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ED: This is an abridged edition of a report by AVN.

Recent revelations surrounding the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and its Veterans’ Medicines Advice and Therapeutics Education Services (MATES) program have sparked concerns over privacy breaches and transparency issues. Documents obtained by various news outlets, including Australian Veteran News, suggest that the DVA may have misled the Information Commissioner regarding the handling of veterans’ medical and personal information within the MATES initiative, a collaboration with the University of South Australia (UniSA).

In its defence, the DVA has emphasized the MATES program’s nearly two-decade commitment to enhancing veterans’ health through personalized health and medication advice. The program is portrayed as a proactive service, claiming to have positively impacted over 300,000 veterans, with 77,000 receiving targeted health educational material annually.

However, amidst these accolades, recent revelations shed light on concerns about the DVA’s approach to veterans’ privacy rights and the transparency of its informed consent processes.

Neglect by DVA:

A key issue in the unfolding controversy is the DVA’s institutional neglect regarding privacy rights and informed consent in the MATES program. Mandatory privacy and consent information are buried within the DVA website, making it challenging for veterans to locate. This lack of transparency raises questions about open communication.

Moreover, concerns arise from the use of opt-out processes within the claims and compensation framework, obscuring the true purpose and application of data collection. This practice not only compromises the integrity of the consent process but also raises ethical concerns about respecting veterans’ rights.

UniSA’s Response:

UniSA, a crucial collaborator in the MATES program, expressed concerns in a letter to the DVA Secretary about adherence to privacy standards. The University, through its Human Research Ethics Committee, is responsible for verifying client permissions and data protection rights independently. This dual reliance underscores oversight complexities and raises questions about the thoroughness of ethical reviews at the program’s outset.

Systemic Failures and Oversight Lapses:

The revelations surrounding MATES’ governance failures and oversight lapses have far-reaching consequences. The program’s integrity is at risk, potentially compromising published research and tarnishing the reputations of those involved. The role of higher authorities, such as the Repatriation Commission and Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission, in addressing these anomalies is questioned.

Ethical Concerns:

The National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research serves as a cornerstone for research ethics in Australia. Questions arise about whether the MATES Program adhered to accepted ethical standards in obtaining consent and providing clear information to participants.

The Need for Redemption:

DVA assures efforts to address concerns, emphasizing a focused approach to resolve highlighted challenges. However, this episode underscores the need for independent oversight, especially for multi-agency programs like MATES, involving a significant number of veterans.

Moving Forward:

While acknowledging MATES’ failure in terms of consent and privacy protection, there is a moral duty to salvage the value created over two decades of research. Reforms and rigorous oversight are crucial to ensure the program can continue serving veterans effectively and ethically. The focus should be on preserving the program’s positive impact while rectifying the damage, akin to not throwing out the proverbial baby with the bathwater.

BMW Says Goodbye to EVs, Aims to Deliver Hydrogen Powered Cars by 2025.

BMW is strategically pivoting its attention towards hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, recognizing them as a pivotal player in the future landscape of automobile transportation. While electric vehicles (EVs) have traditionally taken centre stage as the primary focus for zero-emission car manufacturers, hydrogen vehicles, powered by fuel cells that emit only water vapor as a byproduct, are increasingly garnering attention for their sustainability credentials.

In a bold move, BMW’s CEO, Oliver Zipse, has asserted that hydrogen engines are poised to play a crucial and influential role on a global scale in the long term. The company is actively working towards materializing this vision and has set an ambitious target of delivering hydrogen-powered cars to the market by 2025.

As a tangible manifestation of this commitment, BMW is gearing up to unveil the BMW iX5 Hydrogen in 2024. This groundbreaking vehicle is anticipated to redefine the landscape of sustainable transportation with its innovative features. Among its key attributes, the iX5 Hydrogen is designed to offer rapid refuelling capabilities, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for users. Additionally, the vehicle promises a consistent driving range, addressing one of the common concerns associated with alternative fuel vehicles. Furthermore, BMW aims to match the performance levels of traditional electric vehicles (EVs), emphasizing that the transition to hydrogen-powered cars does not necessitate compromising on driving experience.

In essence, BMW’s strategic shift towards hydrogen fuel cell vehicles underscores a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to sustainable mobility. By diversifying its zero-emission portfolio and embracing hydrogen technology, BMW is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation, contributing to the evolution of cleaner and greener transportation solutions. The imminent debut of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen represents a tangible milestone in this journey, signalling the company’s commitment to driving positive change in the automotive industry.

