Nicholas Kinports

“5 Key Questions to Reflect On Prior to Installing a Home Battery in Australia”

Nicholas Kinports on December 8, 2025

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Key Factors for Installing a Home Battery in Australia

Quick Overview

Federal Government’s initiative slashes home battery expenses by 30%.
Crucial to guarantee backup power support during outages.
Continuous solar power is essential for extended grid failures.
Interoperability with smart retailers can enhance financial advantages.
Correct setup is vital to unlock battery’s full capabilities.

Government Programs and Their Effects

The Australian Government’s ‘More Affordable Home Batteries Program’, initiated in July 2025, has drastically lowered the initial costs associated with home batteries by expanding the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) to include storage. This effort has led to a rise in installations, with applications projected to hit 175,000 by year-end.

Key Considerations for Home Battery Setup

Remote Management and Surveillance

Homeowners require advanced software to track energy flow and retain control over energy consumption. Options such as defining a minimum charge percentage are essential for preparing for severe weather conditions.

Thorough Backup Support

The battery must automatically supply power to your home during outages. It’s crucial to identify which circuits will remain operational, especially in residences with three-phase power.

Solar Functionality During Outages

Confirm that your solar system will keep functioning and recharging the battery even during grid outages. Proper setup prevents system failures and optimises solar energy collection.

Export Limiting Features

Given negative feed-in tariffs, having a system capable of ceasing power export to the grid is vital to safeguard your energy credits.

Interoperability with Smart Retailers

Batteries that work with dynamic retailers such as Amber Electric can leverage wholesale pricing, hastening financial returns.

Important questions for home battery installation

Insights from Actual Installations

Experiences from real installations highlight the necessity of thorough backup and solar functionality. Misconfigurations can severely restrict battery performance during outages.

Enhancing Your Configuration

Ensure all circuits are linked to backup and evaluate your system in outage scenarios. Well-configured systems can transform homes into energy hubs during emergencies, showcasing the value of electric vehicles as valuable assets.

Conclusion

Installing a home battery in Australia can greatly increase energy independence and resilience, particularly during grid failures. Nonetheless, meticulous planning and configuration are crucial to fully take advantage of these benefits. Confirm your system is designed for complete backup, solar functionality, and smart retailer compatibility to maximise returns.

Q: Why is solar functionality vital during outages?

A: Solar functionality ensures that your solar panels keep generating electricity and recharge your battery during grid failures, thereby enhancing your energy autonomy.

Q: How does the ‘More Affordable Home Batteries Program’ assist homeowners?

A: The program decreases the initial expense of home batteries by roughly 30%, making it easier for homeowners to install and gain advantages from energy storage systems.

Q: What is the importance of compatibility with smart retailers?

A: Compatibility with smart retailers like Amber Electric enables homeowners to access wholesale energy rates, potentially lowering energy expenses and accelerating the payback period for battery investments.

Q: What should be taken into account for efficient backup support?

A: Ensure that your battery is capable of automatically powering critical circuits during outages. It’s important to specify which circuits will remain functional, especially for residences with three-phase power.

Q: Can an EV be advantageous during grid outages?

A: Yes, an electric vehicle can serve as a significant resource during blackouts. With an appropriately configured system, you can continue recharging your EV even if the local petrol station is not operational.

Australia Asserts Its Social Media Prohibition Will Establish a Worldwide Precedent

Nicholas Kinports on December 7, 2025

Quick Overview

Australia’s recent social media prohibition targets users below 16, aiming to create a global benchmark.
Key platforms such as Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube are adhering to the legislation.
The prohibition includes penalties reaching up to $49.5 million for violations.
The regulation is set to commence on December 10, with platforms already suspending accounts.
eSafety Commissioner emphasizes the importance of shielding children from damaging online material.
Some parents endorse the measure, highlighting mental health advantages for youngsters.

