pupil to dilate (enlarge). This is triggered when you need or want to:

    1. fight
    2. flee
    3. feed
    4. fornicate
    5. get a “fix” (of illicit drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamine)

    The second is by stopping the signals of the parasympathetic nerves going to the sphincter muscle of the pupil. This is triggered when you need or want to focus (number 6).

    Together, these are sometimes known as “the six f’s”.

    So, is it the same for all of us?

    A meta-analysis of 550 heterosexual men, 403 heterosexual women, 132 lesbian women, 124 bisexual men and 65 gay men reported that pupil dilation is related to your sex and your sexual preferences.

    Overall, the study found men’s pupils dilate strictly according to their sexual preferences, and women’s pupils dilate more variably.

    The study found that heterosexual men’s pupils dilated more in response to erotic imagery of women, and gay men’s pupils dilated more in response to erotic imagery of men.

    However, lesbian women’s pupils also dilated more in response to erotic imagery of men, and heterosexual women’s pupils dilated for erotic imagery of men and women.

    Pupil dilation triggers can be different for different people.
    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    Are large pupils more attractive?

    Interestingly, a study of 60 young adults (aged between 18 and 26) found pupils of 5 millimetre diameter most attractive.

    A pupil of 5 millimetres is abnormal for situations in bright light. Could it be that we’re attracted to the types of pupils we’ve seen before in the relative darkness of an intimate setting?

    The idea of large pupils being attractive isn’t new. During the Renaissance in Italy, women used eye drops made from a poisonous plant called Atropa belladonna (belladonna means “beautiful woman” in Italian) to make their pupils dilate. This gave them a wide-eyed, “seductive” look (it also, unfortunately, was rather dangerous).

    The plant contains a chemical called atropine, which is still (safely) used today by ophthalmologists and optometrists to dilate the pupils for eye exams or surgery.

    Getting in sync

    Pupil dilation also plays a role in social and interpersonal interactions. Studies have found administration of oxytocin (a hormone associated with bonding and trust) enhances pupil responses to emotional expressions, suggesting increased sensitivity to social cues.

    Pupil dilation synchrony between people has been linked to better teamwork and mutual attraction, reflecting shared arousal states.

    This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “pupil mimicry” or “pupil contagion”, aligns with other autonomic synchronisations such as heart rate.

    It all goes to show that so much of connection and attraction is subconscious.

    So much of attraction is subconscious.
    RZ Images/Shutterstock

    What else can make the pupils dilate?

    Various substances and medical conditions can also affect pupil size. Stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall, anticholinergics (often used to treat Parkinson’s disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and certain medications such as phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), and benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) can all cause pupil dilation.

    So too can illicit drugs such as cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, LSD and cannabis.

    Some neurological conditions or closed angle glaucoma, as well as stressful situations, can cause the pupils to stay dilated (a condition known as mydriasis).

    If you have prolonged dilation of your pupils, you should speak to your doctor.

    Does intellectual or emotional arousal cause pupil dilation?

    When you are trying to solve a mathematics problem, listening carefully as you take notes, or listening to your favourite singer’s music, your pupils will enlarge.

    Anticipation of rewards, emotional conflict, and processing of emotionally charged stimuli – such as scary movies or certain trigger sounds – also lead to increased pupil size.

    Anxiety, pain, and even conditions such as fibromyalgia have also been linked to dilated pupils.

    Context is everything

    It is crucial to emphasise pupil dilation doesn’t automatically mean someone is aroused. Interpreting pupil dilation requires context, and you can’t assume big pupils means the person is attracted to you.

    Verbal consent and other behavioural cues are essential.

    If you’re wondering if the other person likes you, why not just ask?

    Amanda Meyer is affiliated with the Australian and New Zealand Association of Clinical Anatomists, the American Association for Anatomy, and the Global Neuroanatomy Network.

