The Brisbane City Council has commenced an aerial mosquito treatment program today, Tuesday, November 18. The operation, which utilizes helicopters, is scheduled to start at 10 am and could potentially continue into Wednesday, November 19. This widespread treatment plan is considered important for the city and will cover several suburbs across Brisbane. The Council has specified numerous areas included in the flight path, though the treatment is strictly weather permitting. Targeted Suburbs and Locations The areas slated for aerial treatment include: Tinchi Tamba Wetlands Bald Hills Brighton Boondall Wetlands Brisbane Airport Port of Brisbane Pinkenba Tingalpa Hemmant Areas along Bulimba Creek Public Protection Measures While the Council conducts the aerial treatment, residents are advised to take proactive steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes. Recommended preventative measures include: Limiting time outdoors during high-activity periods, particularly around dawn and dusk. Applying mosquito repellents regularly. Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured protective clothing when spending time outdoors. Utilizing screening on doors and windows, or employing mosquito nets or air-conditioning indoors. Using mosquito coils and lanterns. While the Council conducts the aerial treatment, residents are advised to take proactive steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes. Recommended preventative measures include:

The Brisbane City Council has commenced an extensive aerial mosquito treatment program using helicopters. This widespread treatment plan is considered important for the city. The most recent aerial spraying operation began today, Tuesday, November 18, following recent heavy rain. The spraying started from 9 am, although it was also reported to start at 10 am, and is scheduled to continue into Wednesday, November 19. The Council noted that the treatment is strictly weather permitting. Program Scope and Expertise Brisbane runs one of the largest mosquito control programs in the country. Notably, the Brisbane City Council is the only local government in Australia to employ two expert entomologists. This mosquito control program operates year-round, helping to reduce mosquito numbers and ensuring management across the suburbs. Customer Services Chair Cr Sarah Hutton provided context on the program’s scale and expertise: “We run one of the largest mosquito control programs in the country and are the only local government in Australia to employ two expert entomologists,”. Cr Hutton affirmed that the expert entomologists guide the timing of treatment: “when our expert entomologists say to spray, we spray”. She also noted that the mosquito season is different every year, depending on factors such as the rain, tides, and temperature. Treatment Methods and Locations The helicopter spraying targets tidal wetlands and known breeding sites. Both saltmarsh and freshwater mosquitoes are targeted using a combination of aerial and ground treatments. The aerial sprays specifically target saltmarsh mosquitoes. Ground teams support these efforts by treating up to 2,400 freshwater sites across Brisbane each week of the year. Since the 2019/20 season, 88,813 hectares have been aerial sprayed. The products used for treatment are safe, short-lived, and designed to act only on larvae found at the breeding sites at the time of treatment. The areas slated for the aerial treatment launched today (November 18) include: Tinchi Tamba Wetlands Bald Hills Brighton Boondall Wetlands Brisbane Airport Port of Brisbane Pinkenba Tingalpa Hemmant Areas along Bulimba Creek For background, the first aerial mosquito spray for the season was conducted on Thursday, October 30, when approximately 500 hectares across Brisbane’s southern suburbs was treated. Public Protection Measures While the Council is conducting the aerial treatment, residents are advised to take proactive measures to protect themselves from mosquitoes. Recommended preventative actions include: Limiting time outdoors during periods of high activity, particularly around dawn and dusk. Regularly applying mosquito repellents. Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured protective clothing when spending time outdoors. Utilizing screening on doors and windows, or employing mosquito nets or air-conditioning indoors. Using mosquito coils and lanterns. Residents seeking more comprehensive information regarding the planned aerial mosquito treatment can visit brisbane.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, the Council can be reached by phone at 07 3403 8888. An Interpreter Service is also available by calling 13 14 50.

