Nicholas Webb

Tesla Model Y Enters the Sphere of Australian Mining Activities

Nicholas Webb on August 8, 2025

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Brief Overview

AUSEV adds the Tesla Model Y to its fleet for mining activities.
The announcement took place during AUSEV WA Drive Day, attended by over 100 mining firms.
This represents a crucial advancement towards zero-emission transportation in the industrial field.
Model Y is tailored for tough conditions, focusing on safety and efficiency.
AUSEV, a subsidiary of BOSSCAP Group, is at the forefront of electrifying the heavy vehicle sector.
The collaboration between Tesla and AUSEV reflects a dedication to sustainable fleet initiatives.

A New Chapter for Mining Activities

Australia is making a vital move towards zero-emission transport in its industrial landscape. AUSEV, the nation’s top all-electric vehicle upfitter, has incorporated the Tesla Model Y into its fleet. This was revealed at the AUSEV WA Drive Day on July 29, 2025, an event that drew over 100 mining companies and leaders interested in the future of fleet vehicles.

Tesla Model Y in Australian Mining Operations

Engineered for Harsh Australian Environments

The Tesla Model Y now enriches AUSEV’s collection of electric vehicles specifically created for challenging settings like mining and resource extraction. These vehicles are designed for durability, efficiency, and safety, accommodating Australia’s toughest sectors.

Dedication to Electrifying Heavy Vehicles

AUSEV, a part of the BOSSCAP Group, reinforces its commitment to electrifying the heavy vehicle sector in Australia. CEO Edward Kocwa highlighted this initiative as a significant step toward transitioning the mining industry to cleaner and more intelligent fleet solutions.

Supporting Innovations

In conjunction with the Model Y, AUSEV also presented the Ford F-150 Lightning, another electric vehicle making headway in the fleet market. This showcases that the transition to electric vehicles extends beyond personal use, influencing various industries.

Backing from Tesla

Tesla endorses this venture, with James Middleton, Tesla’s Regional Corporate Manager for Australia & New Zealand, commending the Model Y as a perfect addition for fleets focused on a sustainable future.

Excelling in Challenging Conditions

AUSEV emphasizes the provision of right-hand drive electric vehicles that not only endure but excel in harsh environments. Their expertise encompasses fleet modifications to complete mine-specific constructions, highlighting a distinctive role in Australia’s transportation sector.

Conclusion

The addition of the Tesla Model Y to Australian mining operations by AUSEV marks a significant progress towards zero-emission transportation in industrial arenas. This initiative reflects the increasing trend of electric vehicles being employed in demanding work contexts, demonstrating their capability for even the most rigorous Australian environments.

Q: What is the relevance of including the Tesla Model Y in AUSEV’s fleet?

A: It represents a pivotal movement in shifting the mining industry towards cleaner and smarter fleet solutions, showcasing the potential of EVs in tough sectors.

Q: Who is AUSEV and what is their influence in the electric vehicle industry?

A: AUSEV is Australia’s inaugural all-electric vehicle upfitter and a subsidiary of BOSSCAP Group, spearheading efforts in electrifying heavy vehicle markets.

Q: How does the Tesla Model Y enhance fleet operations?

A: The Model Y provides reliability, reduced ownership costs, efficiency, and advanced functionalities, making it apt for demanding settings.

Q: What is the significance of the collaboration between Tesla and AUSEV?

A: It underscores a commitment to sustainable fleet solutions and illustrates the practical use of EVs in industrial fields.

AI-powered programming could heighten the likelihood of extensive security weaknesses.

Nicholas Webb on August 5, 2025

Coding Powered by AI and Security Flaws

Risks of AI-driven coding heightening security vulnerabilities like IDORs

Quick Overview

The advancement of AI could heighten the occurrence of insecure direct object references (IDORs).
IDORs are linked to flawed access control measures within web applications.
Recent occurrences of IDORs involve data breaches at McDonald’s McHire and Optus.
Developers, under tight deadlines and AI dependency, may worsen these vulnerabilities.
AI’s lack of business context comprehension can result in overlooking security issues.
Backslash’s Vibe Coding Security Threat Model is designed to address AI-related security hazards.

