Renewable energy has been heavily promoted as the future of global energy production, with significant investments and policy support from governments worldwide. Despite this, the actual impact on the overall energy mix has been minimal. Currently, renewables account for only a modest 2% of the world’s total energy consumption, a figure that pales in comparison to the vast sums poured into the sector. Over the past five years, governments have collectively spent a staggering $5 trillion on renewable energy projects, subsidies, and infrastructure development. However, despite this enormous financial commitment, the shift away from traditional fossil fuels has been sluggish, with the overall energy landscape remaining largely unchanged. This raises important questions about the efficiency, scalability, and true viability of renewables in meeting the world’s growing energy demands.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall this week, with authorities warning it could impact heavily populated areas across hundreds of kilometres of coastline. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast the category two system to cross the coast between Bundaberg and northern NSW on Thursday.

Currently located about 465 kilometres north-east of Brisbane, the cyclone is tracking south-east at 13 kilometres per hour. It is expected to move south-east on Monday before turning west and approaching the southern Queensland coast on Tuesday. Premier David Crisafulli has warned that the system could affect a large geographical area, bringing severe winds, coastal erosion, and widespread flooding.

Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks

Authorities are particularly concerned about heavy rainfall, with some areas expected to receive up to 600 millimetres in a short period. Regions already saturated by recent rains face heightened risks of flooding and landslides. A coastal hazard warning is in place from the K’gari coast to the NSW border, with predictions of abnormally high tides and damaging surf. A flood watch has also been issued for the Mary River down to the Gold Coast.

Residents in Bribie, Moreton, North and South Stradbroke, and the bay islands are advised to prepare for impacts, with barge and ferry services expected to cease later in the week. Local disaster authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone’s path, which is expected to move near Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast, bringing intense rainfall.

Safety Measures and Emergency Kit Essentials

Authorities are urging residents to begin preparations today by securing loose items, preparing sandbags, and reviewing emergency plans. A well-stocked emergency kit is essential for safety and survival. Recommended items include:

• Radio – Battery-powered, wind-up, or solar radio marked with local ABC Radio frequencies.
• Lighting – Waterproof torch and backup candles with waterproof matches.
• Drinking Water – At least 10 litres per person for three days.
• Food – Non-perishable items for three days, with necessary utensils.
• Batteries – Spare batteries for all devices (check them every six months).
• Toiletries – Soap, toilet paper, sanitiser, wipes, toothpaste, sanitary products, and face masks.
• Entertainment – Books and games for mental well-being.
• Cash – Sufficient funds for basic needs in case of power outages.
• First-Aid Kit – Fully stocked with up-to-date supplies.
• Photographs – Documentation of valuable household items.
• Pet Essentials – Food, medication, and updated microchip information.
• Medical Supplies – Prescription medications and equipment with usage instructions.
• Waterproof Bags – To protect important documents, IDs, and hard drive backups.

Ongoing Risks After Landfall

Even after Tropical Cyclone Alfred crosses the coast, its impacts will persist. Authorities warn that rain and storms could continue into the weekend, with floodwaters taking time to recede. Residents should stay informed through official channels and heed evacuation warnings if issued.

Now is the time to prepare—secure your home, gather supplies, and stay updated. Your safety and that of your loved ones is the top priority.

Photo by Royal Australian Navy

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has successfully completed the first Regional Presence Deployment (RPD) for 2025, reaffirming the Australian government’s commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific. This deployment showcased the professionalism, dedication, and extensive training of Royal Australian Navy personnel as they conducted critical maritime operations across the region.

Departing Australia on 17 January, the Guided Missile Destroyer HMAS Hobart undertook an intensive six-week deployment, engaging in a series of multinational maritime activities. The ship and its highly skilled crew participated in major exercises, including the Indonesian-led Exercise Komodo 25, the French-led Exercise La Perouse 25, and a Maritime Cooperative Activity with Japan, the Philippines, and the United States.

Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO, CSC RAN, commended the Navy personnel for their efforts and highlighted the significance of these deployments. “Regional Presence Deployments strengthen Australia’s commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific,” Vice Admiral Jones said. “These operations not only enhance Defence’s ability to integrate seamlessly with regional partners but also underscore the critical role of maritime collaboration in ensuring regional stability.”

Commanding Officer of HMAS Hobart, Commander Alisha Withers, praised her crew for their dedication and operational readiness throughout the deployment. “Sailing more than 8,000 nautical miles, our participation in multinational naval exercises has been invaluable in refining our skills and preparedness for complex military environments,” Commander Withers said. “The professionalism and resilience of our personnel have ensured that HMAS Hobart remains ready to address future regional challenges alongside our partners and allies.”