Australia’s Audacious Action Against Big Tech

Australia is making headlines with its groundbreaking move to bar social media access for individuals under 16 years old. This legislation seeks to reduce the hazards linked to social media usage among adolescents. As eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant states, “We’ve reached a tipping point.” The law’s objective is to safeguard children from harmful and misleading online elements that even adults find challenging to navigate.

Australia states the world will follow suit with its social media ban

Global Consequences

The Australian legislation, scheduled for implementation on December 10, is anticipated to shape global social media regulations. This initiative has already garnered interest from governments across the planet, with many monitoring its effects. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Threads, all part of Meta, have started the process of deactivating accounts, indicating their compliance and signaling a possible global trend.

Adherence and Repercussions

Following initial pushback, major social media companies, including Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, have agreed to comply with the new rules. The threat of penalties up to $49.5 million acts as a strong motivator for these firms to adjust. The platforms have begun informing underage users about saving their data, offering options to either delete their accounts or keep them inactive until they reach 16.

Parental Support and Mental Wellness

Numerous Australian parents have shown approval, viewing the ban as a means to lessen mental health challenges tied to social media usage. Jennifer Jennison, a mother from Sydney, values the respite it offers her children, enabling them to concentrate on family time and recuperation after school.

Global Insights

The regulation has ignited discussions beyond Australia’s territory. eSafety Commissioner Inman Grant has been asked to testify before the US congressional House Judiciary, underscoring the law’s international ramifications. This invitation highlights the global relevance of Australia’s actions, as nations strive to balance online liberties with safety.

Conclusion

Australia’s initiative to prohibit social media for users under 16 represents a bold action that may affect international internet regulations. With major platforms adhering and substantial fines for violations, the law is designed to safeguard young users from harmful online content. This move has generated global interest and conversations, possibly opening the door for analogous actions in other countries.

FAQs

Q: What is the primary aim of Australia’s social media prohibition?

A: The prohibition seeks to protect users under 16 from harmful and misleading online materials by restricting their access to social media platforms.

Q: How are social media platforms reacting to the prohibition?

A: Platforms such as Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube are responding by deactivating accounts of underage users and informing them about their choices.

Q: What are the potential fines for non-compliance?

A: Companies could incur fines of up to $49.5 million if they do not comply with the new regulations.

Q: How might this law influence international social media regulations?

A: The law could set a precedent for other nations, potentially shaping global regulations concerning minors’ social media usage.

Q: What concerns have been voiced regarding the prohibition?

A: Detractors express concerns about the implications for free expression and the potential overreach of Australia’s regulatory framework on a global scale.

Q: How are parents responding to the newly enacted law?

A: Some parents endorse the prohibition, viewing it as a means to mitigate mental health challenges for their children and encourage real-life interactions.

Revealing the Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone: Explore the Inclusions

Nicholas Kinports on December 6, 2025

Quick Overview

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone innovates the world of aerial imagery with its 360-degree capture capability.
Highlight features consist of a sleek design, 8K video functionality, and a unique camera layout.
Offered in Australia with prices beginning at A$2,199 for the Standard Bundle.
Provides exceptional editing options after capturing, enabling footage to be reframed easily.
Includes Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, and various accessories for an engaging experience.

Antigravity A1: A Revolutionary Step in Drone Technology

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone has launched, set to redefine the way aerial footage is taken. Featuring a 360-degree camera system, this drone offers users a flying experience like never before, making it almost undetectable in videos.

Superior 8K 360-Degree Capture

The drone records in 8K, granting filmmakers the ability to shape the scene post-filming. This functionality is especially useful for recording lively actions without the concern of accurate framing mid-flight.

Unboxing and Initial Thoughts

The Antigravity A1 arrives in a stylish, tool-free packaging that features a premium sling bag for convenience. Inside, you will discover the Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, a charging station, and the drone itself, all efficiently arranged.

