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While Australia’s privacy law has made a
good start in encouraging better security hygiene, it may not go far enough to
get all Australian and partner businesses in line.
The privacy act will
pressure most Australian
business to provide information on sensitive data breaches since it mandates
the law on commonwealth government agencies, private sector organisations and relevant
businesses.
Its
one downside is that the penalties are far below those
of many recent privacy mandates. The
Australian maximum penalties of $360,000 for individuals or $1.8 million for
organisations – and breach disclosure applies only to organisations that exceed
$3 million annual turnover. This is a far cry from the European Union General Data Protection
Regulation (EU GDPR) which applies penalties of up to 4 per cent GDP or up to
20 million euros ($A30 million), whichever is higher!
Big fines are not the only incentive to
encourage better security practices, posture and hygiene. Privacy law should
help to encourage breach disclosure, with merit given to those that practise
privacy by design or who embed security into their data policy.
Organisations that can account for their
security systems and take steps to ensure they have the right technologies and
plans in place to ensure and prove protection, can use solutions that help to expose
or protect data, or report on the existing security policy that helps to define
their data processes and hierarchy.
There is value in the approach taken by the
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) in actively engaging with businesses in
the case of an incident and offering support before, during and after the
mandatory notification that would be triggered under the breach notification
laws. This also promotes the adoption of powerful mitigation techniques while
encouraging businesses to move to a better security posture and transparency in
data privacy and protection policy.
This is why my company choses to align with
the ASD security incident mitigation strategies, as it promotes taking a
positive approach to embedding data security into the business process from the
outset. The ASD also recommends many
essential technologies that can help organisations to automate and accelerate
the mission of implementing better data security.
Finally, security by default can help to shore
up response plans that can be ready in the event of a breach. We have always
aligned with security baselines like the ASD, that help to connect the dots
between the regulation requirements and the security controls. In the case of
bettering one’s incident response plans, practising the ASD security controls
will help to ensure that the proper information is available when the IR
process is conducted. Effectively, compliance with the data security mandate is
already built into the IR process.
Are Australians capable of providing
information on sensitive data breaches?
With the
right security solutions and proper preparation around security policy,
architecture and implementation, such as proactive assessment, and real time
prioritisation of security events, it is possible for organisations to provide
the full scope of a data breach.
But I’m not
convinced they are quite ready to do this. Given the recent string of data and
information breaches worldwide, there is still much to do to ensure breach
discovery and report perfection.
Evidence
from many recent reports on data breach investigations show that most
organisations are not quite to the point of adequate breach intelligence
reporting. According to the Ponemon Institute 2017 Cost of Data Breach
Study
sponsored by IBM, it still takes 214 days to identify a breach root cause, and
another 77 days to contain a breach. These numbers are still much too high to
align well with the current requirements listed in many data protection regulations
that call for 72-hour notification.
Compliance regulation holes
A few
obvious holes exist in the major Australian privacy mandates, such as the
exclusions of companies under $3 million in turnover. That represents a large
proportion of businesses and could account for a significant potential data
loss which would not be publicly disclosed.
The
importance lies in a deficiency in enforcement of the compliance regulations
and security controls. With data exploits and losses in the first half of 2017
topping more than the entire year of 2016, we must ensure alignment with the
security controls recommended in Australia’s compliance regulations. The key is
to ensure that security controls required by compliance regulations are
enforceable and measurable. This has always been a gap in the past, where
security and regulations have never filled the breach.
At least
one security vendor is focusing on directly aligning security technology with
regulations to address this gap.
Choosing
the ASD as a compliance baseline to help target security controls that need to
be in place to protect data is one way that businesses can immediately identify
anomalies in the business process, but assure that they have security data on
hand necessary to prove that the incident was dealt with proactively and that
the security control was enforced as per the data privacy policy of the
business.
New technology is also an incipient threat.
I believe that emerging tech is putting compliance standards at risk. We have
never had a period with more unsupported vulnerable applications and operating
systems globally as we do now. Many of
the recent major exploits, such as WannaCry were successful by preying on
unsupported system vulnerabilities – something that’s unacceptable in this age
of advanced security technology.
