Author: Nicholas Kinports

Brief Overview

• Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology is expected to debut in Australia shortly.
• FSD will be initially released for vehicles equipped with HW4.
• This launch comes after partnerships with authorities in Australia and New Zealand.
• Possible advantages include improved mobility for senior citizens.
• Plans for retrofitting HW3 vehicles remain unresolved.

Tesla’s FSD Launch in Australia

The wait is nearly over as Tesla announces the impending arrival of Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology in Australia. This is a notable achievement for Tesla supporters and the autonomous driving sector nationwide.

Joint Efforts with Local Government

Tesla has been collaborating with regional authorities in both Australia and New Zealand to secure compliance and facilitate a smooth launch. According to Thom Drew, the Country Director for Australia & New Zealand, all regulatory obstacles have been cleared, and the final validation processes are in progress.

Initial Deployment for HW4 Vehicles

FSD will first roll out on vehicles outfitted with Tesla’s latest HW4 hardware. This includes the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, which are being delivered to Australia from Shanghai, fully equipped with HW4.

Possible Effects on Australian Communities

The FSD technology has the potential to be groundbreaking, particularly for the senior demographic in Australia. It aims to provide mobility options for those who can no longer drive, thus alleviating social isolation and enhancing overall wellbeing.

Future Provisions for HW3 Owners

A significant number of Tesla owners in Australia possess HW3-equipped vehicles, leading to inquiries about the timeline for receiving FSD. Tesla has indicated that there are plans to develop an upgrade option for these vehicles, although specific details remain unconfirmed.

Conclusion

The launch of Tesla’s FSD in Australia is on the horizon, commencing with HW4-equipped vehicles. The rollout follows successful collaborations with local authorities and is expected to yield notable societal benefits, particularly in enhancing mobility for older Australians. The situation for HW3 vehicles continues to be of great interest.

Questions & Answers

Q: When will FSD launch in Australia?

A:

The precise launch date has not been disclosed, but it is anticipated to occur within the forthcoming weeks.

Q: Which Tesla models will be the first to receive FSD?

A:

Initially, FSD will be available for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y equipped with HW4.

Q: What advantages does FSD offer to seniors?

A:

FSD provides improved mobility for seniors, minimizing social isolation and fostering independence.

Q: Is there a retrofit option for HW3 vehicles?

A:

Tesla has referenced plans for upgrading HW3 vehicles, but a confirmed timeline remains pending.

Brief Overview

• TAFE NSW is committing $22 million for an upgrade to the S/4 HANA ERP system.
• This upgrade is essential as the existing SAP ECC 6.0 platform is nearing its end-of-life by 2027.
• The upcoming system will operate on SAP’s private cloud powered by Azure.
• TAFE NSW has obtained a $12.9 million contract for S/4 HANA licences spanning three years.
• A $7.6 million agreement has been made for integration and implementation services.
• An extra $1.4 million has been designated for SAP professional services.
• TAFE NSW has also entered into a $34 million agreement with Microsoft and revised a Dell contract to $57.5 million.

TAFE NSW’s ERP Enhancement Strategy

Reasons for the Upgrade

TAFE NSW, a leading institution in vocational education, is making a significant $22 million investment to upgrade its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The existing SAP ECC 6.0 platform is scheduled to reach its end-of-life by 2027, making this transition crucial for consistent operations.

Journey to S/4 HANA

The transition plan involves shifting from SAP ECC 6.0 to S/4 HANA, which will be hosted on SAP’s Azure-driven private cloud. This upgrade is enabled through RISE with SAP, an all-encompassing package that integrates cloud infrastructure, software, and managed services.

Investment Insights

TAFE NSW has entered into a three-year contract valued at $12.9 million for S/4 HANA licences. Moreover, a contract worth $7.6 million has been finalized for integration and implementation services, with SAP as the collaborating partner. An additional allocation of $1.4 million is designated for professional services to facilitate this transition.

Supporting Agreements

Partnerships with Microsoft and Dell

Alongside the ERP upgrade, TAFE NSW has concluded a $34 million agreement for Microsoft software licences and Azure cloud infrastructure, extending to 2028. The current master contract with Dell has also been revised upward to $57.5 million, to ensure comprehensive IT assistance.

Conclusion

TAFE NSW is systematically upgrading its ERP system to S/4 HANA, investing $22 million to sustain crucial business functions. This initiative forms part of a wider IT enhancement effort, including significant commitments to Microsoft and Dell.

Q: What is the reason behind TAFE NSW’s ERP system upgrade?

A: The current SAP ECC 6.0 platform is nearing its end-of-life by 2027, making it necessary to transition for stable and supported operations.