Alcohol-related diseases and injuries have the potential to cost the Australian healthcare system a staggering $68 billion over 60 years if nothing is done to stop the impact. These findings underscore the critical consequences of inaction and reinforce the urgent health and economic case for preventive measures, particularly in Australia, where alcohol is the most widely used drug. The TAP Model Reveals Avoidable Burden This alarming figure comes from new research utilizing The Alcohol Policy (TAP) model, which was developed by Griffith University. The TAP model is an epidemiological tool specifically designed to estimate the avoidable burden of alcohol-related disease and injury, as well as the associated healthcare costs, within the Australian population aged over 15 years. Dr. Mary Wanjau from Griffith’s School of Medicine and Dentistry highlighted the immense potential for savings and improved health outcomes if proactive steps were taken. Dr. Wanjau stated that if alcohol consumption were eliminated over the first 25 years, the nation could prevent more than 25 million cases of diseases and injuries and avoid more than 200 thousand deaths, with the majority of these avoided deaths resulting from cancers. Furthermore, acting immediately to eliminate alcohol consumption to zero could save the healthcare system $55 billion in the first 25 years. Dr. Wanjau noted that these findings are crucial for policymakers, as they help them understand the scale of the future alcohol burden that is preventable. No Safe Level and Acute Risks The necessity for intervention is heightened by global evidence indicating that excessive alcohol use is one of the leading risks for mortality and disability. The evidence suggests that there is no safe level of alcohol-use for overall health. Specifically, the risk of cancers and mortality is shown to rise with increased levels of drinking. While alcohol use affects all demographics, young adults aged 15–39 years bear most of the acute consequences. This demographic experiences high rates of injuries leading to death and disability. The Case for Prioritizing Prevention Professor Lennert Veerman emphasized that these findings strongly support the prioritization of investment in alcohol harm reduction. Even minor decreases in alcohol consumption across the entire population could significantly reduce health burdens for individuals and the healthcare system, while simultaneously lowering costs for individuals, communities, and governments. According to Professor Veerman, policies and interventions that reduce consumption at the population level are likely to offer a favorable impact. Such measures work by creating environments that support and allow for an increase in the number of people who abstain from drinking, a delay in the age when people start drinking, and overall reductions in consumption for those who do drink. Stronger alcohol control policies are necessary to realize the potential gains in the reduction of alcohol harm and related healthcare costs. The research, titled ‘The avoidable health burden and healthcare costs related to alcohol consumption in Australia: multistate life table modelling,’ has been published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction.

Alcohol-related diseases and injuries have the potential to cost the Australian healthcare system a staggering $68 billion over 60 years if nothing is done to stop the impact. These findings underscore the critical consequences of inaction and reinforce the urgent health and economic case for preventive measures, particularly in Australia, where alcohol is the most widely used drug. The TAP Model Reveals Avoidable Burden This alarming figure comes from new research utilizing The Alcohol Policy (TAP) model, which was developed by Griffith University. The TAP model is an epidemiological tool specifically designed to estimate the avoidable burden of alcohol-related disease and injury, as well as the associated healthcare costs, within the Australian population aged over 15 years. Dr. Mary Wanjau from Griffith’s School of Medicine and Dentistry highlighted the immense potential for savings and improved health outcomes if proactive steps were taken. Dr. Wanjau stated that if alcohol consumption were eliminated over the first 25 years, the nation could prevent more than 25 million cases of diseases and injuries and avoid more than 200 thousand deaths, with the majority of these avoided deaths resulting from cancers. Furthermore, acting immediately to eliminate alcohol consumption to zero could save the healthcare system $55 billion in the first 25 years. Dr. Wanjau noted that these findings are crucial for policymakers, as they help them understand the scale of the future alcohol burden that is preventable. No Safe Level and Acute Risks The necessity for intervention is heightened by global evidence indicating that excessive alcohol use is one of the leading risks for mortality and disability. The evidence suggests that there is no safe level of alcohol-use for overall health. Specifically, the risk of cancers and mortality is shown to rise with increased levels of drinking. While alcohol use affects all demographics, young adults aged 15–39 years bear most of the acute consequences. This demographic experiences high rates of injuries leading to death and disability. The Case for Prioritizing Prevention Professor Lennert Veerman emphasized that these findings strongly support the prioritization of investment in alcohol harm reduction. Even minor decreases in alcohol consumption across the entire population could significantly reduce health burdens for individuals and the healthcare system, while simultaneously lowering costs for individuals, communities, and governments. According to Professor Veerman, policies and interventions that reduce consumption at the population level are likely to offer a favorable impact. Such measures work by creating environments that support and allow for an increase in the number of people who abstain from drinking, a delay in the age when people start drinking, and overall reductions in consumption for those who do drink. Stronger alcohol control policies are necessary to realize the potential gains in the reduction of alcohol harm and related healthcare costs. The research, titled ‘The avoidable health burden and healthcare costs related to alcohol consumption in Australia: multistate life table modelling,’ has been published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction.