Our own technology has always recommended a
defence in depth approach with the proper application control and ironclad
protection on the front end. Just as the ASD mandates application whitelisting
as the #1 mitigation of its essential
eight, we advocate that applying a positive security approach that can
prioritise events in real time. Enforcing the trust policy will lead to
eliminating the risk of vulnerabilities, while automating the process of
identifying potential anomalies that target our systems and data.
Carbon Black recommends a defence in depth
approach with the proper application control and ironclad protection on the
front end. Just as the ASD mandates application whitelisting as it’s number one
mitigation, we advocate that applying a positive security approach that can
prioritise events in real time while enforcing the trust policy will lead to
eliminating the risk of vulnerabilities, while automating the process of
identifying potential anomalies that target systems and data.
News emerged recently
that the ASD utilises Carbon Black technology among its own data security
strategies.
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Bushfires represent one of the most formidable challenges faced by firefighters worldwide. With their unpredictable behaviour and rapid spread, combating these blazes demands innovative solutions to ensure the safety of both responders and communities at risk. In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers are harnessing the power of robotics to revolutionise bushfire response, paving the way for more effective firefighting strategies and enhanced situational awareness.
At the heart of this endeavour lies the Silvanus Project, an ambitious international collaboration aimed at developing ground robots capable of navigating fire fronts and gathering crucial data in real-time. Led by researchers from Data61’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, this project represents a pioneering effort to address the inherent dangers associated with traditional firefighting methods.
Bushfires, fueled by factors such as vegetation density and weather conditions, can escalate rapidly, outpacing conventional firefighting techniques. To stay ahead of the inferno, firefighters require accurate information about fire location, direction of spread, and potential hazards. However, obtaining such data often entails placing personnel in hazardous environments, risking their safety in the process.
Drones have emerged as a promising tool for aerial reconnaissance, offering valuable insights into fire behaviour from above. However, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as smoke interference, high winds, and restricted flight times. Recognising these limitations, researchers turned their focus to ground-based solutions, envisioning robots capable of operating in the most challenging of conditions.
The ground robots developed as part of the Silvanus Project are equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, allowing them to traverse rugged terrain and navigate through smoke and debris. Some robots are designed to move on legs, mimicking the mobility of insects, while others utilise tracks for increased stability and manoeuvrability. These robots venture into the heart of the fire, gathering critical data such as fire intensity, fuel availability, and environmental conditions.
During a demonstration conducted for fire service representatives and researchers, the capabilities of these ground robots were showcased, highlighting their potential to transform firefighting operations. With the ability to transmit data in real-time to a cloud-based platform, these robots provide firefighters with unprecedented situational awareness, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive firefighting strategies.
Senior experimental scientist Tom Lowe emphasises the significance of these ground robots in enhancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness. By deploying robots into areas deemed too hazardous for human intervention, firefighters can access vital information without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, the integration of remote sensing technologies allows robots to assess vegetation density and predict fuel availability, further aiding in fire suppression efforts.
While the technology is still in the developmental stage, researchers are optimistic about its potential impact on future firefighting practices. Navinda Kottege, Cyber-Physical Systems Research Director, underscores the life-saving potential of ground robots, particularly in high-risk firefighting scenarios where human intervention may be impractical or unsafe.
The Silvanus Project represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from across Europe, Australia, Indonesia, and Brazil, united in their mission to develop innovative solutions for forest management and fire prevention. By harnessing the power of robotics and cutting-edge technologies, this initiative aims to bolster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and protecting communities from the devastating impact of bushfires.
As ground robots continue to evolve and mature, fueled by ongoing research and international collaboration, the vision of leveraging technology to mitigate the impact of bushfires grows ever closer to reality. With each technological advancement, firefighters gain new tools and capabilities to confront one of nature’s most formidable adversaries, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for all.
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CSIRO successfully delivered an innovative 3D mapping technology package to the International Space Station (ISS). This cutting-edge system marks a pivotal advancement in space technology, promising to revolutionise navigation and task execution aboard the orbiting laboratory.
As space exploration expands, the need for efficient inventory tracking, damage assessment, and emergency response in off-Earth environments becomes more evident. With lunar and Martian missions looming, where crew time is limited and some facilities may be uncrewed, the demand for accurate autonomous systems is critical. Additionally, rovers and robots exploring extraterrestrial terrain rely on precise mapping data for effective navigation.