Grasping Insecure Direct Object References (IDORs)

IDORs represent a class of vulnerabilities in web applications that emerge from inadequate access controls. They permit unauthorized access to confidential information with little effort and no specialized knowledge required. A prominent case is McDonald’s AI McHire tool, where researchers retrieved applicant information due to poorly configured access permissions and a default password.

Noteworthy IDOR Incidents

The Optus data breach in 2022 and Atlassian’s Confluence Server issue are significant IDOR occurrences. Both cases involved unsecured API endpoints, enabling hackers to access private customer data. These events illustrate the substantial repercussions IDORs can inflict, often leading to extensive data leaks.

Challenges for Developers and the Influence of AI

Developers confront pressures that may lead to insufficient access controls. AI-supported development, or “vibe coding,” can intensify this challenge as it may not adequately grasp the business context of the system. If AI recommendations are taken at face value, they can amplify human errors.

Addressing AI-Linked Security Hazards

To combat such vulnerabilities, Backslash has launched the Vibe Coding Security Threat Model. This resource assists developers in recognizing and mitigating the challenges posed by AI-powered development.

Conclusion

The surge of AI in software creation presents a potential risk of augmenting IDOR vulnerabilities due to deficient access controls. Highly publicized breaches like those at McDonald’s and Optus emphasize the gravity of these problems. Developers must stay alert against productivity-related pressures and limitations of AI to maintain strong security measures.

Q&A Segment

Q: What are insecure direct object references (IDORs)?

A: IDORs are vulnerabilities originating from flawed access controls in web applications, allowing unauthorized access to confidential information.

Q: In what way does AI development add to security vulnerabilities?

A: AI may lack an understanding of a system’s business context, leading to overlooked security measures and elevated vulnerability risks.

Q: Which recent events involved IDOR vulnerabilities?

A: Significant incidents include the McDonald’s McHire and Optus data breaches, both stemming from inadequate access controls.

Q: How can developers counteract AI-related security risks?

A: Developers should utilize tools like Backslash’s Vibe Coding Security Threat Model to comprehend and mitigate AI-associated threats.

Nvidia Claims Its Chips Are Without ‘Backdoors’

Nicholas Webb on August 4, 2025

Quick Read

Nvidia guarantees that its chips are devoid of ‘backdoors’ amid security apprehensions from China.
China’s internet authority raises doubts about the security of the H20 AI chip following a reversal of a US export ban.
Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang emphasizes dedication to the Chinese market with a prominent visit.
Strong interest continues in China in spite of regulatory oversight and geopolitical issues.
Nvidia is being examined for possible antitrust infringements in China.

Nvidia Addresses Security Concerns

Nvidia confidently claims that its offerings do not have ‘backdoors’ that could facilitate remote access or control. This declaration follows the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) expressing security worries related to Nvidia’s H20 AI chip. The CAC’s apprehensions were triggered by a US initiative proposing that chips sold internationally should include tracking and positioning capabilities.

Nvidia asserts its chips are devoid of 'backdoors'

US-China Relations and Nvidia

This scrutiny is set against the intricate backdrop of US-China relations where Nvidia has played a central role. The US has recently lifted an April prohibition on the sale of Nvidia’s H20 chip to China, which was specifically engineered for the Chinese market, after the US enacted export limitations on advanced AI chips in late 2023.

Strong Demand for Nvidia Chips

Notwithstanding the regulatory hurdles, the demand for Nvidia’s chips remains strong in China. The firm has ordered 300,000 H20 chipsets from TSMC, signifying substantial market interest. Nvidia’s technology is essential for Chinese tech companies, the military, and educational organizations.

Nvidia Confronts Antitrust Challenges

Alongside security issues, Nvidia is also being scrutinized by the State Administration for Market Regulation regarding suspected violations of China’s antitrust legislation. This inquiry includes alleged failures to comply with commitments made during the acquisition of Mellanox Technologies.