Honda and GM unveil the latest Hydrogen Engines, suggesting a potential shift away from Electric Cars

GM and Honda Join Forces to Advance Hydrogen Technology

General Motors Co. (GM) and Honda Motor Co. (HMC) have made a significant stride in the realm of alternative energy with the unveiling of their pioneering joint venture, Fuel Cell System Manufacturing (FCSM). This collaborative endeavour, underpinned by an impressive $85 million investment, has resulted in the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility in Michigan, spanning an extensive 70,000 square feet. This facility is poised to be a game-changer in the landscape of hydrogen engine development, heralding a potential departure from the dominance of electric vehicles.

The cornerstone of this historic partnership lies in the commitment to advancing hydrogen fuel cell production, addressing the escalating demand for eco-friendly and zero-emission energy solutions. The shared vision of GM and Honda is encapsulated in FCSM’s mission to bring about a paradigm shift in the dynamics of sustainable transportation. This collaboration places a deliberate emphasis on enhancing performance, bolstering durability, and streamlining manufacturing processes, all of which are crucial elements in steering the automotive industry towards a greener and more sustainable future.

With an equal 50-50 partnership, the joint venture’s focus on the large-scale production of hydrogen fuel cells is poised to reshape the narrative surrounding alternative energy sources. The significant financial backing of $85 million underscores the seriousness of their commitment and the ambition to establish FCSM as a cornerstone in the evolution of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

The dedicated facility in Michigan is not merely a manufacturing unit; it represents a nexus of innovation, research, and development. By delving into the production of hydrogen fuel cells on a grand scale, GM and Honda aim to address the pressing need for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. This venture stands as a testament to their collective dedication to sustainability and the pursuit of cutting-edge technologies.

One notable outcome of this collaboration is the imminent introduction of hydrogen-powered vehicles, with the Fuel Cell System Manufacturing poised to bring the hydrogen-powered CR-V to the streets. This marks a significant step beyond the conventional electric vehicle narrative, suggesting a potential diversification in the automotive market and a move towards embracing hydrogen as a viable and impactful alternative.

As Fuel Cell System Manufacturing takes centre stage, the automotive industry and consumers alike can anticipate not just a shift in powertrain technology but a broader vision beyond vehicles. GM and Honda are positioning themselves as pioneers not only in vehicular propulsion but as contributors to a more sustainable energy landscape. The $85 million investment serves as a catalyst for research and development, pushing the boundaries of hydrogen fuel cell technology and inspiring a vision that extends beyond the confines of the automotive sector.

In the unfolding narrative of Fuel Cell System Manufacturing, the comparison between fuel cells and battery-electric vehicles becomes a focal point. The joint venture’s commitment to increased performance and durability, coupled with a strategic focus on reducing manufacturing costs, raises intriguing questions about the future trajectory of sustainable transportation. While electric vehicles have dominated recent discussions, the emergence of FCSM suggests that hydrogen-powered vehicles might play a more significant role in the eco-conscious automotive landscape.

In conclusion, the GM and Honda joint venture, Fuel Cell System Manufacturing, is not merely a collaborative effort in hydrogen fuel cell production but a pivotal milestone in the evolution of sustainable transportation. With its ambitious goals, substantial investment, and focus on innovation, FCSM has the potential to reshape the automotive industry’s approach to alternative energy, offering a compelling alternative to the prevailing electric vehicle narrative.

Specialised for providing close air support in frontline assault operations and assisting ground forces, close air support jets are distinguished by their robust armour and an impressive arsenal of weapons. In this specialised category, only two aircraft worldwide have been purpose-built for the task: the Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot, currently in use by the Ukrainian army after recent updates, and the A-10 Warthog employed by the US Army. These aircraft, often dubbed “flying tanks,” are in direct competition for the crucial air support mission in ground combat scenarios.

The Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot, with its recent enhancements, stands as a testament to Ukrainian military capabilities. On the other hand, the A-10 Warthog represents the formidable air power of the United States. Both aircraft symbolize the prowess of their respective armed forces and are equipped with advanced armour and low-altitude attack capabilities, making them indispensable for infantry operations against enemy ground forces.

These aircraft, with their distinctive features and mission-specific design, play a vital role in modern warfare. Their advanced capabilities contribute significantly to the effectiveness of ground combat units. The ongoing debate about which aircraft is superior reflects the competition between two of the world’s most powerful military forces, each vying for dominance in the critical realm of close air support. Ultimately, the comparison between the Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot and the A-10 Warthog continues to fuel discussions on the optimal aircraft for fulfilling the close air support mission in ground combat scenarios.

