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A class action will allege the medical histories of up to 300,000 Australian military veterans have been secretly shared with a university without consent for two decades.

It happened under a program called MATES, which was run by the Department of Veterans Affairs until this week, when it was shut down due to ethical concerns.

The law firm Gordon Legal is investigating a class action against the department, which could pave the way for compensation for the veterans whose privacy has been breached.

CLICK LINK to listen to ABC report.

DVA may face class action over privacy breach – ABC listen

Soldiers hailing from the esteemed 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment recently undertook a comprehensive static live-fire training session at the Townville Field Training Area, wielding the formidable 84mm Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle. This exercise was meticulously designed to enhance the confidence of personnel handling this sophisticated weapon system while also facilitating the qualification of junior non-commissioned officers through the Section Commander Battle Course.

The overarching aim of the course is to empower individuals to oversee the execution of range practices, thereby serving as a pivotal component of their career advancement within the military hierarchy. Major Lindsay Pritchard, the Officer Commanding Charlie Company, emphasized the pivotal role of this training in laying a solid groundwork for tackling more intricate ranges and activities scheduled in the forthcoming weeks.

Major Pritchard elaborated on the technical aspects of the 84mm Carl Gustaf, highlighting its breech-loaded, percussion-fired mechanism and its capability to be shoulder-controlled. Notably accurate and incredibly versatile, this weapon stands poised to address a myriad of scenarios encountered on the battlefield, from neutralizing armoured vehicles and fortified structures to illuminating nocturnal operations.

Looking ahead, Major Pritchard outlined the trajectory of the training program, which includes maneuverer practices encompassing dismounted manoeuvrers, as well as live-fire exercises at the section and platoon levels. He emphasized the importance of the static live-fire component in refreshing the skills essential for effective utilisation of the 84mm Carl Gustaf in diverse operational contexts.

While a cashless society offers undeniable conveniences, it also poses significant challenges and risks. Firstly, it could exacerbate issues of financial exclusion, as not everyone has access to digital payment methods or the necessary technology. This could deepen socioeconomic divides and marginalize vulnerable populations such as the elderly, low-income individuals, and those living in remote areas.

Moreover, a cashless society raises serious concerns about privacy and surveillance. Every transaction leaves a digital footprint, potentially compromising individuals’ financial privacy and exposing them to data breaches or unauthorized access. Additionally, reliance on digital infrastructure makes societies more susceptible to cyberattacks and technological failures, which could disrupt entire economies and jeopardize people’s financial security.

Furthermore, a cashless society could give disproportionate power to financial institutions and technology companies, further concentrating wealth and influence in the hands of a few. This could undermine economic autonomy and exacerbate inequalities, as individuals become more reliant on centralized systems controlled by powerful entities.

In summary, while the move towards a cashless society may offer certain benefits, it’s essential to consider the potential downsides and actively address issues of inclusivity, privacy, security, and economic equity to ensure that no one is left behind or disadvantaged in the transition.

ED: This is the way I see it.

Wednesday marked one year since the Defence Strategic Review (DSR) highlighted that our defence capabilities were inadequate for the nation’s most challenging security landscape in 80 years. The journey to this point spans multiple administrations, but the current discord between the Defence establishment and the government is unprecedented.

The situation is dire. While the Air Force is relatively sound in terms of platforms, there’s a looming shortage of munitions due to delays in acquiring long-range missiles. The Navy operates with an aging fleet. Additionally, the Army lacks clarity in its role, making strategic planning difficult.

• Australia, despite record budgets and government commitment, is recognized as unprepared for potential conflicts.
• Various Western nations, including the UK and Germany, are struggling to maintain military power against potential peer competitors like Russia.
• The US, once a dominant force, faces challenges both domestically and internationally, affecting Western strategic posture.
• Autocratic powers such as Russia, China, and Iran are strengthening their military capacities.
• Australia faces challenges in defence capabilities, highlighted by personnel shortages and outdated equipment.
• Despite significant military spending, tangible capability for the Australian Defence Force remains limited.
• Australia’s engagement in “wars of choice” has raised questions about its capacity to respond to conflicts.
• Experts warn that Australia’s defence capabilities are insufficient against determined adversaries.
• Australia’s policymakers must realistically assess the deteriorating security environment and increase long-term defence spending.
• The government’s shift towards a “Focused Force” strategy raises concerns about the lack of clearly defined objectives.
• The reliance on future technological advancements for defence is uncertain.
• Defending the nation in an era of great power competition will require significant resources and acceptance of the challenges.

Sweden’s government has told its citizens to prepare for war. The defence minister made the comments last week, as the war in Ukraine drags on, and Sweden moves closer to NATO membership. The government is reinstating the conscription programme that’s been paused for over a decade — and putting teenagers through boot camp.

We want to bring to your attention an issue that a small number of our members have encountered regarding the delivery of our daily emails.

It has come to our attention that some of our emails are inadvertently being filtered into spam folders, and in some cases, recipients are receiving warnings about the emails. We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we want to assure you that it is not an issue on our end.

After thorough investigation, we have confirmed that our domain is not listed on any spamlists, and we adhere to industry best practices to ensure the safe delivery of our emails. However, it seems that certain antivirus programs may be inadvertently marking our emails as spam. It can only be rectified at your end.