Q: What does RISE with SAP entail?

A: RISE with SAP is an integrated offering that merges cloud infrastructure, software, and managed services into a cohesive subscription model, enabling the transition to S/4 HANA.

Q: What is the duration of the S/4 HANA licence contract?

A: TAFE NSW has secured a three-year contract for S/4 HANA licences, amounting to $12.9 million.

Q: What other IT agreements has TAFE NSW established?

A: TAFE NSW has signed a $34 million agreement with Microsoft for software licences and Azure cloud infrastructure, and modified a Dell contract to $57.5 million.

Quick Read

• Four individuals below the age of 21 apprehended for cyberattacks on UK retail sectors.
• M&S experienced a major ransomware assault, halting services for several weeks.
• The cyberattacks are thought to have ties to a group named DragonForce.
• The chairman of M&S supports obligatory reporting of cyber incidents.
• The investigation required collaboration with global entities like the FBI.

Cyberattacks Targeting UK Retailers: Arrests Executed

In a notable development, UK authorities have apprehended four individuals, all under 21, linked to cyberattacks that significantly disrupted prominent UK retailers including Marks & Spencer (M&S), the Co-op, and Harrods. The detentions were executed by Britain’s National Crime Agency (NCA), focusing on individuals involved in a series of organized ransomware attacks.

M&S: Most Profound Impact from Ransomware Incident

The ransomware incident affecting M&S, a major name in British retail, was particularly detrimental. It compelled the retailer to cease online clothing sales for nearly seven weeks, leading to an operational loss estimated at around 300 million pounds ($618 million). This incident highlights the susceptibility of even established enterprises to advanced cyber threats.

Arrest Details

The detainees include three males aged 19, 19, and 17, along with a 20-year-old female, apprehended in the West Midlands and London areas of England. They are facing charges under the Computer Misuse Act, along with allegations of blackmail, money laundering, and participation in organized crime. The NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit is currently questioning the suspects to uncover the full extent of their actions.

Global Cooperation and Connections to DragonForce

M&S chairman Archie Norman revealed discussions with the US FBI regarding the case, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in addressing cybercrime. Investigations indicate connections to “loosely aligned parties” operating under the dominion of a group called DragonForce, underscoring the intricate and worldwide nature of cyber threats confronting businesses today.

Advocacy for Essential Reporting

In response to these incidents, Norman has advocated for legislation requiring businesses to report substantial cyberattacks, observing that various significant occurrences have remained unreported. This push seeks to promote transparency and strengthen the overall cybersecurity framework of UK companies.

Restoration and Future Projections

Following an extended hiatus, M&S reinstated online orders on June 10, although click-and-collect services are still unavailable. CEO Stuart Machin assured investors that the company anticipates recovering from the ramifications of the incident by August, concentrating on bolstering their cybersecurity structures to avert future breaches.

Summary

The recent detentions in the UK emphasize the persistent peril of cybercrime confronting retailers globally. With notable financial impacts and international collaboration in investigations, the situation highlights the necessity for comprehensive cybersecurity precautions and transparent reporting to protect businesses against prospective attacks.

Q: What was the effect of the cyberattack on M&S?

A: The ransomware incident caused M&S to halt online clothing sales for nearly seven weeks, leading to an operational loss of around 300 million pounds ($618 million).

Q: Who are the individuals detained in relation to the cyberattacks?

A: The detainees consist of three males aged 19, 19, and 17, plus a 20-year-old female, detained in the West Midlands and London areas.

Q: What is DragonForce, and how do they relate to the attacks?

A: DragonForce is suspected to be a group orchestrating the “loosely aligned parties” involved in the cyberattacks, with their specific role currently under scrutiny.

Q: Why is there a push for obligatory reporting of cyberattacks?

A: M&S chairman Archie Norman advocates for mandatory reporting to enhance transparency and improve cybersecurity tactics, as various significant attacks have not been reported.

Q: How is M&S progressing in recovery from the cyberattack?

A: M&S has reinstated online orders and aims for full recovery by August, while concentrating on improving their cybersecurity measures to prevent future incidents.

Hisense’s Groundbreaking Release in Australia

Prepare to rearrange your living space, as Hisense has unveiled its most daring TVs to date in Australia. We’re discussing impressively large screens, packed with cutting-edge display technology designed to amaze. The 2025 UX Series showcases the gigantic 116-inch (116UX) and the also substantial 100-inch (100UX) RGB-MiniLED TVs, establishing a new standard for upscale home entertainment.