    Monika Zimanyi is affiliated with the Global Neuroanatomy Network

    – ref. Why do our pupils dilate when we’re aroused? Anatomy experts explain – https://theconversation.com/why-do-our-pupils-dilate-when-were-aroused-anatomy-experts-explain-257452

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Trial Offer of MEA System Capable of Simultaneous Measuring and Recording Data from Approximately 237,000 Electrodes

    Source: Sony

    Japan — Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (Sony), SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd. (SCREEN), and VitroVo Inc. (VitroVo) today announced that they have jointly developed and will offer on a trial basis a microelectrode array (MEA) system powered by high-density CMOS-MEA*1 equipped with approximately 237,000 electrodes. Combining Sony’s advanced sensing devices, SCREEN Group’s cellular electrical activity measurement technology, and VitroVo’s MEA-driven compound evaluation and data analysis knowledge, the MEA system makes it possible to measure and record high-density cell activity data which was previously difficult, and to visualize cellular activity in high definition. This innovation is aimed to contribute primarily to neuronal and cardiac disease research and drug discovery.

    MEA System Hardware

    Application and UI

    In the field of drug research and development, improved accuracy in efficacy assessment and safety evaluation in nonclinical testing, and further streamlined development processes are in demand. There have been currently growing needs for the new methods with advanced technologies and microphysiological systems such as organoids, human iPSC- derived nerve cells and cardiomyocytes, which enable the high accurate evaluation of the effects of compounds on a human body without the usage of experimental animal. They can offer a new approach to animal testing which is currently mandatory prior to clinical trials of new drugs. Also, the acquisition of more sophisticated cell data is expected to contribute to disease research initiatives.

    The three companies have come together to develop the high-density MEA system with the cooperation of the Tohoku Institute of Technology (Tohtech). Based on cell electrical activity data, the system enables observation of the differences between diseased and healthy cells and the response of cells to compounds on the single cell level. More specifically, Sony’s high-density CMOS-MEA,*1 which is currently in development, and the SCREEN Group’s cellular electrical activity measurement technology were combined to detect extracellular electrical potential with the high-density array of microelectrodes, which is then output as image data. Through this process, users can monitor the cell firing*2, measure and record the reaction. Furthermore, the system is equipped with an algorithm optimized by VitroVo (based on joint research by Sony and Tohtech) for compound evaluation and an analysis software to enable better operability for users. This makes it possible to quickly display analysis results such as cell firing frequency as calculated from electrical potential and image measurement data, on a monitor. These measurement and analysis capabilities enable acquisition of cell activity data with greater density than with conventional methods, allowing users to obtain test results that were difficult with conventional measurement methods.

    This system can support research on disease phenotypes based on high-density cellular activity data and the risk assessment or the more efficient efficacy evaluation of compounds for new drugs as alternatives to animal testing. Because the system enables observation of neurons, it will also likely be used in the research and development of new drugs for mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia, neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as in basic neuroscience research.

    To verify the efficacy of the system and evaluation method as well as promote technical development in the lead-up to commercialization, the three companies will jointly provide the system to corporations and research institutions involved in drug development on a trial base. In addition to SCREEN providing the system, VitroVo will offer support for introducing the system by consulting on cell culture procedures, custom data analysis, and interpreting test results. At the same time, VitroVo will begin offering contract research services to verify the effectiveness of the system. This trial offer will allow the three companies to accelerate system development and market surveys based on feedback from users, with the goal of commercializing MEA systems utilizing CMOS-MEA.

    *1  CMOS-MEA: A device that uses complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology and a microelectrode array to detect cell electrical activity
    *2  Cell firing: The phenomenon in which nerve cells generate action potentials, causing electrical excitation, releasing neurotransmitters, and transmitting information to surrounding nerve cells. Cell firing enables signal transduction in the brain and nervous system.