Compact and Cutting-Edge Design

Weighing less than 249 grams, the Antigravity A1’s configuration comprises rotating arms and motorised landing gear that enhance its modern look. Equipped with top and bottom cameras and front-facing sensors, it delivers a complete 360-degree perspective.

Vision Goggles and Grip Controller

The Vision Goggles offer a pleasant viewing experience, complete with diopter adjustments and ventilation. The motion-sensitive Grip Controller elevates the flying experience, providing an instinctive way to operate the drone.

Cost and Availability

In Australia, the Antigravity A1 is available at A$2,199 for the Standard Bundle. The Explorer and Infinity Bundles are available for A$2,799 and A$2,899, respectively. This drone is marketed as a high-end product for capturing extraordinary shots.

For further details, visit https://www.antigravity.tech

Recap

The Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone establishes a new benchmark in drone technology, delivering unparalleled versatility and innovation for creators. Its sophisticated features and compact design position it as a top choice for capturing standout aerial footage.

Q&A

Q: What distinguishes the Antigravity A1 drone?

A: The drone’s 8K 360-degree camera system facilitates after-capture editing, providing flexibility in framing and directing the footage.

Q: How does the drone’s weight influence its use in Australia?

A: With a weight of under 249 grams, it meets drone regulations, allowing for more adaptable usage.

Q: What bundles are available and their respective prices?

A: The Standard Bundle is A$2,199, the Explorer Bundle is A$2,799, and the Infinity Bundle is A$2,899.

Q: Are any accessories provided with the drone?

A: Yes, it comes with Vision Goggles, Grip Controller, several batteries, extra propellers, and a quick reader for memory cards.

NEXTDC to Create AI Campus and GPU Supercluster in Sydney

Nicholas Kinports on December 5, 2025

Revealing the AI Campus and GPU Supercluster in Sydney

NEXTDC introduces AI campus and GPU supercluster in Sydney

From left to right: Federal Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres, OpenAI chief strategy officer Jason Kwon, and NEXTDC CEO Craig Scroggie.

Zachariah Kelly/TechBest

Quick Overview

NEXTDC plans to develop a significant AI campus in Western Sydney.
The site will include a GPU supercluster to enhance AI functions.
OpenAI’s services will be supported by this new setup.
This project is expected to generate billions in investment and create numerous jobs.
The first phase is anticipated to commence in the latter part of 2027.
This initiative aligns with Australia’s national AI strategy to improve digital competencies.

The Aspiration for Sydney’s AI Transformation

NEXTDC has revealed its intention to develop a groundbreaking AI campus and GPU supercluster at its S7 facility situated in Sydney’s Eastern Creek. This extensive initiative is intended to bolster OpenAI’s services throughout Australia, offering sovereign data governance and reliability to local clients.

Infrastructure and Financial Backing

Expected to have a capacity of 550MW, the S7 data centre is set to become a vital component of Australia’s digital progression. The project’s initial phase, scheduled for finalization by the second half of 2027, will concentrate on creating a sovereign AI facility that complies with Australia’s SOCI framework, guaranteeing superior security and robustness.

Equipping the Australian Workforce with AI

In line with the “OpenAI for Australia” initiative, this venture aims to assist Australian businesses and employees in enhancing their AI technology skills. The objective is to render 1.2 million Australian workers proficient in AI, thereby bolstering the nation’s competitive position in the global economy.

Collaborations with Leading Australian Employers

OpenAI has teamed up with prominent companies such as CBA, Coles, and Wesfarmers to promote AI proficiency and skills advancement. OpenAI Academy will provide training for employees of Coles and Wesfarmers, while CBA will extend its training programs to a million small business clients, nurturing a culture of digital trust and innovation.

Conclusion

NEXTDC’s plan to set up an AI campus and GPU supercluster in Sydney signifies a major advancement in Australia’s digital infrastructure and AI potential. With solid support and strategic partnerships, this project seeks to reshape Australia’s AI environment, generating employment, driving investments, and equipping the workforce with crucial AI abilities.