Summary

Nvidia continues to assert that its chips, including the H20, are free from security ‘backdoors’. Although geopolitical tensions with China pose challenges, the demand for Nvidia’s products in the region remains. The company’s ongoing commitment to the Chinese market is underscored by its CEO’s recent visit and strategic interactions.

Q&A

Q: What sparked China’s concerns regarding Nvidia’s chips?

A: The Cyberspace Administration of China voiced concerns after a US proposal suggested that chips sold internationally should feature tracking capabilities, raising security and privacy concerns.

Q: How has Nvidia reacted to the security claims?

A: Nvidia firmly denies the existence of ‘backdoors’ in its chips, reiterating its dedication to cybersecurity.

Q: Is there ongoing demand for Nvidia chips in China?

A: Yes, despite regulatory scrutiny, a robust demand for Nvidia’s H20 chips exists, as indicated by a substantial order placed with TSMC.

Q: What antitrust concerns is Nvidia dealing with in China?

A: Nvidia is under investigation for potential violations of China’s anti-monopoly regulations, including issues associated with its acquisition of Mellanox Technologies.

Q: How is Nvidia handling its relationship with China?

A: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently visited China to reinforce the company’s commitment and engage with government officials, highlighting the significance of the Chinese market.

XAI Poised to Achieve $1 Million Milestone Seamlessly with Grok and Bankrbot Enhancement

Nicholas Webb on August 2, 2025

xAI Achieves Significant Financial Benchmark with Grok and Bankrbot

Brief Overview

xAI is poised to generate $1M via the trading of the Debt Relief Bot ($DRB) token.
Grok, xAI’s language model, unintentionally initiated the formation of $DRB through Bankrbot.
$DRB functions as a memecoin lacking intrinsic real-world value yet is actively traded.
Transaction fees from $DRB bolster xAI’s revenue.
Bankrbot employs Privy, a wallet service that was acquired by Stripe, to secure transactions.
xAI governs a wallet presently valued at over $702,084.
Conversations are ongoing regarding how xAI may utilize these assets moving forward.

Examining the Ascent of xAI’s $1 Million Benchmark

In a surprising development, xAI is set to seamlessly earn $1 million through its connection with the Debt Relief Bot ($DRB) token. This journey commenced when a user on the X platform prompted Grok, xAI’s language model, to reply by tagging @bankrbot.

What is Bankrbot?

Bankrbot is a service that auto-replies and generates blockchain contracts when tagged. By responding to Grok’s post, it unintentionally facilitated the creation of the $DRB token, linked to a crypto wallet managed by xAI.

The Underpinnings of $DRB

The $DRB token, a memecoin devoid of tangible worth, has found popularity in the trading landscape. Though the coin itself is a novelty, the trading fees accrued from transactions contribute to xAI’s revenue. Despite its lack of real-world value, the market cap for $DRB is currently estimated at $16.2 million.

Bankrbot’s Process and Security Features

When users engage with Bankrbot, it triggers a sequence of actions involving API calls to Bankr’s framework and Privy, a third-party wallet provider recently acquired by Stripe. Privy guarantees safe management of digital wallets, tackling possible security issues.

Grok’s Wallet and Upcoming Possibilities

As of August 8th, Grok’s wallet contains over $702,084, with transactions recorded on the blockchain. The prospective use of these funds remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from the development of a Grok-driven trading bot to philanthropy or even supporting debt relief projects.

Speculations and Market Enthusiasm

The potential for Grok’s wallet to hit $1 million has sparked considerable interest, with platforms such as Polymarket enabling users to wager on the outcome. Currently, there is a 68% likelihood of this milestone being reached before September, highlighting the overall enthusiasm within the community.

Conclusion

xAI’s path to a $1 million benchmark illustrates the fascinating dynamics of cryptocurrency and memecoins. Through the unintentional formation of $DRB, xAI has positioned itself at the forefront of an innovative financial phenomenon, garnering substantial market interest and possible future consequences.

Q&A

Q: What resulted in the creation of the $DRB token?

A: The $DRB token was inadvertently created when Grok, xAI’s language model, replied to a post tagging @bankrbot, triggering a blockchain contract.