Several schools in Canberra and Brisbane, including Mancel College, have announced temporary closures following the discovery of asbestos in brightly coloured sand products recently recalled nationwide. The snap closures are a precautionary step to safeguard the health of students and staff. Authorities confirmed that laboratory testing detected traces of tremolite asbestos in children’s sand products. In response, affected schools immediately closed their campuses for thorough inspections and removal of contaminated materials. Education and health departments are coordinating with specialist contractors to safely dispose of any potentially hazardous sand. Schools have communicated with families to alert them to the situation and assure that student safety is the highest priority. The recall of the coloured sand was issued earlier this week after tests revealed asbestos contamination. Officials are reviewing the supply chain to prevent future incidents and to ensure all affected products are removed from schools and other facilities. Government guidelines for asbestos management are being strictly followed. This includes detailed site inspections, adherence to safe removal processes, and ongoing consultation with health and safety experts. Schools plan to reopen once they are deemed safe. No long-term closures have been announced at this stage, with schools aiming to resume normal operations as soon as all safety concerns are addressed. For updates and more information, parents and guardians are advised to monitor official school communications and follow guidance from state health departments

The Albanese Government has announced the opening of its latest Multicultural Grassroots Grants Program, offering vital funding to help community groups across Australia celebrate cultural diversity and strengthen social bonds. This program is specifically designed to support local, community-led projects that help people maintain their cultural traditions while creating opportunities for meaningful connections between different cultural groups. Two Ways to Get Funding The program is split into two straightforward funding streams, making it easy for organizations to apply based on the size and scope of their idea. Note: All grant amounts listed exclude GST. 1. Events Stream (For Celebrations) If your organization wants to host a multicultural celebration, festival, or gatheringthat brings diverse communities together, this stream is for you. Grant Range: You can apply for between $10,000 and $20,000. 2. Programs Stream (For Ongoing Projects) If your organization wants to host a multicultural celebration, festival, or gatheringthat brings diverse communities together, this stream is for you. Grant Range: You can apply for between $10,000 and $20,000. Who Should Apply and How to Get Started The government is encouraging grassroots organizations that work directly at the community level to submit applications. If your organization operates in multiple locations, you are welcome to submit separate applications for each initiative. Priority will be given to proposals that actively build cross-cultural connections and strengthen local bonds. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Anne Aly emphasized that these local events are crucial for celebrating diverse identities and keeping cultural traditions alive. Assistant Minister Julian Hill added that community-led groups are vital in making culturally and linguistically diverse Australians feel truly connected and valued. Application Details Getting your application in is simple, but the deadline is fast approaching: Deadline: Applications close on December 5, 2025. To Apply: Visit the official government grants website at www.grants.gov.au for the full program guidelines and application forms.

Australia is rolling out the welcome mat for its multicultural future at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, where the nation’s most influential settlement and migrant advocates will gather for the 2025 National Settlement Conference, hosted by the Settlement Council of Australia (SCOA). Under the banner “We Share a Dream,” hundreds of leaders, policymakers, service providers, and community changemakers will shape next steps for a country built on migration, ambition, and belonging. What’s on the Program? Wednesday, Nov. 19: Pre-conference Symposium (11:30am – 5:00pm) kicks off with expert panels, data-driven discussions, and bold new ideas powering Australia’s settlement sector. Welcome Reception (5:00pm – 7:00pm) promises hot topics and fresh connections as delegates network over fabulous fare. Thursday, Nov. 20: Conference Day 1 & Exhibition (8:00am – 5:00pm) opens the doors to interactive sessions, real-world strategies, and the latest migrant-focused innovations, all in one place. Conference Dinner (7:00pm – 11:00pm) shines a spotlight on those leading Australia’s migrant inclusion revolution. Friday, Nov. 21: Conference Day 2 & Exhibition (8:30am – 3:30pm) wraps up the event with actionable plans, sector partnerships, and success stories from every corner of the country. In the Spotlight: Poster Presentations From rural support programs to urban welcome hubs, the Poster Session will showcase Australia’s top initiatives and creative solutions for helping migrants and refugees build successful lives Down Under. Partners and Behind-the-Scenes SCOA is teaming up with the Australian Government to power this event. Sector organisations can still apply to partner, exhibit, and sponsor—full details in the official prospectus. Where and How to Register? The Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort provides everything you need: modern facilities, ample accommodation, and easy access for attendees nationwide. Register now to reserve your seat at the conference steering Australia into a multicultural future. Contact the Organisers: Phone: (02) 6282 8515 Email: info@scoa.org.au Conference queries: scoa2025nsc@bkaevents.com.au This event honours the traditional custodians of the Ngunnawal people and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, respecting Elders past, present, and future.