Q: What is the aim of the AI campus and GPU supercluster?

A: The AI campus and GPU supercluster are designed to enhance OpenAI’s services in Australia, providing sovereign data governance and boosting AI capabilities.

Q: When is the first phase of the S7 data centre anticipated to be finalized?

A: The first phase of the S7 data centre is expected to be completed in the latter half of 2027.

Q: How does the AI campus correspond with Australia’s national AI strategy?

A: It corresponds by focusing on upskilling 1.2 million workers and improving AI literacy, which aligns with the broader objectives of the national AI strategy.

Q: Which firms are collaborating with OpenAI on this project?

A: Firms like CBA, Coles, and Wesfarmers are collaborating with OpenAI to enhance AI competencies for their employees and small business clients.

Q: What influence will the initiative have on the Australian job market?

A: The initiative is projected to create thousands of jobs through substantial investments and enhancements in digital infrastructure.

Q: What importance does the SOCI framework hold in this initiative?

A: The SOCI framework guarantees that the AI facility adheres to high standards for security, resilience, and operational integrity.

NSW’s $969 Million Unified Digital Patient Record May Encounter Possible Cost Overruns

Nicholas Kinports on November 28, 2025

Quick Read

The Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) initiative in NSW is facing possible budget overruns.
This initiative relies on Epic Systems software, which was initially contracted for over $1 billion.
The business case was found to have underestimated the expenses related to system integration, according to the NSW Audit Office.
Cost estimates from the beginning were based on information that has become obsolete since the COVID-19 pandemic.
NSW Health aims to finalize the SDPR by 2028 across various health institutions.
Audits are scheduled for 2026-2027 to evaluate project effectiveness and governance.

NSW’s Digital Health Initiative at a Crossroads

NSW $969m single digital patient record project faces financial challenges

The ambitious initiative to establish a Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) in New South Wales is encountering potential budget overruns. The NSW Audit Office has indicated that the foundational business case might have underestimated the costs related to system integration.

Audit Findings and Financial Implications

The Audit Office has published a report highlighting flaws in the SDPR’s business case. The estimated costs for the project did not accurately account for the integration with existing legacy systems. This oversight is critical since the integration process is vital for the project’s success, and early signs indicate that these expenses may be significant.

In the absence of supported or sanctioned cost estimates, the SDPR initiative may face major financial difficulties, resulting in possible budget overruns and poor management.

Challenges and Adaptive Measures

Teresa Anderson, CEO of the SDPR Implementation Authority, remarked that the original business case was created during the chaotic COVID-19 period, which has evolved markedly. Global supply chain challenges and increasing operational expenses have added complexity to cost forecasts.

Even with these challenges, NSW Health remains focused on the project’s completion, enforcing stringent financial governance to effectively manage procurement and integration efforts.

Project Timeline and Future Plans

Since 2019, the SDPR initiative has been integral to NSW Health’s strategic framework. Following initial research and tendering processes, Epic Systems was selected to develop the SDPR in late 2022. By 2024, an authority was instituted to supervise deployment, and recruitment for technology professionals commenced.

Training for healthcare workers is currently underway, with a target for overall project finalization by 2028, encompassing a vast network of hospitals, pathology facilities, laboratories, and community health centres.

Summary

The SDPR initiative in NSW, aimed at enhancing healthcare data access throughout the state, faces budgetary obstacles due to underestimated integration costs. Despite ongoing challenges, NSW Health is committed to its realization, with comprehensive governance and forthcoming audits planned to secure project success.

Question and Answer Session

Q: What is the primary goal of the SDPR project?

A: The primary aim is to deliver a consolidated digital patient record system that enables healthcare teams to efficiently access real-time patient information across NSW.

Q: Why are there potential cost overruns in the SDPR project?

