Berwick Springs Lake, located in Narre Warren, has been renamed Guru Nanak Lake, in honour of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of the Sikh faith.

Ministers Ingrid Stitt and Sonya Kilkenny, along with local Labor MPs Gary Maas and Lee Tarlamis were among the guests in attendance.

The Minister for Multicultural Affairs Stitt announcing Berwick Springs Lake’s change of name said:

“I’m delighted to be recognising the significant contributions of our Sikh community in Victoria by naming a landmark after the founder of the Sikh faith, Guru Nanak.”

Minister Kilkenny posted on Facebook:

“It’s official! Lake Guru Nanak in the Berwick Springs Wetlands Reserve! … Remember a Local, Name a Place!”

However, according to reports, the announcement, made by the state government on 9 November, has now sparked outrage among some local residents, who argue that the name change disregards the long-standing identity of the community.

A Change.org petition to reverse the renaming has already amassed over 4,320 signatures as of mid-November.

Critics of the move claim that the renaming was carried out without any consultation with the local residents, many of whom see Berwick Springs Lake as an integral part of their community.

“The sudden change of this name, without proper community consultation, has caused enormous distress among residents,” reads the petition.

“Berwick Springs is deeply tied to our community’s identity, and this change feels like a betrayal.”

Michael Ball, who is the head petitioner, posted a comment on Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny’s Facebook post, expressing strong opposition to the renaming of Berwick Springs Lake.

Ball emphasised that the local community respects the Sikh community but feels that the renaming process has been disrespectful, particularly because residents were not consulted beforehand. He argued that the renaming of an established public place should involve community input and that the lack of consultation has led to confusion and division.

“The Berwick Springs lake is the focal point of our local area ,it’s our identity and everyone knows it as Berwick Springs.”

Ball also called for the immediate suspension of the renaming initiative, an apology to the Sikh community, and the reinstatement of the original name, Berwick Springs.

The state government, however, argues that the renaming is part of a broader effort to celebrate Victoria’s diversity and acknowledge the contributions of its multicultural communities.

Both Kilkenny and Stitt defended the decision, pointing out that the Sikh community in Victoria, the largest in Australia, has made significant contributions to the state.

The change was part of a larger initiative to rename places across the state to better reflect its multicultural identity. The ministers emphasised the importance of recognising significant figures like Guru Nanak, who is seen by many in the Sikh community as a progressive leader promoting values of equality, truth, compassion, and community service.

While some in the Sikh community have welcomed the decision, according to Daily Mail, others have voiced concerns on social media about the use of religious figures as namesakes for public landmarks.

“I’m a Punjabi Sikh. I’m sorry, but this name is a bad idea. … I don’t think we should be naming landmarks after religious figures (unless a landmark’s notability is specifically due to religion).”

Local residents, however, have been outspoken in their opposition. Some have questioned the relevance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to the area, noting that he has no direct connection to Berwick Springs. Some critics, commenting on social media, remarked,

“What was Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s ‘long association with’ any part of Victoria?”

“Guru Nanak wasn’t exactly a local—he was born in 1469.”

In addition to the name change, the Victorian government also announced $600,000 in funding for Sikh organisations to hold “Langer” events in the lead-up to the 555th anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth.

The controversy has sparked a debate about the role of religious figures in place-naming and whether such decisions should involve broader community consultation.

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The 34-year-old from Kirrawee, in Sydney’s south, is scheduled to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on 15 November 2024. He faces charges for importing seven litres of the drug, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Stuart Millen stressed the importance of continuing to disrupt the illegal importation of such dangerous substances.

“The AFP is committed to protecting the Australian community from the scourge of drugs and will continue to work with partners like the ABF to save lives,” he said.

The AFP’s investigation began in May 2024 after the ABF intercepted consignments of 1,4 Butanediol being sent to the man’s address. The substance, which was previously not classified as a controlled drug, became a border-controlled substance under the Crimes and Other Legislation Amendment (Omnibus No. 2) Act 2023, passed in March 2024.

The man allegedly coordinated two shipments from Hong Kong in May and June 2024. The first shipment, labelled as ‘rose oil’, contained two litres of 1,4 Butanediol. The second, labelled as shark essence oil, allegedly contained five litres of the drug.

A search warrant executed at his Kirrawee home on 13 November 2024 led to the seizure of about 80g of methamphetamine, a bottle suspected to contain 1,4 Butanediol, a spring-loaded knife, and a mobile phone.

ABF Acting Superintendent Rob Rangi added that while 1,4 Butanediol can be legally imported for industrial use with the appropriate permits, its use in illicit activities presents a growing risk to the community.

“This trend of importing 1,4 Butanediol for illegal purposes is a recognised border risk that we will continue to target,” he said.

AFP and ABF officials have warned that 1,4 Butanediol, a substance commonly used in industrial applications, is becoming increasingly used as a substitute for the illegal drug gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB).

Once ingested, the body converts 1,4 Butanediol into GHB, which depresses the nervous system and can cause dangerous side effects, including hallucinations, breathing difficulties, and death.

The man has been charged with importing a commercial quantity of 1,4 Butanediol and possessing the drug, both of which carry a maximum life sentence. He is also facing charges under the Drugs Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) for allegedly supplying methamphetamine. The maximum penalty for this offence is 20 years in prison.

This arrest makes the 34-year-old the second person in New South Wales to be charged with the importation of 1,4 Butanediol since the legislative changes. In August 2024, a 48-year-old man from western Sydney was charged with similar offences.

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Headlines following Donald Trump’s election victory focused largely on the influence of personalities, such as Elon Musk or Robert Kennedy junior, and single issues, such as how US tariff hikes would affect New Zealand’s exports.

But this oversimplifies and diverts attention from the more systemic challenges a second Trump presidency will pose for Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy.

Yes, Trump is an unpredictable authoritarian and an economic disruptor. But his policies are not novel and need to be understood in a broader context.

Many of Trump’s trade policies are an extension of recent US-centric strategies to dismantle the global free trade model. Ironically, the US largely created this model, but it no longer serves US objectives.

The international trade regime, and the neoliberal model of free trade in general, now face an existential crisis that New Zealand cannot ignore.

Free trade backlash

Trump’s tool of choice for trade policy is high tariffs or border taxes, which make imports more expensive. His agenda is driven by two factors:

• increasing production and jobs in the US domestic economy and incentivising foreign firms to invest within the US border to avoid tariffs
• geopolitically, using super-tariffs to undercut China’s rise as a competing power.

Neither objective is new. The tariffs Trump imposed in his previous term, especially on China, were largely continued under Joe Biden. They were part of a broader backlash against free trade agreements in the US.

Trump withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA). The Biden administration did not rejoin and eschewed the Democrats’ traditional approach to free trade.

Biden’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) promoted non-tariff strategies designed to boost US industrial, investment and security interests in Asia. Its “friend-shoring” approach aimed to strengthen economic and foreign policy alliances, including with New Zealand, while eroding China’s influence, especially over critical supply chains in the region.

Interestingly, Trump condemned the IPEF (incorrectly) as a reincarnation of the TPPA, so its fate remains uncertain.

WTO in crisis

There has been a similar cross-party convergence on US challenges to the “rules-based” international trade regime. Both Democrat and Republican administrations have systematically undermined the World Trade Organization (WTO), claiming it no longer serves US interests.

Successive US administrations, starting with Barack Obama’s, have paralysed the WTO’s two-tier dispute system by refusing to appoint new Appellate Body members. This means they can break the WTO rules with impunity – including by imposing unilateral tariff sanctions.

At this year’s WTO Public Forum in September, people were openly discussing the existential crisis in the organisation and possible responses if the US disengages completely.

Breakdown of rules

This is just one part of the WTO’s institutional disintegration. The Doha Development Round, launched in 2001, had effectively collapsed by 2008.

In large part, this was over the Agreement on Agriculture. Its foundations were laid in 1993 by the so-called Blair House Accord, which ensured the US and European Union did not have to reduce (and could continue to increase) subsidies for their farmers. They insisted that continue.

Meanwhile, the US and EU stymied demands from developing countries for alternative “safeguard” and “public stockholding” arrangements to support their farmers and ensure food security.

The US, EU and others blocked a waiver of intellectual property rights that would have ensured affordable access to vaccines, diagnostics and supplies during the COVID-19 (and future) pandemics.

Subsets of members, including New Zealand, have ignored the WTO’s own rules to negotiate plurilateral agreements without a mandate, and seek to dilute the “consensus” rule to have them adopted. Ironically, the main opponents, India and South Africa, are labelled the “blockers” for standing up for the WTO rules.

New Zealand’s challenge

So, the crises in the international trade regime (and the neoliberal model of free trade) predate Trump’s first term.

