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NSW Digital Minister Urges PEXA to Improve Outage Reporting

Nicholas Webb on September 3, 2025

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Brief Overview

The NSW Digital Minister is calling for PEXA to enhance reporting on outages and resolve issues more swiftly.
PEXA documented 92 outages in 2024; 10 from internal sources, with the rest stemming from outside network problems.
In 2025, 35 notable disruptions occurred; 15 were internal, while 20 were external.
Reforms in interoperability are intended to boost competition in electronic conveyancing.
These reforms were on hold in 2024 due to banking apprehensions, but resumed in February 2025.

Enhancements in PEXA’s Outage Reporting

The NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, has requested that electronic conveyancing provider PEXA Group improve their incident reporting and hasten the resolution process for service outages. Dib recently convened with the ASX-listed company to discuss the transparency issues related to service interruptions over the past 19 months.

Causes of Service Interruptions

PEXA reported 92 outage events in 2024, with 10 attributed to internal matters, while the remaining were associated with external networks such as banks and land registries. For 2025, there were 35 major service interruptions noted, with 15 from internal concerns and 20 related to third-party networks.

Enhancing Communication and Reaction

During a NSW budget estimates hearing, Dib highlighted the critical need for improved communication and faster response times, pointing to regular updates from the Registrar General regarding outages. He underscored the necessity of differentiating PEXA’s obligations from issues stemming from third parties, a point recognized by PEXA.

Reform in Interoperability and Market Dynamics

Dib’s remarks align with the ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting competition in electronic conveyancing through the interoperability program. This initiative, spearheaded by the Australian Registrars National Electronic Conveyancing Council (ARNECC), is designed to establish links between electronic lodgement network operators (ELNOs) such as PEXA and Sympli, and banks involved in real estate transactions.

Obstacles and Future Outlook

The reform was halted in June 2024 due to concerns from the banking sector, but it resumed in February 2025, with expected findings due next month. Dib acknowledged the market challenges and expressed interest in a cross-functional ministerial forum on e-conveyancing, advocating for increased federal participation.

Conclusion

PEXA is being urged by the NSW government to better manage its service outages and increase transparency in its reporting practices. As the reforms in the e-conveyancing domain continue to develop, the emphasis remains on enhancing competition and ensuring reliable service.

Q: What is the primary issue regarding PEXA’s service?

A: PEXA has encountered a number of service outages, primarily caused by both internal and external network issues.

Q: How many outages did PEXA experience in 2024 and 2025?

A: For 2024, PEXA reported 92 outages, while there have been 35 significant disruptions recorded in 2025 to date.

Q: What does the interoperability program entail?

A: The interoperability program is designed to forge connections between electronic lodgement network operators and banks to enhance competition within the e-conveyancing sector.

Q: What led to the pause in the reform in 2024?

A: The reform was put on hold due to concerns raised by the banking sector, but it resumed in February 2025.

Q: What are the expectations for the upcoming review results?

A: The review results are anticipated to clarify the current condition of the e-conveyancing market and guide future actions.

Q: How is PEXA addressing the concerns of the government?

A: PEXA is engaging in inquiries and regulatory reviews to showcase the value of its offerings and tackle the concerns raised by the government.

JBL Tune Flex Ghost 2 Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Earphones Review

Matthew Miller on September 3, 2025

JBL Tune Flex Ghost 2 Wireless Bluetooth in-Ear Earphones with Noise Cancelling, 48 Hours Playback Time, IP54 Water and Dust Proof, Multipoint Connection, Ergonomic Design, Black Ghost

Fetch TV Concludes Four-Year Price Halt with Music-Centric Channel Growth

Nicholas Kinports on September 3, 2025

Brief Overview

Fetch TV launches six new channels, which include Moonbug Kids and Declassified Military History.
Four additional Stingray music channels cater to a variety of musical preferences.
The Crunchyroll anime streaming service is now available, though it requires a dedicated subscription.
Subscription rates are rising for the first time since 2021, with most plans now priced at $7.99 monthly.
Customer feedback on the new channels and price increases has been mixed.
Fetch TV retains competitive pricing when compared to other services like Netflix and Disney+.

New Channel Line-Up at Fetch TV

Fetch TV has broadened its channel selection by adding six new channels and integrating Crunchyroll, the well-known anime streaming service. This is a notable change as the Australian pay-TV provider implements its first subscription price raise since 2021, starting from 1 September.

Moonbug Kids Channel

The Moonbug Kids Channel features well-liked children’s shows such as CoComelon, Blippi, and Little Angel, all ad-free. This introduction marks the first dedicated channel for Moonbug on Australian television.

Declassified Military History

Declassified Military History debuts as a distinct offering, featuring documentaries focused on warfare, military strategies, and intelligence operations, exclusively available in Australia through Fetch TV.

Stingray Music Channels

Fetch TV rolls out four genre-specific Stingray music channels: Stingray Loud (rock), Stingray Retro (classic hits), Stingray Country, and Stingray Hits. These channels offer round-the-clock music programming to satisfy a range of musical tastes.