    About CMOS-MEA
    ・CMOS-MEA is a device capable of measuring cellular electrical activity in real time. A microelectrode array (MEA) in a dense formation on top of the sensor chip measures the electrical potential generated by the influx and outflux of ions associated with cell activity, then processes the signal and outputs it as image data. This technology makes it possible to check the effects of drugs and other compounds on cells and propagation processes using images.
    ・The CMOS-MEA currently being developed by Sony uses a reduced pitch between electrodes, resulting in a compact design with a highly dense array of approximately 237,000 electrodes. The high-speed A/D conversion and interface technologies that Sony has cultivated while developing image sensors make it possible to read data from all electrodes at once.
    ・Joint research between Sony and Tohtech has revealed that CMOS-MEA will enable high-definition cell monitoring that was difficult with conventional technology, and data analysis on the single-cell level. It has also shown promise for applications not only in drug discovery but also in a wide variety of disciplines such as biotechnology, biomedical science, medicine, and pharmacology. The results of their research have also been applied to the development of the system.

    ※Related Publications:
    ・Ikuro Suzuki, Naoki Matsuda, Xiaobo Han, Shuhei Noji, Mikako Shibata, Nami Nagafuku, Yuto Ishibashi, Large-area field potential imaging having single neuron resolution using 236,880 electrodes CMOS-MEA technology
    Advanced Science：https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202207732;DOI：https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202207732
    ・N. Matsuda, N. Nagafuku, K. Matsuda, Y. Ishibashi, T. Taniguchi, Y. Matsushita, N. Miyamoto, T. Yoshinaga, I. Suzuki, Field potential Imaging in human iPSC- derived Cardiomyocytes using UHD-CMOS-MEA.
    bioRxiv：https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.03.31.646249v1; DOI：https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.03.31.646249
    ・H. Takahashi, N. Matsuda, I. Suzuki, Analysis of β rhythm induction in acute brain slices using field potential imaging with ultra-high-density CMOS-based microelectrode array.
    bioRxiv: ・Sony: Hardware development including provision of the CMOS-MEA sensor
    ・SCREEN： Development of software involved in cellular data measurement and analysis, customer support for trial system offering
    ・VitroVo：Provision of contracted research services using the system, consulting on cultures and analysis upon introducing the system, and development of new utilization and analysis technologies

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Outstanding New Zealanders honoured

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has congratulated the 2025 recipients of King’s Birthday Honours.

    “Every person on this list has made New Zealand a better place. 

    “Locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally they are the proof that individual actions build a strong and thriving country.

    “I am inordinately proud that twice every year, we can easily find dozens of outstanding citizens to honour this way, and I would like to thank all of the New Zealanders on this list for their service and achievements.

    “To our new Dames and Knights, carry your Honour with the pride with which it was given,” Mr Luxon says.

    Appointed as Dames Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit are Ranjna Patel, Emeritus Distinguished Professor Alison Stewart, and Catriona Williams.

    “Dame Ranjna Patel has made a lasting impact across New Zealand in her service to ethnic communities, health and family violence prevention. She founded Mana for Mums for young Māori and Pacific women in South Auckland, co-founded a multi-cultural community centre, and co-founded Tāmaki Health, which has grown to become New Zealand’s largest privately owned primary healthcare group. In doing so, Dame Ranjna has helped hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders,” says Mr Luxon.

    “Dame Alison Stewart is an internationally renowned plant scientist with a 40-year career focused on sustainable plant protection, soil biology and plant biotechnology. She reinforces New Zealand’s stellar reputation in science and is an example of how our science community will continue to lead the world,” Mr Luxon says.

    “Dame Catriona Williams’ legacy in spinal cord injury goes back more than 20 years. This remarkable woman has been the founder and driving force behind the CatWalk Spinal Cord Injury Trust since its establishment in 2005. She has inspired countless people by her example of courage and determination in the face of adversity. Dame Catriona dedicates her time to engage with people who have experienced a spinal cord injury and are new to life in a wheelchair,” says Mr Luxon. 

    This year’s Knights Companion are The Honourable Mark Cooper, Brendan Lindsay, and Ewan Smith.

    “Sir Mark Cooper’s service to the judiciary is distinguished and longstanding. He became President of the Court of Appeal after being a Court of Appeal Judge from 2014 and a High Court Judge from 2004.  Sir Mark was Chairperson of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Building Failure caused by the Canterbury Earthquakes and his detailed findings and recommendations avoided delay to the Canterbury rebuild and provided a sense of resolution to the community at a time it was critical,” Mr Luxon says.