But successive New Zealand governments have put all their eggs in the “free trade” basket of the WTO and regional and bilateral trade agreements.

Current Trade Minister Todd McClay seems determined to secure new agreements as rapidly as possible, illustrated by the 100-day negotiation of a recent deal with the United Arab Emirates under strict secrecy and with minimal scrutiny.

The previous Labour government pragmatically engaged in the IPEF more as a geopolitical alliance with the US than as a trade forum, despite New Zealand’s export dependency on China and the lack of any clear economic benefits.

So far, the reaction to Trump’s re-election from government ministers, business, farmers and news media has given an impression of business as usual, albeit with the threat of unhelpful US tariffs. But what is really needed is a far-reaching debate about the risks of a failing international trade system.

New Zealand’s export share of GDP has not changed meaningfully over the past few decades, despite more than two-thirds of New Zealand’s exports being covered by free trade agreements. The primary problem is not a lack of markets, but rather firms’ export capability, weak innovation, and an over-reliance on low-value-added commodities.

The now-disbanded Productivity Commission’s work on improving economic resilience urged New Zealand to tackle head-on the challenges of an increasingly uncertain and volatile economic and geopolitical world.

That apparently fell on deaf ears. But Trump’s re-election is an opportunity to open that debate and confront those challenges.

Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Miller’s intervention follows a record 13,660 asylum claims by international students in 2024, a sharp rise from 2023, despite a significant reduction in the approval of new study permits.

Miller, as per reports in the Canadian media, noted that some students, particularly from countries like India, Nigeria, and Ghana, are applying for asylum shortly after arriving, even though conditions in their home countries have not changed.

This has raised concerns about unethical guidance from immigration consultants, prompting Miller to urge the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants to look into potential misconduct.

Miller’s office told The Globe and Mail reports about false claims have been relayed to department officials.

“The college works closely with IRCC and other partners to protect the integrity of Canada’s immigration system and will collaborate with IRCC to address the specific concerns raised by the minister.”

This development comes on the heels of a tighter immigration policy, including a national cap on study permits and stricter work permit rules.

The Trudeau government is balancing its immigration targets to address housing and healthcare pressures, while continuing to support students who genuinely need refuge.

Miller has previously emphasised that studying in Canada does not guarantee permanent residency, and students must follow a separate application process.

With changes in immigration policy, including the reduction of permanent residency quotas and the closure of the Student Direct Stream, the government aims to manage immigration flows responsibly while protecting Canada’s immigration system’s integrity.

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The Asian-Australian Leadership Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of young Asian-Australians across 11 categories, celebrating their achievements and leadership.

The event featured 43 finalists and was joined by Senator Penny Wong, who was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award and spoke on the power of diversity as Australia’s greatest strength.

Senator Penny Wong expressed her gratitude on X, formerly Twitter, saying,

“Honoured to be recognised at the Asian-Australian Leadership Awards, hosted by @Asialink_au. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. We are all better off when leadership reflects our whole community. Our diversity is a national asset we can all be proud of.”

Education, Science & Medicine – Dr Amirali Popat
A groundbreaking pharmaceutical scientist, Dr Amirali Popat was recognised for his work in nanomedicine, especially in developing precision drug delivery systems to treat complex diseases.

As a Professor and Director of Research at The University of Queensland, Popat’s research focuses on creating smart, responsive nanomaterials that improve targeted treatment of conditions like cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. With over 100 published papers and three patents, Popat’s achievements exemplify Australia’s forward momentum in medical science.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship – Shivani Gopal
Shivani Gopal, founder and CEO of Elladex, has made waves as a champion for women’s financial empowerment and inclusion in leadership. Her pioneering platform offers digital mentorship and professional development, connecting over 25,000 women with industry leaders.

In a heartfelt Facebook statement, Gopal reflected on how innovation and entrepreneurship connect her to her roots. She shared that as the youngest in her family, she witnessed her parents leave a successful business and life in Fiji to pursue a brighter future in Australia for their children. They built a series of restaurants from the ground up in Sydney, and their resilience and courage inspired Gopal’s own path in business. Their journey, she said, exemplifies the power of daring to envision and pursue new possibilities.

“Award platforms like this are so critical. They normalize the idea that we, as Asian Australians, can lead, innovate, and build with courage—not just follow the traditional paths expected of us.”

Recognised nationally for her work, Gopal is known for her research on gender equity in corporate spaces and as the author of The Perspex Ceiling. Her advocacy for inclusion and her efforts to break down barriers for women in leadership have cemented her as an influential entrepreneur and thought leader.

Media – Alicia Vrajlal
Alicia Vrajlal, celebrated for amplifying South Asian stories and experiences in Australian media, was honoured for her work as founder of Draw Your Box, a news platform dedicated to diverse narratives.

Vrajlal, also the Editorial Lead at Missing Perspectives, is a respected voice on issues related to entertainment, diversity, and women in media. Her commitment to representation has earned her accolades as one of the country’s leading cultural commentators, driving greater visibility for South Asian voices in Australian media.

The 2024 Asian-Australian Leadership Awards also recognised several other exceptional individuals across various fields.

Charlotte Young was named the Overall Winner, while Nathan Lee received the Under 25 Rising Star Award. In the Arts & Culture category, Victoria Falconer was honoured, Jorden Lam took home the Corporate Award, Tony Luo was recognised in the Public Sector & Government category, Alex Cheng won the Legal & Professional Services award, and Alanna Kamp was recognised for her work in Community, Advocacy & Not for Profit.

Co-convened by Johnson Partners and Asialink, this award recognises and celebrated the outstanding leadership and contributions to Asian-Australians, drawing attention to the underrepresentation of Asian-Australians in leadership positions.

Previously known as the ’40 under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards’, the awards honour individuals who identify as Asian-Australian and are under 40, with the exception of the Lifetime Achievement category, which has no age limit.

Nominees must be Australian citizens or permanent residents, residing in Australia or abroad. Awards are decided by a respected judging panel, with winners selected for each category and an overall winner named.

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The substance, also known as ‘tusi,’ typically combines ketamine, MDMA, and other chemicals, with little or no actual cocaine content.

The AFP’s investigation began in October 2024 when a consignment marked as industrial equipment, including an industrial saw, was intercepted en route to Castle Hill, NSW, and was found to contain ‘pink cocaine.’

Following the seizure, AFP officers conducted a controlled delivery on 6 November, during which the Matraville man allegedly accessed the shipment. He was promptly arrested in Coogee and charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a controlled drug, a serious offence that carries a potential life sentence.

The man appeared at Downing Centre Local Court on 7 November, where he was formally denied bail. His next court appearance is set for 29 January 2025.

AFP Acting Superintendent Stuart Millen expressed concern over the growing presence of ‘pink cocaine’ in Australia, warning of its unpredictable and often deadly effects.

“This drug, misleadingly branded to attract users, carries severe risks like stroke, heart attack, and even death. Organised crime syndicates are exploiting users’ health for profit by marketing this hazardous cocktail,” Millen said.

This bust marks a significant setback for drug traffickers and keeps hundreds of kilograms of illicit substances off Australian streets.

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The Albanese government aims to rush through legislation within a fortnight for political donations and spending caps, after in-principle support from the opposition.

The new regime, to be unveiled by Special Minister of State Don Farrell on Friday, would impose a $20,000 “gift cap” on what any recipient could obtain from a particular donor in one calendar year.

The cap on the total amount a donor could give in a year, covering multiple recipients, is expected to be more than $600,000.

That cap is set high, both to stop donors from getting around it and to head off a successful High Court challenge on the grounds of limiting freedom of communication.

There would be multiple spending caps for election campaigns.

These include a national $90 million cap per party, state caps for senate campaigns which would vary between states, and a $800,000 cap per candidate in an individual seat.

The regime will also lower the threshold for publicly declaring donations, and provide for real-time – or close to real-time – disclosure of donations.

The threshold for disclosure – currently $16,900 (which is indexed) – would come down to $1,000. Indexation would only be applied once after each election.

Between elections, donations would have to be disclosed monthly and would be published by the Australian Electoral Commission.

During campaigns, there would be weekly disclosure. In the final week, it would be daily, and that would continue for a week after the election to limit the opportunity for the requirement to be circumvented.

The changes will include an increase in the public subsidy to $5 a vote. It is now $3.346 per eligible vote.

Also, there will be some modest funding for “administration” for parties and independent parliamentarians – $30,000 for members and $15,000 for senators.

Penalties for non-compliance with the new provisions will be substantial.

The legislation will be introduced to the House of Representatives early next week, and put through by week’s end. It will be debated in the Senate the following week – the final parliamentary week this year.

If passed, the new rules will not come into effect until July 1 2026, with a six-month transition period to allow the AEC and political parties to prepare themselves before the full regime starts in 2027.

