Police Taskforce Accountable to target recidivist offenders in Clarence

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Police Taskforce Accountable to target recidivist offenders in Clarence

Thursday, 5 June 2025 – 3:04 pm.

Police launched Taskforce Accountable yesterday to target recidivist offenders in the Clarence Division.
Inspector Andrew Keane said Taskforce Accountable consists of plain clothes officers from Bellerive Police Station who will be patrolling major shopping and transit precincts in Clarence Division.
“Taskforce Accountable will target the recidivist offenders who are responsible for the majority of our violent shop stealing and assaults on retail workers,” said inspector Keane.
“The Taskforce will be supplemented by high visibility foot patrols over the coming months, and aims to detect and deter illegal and antisocial behaviours in the Clarence Division.”
Between 9am and 9pm yesterday, Taskforce Accountable and Uniform Police detected, arrested and charged nine offenders (four adults and five youths) in relation to offences at Glebe Hill, Eastlands and Lindisfarne shopping centres as well as McDonalds Rosny.
Offenders were charged with a range of offences including:

Stealing
Stealing with force
Unlawful possession
Possession of dangerous articles
Common assault
Computer related fraud
Trespass
Possession of housebreaking implements
Drug offences, and
Fail to comply with police directions and/or court bail.

Property recovered and being returned to the owners included clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, and power tools.
“Everyone has the right to be safe in our community, and illegal activities and anti-social behaviours will not be tolerated by police.”
Anyone who witnesses antisocial or illegal behaviours is encouraged to report to police on 131 444 or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Information can also be reported anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Payments System Board Update: June 2025 Meeting

Source: Airservices Australia

At its meeting today, the Payments System Board discussed a number of issues, including:

  • ASX’s response following the CHESS batch failure incident in December 2024. The Board discussed ASX’s response to the RBA’s out-of-cycle assessment of ASX Clear and ASX Settlement, which required ASX to set out how it would strengthen resourcing and implement contingency arrangements for CHESS. The response did not address key parts of the issues raised in the assessment and provided insufficient detail on ASX’s plans to remediate these issues. The RBA has taken further steps to obtain this information and has now received additional details. The Board requested the staff to continue exploring regulatory options on resourcing for current CHESS and to ensure CHESS Replacement is designed with an appropriate level of resilience for critical financial market infrastructure.
  • Financial market infrastructure regulatory reforms and resolution planning. The Board welcomed progress in operationalising powers to prevent or resolve a crisis at an Australian clearing and settlement facility. The Board endorsed a public consultation on guidance that will provide stakeholders with information about when and how the RBA would generally expect to exercise its crisis resolution powers. The public consultation is expected to commence shortly.
  • The safety and resilience of Australia’s real-time gross settlement system. The Board received an update on progress against the recommendations from the March 2024 Assessment of the Reserve Bank Information and Transfer System (RITS). The update covered key areas of oversight focus, such as change management and cyber resilience, as well as updates regarding the RBA’s uplift in risk management and culture, IT controls framework, and the operating model for RITS. The Board acknowledged that while meaningful progress has been made, it is unlikely that these improvements will take full effect by the next assessment of RITS, which is scheduled for March 2026.
  • Review of merchant card payment costs and surcharging. The Board discussed various policy options stemming from its review into card payment costs and surcharging aimed to promote the public interest by supporting competition, efficiency and safety in the payments system. The RBA expects to release a consultation paper in July, which will seek feedback on the Board’s preliminary conclusions and draft revisions to the RBA’s standards.
  • Improving security, efficiency and competition for online card payments. The Board welcomed the Standard for Payment Service Provider Porting of Merchant Payment-Related Data (the Standard), developed by AusPayNet in consultation with industry. The Standard details a common set of requirements for the transfer of customer payment data between providers, to support merchants switching providers, including to access better payment plans. The Board expects industry participants to comply with the Standard by 1 July 2026. This is consistent with the RBA’s previously issued Expectations for Tokenisation of Payment Cards and Storage of PANs, which is aimed at improving security, efficiency and competition for online card payments.
  • ATM Access Regime. The Board approved minor amendments to the ATM Access Regime to accommodate a change in the way the associated ATM Access Code is administered by industry.
  • Amendment to the RBA policy on conflicts of interest to support constructive engagement with the payments industry. The Board approved an amendment to the RBA’s policy on Managing Potential Conflicts of Interest Arising from the RBA’s Commercial Activities to allow staff from Payments Policy Department and Banking Department to simultaneously observe and/or participate in industry committees or working groups with broad representation. This will enable staff to identify payments policy issues early and encourage industry to voluntarily put in place solutions that achieve the RBA’s public interest objectives.