    “Businessman and philanthropist Sir Brendan Lindsay built a global brand producing sustainable and recyclable storage products stamped ‘Made in New Zealand’. Sistema was sold to an American firm in 2016, with the buyer committing in writing to keep production in New Zealand for 20 years. That business acumen has created a philanthropic legacy that has helped countless charities including Pet Refuge, Starship National Air Ambulance Service, New Zealand Riding for the Disabled and Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust,” Mr Luxon says.

    “Sir Ewan Smith is legendary in the Cook Islands. The founder of Air Rarotonga, he has grown the business to become the largest private sector employer in the Cook Islands. However, it is his passion and loyalty to his people that distinguishes him further. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he ensured no Air Rarotonga employee was made redundant, and the airline maintained essential cargo and medevac services throughout the Cooks. Everyone including himself was placed on a minimum wage and he provided mentorship, counselling and budget advice to staff. Sir Ewan exemplifies what it is to be a good employer and an outstanding citizen.

    “I would like to congratulate all 188 recipients of this year’s King’s Birthday Honours. We are proud of you, and we celebrate the example you set for others,” Mr Luxon says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Working with third-party providers: understanding your privacy responsibilities

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    26 Nov 2024, 16:00

    Download a printable A4 PDF version of this chart.

    On this page:

    Working with third-party providers
    Who is this guidance for?
    Your organisation is responsible for your personal information when stored or processed by a third-party provider
    What do we mean by third-party provider?
    Before using a third-party provider
    Example of a section 11 situation
    Protecting personal information once you’ve chosen a third-party provider
    Other things to consider

    Working with third-party providers: understanding your privacy responsibilities

    Your responsibility for the personal information stored or processed by a third-party provider comes from Section 11 of the Privacy Act.

    Personal information is any information which tells us something about a specific individual. People’s names, contact details, financial, health and purchase records can all be personal information. The information doesn’t need to name the individual, if they are identifiable in other ways, like through their home address or another identifier, or if their identity could be pieced together. Read more about what we mean by personal information.

    Return to top.

    Who is this for?

    This guidance is for organisations who are thinking about using a third-party provider, or those who already do. If you use a third-party provider to store or process personal information on your behalf, you are still responsible for what happens to that information.

    This guidance explains what you must think about when you are choosing a third-party provider and what your ongoing responsibilities are. We have a wider suite of guidance ‘Poupou Matatapu’ to find out more about how to ‘do privacy well’ and what good privacy practice looks like.

    Return to top.

    Your organisation is responsible for your personal information when stored or processed by a third-party provider

    The key thing to remember is that you remain responsible for personal information that you send to a third-party provider.

    What do we mean by third-party provider?

    ‘Third-party’ means an organisation external to your organisation.

    ‘Third-party provider,’ also known as a ‘third-party’ or ‘service provider,’ is a broad term that can be applied to a range of external organisations that provide services to your organisation, such as storing or processing information on your organisation’s behalf. Software as a Service (SaaS) or cloud service providers are a classic example. However, there is a wide range of other third-party providers you might contract with who may need to store or process personal information provided by your organisation to deliver their service to you.

    For example, you might:

    • Share employee pay information with an external payroll provider or accountant.
    • Contract a company to collect information for a survey.
    • Use another organisation to provide personalised services for your customers.
    • Use an intermediary platform that shares the information with other third parties.

    Return to top.

    Before using a third-party provider

    Before you engage a third-party provider, you need to understand:

    • What types of personal information you’ll share with them, or they’ll collect on your behalf.
    • What they will do with it.

    Do they need personal information?

    First, understand whether your organisation needs to provide personal information to the third-party provider at all. You should consider if you can achieve the results you want from a third-party provider without providing any personal information.

    For example, your organisation might like to use a third-party marketing agency to provide advertising services. Marketing agencies can offer a range of services, from sourcing advertising on billboards or online advertising (which would not require any personal information), to using the information collected from an organisation’s existing customer database to create marketing strategies (which might require personal information, depending on the task).

