Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a 38-year-old man in relation to a fatal crash on Friday.
The 38-year-old has been charged with:
He has been remanded to face Darwin Local Court 16 July 2025.
Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry
The Albanese Government welcomes the Productivity Commission’s call for submissions on priority reform areas released today.
We’re determined to make Australia’s economy more prosperous and productive and this work from the PC is an important part of that process.
The Albanese Labor Government inherited the largest quarterly fall in productivity in 45 years, with productivity going backwards by 2.4 per cent in the June quarter 2022 – the largest quarterly fall since June quarter 1979.
Over the decade to 2020, average annual labour productivity growth in Australia was the slowest in 60 years, falling to just 1.1 per cent compared to 1.8 per cent over the 60 years to 2019–20.
Flatlining productivity is one of the biggest challenges facing our nation, and that’s why we need a big national effort to turn it around.
That’s why on 13 December 2024, I tasked the Productivity Commission to provide the government with advice on how to address Australia’s long‑run productivity challenges.
The Productivity Commission has identified 15 priority reform areas for further exploration and will consult on these initiatives from today.
This is only an initial call for submissions from the PC, and we expect their findings will be informed by the information collected through their consultation process.
We’ll consider the PC’s recommendations within the context of the fiscal constraints we inherited and balance these against other government priorities.
We might not be able to run with everything, but we will consider all of it and see what we can progress.
The Albanese Government already has an ambitious productivity agenda and we’re eager to build on it.
In our first term, we abolished nearly 500 nuisance tariffs and streamlined and strengthened approval processes in a number of areas including foreign investment, energy, environment and planning.
We have reformed skills, education and aged care, and we are making it easier for investors to progress transformational projects, including investing in cheaper, cleaner energy.
We’re also revitalising competition through the biggest changes to merger laws in 50 years, the 10‑year Competition Reform Roadmap, and the $900 million National Productivity Fund.
In our second term, we’ll progress further reforms including occupational licensing for electricians, abolishing non‑compete clauses, unlocking opportunities in AI and digital assets, streamlining regulation and standing up the Single Front Door, strengthening the National Energy Market, leveraging health technology more effectively, and enabling construction of prefabricated and modular housing.
It will take longer than two terms to turn around this productivity problem which has been building in our economy for decades, but we know that this work will make a meaningful difference in boosting wages and living standards sustainably into the future.
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The ACCC has issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation with a condition for five years to Energy Networks Australia, Synergy, and other specified parties to allow for the procurement and implementation of a national ‘public key infrastructure’ service (PKI).
The PKI service would manage secure communication between consumer energy resources (CER) and parties in the energy grid. Examples of CER include rooftop solar cells, batteries, and electric vehicles.
“This public key infrastructure service will enable distribution network service providers to remotely limit or prevent electricity export into the grid by consumer energy resources in times of significant excess production, known as an ‘emergency backstop’ mechanism,” ACCC Commissioner Dr Philip Williams said.
Where power exports from CER are high and general energy consumption is low, there are risks to electricity grid stability and the potential for localised or wider blackouts to occur.
“While several state and territory governments have already implemented emergency backstop mechanisms, this service would give effect to a singular national approach to managing CER devices via communication protocols to avoid risks to electricity network system overload,” Dr Williams said.
Currently, each distribution network service provider is responsible for procuring its own PKI solution for emergency backstop. Under the proposed conduct, however, providers could choose to utilise a national PKI delivered by a single provider.
The creation of a national entity to manage PKI for CER for emergency backstop is reflective of a national reform priority agreed to by federal and state/territory governments in 2024.
“We understand that a national regulatory framework for CER to set and enforce technical standards is being established as part of the national CER Roadmap and that whilst this is a more appropriate avenue for regulatory oversight of CER, we understand the current urgency around emergency backstop requirements,” Dr Williams said.
“We are satisfied the proposed conduct is likely to result in a public benefit that would outweigh any potential public detriment to Australian consumers.”
“Prior to making our final determination, however, we will be seeking further views on a number of potential public benefits and detriments,” Dr Williams said.
The ACCC considers that the proposed conduct is likely to result in public benefits in the form of interoperability, cost savings for distribution networks, lower costs and complexity for manufacturers and installers, and increased consumer choice and device mobility.
However, the proposed conduct is likely to reduce competition for the acquisition and supply of public key infrastructure services. As it also has the potential to result in public detriment due to a lack of formal external oversight, the ACCC is proposing a condition requiring regular reporting of NEPKI’s operations.