Quick Overview

• The Hisense 116-inch RGB-MiniLED TV comes with a price tag of A$39,999.
• RGB-MiniLED technology ensures exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy.
• The 116UX model boasts over 10,000 dimming zones and an impressive brightness peak of 8,000 nits.
• Both models feature AI 4K upscaling and Anti-Reflection PRO technology.
• Equipped with a built-in 6.2.2 CineStage X surround sound system from Opéra de Paris | Devialet.
• Launches in September 2025 at select retailers across Australia.

RGB-MiniLED: Establishing New Viewing Benchmarks

Hisense’s RGB-MiniLED technology is heralded as the most sophisticated backlight system in the television sector, signifying a major advancement in TV backlighting. It’s crafted to provide extraordinary brightness, contrast, and color accuracy that’s genuinely remarkable.

Unlike conventional MiniLEDs that typically utilize a single white light source along with color filters, Hisense’s innovative method employs dedicated red, green, and blue MiniLEDs. This design facilitates a more authentic output and allows the TVs to achieve up to 95% of the BT.2020 color gamut, ensuring a genuine cinema-like entertainment experience. This enhanced light management results in unmatched color accuracy and contrast, delivering deeper blacks, more vivid colors, and dazzling peak performance.

The 116UX, the flagship model, features an astonishing 10,000+ color dimming zones and can reach up to 8,000 nits of peak brightness. This is fundamentally ideal for capturing even the finest details in both the brightest highlights and the darkest shadows across its expansive screen. Not to be outdone, the 100UX still offers an impressive 5,000 nits of peak brightness.

Crafted To Impress, Engineered To Anticipate

Beyond the breathtaking visuals, the UX series is equipped with technology intended to create a wholly immersive experience. The robust Hi-View AI Engine X is included, along with Dolby Vision and IMAX Enhanced certification, ensuring top-notch picture quality.

AI 4K upscaling guarantees that your content looks its finest, even if it isn’t native 4K.

Anti-Reflection PRO technology eliminates bothersome glares and reflections, ensuring stunning clarity even in well-lit rooms, which is ideal for many Australian living environments.

The UX Series is also supported by Hisense’s exclusive operating system, VIDAA U9, promising a smooth and intuitive smart TV experience. Despite their vast screen sizes, both the 116UX and 100UX remain surprisingly slim, measuring under 40mm and 37mm thick respectively, enabling them to fit seamlessly into contemporary interiors.

Immersive Audio to Complement Exceptional Cinema

Visuals are merely part of the equation for a fully immersive home theater, and Hisense has not compromised on audio quality. The 116UX is outfitted with a robust built-in 6.2.2 CineStage X surround sound system.

Tuned in collaboration with Opéra de Paris | Devialet, this partnership guarantees an outstanding auditory experience, with a sound profile crafted to impress.

The easily visible side speakers, inspired by the architecture of La Défense with their harp-like design, contribute to a completely immersive audio field, generating an impressive surround sound environment. Featuring Dolby Atmos and spatial sound design, the 2025 UX collection delivers expansive, room-filling audio that envelops the listener and corresponds precisely with on-screen actions.

Whether capturing the softest whisper or the roar of a crowd, every sound is produced with clarity, transforming your living room into a true home theater.

Pricing and Availability

Ready to splurge? The Hisense 116-inch RGB-MiniLED TV (116UX) will retail for A$39,999, while the 100-inch RGB-MiniLED TV (100UX) will cost A$22,999. Both models are projected to be available from September 2025 at select top home entertainment retailers.

For additional details, visit hisense.com.au

Overview

Hisense is transforming luxury home entertainment with its new 116-inch RGB-MiniLED TV, showcasing cutting-edge display and audio technologies. Featuring pioneering RGB-MiniLED backlighting, the UX Series provides unparalleled brightness, color accuracy, and immersive sound, setting a fresh benchmark for consumer televisions. Set to launch in Australia in September 2025, these models target luxury consumers.

Q: What distinguishes the Hisense 116UX TV?

A: The Hisense 116UX TV stands out due to its RGB-MiniLED technology, which offers enhanced brightness, contrast, and color accuracy compared to conventional MiniLEDs.

Q: How does RGB-MiniLED technology enhance the viewing experience?

A: RGB-MiniLED technology employs dedicated red, green, and blue LEDs for a more authentic output, achieving up to 95% of the BT.2020 color gamut, resulting in a genuine cinema-like experience.

Q: What audio capabilities does the 116UX provide?

A: The 116UX features a 6.2.2 CineStage X surround sound system, fine-tuned with Opéra de Paris | Devialet, including Dolby Atmos and spatial sound architecture for a rich audio experience.