Australians who receive welfare benefits, like the Jobseeker payment, often feel intense f inancial stress, especially in the days leading up to their next check. Now, a top research group, the E61 Institute, has a simple idea to fix this: switch Centrelink payments from every two weeks (fortnightly) to every single week. This big change, according to the institute’s research director Gianni La Cava, would significantly ease money worries for millions of people and wouldn’t cost the government a single extra dollar. He argues that changing ‘when’ people get their money is just as powerful as changing ‘how much’ they get. The Stress Evidence While advocacy groups continue to push for a benefit increase, La Cava’s research indicates that the timing of payments may be just as crucial as the amount received. The E61 Institute’s findings reveal that Australian welfare recipients experience far greater spending volatility compared to their counterparts in New Zealand, where more frequent payments are common. This distress manifests as higher rates of cash withdrawals and elevated reliance on payday lending services and short-term credit specifically between payment cycles. The institute concluded that less frequent payment schedules directly correlate with elevated financial stress and a higher propensity for emergency borrowing. This is clearly demonstrated by Department of Social Services data, which indicates that over 600,000 crisis payments, each equivalent to one week of standard benefits, were issued to Jobseeker recipients during the review period. Welfare Rolls Climb The call for structural payment change comes amidst a rising number of recipients. Between September 2023 and January 2025, the national count of working-age Australians receiving welfare payments grew by 126,880 under the current government. Debt Refund Probe In related Centrelink news, Services Australia announced in October that it is investigating approximately 44,000 cases where recipients may have overpaid their debts through automatic payment systems like BPAY. A Services Australia spokesperson explained that while they process hundreds of thousands of refunds annually, some cases failed to follow the correct internal procedures, resulting in money owed to customers. The agency provided a breakdown of the potentially owed refunds, stating that fully 50% involve amounts under $50, and 80% are below $500. However, the investigation also covers larger amounts, with 2% of cases exceeding $5,000. The spokesperson stressed that in most instances when people overpay a Centrelink debt, the agency generally refunds the money or transfers the balance to another outstanding debt.

Sydney, 7 November 2025 – Marking a transformative era in Australian disability advocacy, the Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association of NSW (MDAA) has officially become Multicultural Disability Advocacy Australia (MDAA), unveiling its new name and expanded vision at a public announcement this week. Guided by a comprehensive consultation with its members, the organization has rebranded to reflect its growing national scope while retaining its strong community roots in New South Wales. The refreshed identity keeps the established MDAA acronym, a symbol synonymous for 30 years with meaningful advocacy for people with disabilities, their families, and carers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. “MDAA’s transition from ‘Association’ to ‘Australia’ is more than a change of name; it’s a powerful recognition of our expanding vision,” said an MDAA spokesperson. “We remain firmly anchored in our values, committed to fostering inclusion and empowering multicultural communities across the country.” Over its three decades, MDAA has become the peak body for multicultural disability advocacy in NSW, championing equitable access, systemic change, and amplifying the voices of communities who have historically faced barriers to inclusion. The association continues to deliver state-wide and national projects, from policy advocacy and regional outreach campaigns to capacity-building and digital skills programs. The organization’s new name aligns with its recently launched Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which focuses on “permanently anchoring inclusion and nurturing strength in diversity.” MDAA’s leadership promises that the rebrand will facilitate even greater partnerships, policy reform, and support for culturally diverse people with disability in every corner of Australia. Community members and stakeholders have welcomed the rebrand, seeing it as an affirmation of MDAA’s enduring legacy and future relevance. The association invites all supporters to connect, participate in its programs, and help shape a more inclusive nation. For more information, or to reach MDAA: Address: 10-12 Hutchinson St, Granville NSW 2142 Email: mdaa@mdaa.org.au Website: www.mdaa.org.au Phone: (02) 9891 6400 / 1800 629 072 Sources: MDAA official announcements, member consultations, public statements.

Indigenous Affairs Ministers from across Australia gathered via videoconference yesterday to discuss key priorities for First Nations people and communities, with focus turning to upcoming national talks and critical reform areas. Meeting on Monday 3 November, Ministers centered their discussions on the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and preparations for the Joint Council on Closing the Gap meeting scheduled for Nipaluna Hobart on 21 November 2025. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the development of a Joint Council response to the Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led Review of the National Agreement. Ministers acknowledged the essential role that First Nations perspectives play in driving accountability and progress on Closing the Gap objectives. Minister Malarndirri McCarthy briefed colleagues on the Commonwealth’s First Nations economic empowerment priorities, continuing discussions from previous ministerial and Joint Council meetings.  Youth justice emerged as a critical agenda item, with Ministers recognizing the urgent need to reduce the overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in the criminal justice system. Minister McCarthy highlighted coordination efforts between Joint Council Co-Chairs and state and territory Attorneys-General, emphasizing that meaningful youth justice outcomes require collaboration across governments and ministerial portfolios. The meeting also covered food security initiatives, including updates on the Commonwealth’s Low-Cost Essentials Subsidy Scheme, alongside preparations for the approaching high-risk weather season. Ministers shared progress reports on truth-telling and treaty processes underway in various jurisdictions. They acknowledged a historic milestone in Victoria, where the Statewide Treaty Bill recently passed parliament, making Victoria the first Australian jurisdiction to legislate treaty with First Peoples. Western Australian and Queensland Ministers were represented by officials at the meeting.