    Think about whether supplying aggregated, non-personal information might enable the marketing agency to perform the service adequately.

    Please note: when changing the way you use clients’ or staff’s personal information, you need to assess the privacy risk and make sure you’re being transparent through your privacy statement to reflect any changes in use of personal information. We have guidance on how to improve your privacy transparency. We also have a PIA toolkit available to help assess the privacy risks.

    What kind of personal information is it?

    It’s important to understand the level of privacy risk that you’ll need to manage with your third-party provider. We have guidance on different kinds of personal information that may carry higher privacy risk, such as where the information is sensitive or confidential.

    For example, an organisation might employ the use of a third-party software provider to manage their payroll. Information required to process payroll can be sensitive, such as bank account and IRD numbers. Appropriate security measures need to be in place. We have guidance on handling sensitive information.

    Due diligence

    You will need to be confident that the information is protected wherever it is, and whatever organisation is handling it. Ask questions that enable you to have that confidence (this is normally referred to as ‘due diligence’), and ask those questions early, before you commit to using the provider.

    Any subsequent contract with that provider should satisfactorily reflect the key protections that you expect to be in place. It should also require the third-party to ensure that any subcontractors or support agencies will equally protect the information. Your organisation needs to know whether the third-party provider will use or disclose the personal information that you provide for its own business purposes. 

    What will the third-party provider do with the information?

    There are a range of services that third-party providers offer. Some third-party providers will merely store the information and some will process the information for you (for example, a service providing data analytics). Some may themselves use third-party services such as generative AI tools to store or process the information.

    A key thing to understand is whether the third-party provider will use the information for their own purposes or not. Some examples of third parties using information for their own purposes could be when your information is used as AI training data or using the information you provide for services to other organisations.

    If the third-party provider is storing or processing the information solely on your behalf (for example storing information as a cloud service) and will not use or disclose it for its own purposes, section 11 of the Privacy Act says that the third-party provider is not deemed to “hold” the personal information for the purposes of the Privacy Act. This also means that you are not “disclosing” the information to them, which means you do not need to worry about the Privacy Act’s disclosure principle (IPP 11). But as a result, your organisation remains fully responsible under the Privacy Act for what happens to that information. The third-party is “you” for the purposes of the Privacy Act.

    If the third-party provider will use or disclose the information for its own purposes, as well as performing services for you, then both the third-party provider and your organisation will be deemed to “hold” that information for the purposes of the Privacy Act. That means you will both be responsible for the information in various ways depending on how it is being stored or used. Sharing personal information with that third-party provider could also be a “disclosure” and you will need to make sure that sharing the information is allowed under IPP11. IPP12 may also be relevant if the third-party provider is not based in New Zealand.

    In addition, both your organisation and the third-party provider may be accountable if there is a privacy breach. This means that your organisation and the third-party provider need to have a plan to outline who will notify OPC and individuals affected in case there is a breach. We have guidance on who should notify OPC and affected individuals. 

    Return to top.

    Example of a section 11 situation: Wonder Bottling Ltd uses third-party Big Data Analytics

    Wonder Bottling Ltd wants to use the third-party Big Data Analytics Ltd to run Wonder Bottling’s website. Big Data Analytics will store all website data, including personal information provided by customers to Wonder Bottling via web forms. It will also process the information stored and provided to the website to provide website analytics to Wonder Bottling Ltd.

    Big Data Analytics is not using Wonder Bottling Ltd’s information for another purpose or service, such as using Wonder Bottling Ltd’s data insights to provide a service to another organisation. It is solely storing and processing information for Wonder Bottling Ltd. Under section 11, this means that Wonder Bottling Ltd is responsible for anything that happens to that information while it is being stored or processed by Big Data Analytics.

    For instance, if Big Data Analytics is the subject of a notifiable privacy breach in relation to the personal information transmitted by Wonder Bottling, Wonder Bottling would be responsible for notifying the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) and affected individuals. In their agreement, Big Data Analytics should be required to inform Wonder Bottling about any breaches of that information so that Wonder Bottling can fulfil this requirement.