Q: Is the Hisense UX Series appropriate for brightly lit rooms?

A: Yes, the Anti-Reflection PRO technology ensures remarkable clarity even in bright conditions, making it ideal for Australian living spaces.

Q: When will the Hisense UX Series be released in Australia?

A: The Hisense UX Series will launch in September 2025 at select top home entertainment retailers.

Brief Overview

• Defence engages in a $495 million agreement with Microsoft Azure for five years.
• The contract enhances Defence’s SAP-based ERP system and broadens its Microsoft 365 platform.
• This deal comes after a prior $107 million Azure agreement.
• Defence continues to make use of Amazon Web Services along with Azure for classified operations.
• Recent technology agreements include services from Citrix and Oracle.

New Azure Alliance for Defence

Defence has forged a significant partnership with Microsoft Azure, committing $495 million for the next five years. Commencing on September 1, this fresh agreement constitutes a notable investment compared to the former $107 million Azure contract that lapsed in June. Data#3 facilitated the arrangement through the government’s Software and ERP Marketplace Panel.

Azure’s Contribution to Defence’s Cloud Initiative

In spite of a $2 billion allocation to Amazon Web Services (AWS) for a classified cloud service assisting the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), Defence will leverage Azure for critical enterprise functions. The Azure services will chiefly bolster Defence’s SAP-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform, which has recently become operational with logistics, maintenance, finance, and procurement modules.

Broadening Microsoft’s Ecosystem

In addition to the ERP platform, Defence is upgrading its Microsoft 365 framework, known as Vera. Defence CIO Chris Crozier has articulated a vision for enhancing cloud-based productivity and collaboration through the M365 environment. While interested in adopting Microsoft Copilot, Crozier noted that the current infrastructure isn’t yet optimal for the tool.

Additional Technology Commitments

Apart from the Azure engagement, Defence has recently finalized technology contracts totaling $59 million for Citrix services over three years and $11 million for a one-year engagement with Oracle. These commitments illustrate Defence’s strategic focus on modernizing its IT framework.

Conclusion

Defence’s $495 million arrangement with Microsoft Azure represents a pivotal advancement in its cloud strategy, complementing its ongoing AWS investments. Focused on enhancing its SAP ERP platform and expanding its Microsoft 365 ecosystem, Defence is prepared to elevate its technological capabilities. Further contracts with Citrix and Oracle reinforce its dedication to a sophisticated IT structure.

Q: What is the worth of the new Azure agreement?

A: The new Azure agreement is worth $495 million over five years.

Q: What will Azure mainly support for Defence?

A: Azure will mainly support Defence’s SAP-based ERP platform and broaden its Microsoft 365 environment.

Q: How does this Azure agreement compare to the earlier one?

A: The new agreement is significantly larger, at $495 million compared to the earlier $107 million agreement.

Q: Is Defence utilizing other cloud services apart from Azure?

A: Yes, Defence has also invested over $2 billion in AWS for a classified cloud solution supporting the ASD.

Q: What other technology contracts has Defence acquired recently?

A: Defence has acquired a $59 million contract for Citrix services and an $11 million contract for Oracle services.

Q: What is Defence’s CIO’s vision for the Microsoft 365 platform?

A: Defence CIO Chris Crozier envisions a shift to more cloud-based productivity, unified communications, and collaboration tools within the M365 environment.

Quick Overview

• Victoria Police reestablishes IT support agreement with Kinetic IT worth $185 million.
• Collaboration endures over ten years, now valued at $508 million.
• Renewal enhances Victoria Police’s digital evolution objectives.
• Latest projects include a mobile app for on-the-spot fines and improved online reporting.

Victoria Police’s Dedication to IT Advancement

Victoria Police has reiterated its confidence in Kinetic IT by renewing a $185 million contract to prolong their IT support partnership for a further three years. This collaboration, which initiated in 2015 with an original $164 million agreement, has expanded significantly over time, now amounting to a total worth of $508 million.

Strategic Digital Evolution

The renewal plays a crucial role in Victoria Police’s extensive digital evolution strategy. The agency is focused on upgrading its technological framework to effectively tackle changing societal, economic, and technological demands. A recent digital strategy report reveals that Victoria Police intends to invest heavily in digital innovations and skill enhancement.

Recent Digital Endeavors

In line with its objective of modernization, Victoria Police has launched various digital projects. Among these is the digitization of roadside fine notices, enabling officers to issue penalties through a mobile application. Furthermore, the agency has improved its online reporting options for non-emergency incidents through its enduring collaboration with the police assistance line contractor, Serco.