The package will also include provision for truth in advertising, based on the South Australian model. But Farrell does not have enough support to get this through and it won’t be passed with the other measures. It is strongly opposed by the AEC (which doesn’t want to have to police such a regime) as well as by the opposition.

Labor has long been committed to donation and spending reform but has been particularly galvanised by the huge spending of Clive Palmer, who outlaid $123 million at the last election.

Farrell said: “Years of inquiries and evidence from multiple elections show us that the biggest weakness to our electoral system is big money influencing our political system.

“Over the last decade, we have seen billionaires repeatedly attempt to sway our elections, not through policy or participation, but through money and misinformation.

“This significant package of reforms has been drafted to tackle big money in our electoral system and protect our democracy into the future.”

Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Originally scheduled for Sunday on Bourke Street in Melbourne’s CBD, the unveiling is a cherished tradition drawing crowds of children and families from across Victoria.

The decision was confirmed by Myer to The Age on Thursday, with a spokesperson stating:

“In light of recent developments and to ensure the wellbeing and safety of customers and team members, we will no longer hold an event on Bourke Street Mall for the unveiling of our Christmas windows.”

While the unveiling event has been scrapped, Myer’s Christmas windows will still be available for viewing from Sunday until January 5.

The retailer’s decision came in response to a planned protest by a group called Disrupt Wars, advocating for a free Palestine.

The group announced its intentions on social media, arguing that Myer’s Christmas message of “sharing joy” contradicts ongoing violence in Gaza. “There is no joy in genocide,” organisers wrote.

Protesters aimed to assemble at Melbourne’s State Library with banners and noisemakers, proceeding to interrupt the window display to “inconvenience those who would rather bury their heads in the capitalist machine than speak up against a genocide.”

Responding to the planned disruption of this historical event, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan voiced her frustration on social media platform X, condemning the politicisation of a beloved children’s event.

“Blocking the Christmas windows won’t change a thing in the Middle East, but it will let down a bunch of kids in Melbourne. “We are all a bit sick of this stuff.”

Alland urged for unity and announced forthcoming social cohesion laws aimed at reducing division and vilification in Victoria. “I’ll fight for our friendly state, free of hate,” Allan added. She criticised both the protesters and those she described as “quietly stoking division” for escalating tensions.

Victoria Police confirmed they had requested the group to avoid disrupting the family-friendly event but stated that protesters remained uncooperative.

“The Myer Christmas windows are an important tradition in Melbourne’s calendar,” a spokesperson said, adding that police would attend and continue to monitor the protest.

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The victims have been identified as Ketaba Gohil, 29, her brother Neelraj, 25, Jay Sisodiya, and Digvijay Patel. The sole survivor, a woman in her 20s, escaped thanks to Canada Post employee Rick Harper, who smashed a window with a metal pole, allowing her to scramble out head-first.

Harper, who recounted the harrowing rescue to the Toronto Star, explained that the car’s electronic doors had failed.

“You couldn’t open the doors,” he said, suggesting that the young woman inside had likely tried to escape herself. “I don’t know if that was the battery or what, but she couldn’t get out,” he added.

Only after breaking the window did Harper realise that thick smoke had obscured the presence of other passengers trapped inside.

The crash has intensified scrutiny of Tesla’s electronic door systems, which rely on a button rather than traditional handles.

Captain Randy Schmitz from the Calgary Fire Department noted that, in a crash, power loss can render these doors inoperable. Although Teslas are equipped with manual override features, experts argue that they are not widely known or easy to locate in a high-stress situation.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has highlighted nine ongoing investigations into various safety issues involving the Tesla Model Y, including reports of “unexpected brake activation” and “sudden unintended acceleration.”

Tesla, which markets its vehicles as some of the safest globally, maintains that their battery systems minimise injury risk and contain fire hazards through sophisticated isolation systems.

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Prominent Indian community members, including the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), has expressed grave concerns, warning that the SFJ-led bogus referendum could strain relations between New Zealand and India.

Former National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, New Zealand’s first India-born politician, expressed concerns over the upcoming Khalistan referendum, warning that it could harm New Zealand-India relations given India’s firm stance on territorial integrity.

Bakshi emphasised to NZ Herald,

“the proposed referendum on Khalistan will likely hurt New Zealand-India relations, particularly given India’s apparent position on the issue of its territorial integrity.”

Bakshi added that the referendum has “minimal support from the Sikh community in New Zealand,” stressing that it is driven by “a tiny and vocal minority” influenced by external forces.

Rupinder Virk, President of Country Section New Zealand Indian Association (CSNZIA), told NZ Herald:

“We don’t support any extremism or discrimination, especially if it is against India.”

This planned bogus referendum to crate strife among Sikhs and Hindus in the diaspora communities is organised by US-based group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), banned in India labelling it a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for its alleged anti-India activities.

The event is set for 17 November in Aotea Square, marking the latest in a series of similar events held by the group across cities in Canada, Australia, and the UK.

India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar, reportedly raised the issue with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters at the Raisina Down Under conference in Canberra, according to New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

NZICA President Narendra Bhana described the event as “deeply offensive” to the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, pointing to recent rallies in Auckland where the Indian flag was desecrated.

“The Indian community in New Zealand stands united in its resolve to reject external influences that do not align with the values of community and respect, which are central to the diverse cultures coexisting in this country.”

Meanwhile, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) and New Zealand Police have both recognised the event’s right to proceed under New Zealand’s freedom of expression laws.

The TAU, which confirmed Aotea Square as the venue, reiterated its apolitical stance, highlighting its commitment to maintaining public safety at large gatherings.

“It is important that TAU remains apolitical in its own activities, including the venues, events and major cultural festivals it delivers on behalf of Auckland Council. To do that, it must make decisions which might upset some groups – given the many political and human rights causes which people in our community feel passionate about.”

In December 2023, three religious extremists were convicted in the attempted murder of Harnek Singh, a liberal Auckland-based radio host.

Sukhpreet Singh was found guilty as an accessory, while Sarvjeet Sidhu admitted to attempted murder. During sentencing, Judge Mark Woolford highlighted the need for community protection and deterrence, emphasising the crime’s “hallmarks of religious fanaticism.”

Harnek Singh suffered over 40 stab wounds in a 2020 ambush outside his home, which he attributed to his liberal views on Sikhism, contrasting with his attackers’ conservative beliefs.

Keeping in mind the violent history of Khalistani ideology, Indian community organisations in New Zealand are urging vigilance against foreign influences they say could disrupt peace and foster division. The NZICA specifically calls on New Zealand authorities to take a strong stance against SFJ’s activities.

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Furthermore, members from academic institutions including those within the SKA-India Consortium (SKAIC), industry partners, and others were also present to commemorate this occasion.

India formally joined the SKAO Council as a member in July 2024, upon signing and ratifying the founding document, the Convention Establishing the SKAO. The Government of India had earlier approved participation in this international mega-science project with a substantial commitment of ₹1250 corer (a little over $228 million AUD), funded jointly by DAE and DST, to support India’s activities in the SKA project up to 2031.

The SKAO is an intergovernmental organization bringing together nations from around the world to build and operate cutting-edge radio telescopes to transform our understanding of the Universe, and deliver benefits to society through global collaboration and innovation.

Nobel Laureate in Physics and Astrophysicist at the ANU Mount Stromlo Observatory and ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Prof Brian Schmidt, shared his feelings with The Australia Today about India joining SKAO.

“It’s exciting to see India join the SKA Observatory given its long history of radio astronomy excellence, as well as its technical capability and contributing to the development of the telescopes, which is going to be an ongoing program into the future.”

“Indian astronomers will be in the middle of the discoveries that the Square Kilometre Array Observatory will make, and I think a lot of the technology will come back to energize people and new companies to do things that we haven’t even thought of yet”, said Prof Schmidt.

The observatory has a global footprint and consists of the SKAO Global Headquarters in the UK, the SKAO’s two telescopes at radio-quiet sites in South Africa and Australia, and associated facilities to support the operations of the telescopes.

The Observatory’s membership now stands at 12 countries, with several more working through the national governmental processes required to join. India’s participation further enhances the diversity of SKAO members globally, connecting 5 continents through scientific excellence to create one of the world’s most ambitious research infrastructure organizations.

The Indian government was a party to the multilateral negotiations resulting in the final text of the Convention, and participated in the preparatory activities that led to the SKAO’s creation in early 2021. This makes India one of the SKAO’s founding members, alongside the initial signatories.

Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary DAE, hailed this as a remarkable milestone which DAE has achieved in the platinum jubilee of its existence and this mega science international collaboration puts India ahead in the global scientific forum.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary DST, commented that DST is proud to be a partner of SKA Observatory (SKAO) project which aims to build the biggest and most sensitive radio astronomy observatory for addressing a variety of cutting-edge science goals. 