While there is some benefit in the proposed conduct enabling the public key infrastructure solution to expand to future use cases autonomously, it also has the potential to result in public detriment. To mitigate this, the ACCC is considering whether to limit authorisation to the ‘initial use case’ (i.e. solar cell and battery energy storage system orchestration via CSIP-AUS for emergency backstop and dynamic operating envelopes).
The ACCC has also granted interim authorisation to enable Energy Networks Australia and Synergy to carry out the initial three phases of activity while the ACCC considers the substantive application.
Submissions to the ACCC can be made by 2 June 2025. More information can be found on the ACCC’s public register here.
Energy Networks Australia is a national industry body representing electricity transmission and distribution network providers (DNSPs) and gas distribution network providers in all States and Territories.
Synergy is a Western Australian state-owned corporation that has electricity generation assets in WA and retails electricity and gas in WA. Sythenergy holds responsibilities around connection of CER to the grid.
PKI is a cybersecurity technology that uses digital ‘certificates’ installed in devices (such as solar inverters) to authenticate them and encrypt communications with them and is carried out over the internet. Distribution network service providers will utilise the national PKI to communicate with devices to remotely limit or prevent devices’ electricity export into the grid in times of significant excess production (known as an ‘emergency backstop’ mechanism); rather than each network procuring individual, bespoke solutions for PKI.
The proposed conduct seeks to give effect to a national reform priority that was agreed to in 2024 by the Australian, state and territory governments in their ‘National CER Roadmap’. The Roadmap states that a national reform priority is to establish a secure communication system for CER devices through establishing a national not-for-profit entity to manage PKI to operate and manage authentication of communications with CER for backstops.
The application for authorisation was lodged on 26 November 2024 and the ACCC received 22 submissions in relation to the application.
In the first phase of activity, there will be a collaborative evaluation of the responses to NEPKI’s request for tenders for PKI services.
In the second phase, NEPKI will enter a service deed with a selected PKI service provider for the design, build and operation of PKI and related services. In the third phase, the PKI service deed will be delivered, beginning with the design and build of the PKI.
Finally, in phase four, the operational delivery of PKI services by NEPKI to PKI consumers will ‘go live’ for a term of up to five years.
A final determination is expected to be made in July 2025, subject to any submissions and requests from interested parties for a pre-decision conference.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police Force, in collaboration with the Australian Border Force (ABF), have seized multiple firearms and other prohibited items following a joint operation in Acacia Hills.
On 13 April 2025, ABF officers at the Sydney Gateway Facility intercepted a prohibited import—a firearms silencer—addressed to a 62-year-old male residing at a rural property in Acacia Hills. The individual is a known person of interest to police, with his firearms licence having been revoked in 2019.
On 16 May 2025, members of the NT Police Firearms Audit and Enforcement team, alongside ABF officers, executed a comprehensive search of the 56-hectare property under section 119AA of the Police Administration Act. The male was apprehended at the scene.
ABF firearms and explosives detection dogs were deployed and indicated several areas of interest within the primary dwelling. During the search, officers located and seized:
Following the discovery of cannabis, a section 120B search warrant was executed in addition to the initial 119AA search.
Search and Rescue Section (SRS) and Territory Support Division officers assist in conducting a detailed grid search of the surrounding bushland, confirming no further weapons were present.
The male has been issued a Notice to Appear in the Darwin Local Court on 15 July 2025 for the following offences:
Additionally, ABF issued the male with an infringement notice totalling $4,950.
Senior Sergeant Alex Brennan said, “This incident highlights not only the ongoing risks posed by individuals unlawfully possessing firearms and prohibited imports, but also the seamless collaboration between agencies when it comes to investigating firearms offences.”
ABF Commander Tracie Griffin said people should remember that any weapons or parts that are purchased overseas have to come across the border, and warned “that’s where our highly trained officers, detector dogs and cutting-edge x-ray technology are deployed”.
“In the wrong hands, these weapons could be deadly. If we detect them at the border, we will seize them and where appropriate prosecute those trying to bring them in illegally,” Commander Griffin said.
“Recreational shooters and firearm enthusiasts importing firearms, firearm parts or other weapons online should be very clear about the regulations in place.
“Anyone attempting to import prohibited weapons, including firearm parts, runs the risk of losing those goods and facing possible criminal prosecution.”
Importing firearms without a permit is a serious offence with penalties including imprisonment for up to ten years and/or fines of up to $525,000.
Anyone with information about illegal firearms or related activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at Crime Stoppers NT.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The NT Police Force are happy to report a very well-behaved crowd following the NT’s largest music festival, Bass in the Grass.
Around 11,000 party goers attended on site for a fun filled evening.
Police conducted high visibility patrols, wanding operations, drug screening and community engagement across the event.
Of the thousands in attendance, police arrested four people and handed out two notices to appear in court for minor drug related offences.