The success of this deployment highlights the ongoing commitment and rigorous training of Royal Australian Navy personnel, who play a crucial role in maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Looking ahead, HMAS Sydney will lead the second Regional Presence Deployment for 2025, participating in Exercise Bersama Shield alongside our Five Power Defence Arrangements partners—Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

Through these deployments, the Australian Defence Force continues to enhance its regional partnerships and demonstrate the capabilities and professionalism of its Navy personnel on the international stage.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Defence, and federal government member for Corio, The Hon. Richard Marles MP, recently visited the Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence to acknowledge the arrival of the first LAND 8116 vehicles in Auscam markings. These vehicles represent a significant milestone in enhancing the Australian Army’s artillery and logistics capabilities.

Batch 1 of the program vehicles, comprising two AS9 self-propelled howitzers and one AS10 Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (AARV), arrived in Australia in December 2024 from the Republic of Korea. The remaining vehicles in the program will be produced at the new facility within the Avalon Airport Precinct, contributing to the growth of domestic defence manufacturing.

“We are excited to have the first vehicles here in Australia as we prepare to deliver this capability to the Australian Army,” said the Acting Managing Director of the facility. “Production of hulls and turrets has already commenced in northern Tasmania, while our production line at Avalon is now operational.”

The AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer builds upon extensive global experience from a fleet of over 2,400 similar systems in service worldwide. It features a battle-proven 52-caliber 155mm gun system used by multiple nations, including those within NATO. Designed for mobility and survivability, the AS9 enhances the Army’s firepower with advanced targeting and fire-control systems.

The AS10 Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (AARV) is a vital support asset designed to accompany the AS9 in combat operations. It is built for high mobility and protection, ensuring ammunition resupply is carried out efficiently in high-threat environments. The vehicle features an automated loading system that minimizes exposure to enemy fire, reducing operational risk for soldiers.

Manufacturing involves collaboration with Australian industry partners alongside international suppliers, fostering local expertise and supply chain development. The program represents a significant investment in domestic defence capability, supporting job creation and technology transfer between South Korea and Australia.

“The technology transfer on this program is an important part of strengthening ties between our two nations,” the Acting Managing Director explained. “Celebrating this milestone with our government, Defence representatives, and industry partners in our new facility is a great honour.”

As production ramps up at the Avalon site, these advanced armoured vehicles will play a critical role in modernizing the Australian Army’s artillery and logistics capabilities, ensuring enhanced operational readiness for future missions.

Motoring News

A major update to Australian Design Rules (ADR) has come into effect from March 1, requiring nearly all new vehicles sold in Australia to be equipped with autonomous emergency braking (AEB). This technology automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent, reducing impact severity or preventing crashes altogether.

The ADR body regulates vehicle safety, emissions, and performance standards for passenger cars, motorcycles, and trucks. The latest change aims to address the persistently high road toll by improving crash protection, braking systems, lighting, and fuel efficiency. Safety experts believe this mandate will significantly reduce fatalities and serious injuries nationwide.

The rule aligns Australian regulations with the United Nations Regulation 152, already enforced in Europe. The long lead time provided to manufacturers allowed most to comply, with many brands incorporating AEB as a standard feature. However, some models without AEB will no longer be available for sale in Australia.

Vehicles Affected by the New AEB Mandate

Several mainstream and luxury models will be discontinued due to non-compliance with the AEB requirement. According to the Australasian Fleet Management Association (AfMA), the following vehicles are among those no longer available:

• Mainstream Vehicles:
  • Mitsubishi ASX, Eclipse Cross, Pajero Sport
  • Suzuki Baleno, Ignis, S-Cross
  • Mazda 6 (production ended)
  • Renault Kangoo and Trafic (older models)
  • LDV G10, V80
  • Mahindra Pik-Up (certain variants)
• Luxury and Performance Vehicles:
  • Fiat 500 (petrol-powered) and Abarth models
  • Aston Martin DB11, DBS
  • Lamborghini Aventador, Huracan
  • Porsche 718 (some versions)

Despite the removal of these models, Australian consumers will benefit from enhanced safety features across the automotive market. Most manufacturers have adapted by updating their fleets with AEB-equipped vehicles, ensuring a higher safety standard moving forward. Suzuki, for example, is replacing its Ignis model with the new AEB-compliant Suzuki Fronx.

The automotive industry has supported this transition for years. The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has advocated for voluntary AEB adoption since 2012 and incorporated it into safety testing criteria in 2015. Volvo pioneered AEB in 2008, setting a benchmark that other manufacturers have since followed.

With the new mandate in place, Australian roads are expected to become safer as vehicle technology continues to evolve.

Chinese buyers raid Australian property

The majority of Australians support a ban on non-citizens purchasing housing stock, arguing that it drives up prices and limits availability for locals. In response to these concerns, the federal government has announced that, from 1 April 2025, temporary residents will be prohibited from purchasing established dwellings for two years.