In response to these challenges, CSIRO has developed a fused sensor system for autonomous 3D scanning in collaboration with an international air and space tech company, NASA Ames Research Centre, and the ISS National Laboratory. Originally designed for terrestrial applications like remote mine site access, this technology is now set to be demonstrated aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The multi-resolution scanning payload will be integrated into an Astrobee robot platform, which supports astronaut activities on the ISS. This marks the first time a single piece of technology will utilise both payload bays of an Astrobee robot simultaneously.
Once deployed on the ISS, the multi-resolution scanner will conduct experiments, including full internal scans, beginning with the Japanese experimental module (Kibō). The data collected will support tasks such as inventory analysis, traditionally requiring human intervention, demonstrating the potential for autonomous caretaker functions on uncrewed spacecraft.
The culmination of extensive research and collaboration, this groundbreaking payload is poised to enhance the efficiency and safety of astronauts working on the ISS. Integrated into Astrobee, a versatile robot platform developed by NASA, the 3D mapping device is primed to generate detailed three-dimensional maps of the space station, surpassing previous mapping capabilities with unprecedented accuracy.
Dr. Marc Elmouttie, Research Group Leader at CSIRO, highlighted the overarching goal of this mission, stating, “Our objective is to demonstrate the efficacy of our technology in providing enhanced 3D sensing and mapping for robotics systems on spacecraft.”
This advanced mapping capability holds immense potential for streamlining operations within the ISS, enabling precise tracking of inventory movement and facilitating optimal planning of onboard activities for astronauts and mission controllers.
The technology behind this groundbreaking payload combines two pioneering CSIRO innovations – Stereo-Depth Fusion and Wildcat Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping. This synergy produces high-quality data about the surrounding environment and the device’s movements in space, offering unparalleled insights into spatial dynamics within the ISS.
Developed in collaboration with an international air and space tech company, with support from the ISS National Laboratory and NASA Ames Research Centre, this project underscores CSIRO’s commitment to innovation in remote operations and aerospace manufacturing. Leveraging its expertise in these domains, CSIRO aims to propel space exploration into new frontiers by advancing the capabilities of robotic systems in space environments.
Dr. Ryan Reeves, Technical Director of Research and Innovation for the ISS National Laboratory, emphasised the significance of testing such innovative technologies in low Earth orbit. He noted that these endeavours play a crucial role in shaping the future of space commerce and exploration, driving advancements that will pave the way for unprecedented scientific breakthroughs.
With the successful delivery of the 3D mapping payload to the ISS, the stage is set for a new era of space exploration. The device’s integration into the Astrobee platform marks the beginning of extensive experimentation and validation of its capabilities in the unique microgravity environment of the space station.
As the payload undergoes its first experimentation run in the Japanese Kibō module, anticipation runs high among scientists and engineers involved in the project. This milestone achievement represents a collaborative triumph in space technology, underlining the collective efforts of CSIRO, NASA and the international air and space tech company in advancing the frontiers of human knowledge and exploration beyond Earth’s boundaries.
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A space company based in South Australia has demonstrated satellite-enabled Push-to-Talk (PTT) capabilities under the ASCEND2LEO project, funded by Defence Space Command, garnering commendation from SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat).
This accomplishment, facilitated by SmartSat and Safety from Space, involved adapting a variant of the ‘Beagle’ communications waveform, originally developed through SmartSat-funded projects. The company successfully implemented this adapted waveform on the Centauri-4 satellite, showcasing a significant milestone in PTT capabilities. This breakthrough opens avenues for more secure, reliable, and instantaneous communications over vast distances using advanced microsatellite architectures.
The demonstration conducted for the Australian Defence Force Joint Capabilities Group validated the adaptability of the Centauri satellites. Through a software update, these satellites were able to deliver high-quality voice capabilities while in orbit, laying the groundwork for the Regenerative Voice System architecture of the ASCEND2LEO program. This successful demonstration underscores the potential of highly adaptable microsatellite constellations to swiftly deploy purpose-built, high-quality SATCOM capabilities at scale to address diverse and complex needs.