“India, with its strong tradition in radio astronomy research is well placed to contribute significantly to the building of the SKAO.  For this, we are enthusiastic to contribute both in-kind through different work packages and via cash payments, towards establishing this next generation facility,” said Prof Karandikar.

Prof. Phil Diamond, Director General of SKAO stated,

“India’s contributions to the SKAO have been substantial, spanning science, engineering, and governance, as part of the group of nations who helped to establish our intergovernmental organization. India’s membership further enhances the diversity of SKAO members globally, connecting five continents through scientific excellence to create one of the world’s most ambitious research infrastructures”. 

He added “The SKAO’s growth is an acknowledgement that being part of this unique endeavor brings a multitude of benefits, enabling domestic innovation to thrive, facilitating collaboration across borders, and creating broader socio-economic benefits that can help to address our shared global challenges.”

The Indian participation in SKA is a truly nationwide, inclusive project led by the  SKA-India Consortium (SKAIC) consisting of  24 academic and research institutes, with NCRA-TIFR as the nodal institute. Prof Pankaj Jain of IIT Kanpur, who is the Chair of the Consortium, stated,

“I am absolutely delighted that now India has formally joined SKA as a full member. India has always had a very strong tradition in Radio Astronomy. In recent years it has touched new heights with many educational institutions also developing strong groups that are working in all aspects of this field. This is particularly satisfying for me as a teacher since it allows us to involve students in an awe-inspiring research project whose scale and potential science implications are mind boggling”.

India has been deeply involved in design and development work since the SKA project’s inception from around 2012 onward, and has made significant contributions to the critical software elements that sit at the heart of the SKA telescopes.  Building on NCRA’s leading role in the international Telescope Manager consortium during the detailed design phase, India will continue its work to supervise the development of the Observatory Monitor and Control system.

Akin to the brain and nervous system of the observatory, this Monitor and Control system will issue the commands required to carry out astronomical observations for our global community. In delivering this crucial element, India will call upon the expertise of a thriving software industry and decades of experience in developing radio astronomy facilities, not least the innovative, recently upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT).

In this context, Prof. Yashwant Gupta, Centre Director of NCRA and the scientist leading India’s participation in the SKAO, mentioned,

“As well as giving the Indian astronomy community access to the best facility in low and mid-frequency radio astronomy in the world, SKAO membership will bring many benefits to Indian industry as we plan to make in-kind contributions in a range of areas covering radio frequency electronics, digital hardware and signal processing systems, data processing software and also monitoring and control software.”

“The technological knowledge and experience of working in/for the SKAO will also benefit the growth of research and development activities in India, both in terms of existing radio astronomy facilities as well as in applications to other allied fields of research,” added Dr Gupta.

SKA-Low Telescope Director Dr Sarah Pearce told The Australia Today that the SKA telescopes – SKA-Low in Australia and SKA-Mid in South Africa – are next-generation science facilities and the most advanced radio telescopes ever built. She said that the science made possible by the SKA telescopes will revolutionise our understanding of the Universe and help us answer questions that have so far mystified astronomers.

“The telescopes are like time machines – we’ll see things we’ve never been able to see in the history of humanity. The SKA-Low telescope in Australia will be able to map the sky 135 times faster than other state-of-the-art telescopes, and will be so sensitive that it can detect the faintest radio signals that have travelled billions of light years across space.”

“Australia is a founding member and host country for the SKA Observatory’s low frequency radio telescope, SKA-Low, currently under construction on Wajarri Yamaji Country in outback Western Australia. This is the first time that Australia is co-hosting a mega science facility on behalf of the international community, enabling Australian businesses and individuals to be at the forefront of global innovation across a variety of science and technology areas,” added Dr Pearce.

Indian astronomers have been active in almost all interesting scientific areas relevant to the SKA. Scientists working at Indian institutions are active in 12 of the SKAO’s Science Working Groups, and hold co-chair positions in several of them. Prof. Tirthankar Roy Choudhury of NCRA, who coordinates the scientific activities related to the SKA in India, highlighted,

“It is noteworthy that Indian institutions have hosted numerous SKA-related workshops and conferences, most notable being 2016’s international SKA Science Meeting. India also plans to host an SKA Regional Centre (SRC) as part of a global network based in SKAO member states. Prof. Yogesh Wadadekar of NCRA-TIFR, who is coordinating the efforts to build the SRC in India, said “the SRC will process, store and provide access to SKAO data products for the astronomy community.”

Mr Sunil Ganju, Head of the Institutional Collaborations and Programs Division at DAE said that India’s membership in SKAO demonstrates the commitment of the Government of India towards our efforts at scientific excellence and international collaboration. He added that this milestone is a rich tribute to the legacy and vision of the father of radio astronomy in India, Professor Govind Swarup. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of the scientists and the support of the policy makers and the funding agencies for the same.

India’s radio astronomy community, led by the late Prof. Govind Swarup, put forward one of the first concepts for a large radio observatory of the class of the SKAO in the 1990s. Today, a consortium of more than 20 academic and research institutes contributes to India’s participation, led by NCRA and its Director Prof. Yashwant Gupta, who’s been championing India’s efforts in the SKA project for over a decade.

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The MoU signed in Suva focuses on the development and implementation of transformative digital solutions for Fiji. The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the delivery of public services and stimulate the digital start-up ecosystem in Fiji.

India’s engagement with Fiji is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties within the Pacific region, particularly through the Forum for India and the Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).

In August during the visit of President of India to Fiji, High Commissioner of India P.S. Karthigeyan highlighted the growing interest in digital cooperation, emphasising that the initiative will go beyond diaspora engagement and bring significant benefits to both nations.

During the above press conference in August 2024, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, had also spoken of the potential for this initiative to transform Fiji’s public sector and digital landscape. With ongoing discussions between the two governments, further developments in this area are expected in the near future.

This new collaboration builds on India’s successful digital public infrastructure models, which have revolutionised public administration and service delivery at scale.

The digital partnership is poised to be a game-changer for Fiji, offering new opportunities in both the start-up ecosystem and in improving ease of living and business operations.

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“The original sin here is Canada’s,” he said, reflecting on the friction sparked by recent diplomatic statements.

Further, addressing the 1985 Air India bombing, which killed 365 people, including Canadians, Dr Tharoor commented on the Canadian justice system’s handling of the case.

“One would have expected to see someone convicted for the killing of 365 people, including several Canadian citizens, in the 1985 Air India bombing. The Canadian judicial system has shown its deficiencies over the years.”

Dr Tharoor’s criticism pointed to long-standing deficiencies, a view contrasting with recent statements by Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong, who expressed confidence in the Canadian judiciary.

Dr Tharoor’s remarks echo the call for stable and respectful ties amid rising geopolitical tensions. He further urged Canada to better consider India’s security concerns in its diplomatic decisions, warning of the risks posed by inflamed tensions.

The renowned diplomat and parliamentarian also captivated an audience at the University of Melbourne’s during an event titled “Shifting Perspectives: The State of the World in 2024.”

In conversation with Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute (AII), Dr Tharoor shared his insights on India’s evolving global role, the shifting geopolitical landscape, and the future of Australia-India relations.

With 23 years of UN experience and his current position as Chair of India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, Dr Tharoor offered a nuanced view on critical global issues, including colonial legacies, multilateralism, and the Indo-Pacific.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts took a moment to praise Indian parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor for his sharp intellect and thoughtful contributions to public discourse. In a lighter vein, Watts also teased Tharoor about the upcoming Australia-India Test cricket series, humorously suggesting that India might struggle to claim victory against Australia.

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers’ CEO Jacob Varghese also took the stage, noting his shared heritage with Dr Shashi Tharoor, as both hail from the Indian state of Kerala.

Varghese recognised the importance of dialogues such as those hosted by the Australia India Institute in strengthening ties between the two nations and fostering greater cultural understanding. In a moment of humour, Varghese playfully cautioned Dr Tharoor about his remarks regarding the New Zealand cricket team, who he had referred to as a “surrogate of Australia” after India’s recent home series loss.

These light-hearted exchanges added a personal touch to the discussion, demonstrating the blend of serious dialogue and camaraderie that characterised the event.

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Myopia in children is on the rise. The condition – also known as shortsightedness – already affects up to 35% of children across the world, according to a recent review of global data. The researchers predict this number will increase to 40%, exceeding 740 million children living with myopia by 2050.

So why does this matter? Many people may be unaware that treating myopia (through interventions such as glasses) is about more than just comfort or blurry vision. If left unchecked, myopia can rapidly progress, increasing the risk of serious and irreversible eye conditions. Diagnosing and treating myopia is therefore crucial for your child’s lifetime eye health.