A: The potential budget overruns stem from underestimated system integration costs and outdated initial cost projections made during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Q: How is NSW Health responding to the financial challenges of the SDPR project?

A: NSW Health is enforcing strict financial governance and has plans for subsequent audits to effectively evaluate the project’s efficiency and oversight.

Q: When is the SDPR project expected to be completed?

A: The SDPR project is projected to be fully finalized by 2028, encompassing a diverse array of healthcare facilities throughout NSW.

How an NRL BI Initiative Surprising Turned into an Independent Product

Nicholas Kinports on November 24, 2025

NRL’s BI Initiative Transforms into an Independent Product

Brief Overview

NRL’s initiative has transitioned from a BI tool to an independent product.
Databricks’ technology was instrumental in this evolution.
The initiative led to considerable cost reductions and quicker project completion.
The NRL team intends to incorporate AI functionalities into the newly developed product.

NRL's BI Initiative evolves into a standalone product

NRL’s Progressive Data Strategy

The National Rugby League (NRL), overseen by the Australian Rugby League Commission, is a major contributor to the sports sector, handling various matches, sponsorships, and community initiatives. With a complex array of data sources, the NRL encountered difficulties in leveraging this data effectively for informed decisions.

Aiming for the Objectives

Data head, Albert Xavier, spearheaded the initiative beginning in March, utilizing Databricks’ Lakehouse technology. The goal was to unify data sources into a centralized, real-time platform to enhance business decision-making.

Addressing Data Obstacles

In the past, the NRL’s data was handled through unwieldy Excel macros. Transitioning to a cloud-hosted data lake optimized data management, minimizing error risks and improving real-time visibility.

Groundbreaking Technical Solutions

Confronted with limited resources, the NRL team sought new strategies, ultimately opting for Databricks’ application-centric solution. This innovative approach facilitated app development directly on the database infrastructure, streamlining processes and boosting efficiency.

Major Cost and Time Efficiency

The initiative was wrapped up 80% quicker and 60% more cost-effective than conventional methods. The in-house team, leveraging Streamlit’s coding framework, quickly developed applications, lessening reliance on outside resources.

Looking Ahead

With the successful rollout of their first application, the NRL plans to incorporate agentic AI into their systems. This progression signifies a transition from a basic BI initiative to an extensive product, unlocking new business prospects.

Conclusion

The NRL’s BI initiative demonstrates how cutting-edge technology and strategic planning can convert a data challenge into a scalable product. By leveraging Databricks’ offerings, the NRL not only improved its decision-making prowess but also set the stage for future tech advancements.

Q&A Segment

Q: What motivated the NRL to convert its BI initiative into a standalone product?

A: The demand for real-time data insights and strategic decision-making motivated the transformation. The success of the BI initiative showcased wider applicability.

Q: What role did Databricks play in the success of the initiative?

A: Databricks offered the necessary infrastructure and tools to integrate data sources and create applications directly on the database, optimizing processes.

Q: What advantages did the NRL gain from this transformation?

A: The NRL achieved 60% cost savings and completed the initiative 80% faster, with improved real-time data capabilities and decreased reliance on external resources.

Q: What future plans does the NRL have for the product?

A: The NRL intends to incorporate agentic AI into their applications, further bolstering their strategic abilities and broadening the product’s potential applications.

Q: How does this initiative align with the NRL’s overarching strategy?

A: The initiative aligns with the NRL’s strategy by enabling more informed business decisions, enhancing data-driven operations, and promoting technological innovations.

Snapchat to Introduce Age Verification for Australian Users Starting December 10: Explore the Updated Procedure

Nicholas Kinports on November 24, 2025

Quick Read

A new regulation in Australia mandates age verification for social media sites.
Users of Snapchat under 16 need to verify their age by December 10 to prevent account lockout.
Available verification methods consist of ConnectID, a scan of Photo ID, and Facial Age Estimation.
Non-compliance could lead to a possible three-year account suspension.
Snapchat opposes the law and calls for more comprehensive privacy-driven solutions.