Operation Esperance was established to ensure public safety, with members of the Dog Operations Unit, Territory Safety Division, recruits from the Police College and general duties in attendance.
Acting Superintendent Territory Safety Division Alexander Noonan said “It was fantastic to see positive engagement between our members and the community at this significant event.
“We want to thank everyone who enjoyed their night safely. We look forward to seeing you all at the next local event.”
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Bushwalkers rescued from Mount Field National Park during inclement weather
Monday, 19 May 2025 – 2:24 pm.
Police are reiterating warnings to bushwalkers after another search and rescue response was launched to rescue two bushwalkers near Lake Newdegate in the Mount Field National Park.
“Around 10pm last night, police were alerted via a satellite messaging device, that two bushwalkers required assistance after becoming stranded at the Newdegate Hut due to suffering from the effects of exposure,” said Acting Inspector Paul Johns from Marine and Rescue Services.
“The weather prevented the party from walking out of the area and concerns were held due to further deterioration of weather conditions.”
“The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was dispatched, however, due to weather conditions and cloud it was unable to safely land, and a search and rescue team was deployed to walk to the area.”
“Just prior to 3.30am this morning rescue personnel, consisting of two police rescue officers and two wilderness paramedics, reached the bushwalkers. The bushwalkers were treated at the hut and extracted by helicopter at 9am this morning, after the weather conditions improved.”
“Last week we saw several bushwalker weather alerts issued by the Bureau of Meteorology, and this rescue is an example of how it’s imperative to only bushwalk if you are prepared – both with physical capability, and equipment to keep you safe.”
“Bushwalkers should always prepare for the worst, and carry sufficient warm clothing and food, and emergency communication devices.”
“Police and other emergency services will always respond to requests for assistance, but it’s important to remember that if you require assistance in bad weather, aircraft are often not able to fly due to conditions and ground crews could be hours away. Carrying suitable equipment will ensure you can remain safe until help arrives if required.”
Police again remind those venturing outdoors to monitor weather warnings and consider the impact of the weather on their activities. Other essential safety considerations include:
Taking sufficient communication devices including mobile phones, charging banks and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB’s).
Ensuring sufficient emergency food, water, spare clothing and shelter is carried in the event the length of the trip extends.
Research impending weather conditions for the area and do not continue with plans where inclement weather is due.
Source:
Credit: Mike Dugdale
Coordinated by the VICSES Bellarine Unit, the exercise held on Sunday, 18 May, simulated a major traffic incident involving a collision between a 53-seat passenger bus and a delivery truck, resulting in multiple casualties and complex response challenges.
The scenario was based on a fictional food and wine festival setting and designed to rigorously test multi-agency emergency response capabilities in real time.
The event brought together representatives from VICSES, CFA, FRV, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance, and other support agencies and businesses, including local council.
Participants practiced a coordinated emergency response, including casualty triage and extrication, hazardous material management, and the establishment of command-and-control structures.
The realistic scenario enabled participants to practise responding to a multi-vehicle, multi-casualty emergency involving simulated hazards such as entrapments, smoke effects, and debris. The exercise was conducted under strict safety supervision, with a dedicated Safety Officer on site throughout the day.
Exercise Mabon successfully achieved its core objectives, including:
The bus used in the scenario was a decommissioned 53-seat coach kindly donated to the VICSES Bellarine Unit in 2015, by Christian’s Bus Company. The unit has since utilised the vehicle for training and was pleased to make it available for this significant inter-agency exercise before its final decommissioning.
This year’s exercise also marks the beginning of National Volunteer Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the vital contributions of volunteers across the country. Exercise Mabon stands as a fitting demonstration of their dedication and capability.
VICSES extends its appreciation to all participating agencies, facilitators, volunteers, and the local community for their support in making the exercise a success.
Quotes attributable to Garry Cook AFSM, CFA Acting Chief Officer:
“It is vital we work as one, and any opportunity to work alongside our counterparts is positive. Not only does it further enhance our teamwork, communication, and leadership at a response, but it also allows the familiarisation of our respective tools and processes.”
“The exercise stems as a valuable learning experience for members in an environment that will only improve our ability to respond in the event of an emergency in the future and ultimately protect the community.”
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Source:
Members of Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Melton fire brigades involved, ACFO David Maxwell and Commander Mal Hayes with ACFO Lachlan Redman and Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook. Credit: Uniform Photography
Acting CFA Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM presented the distinguished Unit Citation for Service to the members at a ceremony in Myrniong on Sunday (18 May).
At 3.20am on 21 September 2022, CFA crews were called to a major crash on the Western Freeway in Pentland Hills, where a school bus carrying 27 students and four staff from Loreto College Ballarat had been struck at speed by a truck with a semi-trailer.