SmartSat’s Defence & National Security Coordinator lauded the technical feat achieved in enabling a new voice capability for satellites already in orbit. He stressed the critical role of SmartSat in bolstering SATCOM resiliency for Australian Defence and validating the ambitious Regenerative Voice System architecture.
During the live demonstration hosted by the Defence Science & Technology Group (DSTG), the company’s PTT capabilities met stringent performance criteria for one-way voice transmission across various operational environments, showcasing reliability and link persistence across thousands of kilometres.
The Co-Founder & Chief Exploration Officer at the space company highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation in meeting the evolving needs of the Australian Defence Force. By successfully delivering a software update to their Centauri satellite while in orbit, Fleet Space established itself as the developer and operator of the world’s smallest known voice-enabled satellite, paving the way for new innovation pathways in the global space industry.
The foundational ‘Beagle’ waveform technology, initially demonstrated in SmartSat’s Resilient Emergency and Search and Rescue Communications project, has seen progressive applications. It was further developed in the LunaSAR project, focusing on emergency communications for astronaut suit telemetry and lunar terrain vehicle telemetry, supporting NASA’s Artemis program. In its current iteration for the ASCEND2LEO program, a variant of the Beagle waveform was tailored for the company, following an AU$6.4 million contract with Defence Space Command.
The ASCEND2LEO research partnership led by SmartSat aims to advance the national space and defence industry by leveraging Australia’s competitive strengths. Facilitating collaboration between the space company and research partners such as the University of South Australia, DSTG, and Safety from Space, SmartSat ensures the integration and validation of cutting-edge technologies onto Fleet’s satellite payload. These efforts contribute to the development of a resilient space infrastructure not only for Australia but also for its allies worldwide.
OpenGov Asia reported earlier that the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat) is investing AU$2.3 million in In-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) research. Led by the University of Sydney and NSW industry partners, the project focuses on developing robotic satellite technologies for in-orbit repairs.
ISAM tackles challenges like harsh space conditions and the risks of damaging assets during docking. It aims to enable real-time, dependable close-proximity operations for effective satellite servicing. SmartSat’s holistic approach integrates key technology areas to address these challenges comprehensively.
This initiative, alongside projects like ASCEND2LEO, highlight the development of Australia’s space capabilities. ASCEND2LEO’s success in satellite-enabled Push-to-Talk (PTT) further demonstrates SmartSat’s role in fostering innovation across various space technologies, contributing to Australia’s leadership in space innovation and the development of a resilient space infrastructure.
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CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has spearheaded a groundbreaking achievement in clean energy by establishing a new efficiency benchmark for fully roll-to-roll printed solar cells. Collaborating with an international team, CSIRO scientists have successfully printed these solar cells onto thin plastic films, unlocking a lightweight and flexible solar technology that extends the application scope of solar cells.
This breakthrough promises to address the escalating demand for renewable energy by broadening the horizons of solar cell utilisation. Unlike conventional silicon solar panels known for their rigidity and weight, these printed solar cells offer high flexibility and portability, paving the way for innovative applications across various sectors including urban construction, mining, emergency management, space exploration, and personal electronics.
Dr Anthony Chesman, the Group Leader of CSIRO’s Renewable Energy Systems, highlighted the culmination of over a decade’s worth of research and development efforts leading to this milestone. He emphasised the transition of CSIRO’s thin and lightweight solar cells from lab prototypes to practical clean energy solutions, citing their record-breaking performance achieved across interconnected modules.
One of the key enablers of this achievement is roll-to-roll printing, a technique that allows solar cells to be manufactured on continuous rolls of plastic, significantly enhancing production efficiency. Dr Chesman emphasised the accessibility of this manufacturing method, particularly for Australian manufacturers, given its widespread adoption in the printing industry.
The collaboration involved researchers from leading institutions such as the University of Cambridge, Monash University, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales, showcasing a collective effort towards advancing solar technology. Their findings have been published in the esteemed journal Nature Communications.
Dr Doojin Vak, a Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO, highlighted the integration of automation in producing and testing thousands of solar cells daily, a feat unattainable through manual methods. This automation facilitated the identification of optimal parameters for the roll-to-roll process, accelerating the optimisation journey.
