The Albanese government is contemplating measures to combat online abuse directed at public figures, with the Labor government initiating a public consultation on potential amendments to the Online Safety Act in a bid to enhance national safety. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the government’s commitment to bolstering online safety and acknowledged the need for an inclusive review process to address emerging digital harm to public figures.

The consultation, which commenced on April 29, seeks to examine the efficacy of existing legislation in tackling various forms of online misconduct, including hate speech, orchestrated attacks, and content generated by artificial intelligence.

Minister Rowland underscored the importance of adapting regulatory frameworks to evolving digital landscapes, highlighting the significance of penalties, safeguarding children’s interests, and drawing insights from global practices. Delia Rickard, a former deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, leads an independent review tasked with assessing the adequacy of current legal provisions and proposing enhancements to address online harms comprehensively.

Among the issues under scrutiny are the prevalence of online abuse targeting public figures and individuals who maintain an online presence as part of their professional obligations. The review acknowledges the heightened vulnerability of public figures to online harassment and emphasizes the imperative to safeguard their digital well-being.

By soliciting input from stakeholders and civil society, the government aims to ensure that regulatory reforms align with contemporary challenges and foster a positive digital environment conducive to broader societal engagement.

When Susan Coyle joined the Army in the late 80s, there were no women serving in the highest ranks of the Army. Now, Major-General Coyle is about to be promoted to a three-star general, and as the new head of the ADF’s cyber and space commands, will be the first woman to lead one of the Australian military’s warfighting domains.

Genghis Khan, the legendary Mongol conqueror, had a unique approach for his time when it came to treating his soldiers. Known for his strategic brilliance and military prowess, Khan understood the importance of a strong and loyal army in his quest to build the largest empire in history. So how did he treat his soldiers?

First and foremost, Genghis Khan believed in meritocracy. He valued skill, loyalty, and bravery above all else. Regardless of their background or social status, anyone who demonstrated these qualities had the opportunity to rise through the ranks of his army. This approach fostered a sense of unity and purpose among his soldiers, as they knew that their achievements would be rewarded.

Khan was also an astute observer of human nature. He recognized that soldiers needed to be motivated and inspired to fight with unwavering dedication. To achieve this, he led by example. Genghis Khan was renowned for his courage on the battlefield, often placing himself at the forefront of his troops during crucial engagements. This not only boosted morale but also instilled a sense of camaraderie and trust among his soldiers.

In addition to leading from the front, Khan took great care of his troops’ physical well-being. He ensured that his soldiers were adequately fed, equipped, and cared for. The Mongol army was known for its skilled horsemen, and Khan prioritized the breeding and training of horses to provide his soldiers with superior mounts. This gave them a significant advantage in maneuverability and speed during battles.

Furthermore, Genghis Khan implemented a system of rewards and recognition for valorous acts. Soldiers who displayed exceptional bravery or achieved notable successes on the battlefield were given honors, titles, and even land. This not only motivated his soldiers to excel but also created a sense of pride and camaraderie within the ranks.

However, Khan was also a strict disciplinarian. He demanded discipline and obedience from his soldiers, as he believed that a well-disciplined army was crucial for maintaining order and achieving victory. Disobedience or betrayal was met with severe consequences, ensuring that his troops remained loyal and committed to the cause.

The new CH-53K is the most powerful helicopter in the Pentagon’s inventory and it provides a critical long-range, heavy-lift capability.

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Check Out This Marine CH-53K Carrying An F-35C While Refueling From A KC-130T (twz.com)

IN 2017 at the National Press Club, Labor defence spokesman Richard Marles declared, “Partisanship in the area of defence strikes me as indulgent and ultimately a little contrived”.

He added, “It ought not be how we do business”.

On 17 April in the same location he declared, “The Liberals were a defence disaster.

“When the Albanese Government came to office we inherited a mess.

“The Liberals were one of the worst defence governments in our nation’s history at a time when Australia could least afford it.”

Partisan, indulgent and contrived.

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Failure to act on defence leadership issues | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

The Australian Army and two prominent companies have inked a memorandum of understanding, signalling their joint commitment to bolstering the army’s amphibious capabilities centred around BMT’s CAIMEN Large vessel.

In this collaboration, DNV will lend its expertise to BMT, customizing the CAIMEN Large to precisely match the requirements of the Australian Army. This strategic alignment aims to mitigate technical risks and minimize any disruptions to scheduling.

The CAIMEN has been meticulously engineered by BMT to facilitate the direct transport of hefty rolling and cargo payloads to various terrains such as beaches, hard standings, or ports. Notably, it boasts the versatility to undertake international voyages and navigate challenging open sea conditions.

This enhanced capability aligns seamlessly with the Australian Defence Force’s renewed emphasis on littoral operations, as highlighted in a recent statement. Graeme Nayler, BMT’s regional managing director for APAC, expressed confidence in the partnership’s ability to yield a ship design that prioritizes risk management.

By teaming up with DNV, BMT gains access to unparalleled expertise in certification and technical advisory services. This ensures that their designs adhere to rigorous standards and significantly contribute to Australia’s defence strategy. Nayler emphasized the potential of this collaboration to deliver heightened operational capabilities to the Australian Army.

Tim Holt, DNV’s area manager for maritime, echoed Nayler’s sentiments, expressing excitement about the opportunity to collaborate with BMT on such a crucial initiative. He stressed the importance of embedding the highest design standards into the CAIMEN Large from the outset, underscoring their joint commitment to providing a future-ready defence capability.

The unveiling of the 2024 Australian Defence Export Catalogue heralds a milestone, showcasing an impressive array of offerings from over 300 Australian defence industry enterprises, marking a significant 20% surge from its predecessor. Within its pages lie a testament to Australia’s prowess in defence technology, featuring a diverse range of equipment, including surplus assets from the Australian Defence Force, such as the esteemed Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) and the robust Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle.

Of particular note is the recent pivotal contract inked by the Australian Government with Thales Australia, amounting to a substantial $160 million agreement. This deal aims to procure an additional 78 Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles for the Australian Defence Force’s arsenal. Manufactured in the heart of Bendigo, Victoria, these Bushmasters uphold Australia’s commitment to domestic production excellence, with the inaugural batch slated for delivery in the anticipated year of 2024.

The significance of exporting Australia’s defence technology and capability to global markets cannot be overstated, resonating deeply with the core objectives outlined in the Defence Industry Development Strategy. These armoured vehicles represent more than mere machinery; they symbolize a tangible manifestation of Australia’s commitment to bolstering national security and fortifying its position as a formidable player in the realm of defence exports.

Australian-Defence-Export-Catalogue-10042024.pdf