Q: Does $DRB have any intrinsic worth?

A: No, $DRB is a memecoin lacking inherent real-world value. It is traded as a novelty, with transaction fees contributing to xAI’s revenue.

Q: How does Bankrbot guarantee safe transactions?

A: Bankrbot utilizes Privy, a wallet service obtained by Stripe, for the secure management of digital wallets, alleviating potential security concerns.

Q: What are the potential applications for the assets in Grok’s wallet?

A: Potential applications for the funds include creating a Grok-driven trading bot, aiding charities, or addressing debt relief initiatives.

Q: What is the current balance in Grok’s wallet?

A: As of August 8th, Grok’s wallet contains over $702,084, with the potential to reach $1 million by the conclusion of August.

Q: Is there market interest in the $DRB token?

A: Yes, there is considerable market interest, with platforms like Polymarket allowing bets on Grok’s wallet achieving $1 million prior to September.

David Jones Seeks In-Depth Customer Understanding via Integrated Data

Nicholas Webb on August 1, 2025

David Jones’ Innovative Data Approach: An In-Depth Customer Perspective

Brief Overview

David Jones is rolling out a fresh data strategy aimed at crafting a 360-degree understanding of customers.
This strategy incorporates Snowflake for data consolidation and Qualtrics for customer input.
Emphasis on customized communication via emails, video content, and push alerts.
Improved insight into online user activity to enhance customer satisfaction.

David Jones seeks a thorough customer understanding through unified data

Transforming Marketing with Data

In 2023, David Jones set out to transform its marketing methodologies by developing a thorough data-based strategy. At the heart of this approach is the construction of a singular view of each customer, utilising state-of-the-art data integration to boost personalisation and customer involvement.

Embracing Advanced Technology

David Jones has incorporated Snowflake as a crucial asset in this transformation. By merging previously isolated datasets, the department store can now uncover significant insights into product performance across different locations. This merging facilitates informed decision-making and enhances the personalisation of customer interactions through customised emails, captivating video content, and timely push alerts.

Concentrating on Online User Activity

By further diversifying their data, David Jones is focused on comprehending online user behaviour by monitoring metrics like page visit duration and contents of shopping baskets. This detailed analysis empowers the retailer to refine its marketing tactics and offer a more tailored shopping experience.

Incorporating Customer Input

Simultaneously, the employment of Qualtrics enables David Jones to gather and respond to customer feedback, refining product content on their website and application. By integrating this feedback with operational insights from Snowflake, the retailer aspires to deliver a seamless and responsive customer experience.

Conclusion

David Jones is advancing in data-driven marketing by constructing an all-encompassing view of customers through integrated data systems. By merging Snowflake and Qualtrics, the retailer is enhancing customisation and boosting customer engagement through a deeper comprehension of user behaviour and feedback.

Q: What is the primary objective of David Jones’ new data strategy?

A: The primary aim is to establish a comprehensive, 360-degree view of every customer to enhance personalisation and refine marketing tactics.

Q: How is Snowflake utilized in this strategy?

A: Snowflake is deployed to unify previously disconnected datasets, enabling a cohesive customer view and informed strategic choices.

Q: What function does Qualtrics serve in David Jones’ framework?

A: Qualtrics is leveraged to gather and respond to customer feedback, which shapes product content and elevates the overall customer journey.

Q: How does David Jones customize customer interactions?

A: Customization is achieved through targeted emails, engaging video content, and prompt push notifications based on insights drawn from customer data.

Q: Why is it crucial for David Jones to understand online user behaviour?

A: Grasping online user behaviour enables David Jones to hone marketing strategies, resulting in a more personalized and impactful customer experience.

Optus Incorporates GenAI into Frontline Operations

Nicholas Webb on July 31, 2025

Quick Read

Optus partners with Google Cloud to embed GenAI into its customer service framework.
The virtual agent, called Expert AI, utilizes Google Cloud’s Customer Engagement Suite.
The implementation is projected to affect frontline employees until 2025.
Optus is an early adopter, collaborating closely with Google Cloud throughout its creation.
Key performance indicators encompass net provider score, problem resolution, and handling duration.
Optus’ AI sector anticipates a wider application for AI-enhanced customer experiences and operational enhancements.