The Requirement for Age Verification

Australia has introduced the ‘Social Media Minimum Age Act’, which obliges platforms to authenticate the ages of their users. Snapchat, which serves mainly as a visual messaging platform, finds itself in disagreement with this categorization but has committed to compliance as the December 10 deadline nears.

To prepare, Snapchat has begun informing users below the age of 16 through various means, such as in-app notifications, emails, and text messages, regarding the forthcoming adjustments.

Methods of Verification

Snapchat adopts a diverse strategy utilizing third-party services:

ConnectID (Verified by Banks): Users can authenticate their age through a secure link to an Australian bank account.
Photo ID Scan: A government-issued identification can be scanned and verified via k-ID.
Facial Age Estimation: Users can submit a selfie so that k-ID’s algorithm can approximate their age.

The Ramifications of Non-compliance

If age verification is not completed by December 10, accounts will be locked for users under 16, potentially lasting as long as three years. Snapchat is urging affected users to retrieve their data and terminate subscriptions to avoid incurring fees for inaccessible services.

Snapchat expresses disillusionment, perceiving the regulation as an overreach by the government that adversely affects their youngest users. They promote verification at the device or app store level as an alternative.

Snapchat’s Position

A representative conveys the platform’s opinion: “Snapchat is a visual messaging service designed for close friendships. We are disheartened that young Australians will lose connectivity, yet compliance with the law is necessary.”

The Path Forward

For Snapchat users below the age of 16, the directive is straightforward: comply or risk losing access. Snapchat offers assistance for those facing issues with verification or account deactivation. As the deadline approaches, this regulation represents a crucial juncture in Australia’s technological environment, underscoring discussions surrounding digital identity and privacy.

For more information, visit Snapchat.com.

Summary

The Social Media Minimum Age Act requires age verification for users under 16 on platforms such as Snapchat in Australia, effective December 10. Verification methods consist of bank connections, ID scans, and facial recognition, with failure to comply leading to account lockouts. Snapchat contests the classification and champions wider solutions.

Q: What does the Social Media Minimum Age Act entail?

A: It’s a law in Australia mandating social media platforms to authenticate the ages of users to confirm they are at least 16 years old.

Q: What strategy does Snapchat intend to use for age verification?

A: Snapchat provides three options: ConnectID, Photo ID Scan, and Facial Age Estimation.

Q: What are the consequences for users who fail to verify their age by December 10?

A: Accounts for users under 16 will be locked, possibly for up to three years, unless age verification is completed.

Q: What is Snapchat’s opinion regarding this regulation?

A: Snapchat opposes the classification but will comply while advocating for verification at the device or app store level instead.

Tesla Achieves 75,000 Worldwide Superchargers, Commemorates Milestone in Tasmania

Nicholas Kinports on November 20, 2025

Quick Overview

Tesla has installed its 75,000th Supercharger in South Hobart, Tasmania.
The location is equipped with Tesla’s newest V4 Supercharger technology.
Tesla is consistently broadening its international charging infrastructure.
The South Hobart location caters to both Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles.
Charging fees are $0.69 per kWh for Tesla users and $0.85 per kWh for others.

Significant Site in Tasmania

The 75,000th Tesla Supercharger can be found at the South Hobart Smart Store, located at 12 Cascade Road, South Hobart, TAS 7004. This site is a crucial resource for local and visiting EV users, featuring four of Tesla’s most recent V4 Supercharger stations. These chargers provide longer cables and more convenient payment methods, enhancing accessibility for all electric vehicle users.

Expansion of Network

Tesla’s accomplishment of reaching 75,000 Supercharger stations worldwide demonstrates the company’s swift infrastructure growth. The network achieved 50,000 stations in September 2023 and progressed to 60,000 in November 2024. This rapid development emphasizes Tesla’s dedication to accommodating the increasing number of electric vehicles on the roads.