Here is how myopia develops, the role screen time plays – and what you can do if think your child might be shortsighted.

What is myopia?

Myopia is commonly known as nearsightedness or shortsightedness. It is a type of refractive error, meaning a vision problem that stops you seeing clearly – in this case, seeing objects that are far away.

A person usually has myopia because their eyeball is longer than average. This can happen if eyes grow too quickly or longer than normal.

A longer eyeball means when light enters the eye, it’s not focused properly on the retina (the light-sensing tissue lining the back of the eye). As a result, the image they see is blurry. Controlling eye growth is the most important factor for achieving normal vision.

Myopia is on the rise in children

The study published earlier this year looked at how the rate of myopia has changed over the last 30 years. It reviewed 276 studies, which included 5.4 million people between the ages of 5–19 years, from 50 countries, across six continents.

Based on this data, the researchers concluded up to one in three children are already living with shortsightedness – and this will only increase. They predict a particular rise for adolescents: myopia is expected to affect more than 50% of those aged 13-19 by 2050.

Their results are similar to a previous Australian study from 2015. It predicted 36% of children in Australia and New Zealand would have myopia by 2020, and more than half by 2050.

The new review is the most comprehensive of its kind, giving us the closest look at how childhood myopia is progressing across the globe. It suggests rates of myopia are increasing worldwide – and this includes “high myopia”, or severe shortsightedness.

What causes myopia?

Myopia develops partly due to genetics. Parents who have myopia – and especially high myopia – are more likely to have kids who develop myopia as well.

But environmental factors can also play a role.

One culprit is the amount of time we spend looking at screens. As screens have shrunk, we tend to hold them closer. This kind of prolonged focusing at short range has long been associated with developing myopia.

Reducing screen time may help reduce eye strain and slow myopia’s development. However for many of us – including children – this can be difficult, given how deeply screens are embedded in our day-to-day lives.

Green time over screen time

Higher rates of myopia may also be linked to kids spending less time outside, rather than screens themselves. Studies have shown boosting time outdoors by one to two hours per day may reduce the onset of myopia over a two to three year period.

We are still unsure how this works. It may be that the greater intensity of sunlight – compared to indoor light – promotes the release of dopamine. This crucial molecule can slow eye growth and help prevent myopia developing.

However current research suggests once you have myopia, time outdoors may only have a small effect on how it worsens.

What can we do about it?

Research is rapidly developing in myopia control. In addition to glasses, optometrists have a range of tools to slow eye growth and with it, the progression of myopia. The most effective methods are:

• orthokeratology (“ortho-K”) uses hard contact lenses temporarily reshape the eye to improve vision. They are convenient as they are only worn while sleeping. However parents need to make sure lenses are cleaned and stored properly to reduce the chance of eye infections
• atropine eyedrops have been shown to successfully slow myopia progression. Eyedrops can be simple to administer, have minimal side effects and don’t carry the risk of infection associated with contact lenses.

What are the risks with myopia?

Myopia is easily corrected by wearing glasses or contact lenses. But if you have “high myopia” (meaning you are severely shortsighted) you have a higher risk of developing other eye conditions across your lifetime, and these could permanently damage your vision.

These conditions include:

• retinal detachment, where the retina tears and peels away from the back of the eye
• glaucoma, where nerve cells in the retina and optic nerve are progressively damaged and lost
• myopic maculopathy, where the longer eyeball means the macula (part of the retina) is stretched and thinned, and can lead to tissue degeneration, breaks and bleeds.

What can parents do?

It’s important to diagnose and treat myopia early – especially high myopia – to stop it progressing and lower the risk of permanent damage.

Uncorrected myopia can also affect a child’s ability to learn, simply because they can’t see clearly. Signs your child might need to be tested can include squinting to see into the distance, or moving things closer such as a screen or book to see.

Regular eye tests with the optometrist are the best way to understand your child’s eye health and eyesight. Each child is different – an optometrist can help you work out tailored methods to track and manage myopia, if it is diagnosed.

Flora Hui, Honorary Fellow, Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Melbourne School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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The Coalition, led by the Shadow Minister for Communications, David Coleman, is mounting a strong opposition to the bill, arguing that it is a dangerous attempt to censor free speech.

The Concerns: Who Gets to Define ‘Misinformation’?

The Misinformation Bill, as outlined by the Albanese Government, seeks to give digital platforms the authority to remove content deemed as misinformation, to reduce harmful falsehoods that could spread online. However, the controversy surrounding the bill is largely about how misinformation is defined and who has the power to enforce these definitions.

David Coleman, the Shadow Minister for Communications, voiced his concerns that the bill could lead to widespread censorship.

“Under the Government’s plan, something can be ‘misinformation’ even if it is the honestly held opinion of an everyday Australian,”

said Coleman.

The bill allows for statements to be labelled as misinformation even if they are not malicious or intended to deceive—an issue that many see as dangerous for free speech.

The bill notably exempts academics, scientists, artists, and comedians from its regulations, but everyday citizens are not provided the same protections. This creates an uneven playing field where professional commentators are free to express their views, while ordinary Australians may be restricted in what they can say online.

Government Control and The Role of the Communications Minister

A key concern highlighted by the Coalition is the extensive powers granted to the Communications Minister under the proposed legislation.

Coleman says, the Minister would have the ability to order Misinformation Investigations and Hearings at her discretion.

“It’s very concerning that the Communications Minister can personally order Misinformation Investigations and Misinformation Hearings, on terms of her choosing,”

Coleman stated, warning that such powers could lead to politically motivated censorship.

The bill also imposes significant penalties on digital platforms that fail to remove content labelled as misinformation. The fear is that these platforms, facing the threat of huge fines, may take a heavy-handed approach to moderation to avoid penalties. This could lead to the removal of legitimate, honestly-held opinions by Australians who are simply engaging in public discourse.

Impact on Religious Beliefs and Open Debate

According to Coleman, one of the most contentious aspects of the bill is its potential impact on the communication of religious beliefs. The legislation allows digital platforms and government authorities to determine whether a belief is ‘reasonable,’ raising concerns about state interference in matters of faith.

“A core problem of the planned legislation is that it empowers digital platforms and government bureaucrats to determine whether or not a religious belief is ‘reasonable’,” Coleman argued.

“This flies in the face of the separation of church and state and is completely unacceptable.”

The Coalition has also pointed to the use of the term ‘misinformation’ during last year’s Voice referendum debate, arguing that the new laws could have been used to stifle legitimate debate if they had been in place at that time.

“Many Australians will recall all the times the Prime Minister and his MPs referred to any comments they didn’t like in the Voice referendum as ‘misinformation’.

If these laws had been in place last year, there is no doubt Labor would have used them in an attempt to stifle debate,”

Coleman said.

A Call to Action for the Senate

The Misinformation Bill is scheduled for a vote in the Senate in late November. The Coalition is urging all Senators to vote against what they view as an overly broad and dangerous piece of legislation. Coleman emphasized the need to protect free speech and prevent the government from imposing new restrictions on what Australians can say online.

“It is of the highest importance that this bill is defeated in the federal parliament. We cannot allow the Albanese Government to impose a new censorship regime on all Australians,”

he stated.

The debate over the Misinformation Bill highlights the ongoing tension between regulating harmful content online and preserving the fundamental right to free speech. While the government insists the legislation is necessary to combat the spread of dangerous misinformation, critics argue that it places too much power in the hands of bureaucrats and digital platforms, potentially silencing voices that simply hold differing views.

As the Senate prepares to vote, Australians from all walks of life are being urged to consider the implications of the bill—both in terms of combating harmful misinformation and in safeguarding their right to freely express their beliefs and opinions. The outcome of this vote will determine how Australia balances these crucial yet competing interests in the years to come.

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According to reports in the local media, the bid crafted by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in collaboration with the government, emphasizes India’s vast cultural diversity, its legacy as a hub along the ancient Silk and Spice Routes, and its message of global peace through “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.

Competing with nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, India has entered the race to bring the Olympics to the subcontinent for the first time.

Indian officials involved in the bid noted that hosting the Olympics is a “national priority” backed by government and corporate support.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently championed the bid, and the proposal reflects his vision, extending India’s soft power message and aiming to leave a legacy of sporting and social benefits for the region.

Experts told the India Today that India’s unique position as the “only major economy yet to host the Games” is seen as an impetus for the IOC to consider the transformative economic, social, and cultural impact that the event could bring to South Asia.

With more than 600 million Indians under 25, the Games could create extensive opportunities in infrastructure, services, and tourism, supporting India’s economic trajectory.