Optus introduces AI to frontline services

AI-Driven Customer Service Innovation

Optus aims to transform its customer service interactions by incorporating a generative AI-based virtual agent named Expert AI. Co-created with Google Cloud, this agent is intended to aid contact center personnel by understanding customer dialogues, fetching relevant information, and proposing replies instantly.

Google Cloud Collaboration

The partnership with Google Cloud capitalizes on the Customer Engagement Suite and its large-language model, Gemini. This project signifies Optus’ dedication to enhancing customer engagement through advanced technology.

Strategic Rollout Plan

Jesse Arundell, Head of AI solutions and strategy, indicated that the launch of Expert AI will be phased, extending to frontline workers through 2025. The development of this agent has spanned nine months and includes a tailored orchestration service that connects Google Cloud offerings with Optus’ enterprise data ecosystem.

Performance Metrics and Impact

Optus is assessing the effectiveness of Expert AI using multiple metrics, such as net provider score, issue resolution rates, and average handling duration. These measures will assist in evaluating the AI’s success in enhancing customer service results.

AI Leadership and Broader Opportunities

In light of a recent leadership transition, Jesse Arundell now heads Optus’ AI division. This reorganization aligns with a comprehensive company strategy aimed at integrating AI throughout business functions. Arundell points out numerous possibilities for AI, particularly in improving customer experiences and updating IT and network services.

GitHub Copilot Integration

In a complementary effort, Optus has rolled out GitHub Copilot to its 550-member tech team. This initiative aims to expedite coding tasks, with applications in system architecture, programming efficiency, and automation testing.

Summary

The deployment of GenAI via the Expert AI virtual agent signifies a major advancement in Optus’ customer service capabilities. The partnership with Google Cloud highlights the telecommunications company’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence. As the rollout advances, Optus is well-positioned to utilize AI for broader organizational transformations.

Q: What is Expert AI?

A: Expert AI is a generative AI-driven virtual agent co-developed by Optus and Google Cloud to assist customer service personnel in interpreting client interactions and recommending replies.

Q: How does Expert AI improve customer service?

A: It enhances customer service by analyzing conversations, gathering relevant information, and offering real-time response suggestions, thereby boosting efficiency and resolution times.

Q: What are the performance metrics for Expert AI?

A: Optus evaluates the performance of Expert AI based on metrics including net provider score, issue resolution, and average handling duration.

Q: What role does Google Cloud play in this initiative?

A: Google Cloud collaborates with Optus by providing the Customer Engagement Suite and the large-language model, Gemini, which are essential to the development of Expert AI.

Q: What other AI initiatives is Optus pursuing?

A: Optus is investigating various AI-driven opportunities, including enhancements in customer experience, as well as IT and network modernization. They have also incorporated GitHub Copilot into their tech workforce to enhance coding productivity.

“Scattered Spider Launches Fresh Ransomware and Social Engineering Strategies”

Nicholas Webb on July 30, 2025

Brief Overview

Scattered Spider has adopted novel ransomware and social engineering strategies.
DragonForce ransomware is now included in their resources.
New strategies involve impersonating staff to deceive IT support.
Remote access applications like AnyDesk and Teleport.sh are utilized to avoid detection.
The RattyRAT trojan improves their sustained access abilities.
Targets feature Snowflake data cloud and VMware ESXi servers.
Connections to the Com online criminal network are recognized.
The FBI cautions about a Com subgroup, Hacker Com, connected to ransomware-as-a-service.

Progression of Cyber Threats

The Scattered Spider collective, noted for its advanced cyber assaults, has bolstered its inventory with new ransomware and social engineering approaches, as reported by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) and various Western entities.

Innovative Tactics and Approaches

Recently, Scattered Spider has begun employing DragonForce ransomware, utilized post data exfiltration for blackmail. Interaction with targeted entities takes place via The Onion Router (TOR), email, or encrypted messaging applications.