Australia’s significance in Tesla’s strategy is highlighted by this landmark Supercharger, as the electric vehicle adoption rates in Tasmania and the ACT surpass the national average.

Cost Information

The South Hobart Supercharger site is available to both Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles, with varying pricing structures:

Tesla Users: The charging price is around $0.69 per kWh.
Non-Tesla Users: The price is about $0.85 per kWh.

Non-Tesla drivers can access the lower Tesla user rate by signing up for a monthly Supercharging Membership through the Tesla app.

Conclusion

Tesla’s installation of its 75,000th Supercharger in South Hobart signifies a crucial achievement in the company’s mission to facilitate the EV movement. The swift growth of Tesla’s charging network reflects its commitment to improving the accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle travel, especially in markets like Australia where EV uptake is flourishing.

Q: Why is the 75,000th Supercharger significant in Tasmania?

A: Tasmania’s notable EV adoption rates make it a key market for Tesla, and hosting this milestone charger underscores the state’s involvement in the global EV landscape.

Q: What features are included in the new V4 Superchargers?

A: The V4 Superchargers come with longer cables and more convenient payment options, enhancing accessibility for all electric vehicle types.

Q: In what ways can non-Tesla drivers take advantage of Tesla Superchargers?

A: Non-Tesla drivers can utilize Tesla Superchargers but incur a higher fee unless they register for a monthly Supercharging Membership through the Tesla app.

Q: How quickly is Tesla’s Supercharger network developing?

A: Tesla’s Supercharger network is growing at an impressive pace, achieving major milestones in a brief timeframe—50,000 stalls in September 2023 and 60,000 by November 2024.

Acusensus Shines at 2025 Melbourne Awards: Uncover the Impact of Their AI Cameras on Reducing Mobile Phone Usage

Nicholas Kinports on November 17, 2025

Acusensus Shines at the 2025 Melbourne Awards

Acusensus' AI Cameras Decrease Mobile Phone Usage

The 2025 Melbourne Awards honored exceptional accomplishments across various sectors, with Acusensus Australia winning in the ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ category for their groundbreaking AI-driven road safety technology. This innovation is markedly lowering mobile phone usage while driving throughout Australia.

Quick Overview

Acusensus Australia secures ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ at the 2025 Melbourne Awards.
Established in 2018 by Alexander Jannink, the organization is dedicated to minimizing distracted driving.
Their AI cameras have decreased unlawful phone usage by six times in NSW.
The technology processes 50,000 vehicles each day, generating fines and fostering road safety.
Acusensus operates on a global scale, including in the US, UK, and India.

Acusensus: Turning Tragedy into Innovation

Founded by Alexander Jannink in 2018 after the loss of a friend due to a distracted driver, Acusensus aimed to fill the voids in conventional policing. Using his knowledge in computer vision, Jannink created the initial automated system for identifying mobile phone usage while driving.

Heads-Up Distracted Driving Detection: The Original Life-Saver

The Heads-Up platform utilizes dual high-definition cameras to record number plates and images of drivers engaged with mobile phones. The system functions with over 95% precision, processing images on the spot, thereby lowering operational expenses and improving efficiency.

Fuse Multi-Offence Platform: One Unit, Multiple Violations

Building upon the success of Heads-Up, Fuse combines seatbelt detection, ANPR hotlists, and helmet checks. This enables thorough enforcement of various traffic violations, leading to enhanced road safety results.

Harmony Precision Speed Enforcement: Ending Speed Variance

Harmony uses GPS synchronization for exact average speed measurements. Implemented in Queensland, it zeroes in on speed infractions by heavy vehicles, providing an inventive method for speed regulation.

International Expansion and Future Developments

Acusensus’ technology represents more than just a local triumph. With implementations in New Zealand, the UK, and the US, the firm is broadening its scope. Upcoming innovations include “Impairify,” which plans to identify driver impairment via advanced analytics.