While we understand that this may be frustrating, we want to offer a solution that should help alleviate the problem. To ensure that you continue to receive our emails without interruption, we kindly ask you to whitelist our website/domain in your email client or antivirus software.

Whitelisting our domain will instruct your email client or antivirus program to recognize our emails as safe and prevent them from being filtered into your spam folder. Below are instructions on how to whitelist our domain in some commonly used email clients:

How To Whitelist A Domain – Don’t Miss Any Leads (mannixmarketing.com)

Our Domain address: www.frontine.asn.au

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in resolving this matter. Your satisfaction and uninterrupted access to our communications are of utmost importance to us.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Warm regards,

Ray & Glenn

[email protected]

www.frontline.asn.au

Each year on February 14th, we commemorate National Serviceman’s Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring the selfless and invaluable contributions of those who answered their nation’s call to duty.

Dating back to the early 1950s and spanning through the tumultuous era of the Vietnam War, more than 280,000 individuals proudly bore the title of “Nasho,” symbolizing their unwavering commitment to safeguarding their homeland. The inaugural National Service scheme, extending from 1951 to 1959, stands as a testament to the dedication of over 220,000 men who underwent rigorous training spanning three months across various branches of the military, including the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Army, and the Royal Australian Air Force. These brave young Australians willingly set aside their personal aspirations, putting the needs of their country above all else.

The subsequent National Service scheme, operational from 1965 to 1972, called upon more than 60,000 young men to serve, with over 15,300 bravely participating in the Vietnam War while others dutifully expanded the Army’s strength on home soil when it was most needed. Seamlessly integrated into regular army units, these Nashos, initially trained by seasoned soldiers, eventually received training from their fellow peers as well. In Vietnam and Borneo, they proved themselves equal to any challenge, displaying remarkable courage and resilience alongside their regular counterparts as they navigated the trials of war.

Yet, amidst their valour, tragedy struck, with over 200 National Servicemen losing their lives or perishing during their service in Vietnam and Borneo. Like all those whose names grace the Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour, their sacrifice stands as an indelible part of Australia’s proud history. The debt owed to the 1200 Nashos who suffered wounds and to all who have served and endured hardships for the nation remains immeasurable and unrepayable.

Today, as we pause to reflect upon the enduring legacy of these 280,000 individuals, we pay homage to their indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and remarkable courage in the face of adversity. To each and every one of them, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the defence and prosperity of our nation.

Their memory will forever remain etched in our hearts, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Lest we forget.

From my inbox from Ernie Chamberlain – Thanks once again Ernie.

We are still in the celebratory week of the “Chinese/Vietnamese” Lunar New Year – ie Tết  in Vietnam – that began on 10 February.

For Vietnamese, this is now the Year of the Tiger (Giáp Thìn) – that lasts until 28 January 2025.

Some readers of your FRONTLINE website might have Vietnamese friends that they would like to wish “Happy New Year!”.

If so, they could perhaps email the following Vietnamese-language New Year greeting to them – see below:

Title of the email: Chức Mừng Năm Mới – Tết Giáp Thìn 2024!

Kính chào ((insert friend’s first name)) –

– Chức Mừng Năm Mới !

Kính chúc ((insert friend’s first name)) và gia đình năm mới hạnh phúc và an lành ! ((ie meaning: “wishing  you and your family happiness and peace)).

Kính ((insert your name))

Best wishes, Ernie

1. For “enthusiasts”, I have recently written a five-page article on: “The Vietnamese Language – and Names” – an emailed copy is available on request.

Ernie’s email address is:  [email protected]

Australia’s Defence Force chief was caught off guard by revelations that a Fijian officer, who ascended to the role of deputy commander overseeing 3000 troops, was implicated in allegations of torture.

Colonel Penioni Naliva was designated as the deputy commander of the 7th Brigade stationed in Brisbane, as part of an initiative to integrate Pacific officers into the ADF.

Acknowledging a breakdown in standard procedures, Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell conceded his lack of awareness regarding the allegations and accepted responsibility for the oversight.

In a parliamentary inquiry on Wednesday, General Campbell admitted to shortcomings in the vetting process and pledged to conduct a thorough review to fortify the system.

Despite the allegations, Colonel Naliva has not been suspended; instead, he has been allowed to work remotely to support his family during what General Campbell described as a “fairly stressful circumstance.”

General Campbell emphasized that the allegations were unconfirmed, and no formal complaint had been lodged with authorities. He revealed that the appointment of embedded personnel, including Colonel Naliva, is under review to prevent similar oversights in the future.

Colonel Naliva was recommended for the position by the Fijian military, and he assumed his role in late January. The ADF had relied on assurances from the Fijian government regarding the colonel’s clean record in terms of police and national security clearance.

During the inquiry, Susan Bodell, a department official, acknowledged the failure to present crucial information to the Chief of the Defence Force during the appointment process, attributing it to an oversight that they are striving to rectify.

She explained that when a person resides in their home country, the ADF relies on the local authorities to certify their criminal record status, highlighting a gap in information that was not addressed during Colonel Naliva’s appointment.

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