Quick action and a defibrillator save a firefighter

Source:

A CFA volunteer has had the opportunity to say thank you to fellow volunteers and paramedics who helped save his life.

John Moyes, a volunteer with Yarragon Fire Brigade, suffered a cardiac arrest while responding to a grass and scrub fire on Tuesday 4 March 2025 in Yarragon.

Shortly after arriving at the scene, John collapsed.

Crews from Trafalgar were on scene battling the blaze and Commander Greg Fisher said he immediately snapped into action.

“We had to fight the fire, but we also needed to help John,” he said.

“Thankfully, our members are first-aid trained, and we were able to quickly begin doing what we needed to do.”

Immediately following contact with Triple Zero (000), Trafalgar Fire Brigade members, Sally Neenan, Colin Proctor, and Danny Mynard, got to work on John, starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and attaching an automated external defibrillator (AED) from one of the trucks.

“It was all a bit of a blur,” Danny said.

“But my training kicked in and I just did what I had to do to help save John.”

Sally said John collapsed behind her and having just refreshed her CPR knowledge just months before, she was able to help save John.

“It was daunting but it really drives home the importance of having your first-aid and CPR training even if you’re just a member of the community. This could have happened anywhere,” she said.

Colin said having an AED was a huge help to their CPR efforts.

“We were really glad to have the defibrillator right there on the truck,” he said.

The trio continued CPR, delivering three shocks with the AED prior to the arrival of Ambulance Victoria paramedics. At the time of handover, John remained pulseless and unconscious.

Paramedics took over care, intubated John and placed him into an induced coma. He was transported in a critical condition to the Victorian Heart Hospital for specialist care.

John said he was “forever indebted” to those who intervened early and saved his life.

“They are the reason I am here,” John said.

“Because they knew what to do, I have another chance.”

Greg said the incident was a good reminder about the importance of early intervention, having AEDs on trucks, and completing first-aid training with CFA.

“We offer basic first aid and CPR training to all CFA members and this really showed us why this training is so important,” Greg said.

“Our members do more than just fight fires; they are there to help their communities in so many different situations.

“All CFA primary firefighting appliances are also fitted with AEDs which is an amazing resource.”

Ambulance Victoria Gippsland Clinical Support Officer Dion Meade said John’s recovery was testament to the quick actions of those around him.

“It’s fantastic to see John alive and doing so well, which is all because of his peers who immediately started the chain of survival by implementing Call, Push, Shock,” he said.

“We know the significant impact of early intervention, with a patient’s chance of survival almost doubling when they receive CPR and a shock from an AED before paramedics arrive.

“The Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry 2023-24 showed Victoria has Australia’s best cardiac survival rate and the third best in the world, which is because of people, like Sally, Colin and Danny, stepping in when they see someone in cardiac arrest.

“Anyone can save a life by remembering to Call Triple Zero 000, give CPR by pushing hard and fast on the middle of the chest, and use an AED if available.”

Additional resources:

Read a list of registered AEDs in Victoria.

Call, Push, Shock resources are available in multiple languages on the Ambulance Victoria website.

Learn more in the Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry Annual Report.

Submitted by CFA Media

Uncover untold stories of Lake Monger in a new 360 virtual reality film

Source: South Australia Police

A groundbreaking virtual reality film that invites Australians to step into the past and uncover the history of one of Perth’s most iconic wetlands – Lake Monger – has landed in Wanneroo.

The Galup VR Experience was created by Ian Wilkes and artist/filmmaker Poppy van Oorde-Grainger, with an oral history from Elder Doolann-Leisha Eatts and guided by a team of supportive Noongar Elders.

This immersive experience transports audiences to Galup (Lake Monger), revealing a powerful story of Noongar culture, colonial impact and truth-telling. Viewers are taken on a sunset journey around the lake, where the layers of time peel back for a retelling of one of its most important and largely untold stories.

Produced by Same Drum, the experience is more than a film – it’s an invitation to all Australians to learn more about our collective past and shed  light on  tragic events that occurred in and around Lake Monger.

Galup is both powerful and timely,” said Alec Coles, CEO of the Western Australian Museum. “Truth-telling is a critical step towards reconciliation for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples.”