Data Exfiltration and Manipulation

This group transfers data to platforms like Mega.nz and Amazon S3. They have refined their social engineering methods, posing as personnel to influence IT helpdesks into resetting passwords and shifting MFA tokens.

Enhanced Tools for Concealment

Scattered Spider employs legitimate remote access tools such as AnyDesk and Teleport.sh to hide their activities. The Java-based trojan RattyRAT is also utilized to sustain undetected access.

Focusing on Cloud and Server Systems

The group aims at Snowflake data cloud for swift data exfiltration and encrypts VMware ESXi servers to heighten the urgency for ransom settlements. They create false user profiles and social media accounts to preserve access.

Advice for Organizations

To mitigate these threats, organizations are advised to implement phishing-resistant MFA, prohibit unauthorized software, and keep offline backups, as suggested by security agencies.

Connections to Criminal Syndicates

Scattered Spider is associated with the Com online criminal network, which recruits through channels like Roblox and Discord. A subgroup, Hacker Com, participates in ransomware-as-a-service and other illicit activities such as DDoS assaults and SIM swapping.

FBI Alerts

The FBI has circulated warnings regarding Hacker Com’s refined operations, which comprise selling technical support and engaging in violent retribution actions like “swatting.”

Conclusion

Scattered Spider’s progress in ransomware and social engineering strategies underscores the shifting cyber threat environment. Their ties to the Com network and advanced methods present substantial threats to organizations globally.

Q: What is DragonForce ransomware?

A: DragonForce is a variant of ransomware utilized by Scattered Spider for extortion following data breach.

Q: How does Scattered Spider execute social engineering?

A: They impersonate staff members to deceive IT helpdesks into changing passwords and transferring MFA tokens.

Q: What tools does Scattered Spider use for remote connectivity?

A: They leverage AnyDesk, Teleport.sh, and the RattyRAT trojan to maintain concealed access.

Q: Why is the Snowflake data cloud a target?

A: Snowflake enables Scattered Spider to perform large data queries quickly for exfiltration purposes.

Q: What constitutes the Com network?

A: It is an online criminal syndicate affiliated with Scattered Spider, recruiting via platforms such as Roblox and Discord.

Q: What measures has the FBI taken?

A: The FBI has issued warnings about Hacker Com’s advanced criminal enterprises, including ransomware-as-a-service.

Google Pixel 9a Evaluation: A Mid-Tier Wonder with Strength and Accuracy

Nicholas Webb on July 28, 2025

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Orica Enhances GenAI Features with Now Assist

Nicholas Webb on July 28, 2025

Orica’s AI Transformation in IT Support

Quick Overview

Orica incorporates 20 AI-enhanced capabilities into its IT service desk.
The organization recently implemented five new AI use cases using Now Assist.
AI workloads now encompass 75% of Orica’s IT support team.
Virtual agents’ success rate has doubled since the rollout.
Orica has transitioned from a tech-driven to a process-driven AI strategy.
ServiceNow Control Tower set to bolster AI scaling and governance.

Orica’s AI Growth in IT Support

Orica, a frontrunner in explosives and blasting systems, is revamping its IT service desk operations with cutting-edge AI functionalities. A year post the integration of ServiceNow’s generative AI suite, the firm has introduced 20 AI-enabled capabilities, recently highlighting five groundbreaking use cases via the Now Assist toolkit.

Orica enhances GenAI capabilities with Now Assist

Success and Adoption Driven by AI

Bradley Hunt, Orica’s DevOps and regional apps manager, underscored the significant influence of AI on the IT support team, with AI now assigning tasks to 75% of the team in the past quarter. During the ServiceNow World Forum in Sydney, Hunt mentioned that the initial strategy was tech-driven, aimed at acquainting staff with AI functionalities.

After joining the early access program for Now Assist, Orica swiftly doubled its virtual agents’ success rate, currently rerouting 94% of effective flows from the service desk. The engagement with AI among IT personnel has surged by 70% over the last six months, enabling roughly 12,000 AI-driven actions each month.