Though the letter did not specify a host city, Ahmedabad is seen as a frontrunner, with the Gujarat government establishing a dedicated cell, the Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation, to prepare for the Games.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated his intent last year at the IOC’s 141st session in Mumbai, where he committed to “leaving no stone unturned” in achieving this “age-old dream” of bringing the Olympics to India.

The 2036 Olympic host will be chosen following a competitive process expected to conclude in 2026 or 2027, with India joining nine other countries vying for the honour. If selected, the 2036 Olympics would represent a landmark moment, marking India’s entry onto the global sports stage and empowering its next generation of athletes.

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“To my 5 year old self: “you made it”. Ladies and gentlemen, I’m officially the first Fijian American Analog Astronaut.”

Gambhir, a pilot and cyber engineer, joined the all-female crew of the Analog Expedition 92, proudly wearing the Fijian flag on her uniform.

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Biman Prasad both congratulated Gambhir on social media.

DPM Prasad tweeted, “I join Prime Minister @slrabuka in congratulating Neharika Gambhir on becoming the first Fijian-American analogue astronaut! Your achievement is a true inspiration and a powerful reminder of the limitless possibilities when we break barriers and aim for the stars.”

In an Instagram post reflecting on her journey, Neharika shared that her journey has been “long, painful, rewarding, and, in many ways, incredible.”

“My journey has been long, painful, rewarding, and, in many ways, incredible. From being a 58-pound, extremely shy, and very ill girl, left by my biological parents to fend for myself in an unfamiliar country, to joining the prestigious IIAS for astronaut-scientist training, it’s been a journey of growth, healing, and profound learning.”

Analog astronauts simulate real-world space missions, often testing equipment, medical responses, and human endurance in controlled environments to prepare for potential future space journeys.

Gambhir, who attended Saint Joseph’s Secondary School in Suva, is particularly focused on space medicine and intravehicular spacesuit research.

Beyond her analogue astronaut role, Gambhir is currently pursuing a computer science degree and working towards a PhD in Computational Life Sciences, with a specialisation in computational neurology and the study of neural networks in diagnosing vascular malformations. She is also undergoing astronaut scientist candidacy training at the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS).

An accomplished information security engineer with over five years of experience, Gambhir holds certifications in Security Plus and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and is renowned for her proactive approach to threat detection and incident response. Her work includes dealing with the UltraDDoS product, a high-stakes environment where she ensures digital security.

As a crew member, Gambhir’s roles are critical: she serves as an astrobiologist, responsible for maintaining organisms and bioreactor systems onboard, and as the data officer, overseeing the accuracy and reliability of all mission data. In her spare time, she contributes to World War II aircraft restoration and performs public outreach and airshows with restored warbirds.

Looking ahead, Gambhir aspires to become a commercial astronaut, combining her passions for space, medicine, and public education to inspire the next generation of explorers.

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The man, from Meadow Heights, is the first Victorian to be convicted of an exit trafficking offence.

In 2014, he convinced his then-wife, a foreign national, to travel to Sudan, where he subsequently abandoned her without her passport or any means of returning to Australia.

Before leaving Sudan, the man had secretly arranged to revoke her Australian partner visa and applied for single caregiver financial assistance.

The victim, who was living in Australia on a partner visa at the time, managed to return in early 2016 with help from Victoria Legal Aid and filed a human trafficking complaint. Following a four-year investigation, the man was arrested in 2016, charged in 2021, and found guilty in April 2024.

During sentencing, the judge highlighted the man’s calculated abuse of power over his vulnerable victim. AFP Detective Superintendent Bernard Geason praised the victim’s courage in coming forward, stressing the importance of awareness and reporting to prevent human trafficking.

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By Libby (Elizabeth) Sander

With the end of year holidays looming, it’s easy to imagine Australians are getting ready to check out of the workplace and head for the beach. But a recent survey shows Australians are not taking holidays nearly as often as they are entitled to.

The survey of more than 1,000 Australian workers, taken from July to September 2024, has found that employees have 160 million days of annual leave banked. More than one in five employees (22%) had accrued more than four weeks, with older workers having higher averages than their younger colleagues.

The findings coincide with another study showing nearly half of Australian workers report feeling burned out.

So how do Australians’ leave habits compare with workers in other countries, such as the United States and Japan? And can companies here force – or just encourage – workers to take a break?

It’s important to take leave

Not taking annual leave has negative effects on both mental and physical health for workers. But it can also impact a company’s bottom line.

Research has shown that not taking leave reduces employee’s motivation and increases the risk of burnout, leading to reductions in job satisfaction, absenteeism and lower productivity.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Mind-Body Centre found taking holidays increases positive emotions and reduces depression.

Why workers aren’t taking leave

The reasons for employees not taking leave are multifaceted and complex.

In uncertain economic times, employees may try to accrue annual leave as a financial buffer should it be required. With rising costs of living, employees who can’t afford to travel may also be reluctant to take leave and stay at home.

In some cases, organisations may have cultures where working long hours and not taking leave is viewed positively.

Research has shown that in some organisations, taking leave may be viewed as a lack of commitment, resulting in employees being concerned about job security and career progression.

Since the pandemic, employees continue to report staff shortages in many roles and increased workloads. Employees are less likely to take time off if they feel they may be burdening others if there is no one to take on their work.

Returning to work to an overflowing inbox and a mile high list of tasks mean employees are likely to take shorter holidays, not giving them sufficient time to take a meaningful break.

And while flexible work arrangements have been welcomed by workers, research shows the inability to switch off at the end of the day can spill over into annual leave.

Is leave hoarding worse in Australia?

Annual leave entitlements differ between countries. The standard entitlement for full-time workers in Australia is 20 days per year.

In the United States, the average worker is entitled to between 10 and 14 days of leave a year. But this does not carry over if unused. Despite this, American workers leave up to 55% of leave days unused.

German employees are entitled to 30 days of leave a year. Only 12% of employees accrue excess leave, in a country where taking regular holidays is a cultural norm.

In the United Kingdom, 65% of employees don’t take the full 28 days of leave available to them. And in Japan, a country renowned for long working hours, 20% of leave days are not taken, even though many Japanese workers only get 10 days leave a year.

Can companies force workers to take leave?

Employers can direct employees to take leave, but only where there is a holiday shutdown period or where an employee has accrued excessive leave.

The amount of notice employers are required to give staff to take leave is not generally specified, however it may be prescribed in relevant awards, enterprise agreements or the employer’s own policy.

The direction to take leave must also be reasonable, taking into consideration factors including the amount of notice given, usual practices in the organisation, timing, and the needs of the employee and the employer.

Employers don’t like holding large leave balances, as accrued annual leave is recorded as a liability on balance sheets. Further, the annual leave entitlement is paid at the rate the employee is on at the time of the leave, not their rate at the time of accrual.

How companies can get staff to take leave

Taking leave matters. One study shows year-end performance rose by 8% for every extra 10 hours of annual leave an employee took.

And there are added benefits for employees too. Using your holiday leave can help you get a promotion or pay rise.

There are a number of ways employers can encourage staff to take their annual leave entitlement. Promoting a culture of switching off after work and on vacation is one. It’s difficult for an employee to have a relaxing holiday while their phone is pinging across multiple different platforms.

Managers need to ensure adequate resources are provided and workloads are managed effectively.

Google has utilised AI tools to support employees in monitoring workloads and reallocating work across teams. Managers need to work closely with their teams to ensure they understand workload pressures and provide support.

Encouraging employees not to check in on leave is also essential.

Lead by example

Organisations should take steps to foster a supportive work culture, where wellbeing and taking regular breaks are prioritised. Senior managers need to model this behaviour in their own actions and their communications with their staff.

Sending an email telling staff to take leave and focus on well-being is likely to fall flat if managers are spending 60-plus hour weeks in the office, with little to no time away on leave.

Organisations can also provide incentives such as offering bonuses or other arrangements to encourage employees to take breaks.

And finally, education plays a key part in driving change. Employees may not be aware of the negative effects of not switching off from work and or taking regular holidays, leading to increased risk of disengagement and burnout.

Libby (Elizabeth) Sander, MBA Director & Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour, Bond Business School, Bond University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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In recent elections conducted by the Victorian Electoral Commission, Awasthi was elected as a councillor for the Kennington area, securing an impressive 59 per cent of the primary vote and defeating his closest competitor, Gavin Hicks. His victory marks a significant milestone for himself and the broader Indian community, highlighting the increasing role of the Indian diaspora in Australian public life.

A Vision for Kennington and Greater Bendigo

Speaking after his election, Awasthi expressed gratitude towards his supporters in both Australia and India.

“Coming from a small town like Mandi and winning elections in a foreign land is a significant achievement. The support and encouragement from my community inspire me daily to make a positive impact,”

he said.