    However, if Big Data Analytics were to change how it operates and start using that information for another purpose, Big Data Analytics would have its own obligations under the Privacy Act, such as responsibilities to make sure the information is accurate and fit for purpose under IPP8, and to use the information in line with IPP10. 

    Return to top.

    Protecting personal information once you’ve chosen a third-party provider

    Since your organisation is legally responsible for anything that happens to the personal information that a third-party provider stores or processes for you (whether or not that third-party is also responsible), you should make sure that you have a robust agreement in place with them that requires them to keep the information safe and gives you a remedy when things go wrong.

    What should be in an agreement with a third-party provider?

    Security measures

    An organisation needs to do everything within its power to prevent unauthorised use or disclosure of personal information. This means that your organisation needs to get assurances that the third-party provider has the appropriate security measures in place to protect any information it stores or processes on your behalf. The more sensitive the information is, the stronger those assurances may need to be.

    Our guidance on security and access controls provides examples of the types of security measures the third-party provider should take to protect the personal information it stores. Your organisation may wish to seek regular reporting from the third-party provider on the effectiveness of the measures.

    Individuals’ right to access and correct the information your organisation holds about them

    The Privacy Act requires you to give people access to their personal information if they ask you to, and correct that information if it is wrong. There are also strict statutory timeframes for responding to requests. Those timeframes don’t change when the information is stored by a third-party rather than by you. You need to ensure that your agreement with the third-party provider includes provisions that make sure you can locate and retrieve information quickly, so you can meet your obligations.

    Read our guidance on access and correction of personal information.

    Reporting notifiable privacy breaches

    The reporting of notifiable privacy breaches also needs to be factored into your agreement with a third-party provider, including how it will notify you of any breaches it has, and whether it will notify you of all breaches or only ones that it considers are notifiable. We strongly recommend that the contract requires the third-party provider to notify you of all breaches that affect the personal information it is storing or processing on your behalf, so that you can then decide what to do.

    Your organisation will be responsible under the Privacy Act for reporting notifiable privacy breaches to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner so you need to be satisfied that the third-party provider will promptly notify you of breaches. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner generally expects to be told about notifiable breaches within 72 hours of the breach becoming known. That period starts when the third-party provider knows about the breach, not when they tell you, so it is important to make sure that you are told as soon as possible.

    Poupou Matatapu has more information on notifiable privacy breaches, including the obligation to notify affected individuals. 

    Third-party compliance with the Privacy Act

    Your agreement should make sure there are contractual obligations on the third-party provider to comply with all applicable privacy laws.

    Disposal of personal information during and after the agreement

    Organisations must not keep personal information for longer than they need. It’s important that your agreement outlines how long the third-party provider will store the personal information on your behalf. In short, the third-party provider should only retain the information for as long as you want it to and are permitted to yourself. Ideally, you should be able to delete the information yourself as retention periods are reached or your circumstances change.

    The agreement should also outline what will happen to the information at the end of the agreement. Will it be transferred back to you? How will it be disposed of? Can the third-party provider give you assurances that the information has been permanently deleted (including from backups)? Poupou Matatapu has more guidance on retention and disposal in the Know your Personal Information Pou.

    Assurance that the third-party provider will only use the personal information for delivering the services

    Your agreement should include an assurance that the third-party provider will only use the personal information it stores or processes on your behalf to deliver the services you have requested, as outlined in the agreement. Remember, that if the third-party provider will be using or disclosing the information for its own purposes, the third-party will have its own obligations under the Privacy Act.

    Checklist for what should be in your agreement with a third-party service provider:

    1. Appropriate security measures.
    2. Facilitation of access and correction requests.
    3. Process and time frame for notifying you of privacy breaches, especially notifiable breaches.
    4. Compliance with relevant privacy laws.
    5. The third-party’s use of the information you provide.

    Return to top.