Transitioning from Tech-Led to Process-Led

Orica has effectively moved to a process-led methodology, concentrating on weaving AI into team workflows to optimise return on investment. The organization’s approach includes outlining team processes to locate areas where AI can reduce or eliminate steps, which enhances operational efficiency and governance.

ServiceNow Control Tower for Future Development

Orica is overseeing its AI demand and governance through the ServiceNow platform, acting as a singular source of truth for converting AI concepts into production-ready solutions. CIO Rachael Sandel highlighted the importance of the ServiceNow Control Tower in offering visibility, coordination, and automation to support AI scaling.

“It’s not solely about technology,” Sandel remarked. “It’s about fostering an environment where AI can flourish.”

Conclusion

Orica’s deployment of ServiceNow’s generative AI suite within its IT service desk has significantly enhanced efficiency and adoption rates. With a transition from tech-driven to process-driven approaches, Orica is set to further advance its AI capabilities leveraging the ServiceNow Control Tower.

Q&A

Q: What is Orica’s main objective with AI integration?

A: Orica seeks to improve efficiency and effectiveness in IT support by incorporating advanced AI functionalities.

Q: What has been the effect of AI on Orica’s IT support team?

A: AI has assigned tasks to 75% of the IT support personnel, markedly enhancing workflow and productivity.

Q: What is the forthcoming step in Orica’s AI strategy?

A: The next step involves leveraging the ServiceNow Control Tower for enhanced visibility, coordination, and automation.

Q: How has the adoption of virtual agents evolved at Orica?

A: The success rate with virtual agents has increased, deflecting 94% of effective flows from the service desk.

Q: What does the transition from tech-led to process-led mean?

A: It signifies a focus on integrating AI into workflows to enhance efficiency and ROI, rather than merely implementing technology.

NBN Co to Remove Millions of Unnecessary Scheduled Outage Notifications

Nicholas Webb on July 26, 2025

Quick Overview

NBN Co intends to eliminate 120,000 superfluous outage notifications each month.
Initiatives are being tested to enhance the precision of outage notifications.
Retailers and consumers have voiced worries about the overwhelming number of alerts.
NBN Co aims for longer, less frequent periods of outages.
Hybrid-fibre coaxial (HFC) customers will be the first to witness these modifications.

NBN Co’s Revised Strategy for Outage Notifications

NBN Co's plan to decrease outage notifications

Simplifying Outage Notifications

NBN Co is tackling the problem of excessive planned outage notifications by removing alerts for outages that do not occur. This strategy aims to decrease the 120,000 monthly notifications, which have become a point of annoyance for both consumers and retailers.

Tackling Retailer Issues

Retailers have voiced their displeasure regarding the substantial number of notifications and the brief notice periods for scheduled work. NBN Co is addressing these concerns by refining its notification systems for enhanced clarity and efficiency.

Enhancing Notification Precision

NBN Co is testing enhancements in how it gathers data on power outages, transitioning from unreliable website information to more trustworthy API sources. This adjustment is expected to improve notification precision and diminish unnecessary alerts.

Future Adjustments in Outage Scheduling

There are plans to decrease cancellation notifications and refine the scheduling process for works. By the first half of FY26, NBN Co intends to eliminate 1.2 million cancellation notices annually, thereby cutting down confusion and communication overload.

Extended, Infrequent Outages

The company is investigating the feasibility of fewer but extended outage periods, as favored by 64% of survey participants. This approach will initially be trialed with Hybrid-fibre coaxial (HFC) users to consolidate maintenance and upgrades into fewer disruptions.

HFC Enhancement Program

As part of the plant modernization upstream (PMUS) initiative, HFC users will encounter longer outage periods to facilitate simultaneous upgrade activities. If proven successful, this method will be broadened in Q1 FY26.

Conclusion

NBN Co is poised to considerably lessen the number of planned outage notifications by enhancing alert accuracy and instituting longer but less frequent outages. These modifications aim to address concerns from retailers and users, streamline communication, and ultimately improve service quality.