Australia has long enjoyed economic prosperity driven by resource and agricultural booms, along with a robust services sector and real estate market. However, this success was accompanied by a shift towards economic liberalization, relinquishing industrial complexity. Despite weathering global crises, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities, and Australia now faces challenges in the era of great power competition in the Indo-Pacific region.

China’s dominance in sectors like housing, agriculture, and energy, combined with Australia’s pursuit of free trade agreements without addressing industry protections, has turned the country into a primary resource supplier for rising powers. The demise of the manufacturing sector and a reluctance to invest in advanced techniques have led to concerns about becoming overly dependent.

Young Australians’ response to conscription calls highlights the urgency for Australia to address its economic and security vulnerabilities. Emphases must be on the need for competitiveness to ensure prosperity and security. The younger generation faces systemic challenges, leading to disconnection and mental health issues. Policymakers must provide a compelling narrative, fostering excitement, opportunity, and purpose to reverse stagnation.

The government’s focus should be on expanding opportunities, building economic resilience, and deterring coercion through economic strength. Transparency and collaboration between policymakers and constituents are crucial, encouraging public investment and belief in the nation’s future. Australia must engage in an honest conversation about its geopolitical positioning, aiming for top-tier status to secure the best outcomes.

Breaking free from short-term thinking is essential for long-term prosperity and security, benefiting current and future generations. In the era of great power competition, Australia must navigate challenges by redefining ambitions and adopting a strategic, forward-thinking approach.

The Indian Army plays a pivotal role in key issues of interest to Australia, particularly its frontline position in responding to Beijing at the disputed India-China border. With its substantial size, the Indian Army holds the potential for significant regional influence, including in Southeast Asia, a factor that Canberra needs to carefully consider.

Australia’s defence ties with India, Army-to-Army collaboration often takes a backseat due to the predominant focus on maritime concerns. Despite this, the Indian Army, as the largest and most influential military service in India, significantly shapes New Delhi’s defence perspectives, even in maritime matters, more than Australia typically acknowledges.

In contrast to Australia’s Defence Force, which consists of about 60,000 personnel across all services, the Indian Army alone boasts a strength of approximately 1.2 million. This not only offers capabilities but also an unparalleled capacity to conduct activities concurrently, surpassing most other defence partners.

Both nations stand to gain from leveraging the Indian Army’s existing defence engagement with Southeast Asia, either through direct cooperation or complementary regional initiatives. However, Australia faces a challenge due to the vast difference in scale, even if its capacity were to double overnight. The focus has been on building relationships at senior levels and niche skill development in exercises.

As collaboration has evolved, particularly with an impending appointment of an Australian army adviser in New Delhi, the emphasis should be on ideas spreading more effectively than personnel and assets. Australia, with its smaller army, can contribute and adapt ideas swiftly, exemplified by its ‘joint’ military approach.

Two instances highlight potential avenues for collaboration: firstly, sharing lessons from Australia’s journey towards a ‘joint’ military approach, and secondly, exploring contemporary recruitment, training, and retention strategies. India’s Agnipath scheme, aiming for a more potent force over sheer size, presents a unique opportunity for dialogue, despite its controversial aspects.

The Australian Army, with its proven ‘joint’ capabilities, can share valuable insights, recognizing that not all lessons may directly apply to India’s context. The recent Exercise AUSTRAHIND, incorporating joint elements, signifies a notable step in the defence relationship.

Another area of potential collaboration is in recruitment and training practices. New Delhi’s Agnipath scheme, although controversial, opens avenues for discussing flexible personnel management. As the ADF aims for a 30% increase in numbers by 2040, both armies can engage in fruitful discussions on training, inculcation, and fostering cohesion among recruits.

In maximizing the recently concluded memorandum of understanding between the Australian Army Research Centre and India’s Centre for Land Warfare Studies, exchanging papers and fellows annually ahead of formal Australia–India army-to-army staff talks can further enhance collaboration and idea sharing. This moment presents an opportune time for Australia to position itself as a source of innovative ideas in the defence partnership.

Since national apologies are in vogue, here is one that Prime Minister Albanese should be giving to Aboriginals:

We apologise for helping you to read and teaching you the English language, which opened you up to European civilisation, thought and enterprise.

We apologise for giving you free/subsidised doctors, hospitals, medical care and medication, that help you to live longer than you ever did before colonisation.

We apologise for mapping Australia and being the first to inform you of the size and location of the continent that you had inhabited for 60,000 years – without which, you wouldn’t know what you had ‘sovereignty’ over.