    Other things to consider

    • If you’re sending personal information to a third-party provider to process, store, or use on your behalf, you need to make sure you are transferring the information securely. Poupou Matatapu has information on security and internal access controls.
    • Use a Privacy Impact Assessment to assess and record the privacy risks associated with using a particular third-party provider. We have a PIA toolkit available to help.
    • If you’re using a third-party provider based in another country, consider your practical ability to control your personal information and ensure it is being handled in line with the New Zealand Privacy Act.
    • Consult with stakeholders or affected communities if the personal information is particularly sensitive, or where there are Māori data sovereignty implications.

    Download a PDF version of this guidance.

    Return to top.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 3, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 3, 2025.

    In her memoir, Jacinda Ardern shows a ‘different kind of power’ is possible – but also has its limits
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Grant Duncan, Teaching Fellow in Politics and International Relations, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images Imagine getting a positive pregnancy test and then – just a few days later – learning you’ll be prime minister. In hindsight, being willing and able to deal with the

    Google’s SynthID is the latest tool for catching AI-made content. What is AI ‘watermarking’ and does it work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By T.J. Thomson, Senior Lecturer in Visual Communication & Digital Media, RMIT University HomeArt/Shutterstock Last month, Google announced SynthID Detector, a new tool to detect AI-generated content. Google claims it can identify AI-generated content in text, image, video or audio. But there are some caveats. One of them

    What parents and youth athletes can do to protect against abuse in sport
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fanny Kuhlin, PhD candidate in Sport Management (Sport Science), Örebro University Ron Alvey/Shutterstock From the horrific Larry Nassar abuse scandal in United States gymnastics to the “environment of fear” some volleyball athletes endured at the Australian Institute of Sport, abuse in sport has been well documented in

    Astronomers thought the Milky Way was doomed to crash into Andromeda. Now they’re not so sure
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ruby Wright, Forrest Fellow in Astrophysics, The University of Western Australia Luc Viatour / Wikimedia, CC BY-SA For years, astronomers have predicted a dramatic fate for our galaxy: a head-on collision with Andromeda, our nearest large galactic neighbour. This merger – expected in about 5 billion years

    Is the private hospital system collapsing? Here’s what the sector’s financial instability means for you
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yuting Zhang, Professor of Health Economics, The University of Melbourne lightpoet/Shutterstock Toowong Private Hospital in Brisbane is the latest hospital to succumb to financial pressures and will close its doors next week. The industry association attributes the psychiatric hospital’s closure to insufficient payments from and delayed funding

    Trump’s steel tariffs are unlikely to have a big impact on Australia. But we could be hurt by what happens globally
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Scott French, Senior Lecturer in Economics, UNSW Sydney Shestakov Dymytro/Shutterstock Just one day after the US Court of Appeals temporarily reinstated the Trump Administration’s Liberation Day tariffs of between 10% and 50% on nearly every country in the world, Trump announced tariffs on all US imports of

    Tax concessions on super need a rethink. These proposals would bring much needed reform
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Murphy, Visiting Fellow, Economics (modelling), Australian National University fizkes/Shutterstock The federal government has proposed an additional tax of 15% on the earnings made on super balances of over A$3 million, the so-called Division 296 tax. This has set off a highly politicised debate that has often

    The surprising power of photography in ageing well
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tricia King, Senior Lecturer in Photography, University of the Sunshine Coast Marcia Grimm Older adults are often faced with lifestyle changes that can disrupt their sense of place and purpose. It may be the loss of a partner, downsizing their home, or moving to residential aged care.