“This experience is a wonderful and powerful opportunity for our community to walk together through history, and to listen, learn and honour the stories of our past and present,” said Mayor Linda Aitken.

Dive into the Galup VR Experience, free at the Wanneroo Library and Cultural Centre with multiple sessions on Wednesday 18 June 2025.

Bookings are essential: Register on Eventbrite.

Suitable for ages 13+.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audience members are advised that this production includes names, images and voices of people who have passed away. Names, images and voices of the deceased are used with permission.

Acknowledgements

Created by Ian Wilkes and Poppy van Oorde-Grainger with an oral history from Doolann-Leisha Eatts.

Produced by Same Drum and guided by a team of supportive Noongar Elders.

Assisted by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Project Partners: Viewport XR, Museum of Freedom and Tolerance, Community Arts Network, Town of Cambridge Library, City of Vincent Local History Centre and Sandbox Productions.

Galup VR Experience is based on the Galup site-specific performance originally commissioned by International Art Space as a part of the Know Thy Neighbour #2 program. The performance was remounted in 2021 for Perth Festival, co-produced by Same Drum and Performing Lines WA.

Motorists urged to drive to the conditions ahead of long weekend

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Motorists urged to drive to the conditions ahead of long weekend

Thursday, 5 June 2025 – 12:08 pm.

Tasmania Police is urging motorists to slow down and drive to the conditions this coming long weekend.
With more traffic expected on the roads across the weekend, motorists can expect to also see police. 
Acting Inspector Martin Parker from Western Road Policing Services said police across the state would be conducting a range of high-visibility and covert patrols.
“With winter now upon us, and rain forecast for the long weekend, motorists should ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, drive to the conditions and allow extra time for their journeys,” he said.
“We will have a presence in both urban and rural areas, where the potential combination of unfamiliar roads, unpredictable weather and increased traffic can pose significant risks.
“We want everyone to enjoy their long weekend, but we also want them to return home safely. That is why police and the community need to continue to work together – road safety is a joint effort.
“Please, plan your journey, take regular breaks, and avoid any risky behaviours. We are asking people to consistently make good decisions, whether you are driving a vehicle, bicycle, or attempting to walk across a road.  Bad choices can lead to serious consequences.”
Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving behaviour should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444, or 000 in case of an emergency.

O-Positive start for CFA in Emergency Services Blood Drive

Source:

CFA is off to a fast and meaningful start in this year’s Emergency Services Blood Drive, holding strong in second place for national plasma donations and currently sitting in third place overall.

Crucially, a significant amount of CFA’s 60 donations so far (equating to 180 lives saved) have been O-Positive blood types, one of the most urgently needed red cell supply levels, according to Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. 

Running from 1 June to 31 August, the Lifeblood campaign sees emergency service organisations across Australia compete to give the highest number of blood and plasma donations, all while helping save lives. 

CFA Deputy Chief Officer Rohan Luke joined representatives from other emergency services at an event at the Melbourne Donor Centre on 1 June to launch the blood drive. 

“One donation can save up to three lives,” Rohan said. 

“33,000 blood and plasma donations are needed across Australia every week to meet demand. 
Right now, levels of O negative and O positive blood have dropped to their lowest point since 2023. 

“If you’ve been thinking about donating, now’s the time.” 

Bittern Fire Brigade member Jackie Crow, who has the universal O-Negative blood type, has donated blood and plasma more than 125 times and is once again rolling up her sleeves for the cause. 

“I first started donating because a friend asked me to come along and give it a go and I’ve been doing it ever since,” Jackie said. 

While each donation is extremely important, in February of this year Jackie was contacted for an extremely important donation, which stands out from the rest  

“The blood bank called and said my blood was urgently needed for a specific patient, not just a general supply,” she said. 

“I went in the very next day. I don’t know who it went to, but just knowing it was going straight to someone in desperate need was incredibly special.” 

Jackie encourages others to get involved, especially those who may be feeling uncertain. 

“It’s quick, it’s safe, and it’s so rewarding.” 

In 2024, more than 14,000 donations were collected as part of the Emergency Services Blood Drive nationally, with almost one third coming from Victoria. 

  • Jackie Crow
Submitted by CFA Media

Register of Foreign Ownership of Australian Assets

Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

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Self-managed superannuation fund annual return instructions

Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

Use the Self-managed superannuation fund annual return instructions (NAT 71606) to help you complete your annual return.