Awasthi, who resides in Kennington with his wife and daughter, pledged to work tirelessly for his constituents, advocating for their needs while promoting inclusivity and support for multiculturalism.

Awasthi’s experiences as an immigrant and community leader have given him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by migrant communities. He aims to fulfil the expectations placed on him by being a bridge between the diverse cultures in Bendigo and advocating for regional equity, increased cultural engagement, and improved community facilities.

In 2021, Awasthi founded the Indian Association of Bendigo, after realizing that the Indian community lacked a formal platform during the COVID-19 pandemic. The association has since grown to represent around 1,500 to 1,600 families, organising popular events such as Holi, Garba, and Indian Independence Day celebrations. These events aim to break down cultural barriers and foster greater interaction between the Indian community and the wider regional population. The association has also promoted traditional Indian culture, such as introducing classical dance classes like Kathak, alongside Bollywood dance, to offer enriching cultural experiences.

The Indian Association of Bendigo, under Awasthi’s leadership, has not only focused on cultural events but also on community support initiatives, such as providing food and essentials to vulnerable individuals during the pandemic and organizing charity events for the underprivileged. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive and harmonious community in regional Victoria.

“A Privilege to Represent This Community”

Abhishek Awasthi’s election to the City of Greater Bendigo marks an important milestone for the representation of migrant communities in regional Victoria. His commitment to breaking down barriers, promoting Indian culture, and fostering community connections reflects his dedication to making Bendigo a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.

As he steps into his new role as councillor, Awasthi is determined to work towards a brighter future for Kennington and beyond, ensuring that every voice is heard and every community is represented.

As a councillor in Greater Bendigo, Awasthi’s story is a testament to the potential of individuals from diverse backgrounds to shape the future of the Australian political landscape—one where community, heritage, and progress all go hand in hand.

A Journey of Community Leadership

Awasthi’s journey began in 2008 when he arrived in Australia as an international student at La Trobe University’s Bundoora campus. Studying for a Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Awasthi recalls his early days, when the concept of “PR” (permanent residency) was foreign to him. While other international students focused on securing residency points, Awasthi immersed himself in his studies and the Australian experience.

His first taste of leadership came in 2009, during a challenging period when attacks on Indian students were making headlines. As President of the Indian Students Association at La Trobe University, Awasthi liaised with media and university officials, marking the start of his journey as a community advocate.

After completing his Master’s degree, Awasthi took on a management position in Bendigo in 2010 and has called the city home ever since. He quickly integrated into the local community, holding multiple roles to advocate for diversity and inclusion. Awasthi has been actively involved with AFL Victoria, Cricket Australia, the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He also served as chair for Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services and remains a key health board member.

A Growing Legacy of Multicultural Engagement

Greater Bendigo, located about 150 km northwest of Melbourne, is home to approximately 260,000 Indian-born residents and boasts a vibrant multicultural community. Originally called “Big Gold Mountain” by Chinese immigrants during the gold rush era, Bendigo is today recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, known for its rich blend of cultures and flavours. Awasthi’s election represents a new chapter in Bendigo’s multicultural history, demonstrating the contributions of diverse communities to Australian society.

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Sexual offending perpetrated by females is probably much more common than people think.

In Australia, we have seen an almost 208% increase in the number of women in the criminal justice system for sexual offences from 2008 to 2023.

Research in the United States has found that on average, almost 8% of verified cases of sexual abuse across the nation had a female perpetrator. This figure ranges from 1% to more than 36% across the different states.

While women make up a small minority of people who sexually offend, there are minimal offence-specific rehabilitative programs for these women in Australia. To prevent harm to children, this needs to change.

Why is this happening?

There is no one “type” of female who perpetrates sexual offences.

Rather, this population is varied in their backgrounds and motivations, though they tend to have psychological problems and have experienced trauma in the past.

Co-offending with a male partner – such as a boyfriend or spouse – is also quite common (almost 33% of female-perpetrated sexual offence cases).

But not all females who co-offend do so because of coercion by their partner. Some will offend on their own and may do it out of sexual interest and pleasure.

What does this abuse look like?

When we hear about female-perpetrated sexual offending in the media, it typically involves young teachers offending against their students.

For example, a recent Australian case involved a 28-year-old former student teacher found guilty of sexual offences against a 15-year-old boy she met while on a teaching placement.

We also heard about the 28-year-old female teacher in the United Kingdom who was jailed after she was convicted of sexual activity with two schoolboys.

It may therefore come as a surprise that more often than not, most cases involve a mother offending against her own child.

For example, earlier this year a Queensland woman was sentenced for sexually abusing her child and transmitting child sexual abuse material.

The woman was charged with 21 child abuse-related offences, including rape.

Authorities found the abuse was planned with a man in the United States who was also convicted for child sexual abuse material offences.

Rehabilitation lacking

While punishment is important to discourage offending, therapeutic strategies can help to prevent re-offending.

Unfortunately, though, rehabilitation opportunities for women convicted of sexual offences are lacking.

We recently interviewed women sentenced for child sexual abuse in Australia. Our study found women have reportedly “begged for help” in prison, yet their requests for more support have largely gone unanswered.

Others said they were turned away from treatment in the community because they were women and not men.

Sexual offending treatment programs are available to men in Australia and other western countries. Many studies, including our own research, have found this helps reduce re-offending.

It seems reasonable, then, that such programs would be available to women who commit these offences. Some women in our interviews even expressed fear that without a rehabilitation program, they might re-offend.

But it is not just the women sentenced for sexual offences who believed rehabilitation programs would help to reduce their reoffending. The professionals we interviewed also expressed great support for such programs.

So, can’t we just use the same programs that are currently offered to men? The short answer is no.

Our research has found these programs must be tailored to women. This is because their motivations, offending pathways and offence characteristics are different.

With sexual offending rehabilitation programs now available for women in some other countries, hopefully we can see progress in this area in Australia soon. This is important for the protection of our most vulnerable community members: children.

Preventing abuse

In the meantime though, we need to focus on stopping this crime before it happens and being thorough in our approach to prevention.

This includes considering the range of contexts in which adult women come in contact with children, such as childcare, schools, sporting clubs, and in the home.

There are several steps organisations must take to create safer environments for children. This includes putting the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations into action.

Organisations should also consider the physical design of settings to improve supervision and surveillance, as well as education for staff as onlookers to identify, intervene, and/or report their concerns.

But this isn’t enough. We also need to think about how to minimise risks within family homes.

Educating parents, open communication, and family rules have all been suggested to improve safety for children in the family home.

While these strategies are important to use, they often rely on women as mothers and protectors of their children. This makes prevention of female-perpetrated sexual abuse particularly difficult within the family home.

This means responsibility for detecting this type of offending seems to fall to those outside the home (like schools or doctors) to identify and respond to early warning signs. Prevention could also involve women reaching out for anonymous support if they are concerned about their own thoughts or behaviour.

To assist prevention efforts, we need to continue to debunk misconceptions about female sexual offending. We also need to challenge those who minimise the abuse of female perpetrators.

These misconceptions and the minimisation of abuse creates barriers to victims accessing help, but also to the women themselves.

Larissa Christensen, Senior Lecturer in Criminology & Justice, Co-leader of the Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit (SVRPU), University of the Sunshine Coast; Bricklyn Priebe, PhD Candidate and Associate Lecturer in Criminology and Justice, School of Law and Society, University of the Sunshine Coast; Nadine McKillop, Associate Professor, Criminology & Justice, Co-leader of the Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit (SVRPU), School of Law and Society, University of the Sunshine Coast, and Susan Rayment-McHugh, Lecturer in Criminology and Justice & Co-Leader of the Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit, University of the Sunshine Coast

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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This new resource centre aims to foster a knowledge exchange between India and Fiji, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to enhancing educational and cultural connections through his 12-Point Action Plan outlined at the recent FIPIC Summit.

The inauguration also included the opening of a Yoga Centre established with Vanua Levu Arya Samaj, furthering India and Fiji’s cooperation in preventive healthcare.

Speaking to the community earlier, Indian High Commissioner Karthigeyan expressed gratitude for the support of Labasa’s local leaders and residents, emphasising the importance of people-to-people ties.

“You provide the living bridge between India and Fiji. You have an important role in making sure that this relationship that goes back 145 years will further get strengthened as we enter into the knowledge era.”

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Despite requests, Canadian police were unable to ensure protection for the event, scheduled for November 17. Peel Police Chief advised the temple to prioritise safety, forcing organisers to cancel the event.

The cancellation has spurred outcry from Canadian Hindu organisations and prominent voices, who criticised police and political leaders for failing to protect Hindu spaces from increasing threats.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Canada expressed their dismay on social media, questioning the police’s capacity or willingness to safeguard Hindu temples. The group stated,

“Shocked to see that @PeelPolice and @OntarioPolice are not able to offer appropriate protection… or are they succumbing to pressures from the Khalistani ecosystem?”