We apologise for the colonisation as you would have preferred the kinder Spanish, Japanese or Indonesians.

We apologise for giving you law and order, which has helped to prevent you from slaughtering one another and at times eating the victims.

We apologise for developing agriculture which today feeds your people, whereas before you survived by living off the land and often starving during droughts.

We must apologise for building houses for you, which you have largely neglected, vandalised or destroyed.

We apologise for providing you with clothing made of fabric to replace the animal skins you wore.

We apologise for constructing roads and railways and building cars, so that you no longer have to walk great distances in the heat over harsh terrain.

We apologise for providing your own national television station (NITV), which you use to condemn those who made it possible, financially and technologically.

We apologise for giving you vehicles, petrol, boats, firearms, fishing gear and other non-traditional methods, which you now use to carry out ‘traditional hunting and fishing’ with impunity.

We apologise for subsidising your travel costs to attend family funerals.

We apologise for not charging you rent on any lands, while others have to pay rent.

We apologise for giving you concessional loans.

We apologise for our police who unfairly arrest you for all the theft, burglaries, domestic assaults, sexual assaults on children some of your men commit.

We apologise for aboriginal parents not sending their kids to school and then blaming us for their disadvantage.

We apologise for developing oil wells and minerals, which you have not utilised.

We apologise for developing Uluru and Kakadu in 1985, then handing them over to some of you mob who pretended to be the traditional owners, so that you can receive the tourist income. Hawke handed the area to the PITJANTJATJARA mob who only took it over in 1917 when they defeated the original mob in a war 1917 during a drought, over hunting grounds.

We apologise for taxpayers’ money being paid towards your celebration events such as NAIDOC Week and all the other eight aboriginal days every year where we are supposed to take the knee.

We apologise for working hard to pay taxes which finance your welfare, medical care, education, etc., to the tune of $39 billion each year.

We apologise for appointing Ministers for Indigenous Affairs in each state and federally to focus on you.

We apologise for not appreciating your Welcome to Country ceremonies, for which we pay, even though they imply that we are merely visitors on this land.

We apologise for the ‘white-aboriginal’ activists who are living very well on government-funded gravy trains, while some of your real mob live in poverty in isolated locations out of sight of the identifiers.

We apologise for having racist doubts about such people who are genetically mostly European but identify as aboriginal.

We do apologise and humbly beg your forgiveness for all of our sins, past, present and emerging.

To make amends, we are only too happy to take back all of the above and return you to your utopian traditional stone age tribal lifestyle somewhere. Just let us know when you are ready to revert.

The Meritorious Unit Citations (MUC) were bestowed upon distinguished Australian Defence Force (ADF) units that served in Somalia between 1992 and 1995. Specifically, at the close of 2023, commendations were awarded to the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) Battalion Group, Australian Service Contingents (ASC I, II, III, and IV), and HMAS Tobruk. These units were recognized for their sustained and exceptional service in warlike operations during this tumultuous period.

Around 1500 ADF personnel were deployed on Operations Iguana and Solace, where they actively supported the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia and played a crucial role in the US-led, UN-sanctioned Unified Task Force. In an environment characterised as one of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones, these ADF units executed their duties with remarkable professionalism, often placing themselves in harm’s way to assist a civilian population in dire need.

The Meritorious Unit Citation serves as a testament to the relentless efforts of these ADF members in supporting the UN’s mission. Eligible ADF members are set to receive the insignia through their current units, while former members meeting the criteria are encouraged to apply directly to the Department of Defence via the Defence Medals online application form.

Individuals who were part of the mentioned units during the relevant period are entitled to be issued and wear the citation’s insignia adorned with the Federation Star in perpetuity. One such member, Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Joanne Cook, a medic, vividly recalls her deployment to Somalia 30 years ago. Despite her lack of prior experience with gunshot wounds, she found herself treating both locals injured during the violence and her fellow Australian soldier, Lance Corporal Shannon McAliney, who tragically succumbed to an accidental point-blank range gunshot wound.

WO2 Cook reflects on the challenging yet impactful experience, stating, “It was a real eye-opener – horrible, but exciting at the same time.” Lance Corporal McAliney’s unfortunate death serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers during this mission.

During the Somalia deployment from 1992 to 1994, approximately 1500 Australians participated in the humanitarian efforts. In October 1992, the Australian Government dispatched a contingent of 211 ADF personnel for Operation Iguana. As the situation in Somalia continued to worsen, the Unified Task Force was established, and WO2 Cook became part of the 1RAR Battalion Group attached to Operation Solace, responsible for humanitarian relief in the city of Baidoa, often referred to as the ‘city of death.’