    What birds can teach us about repurposing waste
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Farrier, Professor of Literature and the Environment, University of Edinburgh Some birds use deterrent spikes to make their nests. Chemari/Shutterstock Modern cities are evolution engines. Urban snails in the Netherlands and lizards in Los Angeles have developed lighter shells and larger scales to cope with the

    Human Rights Watch warns renewed fighting threatens West Papua civilians
    Asia Pacific Report An escalation in fighting between Indonesian security forces and Papuan pro-independence fighters in West Papua has seriously threatened the security of the largely indigenous population, says Human Rights Watch in a new report. The human rights watchdog warned that all parties to the conflict are obligated to abide by international humanitarian law,

    Will surging sea levels kill the Great Barrier Reef? Ancient coral fossils may hold the answer
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jody Webster, Professor of Marine Geoscience, University of Sydney marcobriviophoto.com In the 20th century, global sea level rose faster than at any other time in the past 3,000 years. It’s expected to rise even further by 2100, as human-induced climate change intensifies. In fact, some studies predict

    Pro-Trump candidate wins Poland’s presidential election – a bad omen for the EU, Ukraine and women
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Simpson, Senior Lecturer, International Studies, University of South Australia Poland’s presidential election runoff will be a bitter pill for pro-European Union democrats to swallow. The nationalist, Trumpian, historian Karol Nawrocki has narrowly defeated the liberal, pro-EU mayor of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, 50.89 to 49.11%. The Polish

    Australia’s latest emissions data reveal we still have a giant fossil fuel problem
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Lovell, Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering, UNSW Sydney According to Australia’s Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, the latest emissions data show “we are on track to reach our 2030 targets” under the Paris Agreement. In 2024, Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions were “27% below 2005

    What is retinol? And will it make my acne flare? 3 experts unpack this trendy skincare ingredient
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laurence Orlando, Senior Lecturer, Product Formulation and Development, Analytical Methods, Monash University Irina Kvyatkovskaya/Shutterstock Retinol skincare products suddenly seem to be everywhere, promising clear, radiant and “youthful” skin. But what’s the science behind these claims? And are there any risks? You may have also heard retinol can

    Pasifika recipients say King’s Birthday honours not just theirs alone
    By Teuila Fuatai, RNZ Pacific senior journalist, Iliesa Tora, and Christina Persico A New Zealand-born Niuean educator says being recognised in the King’s Birthday honours list reflects the importance of connecting young tagata Niue in Aotearoa to their roots. Mele Ikiua, who hails from the village of Hakupu Atua in Niue, has been named a

    Eugene Doyle: Writing in the time of the Gaza genocide
    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle I want to share a writer’s journey — of living and writing through the Genocide.  Where I live and how I live could not be further from the horror playing out in Gaza and, increasingly, on the West Bank. Yet, because my country provides military, intelligence and diplomatic support to Israel

    Decades of searching and a chance discovery: why finding Leadbeater’s possum in NSW is such big news
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Lindenmayer, Distinguished Professor of Ecology, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Until now, Victorians believed their state was the sole home for Leadbeater’s possum, their critically endangered state faunal emblem. This tiny marsupial is clinging to life in a few pockets of mountain

    In Bradfield, the election is not yet over. What happens when a seat count is ultra close?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Graeme Orr, Professor of Law, The University of Queensland Election day was over four weeks ago. Yet the outcome in one House of Representatives remains unclear. That is the formerly Liberal Sydney electorate of Bradfield. In real time, you can watch the lead tilt between Liberal hopeful,

    Is there a right way to talk to your baby? A baby brain expert explains ‘parentese’
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Herbert, Associate Professor in Developmental Psychology, University of Wollongong 2p2play/Shutterstock You might have seen those heartwarming and often funny viral videos where parents or carers engage in long “talks” with young babies about this and that – usually just fun chit chat of no great consequence.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More to the case following traffic stop

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Night shift staff pursued a lead that led to a great catch for Mt Wellington Police this morning.

    At around 3.20am, units were patrolling near Penrose Road when they stopped a vehicle.

    “Once stopped the officers noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from inside,” Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy says.

    “A search of the vehicle was invoked and resulted in a guitar case containing an unloaded military style pump action shotgun was located in the boot.”

    Also found were four shotgun shells, a small amount of cannabis and cannabis paraphernalia.

    “This was great proactive police work by our officers, which has resulted in a high-powered weapon being removed from our community,” Inspector Dolheguy says.

    A 34-year-old male will appear in the Auckland District Court this morning charged with possessing a firearm and possessing cannabis.

    ENDS.

    Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 3, 2025
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