The event’s cancellation highlights growing fears among Canadian Hindus, who have seen Hindu temples increasingly targeted by extremists.

Daniel Bordman, senior correspondent at The National Telegraph, accused Peel Police of “emboldening the mob” by advising cancellation rather than offering security.

In response, Canadian Hindu Volunteers called on social media for a boycott of any politician or leader who does not speak against Khalistani extremism. “This isn’t just about one temple—it’s about the safety and dignity of an entire community under threat,” they asserted, urging for stronger action against extremist violence.

This incident follows similar disruptions at consular camps in Brampton, Vancouver, and Surrey, leading the Indian High Commission to raise concerns over safety. These annual camps, organised to assist the Indian diaspora, have faced repeated interference by anti-India elements, yet continue to operate with local support.

“It is deeply disappointing to see such disruptions being allowed for routine consular work being organized by our Consulates with the fullest cooperation of local co-organizers. We also remain very concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organized in the first place.”

Last year, Conservative Party Deputy Leader and MP Melissa Lantsman had visited Brampton’s Triveni Mandir, where she highlighted the growing issue of Hinduphobia in Canada.

Lantsman noted that Hindu temples have increasingly been targeted by hate crimes, including vandalism and desecration, and voiced concerns that the government has not been addressing the issue. She emphasised that all Canadians deserve a government that takes these threats seriously.

With ongoing threats from Khalistani extremists, Canada’s Hindu community has intensified its calls for improved law enforcement responses to ensure the safety and religious freedom of all Canadians.

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Premier Jacinta Allan, accompanied by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos, Indian Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, and AFL greats Campbell Brown and Josh Kennedy, announced today that tickets for the Pro Kabaddi League exhibition match will go on sale tomorrow.

The Pro Kabaddi Melbourne Raid will take place at John Cain Arena on December 28, in a thrilling double-header event that promises to bring Kabaddi fever to Australian soil.

The doubleheader will begin shortly after the third day of the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India concludes at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, allowing fans to continue their sporting excitement by walking over to the John Cain Arena.

Premier Allan expressed her enthusiasm for bringing Kabaddi to Victoria, stating: “I am so proud to deliver on the promise I made in India to bring Kabaddi back home to Victoria.”

Walking across the road from the Boxing Day Test to the first-ever Australian Pro Kabaddi match – you can’t get better than that. India’s number one and number two sports will be side-by-side in the sporting capital of the world.”

The event kicks off with a curtain-raiser match between a team of Australian athletes, coached by former Hawthorn and Gold Coast star Campbell Brown, and an Indian team of Pro Kabaddi players.

Coach Brown expressed his excitement about being involved in the historic event, stating:

“Kabaddi has such a long-standing history in India, and it’s a privilege to be part of the magic here in Melbourne.”

The Consul General of India Dr Sushil Kumar welcomed the Victorian Government initiative of Kabaddi to Melbourne and organising a match at John Cain Arena.

He told The Australia Today that “Kabaddi is the second most popular sport in India, rooted deeply in the country’s culture and history. In recent years, Kabaddi has transitioned from a village pastime to a respected professional sport.”

“The recent visit of Premier Jacinta Allan to India and the announcement of showcasing PKL in Melbourne has opened a new chapter in our ever-growing relations.”

“Showcasing Kabaddi in Melbourne not only introduces this sport to a diverse sporting landscape but will also enhance the popularity of Kabaddi internationally and further strengthen India-Victoria cultural ties. Sports collaboration between our two countries presents an unparalleled opportunity for fostering ties through capacity building, and economic benefits, from event tourism to education and people-to-people links,” added CGI Kumar.

Former Sydney Swans skipper Josh Kennedy will captain the Australian side, which will feature other notable AFL greats. Following the curtain-raiser, the main event will see two Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) All-Star teams go head-to-head, featuring some of India’s biggest Kabaddi superstars.

Captain Kennedy shared his eagerness to represent Australia, saying: “The energy surrounding Kabaddi is contagious.

“I’m excited to be representing our country on the big stage. We’ll be training hard and look forward to challenging the PKL in Melbourne next month.”

Tickets for the Pro Kabaddi Melbourne Raid will be available from 12:00pm on November 12 through Ticketmaster. Ticket prices have been set to encourage family participation, with children’s tickets starting at $10 and adult tickets at $55.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, highlighted the event’s significance in attracting spectators and boosting the state’s economy.

“The Pro Kabaddi League has one of the fastest-growing fan bases around the globe, and we know people will flock to see this one-of-a-kind event – another major event keeping our state buzzing and boosting our local businesses and jobs.”

Kabaddi, India’s second-most popular sport after cricket, is a fast-paced, high-intensity game involving two teams of seven players. Teams battle to score points by raiding the opponent’s side of the field, tagging as many defenders as possible within a 30-second raid. The sport is played over 40 minutes and requires agility, strategy, and teamwork, making it thrilling for spectators. Since its launch in 2014, the Pro Kabaddi League has grown rapidly, now boasting nearly 300 million viewers annually in India.

Victoria is the perfect place to host the first Pro Kabaddi exhibition match outside India, with its significant Indian community and growing interest in multicultural sports. Victoria is home to almost 260,000 Indian-born residents, and more than 370,000 Victorians have Indian ancestry.

The state is also Australia’s top destination for Indian visitors, with over 187,000 Indian tourists visiting Victoria in the year ending June 2024, spending more than $480 million. Kabaddi’s arrival in Melbourne is set to enhance this connection, bringing India’s beloved sport to Australia’s sporting capital.

Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements also spoke about the appeal of the upcoming Kabaddi matches, adding:

“Victoria is the top destination for Indian visitors, and it’s easy to see why – the Pro Kabaddi matches are part of a blockbuster summer of events, including Indian folk sensation Maithili Thakur at ALWAYS LIVE, Australia vs India at the Boxing Day Test, the Australian Open, and the NGV’s Summer Exhibition.”

Kabaddi’s arrival in Melbourne is set to add another iconic event to Victoria’s summer lineup, promising an unforgettable experience for sports fans across the state. With Pro Kabaddi’s fast-paced, adrenaline-filled action, Victorians are in for a sporting spectacle like no other.

Tickets for the Pro Kabaddi Melbourne Raid will be available through Ticketmaster starting tomorrow.

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In an inclusive new move, Camp Quality has launched website registration forms, posters, and brochures in Hindi, ensuring that more families can access the help and support they need. This addition builds on the charity’s mission to assist families of children aged 0-15 diagnosed with cancer, offering free programs at every stage of their cancer journey.

Camp Quality’s comprehensive services include family getaways, camps, and fun days to reconnect families, boost resilience, and create lasting memories during an incredibly challenging time. The charity is devoted to building a supportive community for children and their families, regardless of language barriers.

Reaching More Families, Ensuring No One is Left Behind

Deborah Thomas, CEO of Camp Quality, emphasised the importance of inclusive support for all families in Australia, stating:

“Camp Quality’s mission is to provide valuable support to all Australian families going through the trauma of a child’s diagnosis. We know how tough childhood cancer is, and no family should miss out on the support they need.”

Thomas further explained that the newly launched translated registration services will help break down communication barriers and ensure that every parent, regardless of their language background, can register for Camp Quality’s programs.

A free interpreter service is also available for those who speak languages other than those covered or who need additional support during the registration process.

“These translated registration services enable every parent to register for Camp Quality’s programs,” she said.

“We look forward to many new families enjoying the benefits of Camp Quality’s supportive programs.”

Multicultural Efforts Through Translation

Camp Quality worked in collaboration with multicultural communication agency Ethnolink to ensure that its resources were translated into five of the most commonly spoken languages in Australia—Arabic, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Hindi. This effort aims to broaden access and provide equitable support to culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia.

The initiative follows the successful translation of Camp Quality’s “Kids’ Guide to Cancer” website and app into Hindi, Arabic, Cantonese, and Mandarin in 2023. These efforts are intended to make vital resources and information available to more families and children in a language they understand, supporting their journey with knowledge and understanding.

Families interested in learning more about Camp Quality’s supportive programs, including their Kids’ Guide to Cancer, can visit their website to access these newly available resources in different languages.

Camp Quality’s expanded language offerings represent a positive step towards inclusion, ensuring that families dealing with the challenge of childhood cancer feel supported and informed throughout their journey. By making registration accessible in multiple languages, Camp Quality reaffirms its commitment to leaving no family behind in the fight against childhood cancer.

For more information on Camp Quality and its services, visit Camp Quality’s Kids’ Guide to Cancer here.

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