Previously, temporary residents could apply for approval to buy an existing home to live in during their stay or redevelop an established home to increase housing stock. Under the new regulations, only Australian citizens and permanent residents will be permitted to purchase existing homes, while non-residents will be limited to buying newly built properties or off-the-plan developments.

Real estate industry professionals predict a surge in applications to the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) in the lead-up to the ban. Fiona Yang from Plus Agency noted that many Chinese buyers see this as their last opportunity to enter the market. “Many agents are using the ban as a selling point, urging buyers to move quickly,” she said.

Belle Property director Robert Ding and OH Property Group’s Henny Stier also anticipate a short-term spike in foreign investment before the restrictions take effect. However, Sydney real estate agent Jason Roach argues that the ban will have minimal impact, as most of his foreign clients already hold permanent residency. “I couldn’t tell you the last time I sold an existing home to a buyer needing FIRB approval,” he stated.

While temporary residents are not the primary driver of rising house prices, their participation in the market adds demand pressure. Restricting them to purchasing new properties could boost housing supply and stimulate development. However, critics argue that a two-year ban is insufficient and should be made permanent.
Recent polling from Resolve Political Monitoring found that 67% of Australians support a permanent ban on foreign ownership of established housing. Many believe non-permanent residents should rent rather than compete with locals for housing.

Ultimately, the best solution to Australia’s housing crisis is to reduce immigration and focus on attracting high-quality, skilled migrants. With the Centre for Population projecting a 4.1 million increase in Australia’s population over the next decade, housing demand will continue to outstrip supply, exacerbating affordability issues unless decisive action is taken.

They sent us here for punishment two hundred years ago,

They didn’t have a clue just what a nation we would grow,

This great Southland for punishment? they should have used their head.

And left the crims in England and come here themselves instead.

For it’s a ripper of a country, a beauty bottler through and through,

Filled with people just like you and me, fair dinkum and true blue.

And it’s just the code we carry deep inside that sets us all apart,

It’s not what we’ve got in our pocket, it’s what we’ve got in our heart.

It doesn’t matter if you’re convict stock or aborigine,

If you’re seventh generation or a recent refugee.

We welcome those who want a home, who’ve really done it hard.

But leave your wars and ethnic hatreds in your own backyard.

For we have a set of standards that I think you all should know,

The good old Aussie standards of “Fair Dinkum” and “Fair go”

And “Watch out for your mate” and “Lend a hand to those in need”

And “Let your word be good enough” and “Give a hungry bloke a feed”

The riches of this country might be held by just a few,

But the real value can be found in people just like you,

Not afraid to roll your sleeves up and get in and do your share,

And help your mate when he’s in trouble just because you care.

If you’re black or white or brindle, mate, we couldn’t give a stuff,

Just do your bit and be fair dinkum, that’ll be enough.

It’s worth your effort and your heart and all that you can give

To be part of Australia, the world’s best place to live,

By Gary Fogarty,

Bush Poet.

Australia’s naval capabilities are under increasing scrutiny as the government faces pressure to expedite its decision on a new fleet of warships. The looming presence of a Chinese flotilla off the coast has heightened concerns about the navy’s readiness and the urgency of modernising its surface fleet.

Military analysts have emphasised the need for a swift resolution on whether a German or Japanese firm will secure the $10 billion contract to construct 11 frigates, replacing the ageing Anzac-class vessels. The decision was initially expected this year, but indications from defence officials suggest it may be pushed to early next year, citing the complexity of procurement processes that traditionally take several years.

Currently, Australia’s fleet of surface combatants is set to shrink to nine vessels next year, a decline from 11 the previous year. Maintenance and upgrades further limit operational availability. Given the increasing activity of foreign naval forces in the region, delays in fleet renewal could impact national security and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Government representatives have reiterated their commitment to expediting the process, underscoring the strategic necessity of deploying new warships as soon as possible. The aim is to ensure the Royal Australian Navy is adequately equipped to respond to emerging threats and operational demands in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

The sighting of a foreign task group conducting live-fire exercises last week has reinforced the importance of bolstering maritime defence. The exercises disrupted commercial aviation routes and prompted diplomatic protests over inadequate notification. Defence analysts argue that Australia’s existing surface fleet is among the oldest and smallest in its history, necessitating urgent action to enhance naval capabilities.

Industry experts have urged policymakers to adhere to the initial timeline, stressing that any further delays could hinder shipbuilding progress and impact defence readiness. The withdrawal of older frigates further exacerbates fleet constraints, with additional decommissioning expected in the near future. Compounding these challenges, both of the navy’s oil tankers have been non-operational since last year due to mechanical defects, limiting the fleet’s refuelling capacity.

Strategists highlight the rapid expansion of foreign naval forces in the Indo-Pacific, with adversaries adding the equivalent of Australia’s entire fleet every few years. The need for increased surveillance, monitoring, and maritime response capabilities has never been more pressing. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Australia can meet these challenges with the necessary speed and decisiveness.