These printed solar cells incorporate an advanced material known as perovskite, which distinguishes them from traditional silicon solar panels. Dr Vak underscored the versatility of perovskite, which can be formulated into inks and printed using industrial printers. Additionally, the substitution of expensive metals with specialised carbon inks has significantly reduced production costs.
Perovskite, a novel class of solar cell materials, presents a novel alternative to conventional silicon-based solar panels. Unlike traditional silicon cells, perovskite can be formulated into inks and printed using industrial printers, offering a cheaper and more energy-efficient manufacturing process. Its lightweight and flexible properties make it highly adaptable for various applications, ranging from portable device charging to integrated building materials.
The roll-to-roll printing technique employed in perovskite solar cell production enables continuous and large-scale manufacturing, akin to newspaper printing. Although roll-to-roll production of perovskite solar cells has been previously explored, limitations in efficiency and scalability have hindered widespread adoption. However, recent advancements have resulted in significant efficiency improvements, making commercially viable production of perovskite solar cells at scale increasingly feasible.
While perovskite solar cells may currently lag behind silicon panels in efficiency and longevity at scale, Dr Chesman emphasised the unique advantages of flexible panels. Their lightweight and flexibility enable easy transportation and deployment, even in challenging environments like space, where CSIRO recently conducted tests to evaluate their performance.
Looking ahead, CSIRO is actively seeking industry partnerships to further refine and commercialise this technology. The agency’s efforts have received funding from ARENA as part of its Research and Development Program – Solar PV Research.
CSIRO’s achievement in printed solar technology represents a significant step towards realising the potential of clean energy. By pushing the boundaries of solar technology, CSIRO is driving the transition towards a sustainable energy future, both in Australia and worldwide.
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The government has announced an AU$140 million investment in Western Australia’s digital infrastructure which signals a significant step towards enhancing the state’s technological capabilities. Spearheaded by the Spatial WA programme, which has received approval through the State Government’s Digital Capability Fund, this initiative is poised to revolutionise land development approvals and streamline the delivery of crucial infrastructure projects across the region.
Developed in collaboration with over 30 State Government agencies, Spatial WA is designed to harness cutting-edge technology to create a spatially accurate 4D virtual representation of Western Australia’s built and natural environment. This digital platform aims to support key government priorities, including infrastructure delivery, planning reforms, and emergency preparedness.
At its core, Spatial WA will integrate spatial and non-spatial data, enabling the generation of analytical insights, predictive modelling, and the streamlining of digital workflows. The platform’s potential to unlock significant savings for the state is evident, as it facilitates the seamless combination of precise location data pertaining to roads, buildings, networks, pipelines, and other infrastructure across various government agencies.
The benefits of Spatial WA are far-reaching. By making critical data readily available, the programme aims to reduce wait times for planning applications, enhance the efficiency of maintenance work, streamline land development processes, accelerate approvals, and foster increased community engagement in infrastructure projects. Its impact is expected to be felt across multiple sectors, contributing to improved decision-making processes and fostering investment confidence, thus supporting efforts to diversify the Western Australian economy.
The AU$140 million funding allocated to Spatial WA over the course of 10 years underscores the government’s commitment to advancing digital capabilities in the state. Leveraging the Digital Capability Fund, this investment is poised to drive targeted efforts in digital transformation across the public sector and beyond.
According to the Lands Minister, the launch of Spatial WA represents a crucial milestone in leveraging technology for the benefit of all Western Australians. Recognising its potential to shape the future growth of the region, the Minister stressed the programme’s ability to enhance decision-making processes, streamline planning, and accelerate access to land, thereby bolstering investment confidence and economic diversification.
The Innovation and the Digital Economy Minister echoed the Land Minister’s sentiments, highlighting the government’s focus on advancing digital transformation to support Western Australians across all sectors. With significant investment and the collaboration of numerous agencies, Spatial WA’s capacity to save time, improve efficiency, streamline processes, and increase community engagement on major infrastructure projects was underscored.