Conclusion

The renewed collaboration between Victoria Police and Kinetic IT represents an ongoing commitment to bolstering its IT systems and capabilities. This renewal not only highlights the significance of technology in law enforcement but also showcases Victoria Police’s proactive stance in adopting digital evolution to better assist the community.

Common Questions

Q: What is the monetary value of the renewed contract between Victoria Police and Kinetic IT?

A: The renewed contract is valued at $185 million.

Q: How long has Victoria Police collaborated with Kinetic IT?

A: Victoria Police has been collaborating with Kinetic IT for more than ten years, starting in 2015.

Q: What is the overall worth of the collaboration between Victoria Police and Kinetic IT?

A: The collaboration is currently valued at $508 million.

Q: What recent digital projects has Victoria Police undertaken?

A: Recent projects comprise the digitization of roadside fine notices via a mobile app and an upgraded online reporting system for non-emergency incidents.

Q: What is the goal of Victoria Police’s digital evolution strategy?

A: The strategy seeks to improve the agency’s capacity to respond effectively and efficiently to social, economic, and technological shifts.

Quick Overview

• Sportsbet introduces a ‘security champions’ initiative featuring 42 senior employees.
• The concept is influenced by AWS’ security guardians program.
• Security champions function as advocates, encouraging early threat modelling.
• The initiative seeks to integrate security into all delivery teams.
• An initial pilot with 10 engineers yielded positive outcomes.
• The program intends to minimize last-minute security evaluations.

Overview of Sportsbet’s Security Approach

Sportsbet has taken a notable step towards improving its cybersecurity stance by enlisting 42 senior personnel as ‘security champions’. This initiative aims to incorporate security considerations at the project’s onset, a method known as ‘shift-left’.

Insights from AWS

The initiative is inspired by AWS’ security guardians program, which highlights the importance of frequent and early security evaluations. These guardians work collaboratively with central security teams to enhance security standards while enabling quicker product launches.

The Function of Security Champions

Mirroring AWS’ methodology, Sportsbet’s security champions are responsible for executing threat modelling and posing essential security inquiries during the development phase. This forward-thinking method seeks to avert last-minute security approvals and ensure effective security protocols are established prior to product launches.

Formalizing Security Initiatives

Before the program’s inception, Sportsbet operated with informal security methods across its 25 delivery teams. The organization identified an opportunity to formalize these actions and broaden them across all teams. The objective is to promote consistent threat modelling and secure mindset throughout the project design stages.

Pilot Program Observations

The pilot program, launched in the third quarter of the previous year, engaged 10 engineers acknowledged as ‘security friends’. These individuals naturally identified security issues and assisted their teams with secure methodologies. The pilot aimed to officially support and widen these natural behaviors.

Outcomes of the Pilot

Security solutions consultant Paul Johnson highlighted the favorable results of the pilot. Champions dedicated two hours each week to the program, participating in onboarding and communicating with fellow champions through a specific Slack channel. The initiative aligns with the STRIDE threat modelling framework and has resulted in innovations such as custom plug-ins for threat modelling.

Evaluating Success

While quantitative indicators like time savings in security evaluations are apparent, qualitative factors, including enhanced team involvement and greater willingness to raise security concerns, are also vital signs of the program’s success.

Confronting Challenges

Obstacles emerged, such as the necessity to clearly outline the champions’ roles to prevent them from being perceived as mere extensions of the security team. Johnson stressed the significance of effective communication regarding the responsibilities of champions.

Conclusion

Sportsbet’s security champions initiative aims to integrate security considerations early in the development process, reducing last-minute security challenges and promoting a secure mindset. Influenced by AWS, the program has already shown positive outcomes, both quantitatively and qualitatively, and is set to become a critical element of Sportsbet’s cybersecurity strategy.

Q & A

Q: What is the goal of Sportsbet’s security champions initiative?

A: The initiative aims to incorporate security early in the development cycle, fostering proactive threat modelling to avert last-minute security challenges.

Q: How does the initiative take cues from AWS?

A: It follows the AWS security guardians approach, ensuring early and consistent security considerations to enable quicker and safer product delivery.

Q: What were the results of the pilot initiative?

A: The pilot generated innovations like custom threat modelling plug-ins and showcased time savings in security evaluations, alongside improved team collaboration.

Q: How are security champions selected?

A: Champions are senior personnel acknowledged for their proactive security approach, guiding their teams and participating in secure methodologies.

Q: What challenges surfaced during the initiative?

A: Significant challenges included clarifying the champions’ roles to prevent them from being viewed as an extension of the security team and ensuring transparent communication about their duties.