The conditions in Baidoa were austere, with no roofs over their heads, makeshift sleeping arrangements, and limited resources. WO2 Cook vividly recalls the challenging living conditions: “There were six girls in one room sleeping on stretchers. We showered with shower buckets filled by a jerrycan of water left out in the sun to heat up. We all had nothing.”

Throughout the deployment, ADF personnel witnessed extensive human suffering induced by drought, famine, and war. WO2 Cook recounts encountering malnourished and diseased children, and the battalion group conducted sick parades, attracting hundreds of people in need of medical attention. The scenes were heartbreaking, with intestinal worms visible, and WO2 Cook’s compassion extended to distributing blankets to provide some comfort to the suffering locals.

Despite the devastation, WO2 Cook highlights the challenge of balancing humanitarian aid without creating dependency. A policy discouraged the distribution of food to locals to avoid setting unrealistic expectations. The experiences of the ADF units in Somalia stand as a testament to their resilience, selflessness, and commitment to alleviating human suffering in the face of adversity.

CAPTION: Map of Wodonga Institute of TAFE and National Technical Education Network partners. Story by John Grech and Danielle Malone.

Posted by Mike Hughes – Contact

In a move to bolster the technical prowess of its personnel, Navy and Army have introduced a state-of-the-art joint technical trades training system (JTTTS).

Geared towards revolutionising trades-related capability, the system has the potential to redefine how technical trades are learned and applied in the field.

Navy and Army signed a contract for the system with Wodonga Institute of TAFE, supported by their National Technical Education Network partners, last year, and Army’s training officially began on January 1.

Commanding Officer Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Lieutenant Colonel Tim Soper said the project would deliver industry-recognised qualifications to thousands of soldiers and sailors, as well as expand training opportunities in home regions and locations, enabling Defence’s training system to meet rapidly changing capability requirements.

“The JTTTS contract represents a significant leap forward in our efforts to cultivate a highly skilled and adaptable force,” Lieutenant Colonel Soper said.

“By harnessing an adaptable and modern training architecture, we are empowering our service members to excel in their respective fields and meet the evolving challenges of modern warfare.”

Chief JTTTS Officer Adam Jacoby affirmed the commitment to providing Defence with industry-recognised, best-practice training.

“Bringing together some of the largest and most respected training institutions in the country in a collaborative and innovative national delivery model will reshape the Defence training ecosystem and be more responsive to the ADF’s short- and longer-term strategic objectives,” Mr Jacoby said.

JTTTS will deliver capability through nationally accredited and non-accredited technical training pathways to achieve Certificate II, III, IV and advanced trade qualifications in construction, electrical, electronics, engineering, mechanical and, from January 2025, aviation maintenance management (mechanical/avionics).

ADF students who participated in developing the JTTTS charter said it was a valuable opportunity to help ensure training was student focused.

A memorial service will be held at 11.00am on Saturday 10 February at the Voyager Chair, off May Drive near Saw Avenue in Kings Park, to mark the 60th anniversary of the loss of the Daring Class Destroyer, HMAS Voyager following a collision with the Aircraft Carrier, HMAS Melbourne on the night of 10 February 1964, 19nm off the coast of NSW.

82 lives, including 8 from WA, were lost that night.

Dress neat casual, medals may be worn, tributes may be laid. This service will be supported by the RAN.

Site is bare, please bring folding chairs, sunscreen hats & water.

Yours aye

David MacLean

Service Coordinator

0418 917 982

[email protected]

We urge veterans to always follow manufacturers’ instructions when recharging any devices that use lithium-ion batteries, such as mobility scooters. That’s because there has been an increasing number of fires linked to these batteries.

Lithium batteries can be found in mobility aids, electric wheelchairs, recliners and beds provided through DVA’s Rehabilitation Appliances Program.

The batteries can overheat or explode if they are used, charged or disposed of incorrectly, or if they are damaged.

The main recommendation that comes from safety and consumer groups is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Product Safety Australia recommends you:

• be present while you’re charging the battery
• don’t recharge it on a combustible surface, and keep it away from combustible materials
• unplug the device once it is fully charged
• only use the charger that came included with your device
• obtain replacement lithium-ion batteries recommended by the product manufacturer.

For replacement batteries and cables please contact the RAP supplier; details are provided on the RAP supplied equipment.

For safety information about recharging lithium batteries, visit Product Safety Australia and Choice.