Spatial WA is a testament to the Government’s dedication to fostering innovation and driving digital change across the public sector. Empowering agencies to work seamlessly in a spatially accurate virtual environment, this groundbreaking initiative sets a new standard in digital capabilities and underscores the transformative potential of technology in shaping the future of Western Australia.
Aligned with the government’s commitment to digital innovation and transformation, the Western Australian Government’s Digital Strategy 2021-2025 seeks to propel the state towards a more inclusive, secure, and forward-thinking digital future, building upon the foundation laid by initiatives like DigitalWA.
The Strategy aims to revolutionise how citizens interact with government services by prioritising digital innovation and inclusivity. With a focus on convenient and secure online services, the strategy emphasised the importance of quality data insights and robust cybersecurity measures. It acknowledges the diversity of its population, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of digital proficiency, can access government services through various channels.
Building upon the DigitalWA initiative, the strategy aims to enhance the government’s ability to address future challenges comprehensively. By fostering whole-of-government capabilities and empowering the public sector workforce with advanced technology skills, the strategy seeks to create a seamless digital experience for Western Australians. Ultimately, it envisions a secure, sustainable, and inclusive digital future for the state, positioning Western Australia as a leader in digital transformation on a global scale.
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NSW Ambulance has launched a trial utilising advanced technology for the swift assessment and triage of stroke patients during transportation to hospitals. This initiative sees the introduction of the Medfield Diagnostics Strokefinder MD100 helmet, a state-of-the-art brain scanner, by NSW Ambulance paramedics in the Hunter region. This marks the inaugural deployment of Strokefinder helmet technology in frontline emergency response scenarios, extending beyond conventional hospital settings.
The trial, endorsed by the Minister for Regional Health, aims to expedite stroke diagnosis and treatment, potentially enhancing patient outcomes by ensuring timely interventions within the critical ‘golden hour’. The Minister underscored the importance of prompt assessment and treatment in stroke cases, emphasising the potential life-saving impact of early intervention.
The NSW Ambulance Commissioner highlighted the efficiency of the technology, noting its ability to conduct multiple brain measurements within a minute. The Commissioner noted the collaborative nature of the study, involving intensive care paramedics, neurologists from John Hunter Hospital, and the Hunter Medical Research Institute. The trial integrates the Strokefinder MD100 helmet with an innovative telehealth application, enabling paramedics to consult with neurology specialists in real-time to optimise patient care.
Leading the study is an Acute Stroke Services Neurologist at John Hunter Hospital who stressed the importance of rapid and accurate diagnosis in stroke management, highlighting the need for seamless coordination between clinicians and researchers to refine frontline care protocols.
Preliminary data from the trial showcased promising efficiency, with nearly all patients undergoing scanning within an hour of the emergency call. The Minister for Medical Research hailed these findings as noteworthy, particularly considering the historically low rate of stroke patients receiving timely hospital CT scans in Australia.
A 27-year-old gym owner from Newcastle shared his experience benefiting from the trial after suffering an ischaemic stroke. His swift treatment within the ‘golden hour’, facilitated by the Strokefinder MD100 scan and telehealth app, played a crucial role in his remarkable recovery.
The Minister for the Hunter stressed the trial’s significance in addressing the heightened risk of stroke among regional Australians. In the Hunter New England Health District, where approximately 1500 residents experience strokes annually, such initiatives hold immense importance in improving healthcare outcomes.
The Member for Wallsend commended the involvement of John Hunter Hospital clinicians in the trial, highlighting the contribution of the region’s healthcare professionals to frontline research aimed at enhancing stroke care.
The collaborative effort between NSW Ambulance, Hunter New England Local Health District, Medfield Diagnostics, Hunter Medical Research Institute, and Titan Neuroscience Research Australia signifies a concerted commitment to advancing stroke care through technological innovation. Anticipation surrounds the forthcoming trial results, slated for release later this year, which hold the potential to reshape stroke management protocols and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.
About a year ago, the NSW government announced that emergency department nurses in NSW were undergoing real-time stroke care training through a new virtual reality (VR) programme. The initiative was implemented in 27 hospitals across the state, aiming to enhance response times and treatment outcomes for stroke patients.