You should refer to the instructions for the relevant year:

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Enjoy Dark Mofo and stay safe

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Enjoy Dark Mofo and stay safe

Thursday, 5 June 2025 – 11:24 am.

As thousands of people descend on Hobart for the Dark Mofo festival, Tasmania Police is urging pedestrians and motorists to prioritise safety, particularly during the darker hours of the event.
Tasmania’s popular Dark Mofo winter festival is back with a full program of events in Hobart including the opening night of the Winter Feast, on Castray Esplanade, on Thursday.
There will be road closures and traffic disruptions across the Hobart CBD during the two-week festival, with further information available at www.darkmofo.net.au/info/road-closures
While it is an amazing time of the year for locals, and our interstate and international visitors, police are urging everyone to enjoy it safely and responsibly.
“Pedestrians are among our most vulnerable road users, especially during busy events such as Dark Mofo,” Hobart Police Inspector John Toohey said.
“This year already, three pedestrians have died on Tasmanian roads, with a further 14 seriously injured.
“We’re asking everyone to stay alert, avoid distractions such as phones or headphones, and only cross at designated crossings.
“With many festival events taking place at night and in low-light conditions, we’re hoping to see responsible behaviour, that is, people looking out for each other, obeying traffic signals and being visible in the dark.”
Supporting Inspector Toohey, Tasmania Police State Road Safety Co-ordinator Inspector Justin Lawson urged motorists and pedestrians to take extra care in Hobart’s city and waterfront precincts.
“Our message is, we are just as excited as you that Dark Mofo is back,” Inspector Lawson said.
“And while savouring all that is on offer in our city, please be mindful of each other’s safety on our streets and footpaths.
“With thousands anticipated to move between different venues, there will be a marked increase in pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
“Please cross the road only when safe and if driving, be alert to festival-goers on foot.”

CAPTION: Tasmania Police officers (from left) Constable Scott Hill, Constable Erin McNamara, Constable Tess Allanby and Constable Aaron Eaton urge locals and visitors to Hobart to enjoy the Dark Mofo festival safely. Picture: Tasmania Police

Marong Planning Scheme Amendment approved

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme Amendment C263gben, which applies to Marong, has come into effect following Minister for Planning approval.

Amendment C263gben implements the Marong Township Structure Plan 2020 (re-adopted in 2024), the Marong Flood Study 2018 (North Central Catchment Authority) and the Marong Heritage Citations (Minerva Heritage).

The land affected is within and adjacent to the township of Marong and the amendment changes zones and overlays to land in the Marong township. Specifically, the amendment:

  • Rezones land within the Marong township from Township Zone to Neighbourhood Residential Zone Schedule 3 and Mixed-use Zone Schedule 3
  • Expands Commercial 1 Zoning and updates floor area maximums
  • Applies new overlays to guide development, character and bushfire protection
  • Applies the Heritage Overlay to 8 new places including statements of significance for each
  • Implements the Marong Flood Study, along with new Local Flood Development Plan by introducing the Floodway Overlay and the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay
  • Identifies new residential growth areas for future rezoning to accommodate a population of approximately 8,000 people

The amendment process and approval were in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987. The Amendment was considered by an independent panel, and recommendations were supported by Council. The Minister for Planning has the final say and made some changes to the amendment before approving it.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf welcomed the approval of the Amendment as an important step for guiding Marong’s future development.

“Marong is expected to grow over the next 25 years with an estimated population of 8,000 people and this Planning Scheme Amendment implements the Marong Township Structure Plan. The Amendment supports creating a compact, well-planned township with a vibrant town centre,” Cr Metcalf said.

“The completion of this Amendment allows the consideration of new rezoning applications in the Marong growth areas and complements the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct project.”

The approved Amendment C263gben is the first in a series of planning scheme amendments to support the future growth of Marong. Other projects currently underway include:

  • The preparation of a Shared Infrastructure Contributions Plan for Marong
  • Planning for the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct by the Victorian Planning Authority
  • Planning for the Marong Western Freight Corridor by the Department of Transport and Planning – Transport
  • The rezoning of the residential growth precincts in accordance with the City’s Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy

The Marong Township Structure Plan was originally adopted in September 2020. The Amendment C263gben was exhibited for six weeks from May to July 2023, and the independent planning panel hearing was held in February 2024. Council adopted C263gben in June 2024. The Minister for Planning approved with changes and gazetted the Amendment on May 29, 2025.