The bus veered off the road and rolled down a steep embankment, coming to rest in dense scrub with many occupants trapped. The truck with a semi-trailer came to a stop around 400 metres further down the freeway, with the driver pinned inside the cab.
CFA firefighters were among the first emergency services to arrive. Crews descended the slope using a secured hose reel, carrying rescue tools to reach and assist injured and disoriented students.
Simultaneously, other CFA crews helped extricate the truck driver and managed a significant diesel spill, while several members supported Ambulance Victoria to attend to the students.
Fifteen students and one staff member were hospitalised. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
“This was an incredibly complex and emotionally charged scene, and our members showed true professionalism under pressure,” Garry said.
“Their ability to respond quickly, work alongside other emergency services and provide reassurance to young people in distress is something we as an organisation are very proud of.”
Captain of Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade Ryan O’Shannessy, who was the CFA Incident Controller, said it was one of the most confronting incidents his crew had faced.
“It was a call-out that really showed the heart of our members, stepping in with empathy, skill and care to help a busload of young students and teachers who’d just been through something terrifying,” Ryan said.
“The injuries we saw were confronting, but everyone did what they could to help, drawing on our CFA training, life experience and the support of all the agencies working together.
“Seeing our crews comfort those kids, assess injuries and stay calm under pressure made me incredibly proud. It was a true team effort — not just from the three CFA brigades, but also from Fire Rescue Victoria, VICSES, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria.
“We are grateful for this acknowledgement by the Victorian community and CFA, and while it was one incident of significance, we humbly accept this Unit Citation on behalf of our brigades for all the incidents we have and will continue to attend when called upon to help our local and wider communities in protecting life and property.”
Captain of Ballan Fire Brigade Ben Hatfield said the recognition meant a great deal.
“We’re proud to receive this on behalf of our brigades, but more importantly, we’re proud of how our members responded that day,” Ben said.
“This citation may recognise one moment, but it reflects the work we do every time we’re called to help, especially when it’s our youngest community members who need us most.”
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Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing
The high-profile director of a Melbourne real estate agency is facing criminal charges for unlicensed trading and trust account breaches, as Consumer Affairs Victoria continues to crack down on agents who break the law.
Mark Alexander Reuben, 47, of Greenvale, is the sole director of Reuben Family Pty Ltd (trading as Mark Reuben Projects).
It is alleged that between August 2022 and October 2024, Reuben and his company:
Agents who trade without a licence face up to 12 months’ imprisonment or up to $100,000 in fines. Those who fail to deposit trust money into a trust fund or fail to complete audits, risk up to $23,710 per breach, for each year that this applies.
The matter is listed for a hearing on 23 June 2025.
Source:
The keys were officially handed over at a ceremony outside the Avoca Fire Station on Sunday (18 May).
The new heavy tanker carries 4,000 litres of water and includes enhanced crew protection features, improvements to reduce operator fatigue and electric rewind hose reels.
Captain of Avoca Fire Brigade Aaron McHoul said the upgraded tanker was a welcome addition to the brigade’s fleet.
“We’ve only had it for a short while and it’s making things much safer for our firefighters,” Aaron said.
“The extra water capacity and the additional equipment it can carry, like breathing apparatus, means we’re better equipped for a range of incidents.”
Aaron said the new addition would also boost the brigade’s ability to support neighbouring areas.
“Many of the places we attend don’t have reticulated water, so having that capacity allows us to make an initial attack on a structure, grass or bushfire and hopefully knock it down quickly,” Aaron said.
The tanker has also been designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating a higher percentage of recyclable materials and reducing reliance on fibreglass.
CFA West Region Acting Deputy Chief Officer Graeme Armstrong said the new tanker has improved accessibility for brigade members.
“Being automatic makes it a lot easier to drive, which helps more members get behind the wheel,” Graeme said.
“You can control the speed a lot more easily when crews are blacking out, especially when walking alongside the truck.”
Established in 1885, Avoca Fire Brigade has a proud history of service, having evolved from two separate urban and rural brigades before merging in 2011.
The brigade now has 53 members, including 29 operational firefighters and a strong auxiliary group that provides critical support during both incidents and community events.
“We’re an urban-rural brigade, so this appliance makes a big difference across both types of firefighting,” Aaron said.
“We’re proud to continue serving the Avoca community and beyond with the best equipment possible.”
The new heavy tanker is one of 48 being delivered to CFA brigades across Victoria, funded through a $22.7 million CFA Capability Funding package, which was announced in June 2020 as part of the State Government’s Fire Services Reform.
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