The VR training simulated real-life scenarios, particularly benefiting nurses in smaller hospitals with limited exposure to stroke cases. Notably, regional areas such as Tweed, Dubbo, and Wagga Wagga, along with major hospitals like Royal North Shore, participated in the programme.
The programme was designed to complement the NSW Telestroke Service, providing rapid stroke diagnoses and treatment consultations in rural settings. The TACTICS VR stroke training programme is a collaboration between the Agency for Clinical Innovation and the University of Newcastle’s Centre for Advanced Training Systems, aiming to improve patient care through innovative technology.
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Australia is embarking on a transformative journey to revolutionise its biosecurity efforts with the launch of the groundbreaking Catalysing Australia’s Biosecurity (CAB) initiative. This strategic initiative represents a fusion of cutting-edge technologies and digital systems, strategically aimed at safeguarding the nation’s native species, crops, livestock, and food supply.
By convening a consortium of Australian biosecurity experts, CAB is poised to drive innovation, research, and investment, ultimately fortifying the country’s biosecurity defences and laying the foundation for a more resilient, digitally-enabled biosecurity system by the year 2030.
This transformative venture, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), is set to receive an initial co-investment exceeding AU$55 million over the next six years.
In alignment with the Commonwealth Biosecurity 2030 roadmap and the National Biosecurity Strategy, CAB is committed to fostering long-term national biosecurity outcomes through the deployment of innovative technologies and capabilities. These efforts are reinforced by the Australian government’s recent commitment to an additional $1 billion in biosecurity funding over the next four years, as announced in the Biosecurity Sustainable Funding Package in Budget 2023-24.
CAB’s focus areas include:
- Detection and Diagnostic Technologies: Research and development activities aimed at understanding, detecting, and diagnosing priority exotic pests and diseases utilizing advanced technologies and platforms.
- Intelligence Gathering Platforms: Initiatives to gather intelligence-based data to effectively address biosecurity threats and enhance market trade strategies.
- Intervention Technologies: Development and deployment of various technological tools to intervene or mitigate biosecurity impacts, ranging from on-farm solutions to national-level responses. This encompasses sovereign vaccines, antimicrobials, biomanufacturing, novel biocontrol methods, and biopesticides.
- Decision Support Systems and Modelling Platforms: Implementation of systems and platforms to support preparedness and emergency response efforts. This includes scenario planning, national response capability exercises, and real-time outbreak responses facilitated by advanced decision support systems and modelling platforms.
- Social-Economic Support: Initiatives to address the human aspects of shared responsibility and effective governance across the biosecurity system, promoting integrated approaches and community engagement.
- Performance Assurance Mechanisms: Implementation of mechanisms to enhance evaluation, monitoring, and performance testing of the biosecurity system. This includes cost-effectiveness analysis, success evaluation, and assurance mechanisms to ensure progress aligns with targets and objectives.
CSIRO’s Chief Executive, Dr Doug Hilton, underscores the critical importance of biosecurity in safeguarding Australia’s biodiversity, food security, and public health. “Our biosecurity defences must be robust, world-class, and science-based,” asserts Dr Hilton, emphasising CSIRO’s pivotal role in advancing this initiative.
Adam Fennessy PSM, Secretary and Director of Biosecurity at DAFF, emphasises CAB’s transformative potential in enhancing Australia’s biosecurity research and innovation landscape. Through strategic integration supported by technology, research, and data, CAB aims to realise the vision of a connected, efficient, and science-based biosecurity system outlined in the National Biosecurity Strategy.
CAB’s ambitious agenda includes a suite of innovative projects ranging from preparing for emergency animal diseases to deploying advanced pest management systems and developing real-time biosecurity alerts. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, genomics, robotics, and big data analytics, CAB is poised to revolutionise Australia’s biosecurity capabilities.
Moreover, CAB places a strong emphasis on empowering Indigenous communities to contribute their expertise to national biosecurity efforts, thereby fostering inclusivity and diversity. Additionally, the initiative holds the promise of enhancing regional prosperity and security by providing new funding opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Catalysing Australia’s Biosecurity initiative represents a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing complex national challenges. By harnessing technology and fostering strong partnerships, Australia is poised to reinforce its biosecurity defences and safeguard its agricultural industries, environment, and communities for generations to come.