Conclusion

Acusensus has achieved notable progress in road safety technology with their AI-operated cameras, which have demonstrated remarkable success in curbing mobile phone usage while driving. Their pioneering solutions are continuing to grow worldwide, improving road safety and preserving lives.

Q&A

Q: What is Acusensus’ primary accomplishment at the 2025 Melbourne Awards?

A: Acusensus received the ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ award for their AI-driven road safety technology.

Q: What is the functionality of the Heads-Up platform?

A: It employs dual cameras to record images of drivers using mobile phones and processes them with high accuracy.

Q: In which other locations is Acusensus technology employed beyond Australia?

A: Their technology is also operational in New Zealand, the UK, and the US, among others.

Q: What upcoming innovations is Acusensus pursuing?

A: They are developing “Impairify,” a system designed to detect driver impairment through advanced analytics.

ACMA Overhauls Outage Data Administration Prior to Public Register Debut

Nicholas Kinports on November 11, 2025

ACMA Gears Up for Public Outage Register with Updated Data Management

Quick Overview

ACMA improves methods for overseeing carrier outage data.
Public outage register to debut with the Triple Zero Guardian.
New regulations require carriers to disclose significant outages.
Optus is under examination regarding its management of previous outages.

ACMA’s Improved Data Management Strategies

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is enhancing its methods for dealing with the rising number of carrier outage notifications. This effort is in preparation for the impending Triple Zero Guardian and the public outage register, aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within the telecommunications sector.

ACMA modifying outage data management as public register approaches

Challenges in Managing Outage Notifications

Recent evidence provided by ACMA to a triple zero inquiry underscored the difficulties encountered in managing a substantial influx of outage notifications following the updates to reporting regulations in December 2024 and June of this year. ACMA is partnering with stakeholders, particularly the new Triple Zero Custodian, to enhance the management and application of this data.

Updated Standards for Outage Reporting

According to the Telecommunications (Customer Communications for Outages) Industry Standard 2024, carriers must report “major” unexpected outages that affect more than 100,000 services or entire areas lasting longer than 60 minutes. The regulation mandates updates every six hours during the first 24 hours and daily thereafter until the outage is resolved.

ACMA’s Review of the Optus Outage

ACMA is currently investigating the Optus outage that occurred on September 18, with a sharp focus on how Optus communicated the incident. The inquiry is examining the timeline and delays in communication with regulators and government officials, especially concerning possible fatalities related to the outage.

Conclusion

ACMA is making considerable progress in updating its outage data management in anticipation of the public outage register and the launch of the Triple Zero Guardian. New standards concerning the reporting of significant outages emphasize the necessity for timely and precise communication from carriers. As inquiries into previous incidents, such as the Optus outage, continue, the industry is under growing pressure to enhance transparency and responsiveness.

Q&A

Q: What is the goal of the new public outage register?

A: The public outage register seeks to foster transparency and accountability in telecommunications by providing outage information that is accessible to the public and relevant stakeholders.

Q: How will the new standards impact carriers?

A: Carriers must report significant outages more thoroughly, giving updates every six hours initially and daily afterward, to ensure stakeholders are kept informed throughout the outage duration.

Q: What is the function of the Triple Zero Guardian?

A: The Triple Zero Guardian will supervise emergency call services to ensure their dependability and efficacy, collaborating with ACMA to effectively manage outage data.

Q: Why is ACMA emphasizing enhancements in data management?

A: Enhanced data management allows ACMA to identify “red flags” and tackle issues proactively, minimizing delays and improving reliability for emergency calls and broader telecommunications services.

Q: What are the repercussions of Optus’ management of the September outage?

A: The scrutiny surrounding Optus’ delays in reporting emphasizes the necessity of precise and prompt communication with regulators, particularly when public safety is endangered. This incident has led to calls for stronger compliance and improved protocols.