Crunchyroll Streaming Integration

Anime fans can now enjoy access to over 39,000 episodes from more than 1,600 titles, including One Piece and My Hero Academia, through the new Crunchyroll app. A separate subscription is required, pricing between A$10.99 and A$13.99 monthly.

Subscription Price Changes and Customer Feedback

The price modification sees the Vibe, Knowledge, Variety, and Kids packs increasing to $7.99 per month, the Ultimate Pack to $24.99 per month, and the Entertainment Pack to $17.99 monthly. The Movie Box package remains at $2.99 monthly.

Fetch TV CEO Dominic Arena remarked, “This commitment to premium content illustrates our dedication to providing excellent value and a wide entertainment range for Australian families.” Nonetheless, customer reactions have varied, with some expressing frustration over the price increases coupled with channel additions viewed as lacking.

Competitive Pricing Context

Fetch TV’s pricing tweaks follow a four-year period without change, contrasting with several hikes from competitors like Netflix, Stan, and Disney+. Industry analysts point out Fetch’s pricing stability amidst escalating content licensing and inflation challenges.

Collaborations and Community Involvement

Nicolas Eglau, Managing Director EMEA, APAC & Global Distribution at Moonbug Entertainment, shared his excitement regarding the launch of the Moonbug Channel in Australia, highlighting the chance to share beloved children’s content with more families.

Terry Li, EVP Emerging Businesses at Crunchyroll, recognized Australia’s enthusiastic anime community and praised the integration with Fetch TV as a means to deliver top-notch Japanese content directly into Australian homes.

Managing Subscriptions

Current subscribers will see price adjustments reflected in their initial billing cycle beginning 1 September, potentially incurring pro-rata charges based on billing timing. Subscription management is available through the Fetch device menu, allowing users to cancel services while maintaining access until the end of their billing period.

The channel additions are designed to enhance Fetch’s role as a versatile entertainment option, combining traditional cable-style content with on-demand and streaming services like Netflix.

Overview

Fetch TV’s expansion featuring new channels and Crunchyroll integration comes alongside subscription price increases, ending a four-year price freeze. While some customers appreciate the varied content, others criticize the price hikes. Fetch TV continues to assert itself as a competitive alternative to streaming giants, emphasizing stable pricing and unique content collaborations.

Q: What new channels has Fetch TV introduced?

A: Fetch TV has added six channels: Moonbug Kids, Declassified Military History, and four Stingray music channels.

Q: What changes have been made to subscription prices?

A: Most channel packages will rise to $7.99 monthly, with the Ultimate Pack at $24.99 and the Entertainment Pack at $17.99. The Movie Box remains at $2.99 monthly.

Q: How does the Crunchyroll integration work?

A: Crunchyroll provides access to over 39,000 anime episodes through a dedicated app on Fetch TV, requiring a separate subscription between A$10.99 and A$13.99 per month.

Q: How have customers reacted to the changes?

A: Customer responses are varied, with some unhappy about the price increases and others welcoming the new content.

Q: How does Fetch TV’s pricing compare to competitors?

A: Fetch TV has kept pricing stable over the past four years, unlike rivals such as Netflix and Disney+, which have experienced multiple price hikes.

Q: What are the benefits of the new Moonbug Kids Channel?

A: The Moonbug Kids Channel offers ad-free access to popular children’s programs like CoComelon and Blippi, representing its first dedicated channel in Australia.

Q: Can customers manage or cancel their subscriptions?

A: Yes, subscribers can manage or cancel their subscriptions through their Fetch device menu, retaining access until the billing period concludes.

Melbourne Developer Uncovers Flaw Enabling Gift Card PINs to Be Breached

David Leane on September 3, 2025

Melbourne Developer Reveals Gift Card Security Vulnerability

Quick Overview

Melbourne developer Simon Dean uncovers a weakness that facilitates easy cracking of gift card PINs.
The Card Network (TCN) cards have exposed API endpoints, making them vulnerable.
Dean employed a Python script to perform unrestricted brute-force attacks on the PINs.
Although Dean received a reimbursement, TCN did not provide a bug bounty or a follow-up fix.
Incomm, TCN’s parent company, acknowledges the issue but shares limited details.

The Revelation of a Significant Weakness

Gift cards available in Australian supermarkets have been found to harbor a serious security weakness, as revealed by Melbourne developer Simon Dean. The flaw exists on the website of the gift card issuer, enabling the card’s PIN to be easily guessed, which allows thieves to access funds with just the card number.

Identifying the Problem

Dean acquired two $500 gift cards with plans to purchase a laptop at JB Hi-Fi. However, he encountered difficulties upon realizing that the last four digits of the card numbers had been scratched off. Nevertheless, the PIN cover remained intact, prompting Dean to dig deeper.

Melbourne developer discovers security loophole in gift cards

Capitalizing on the Vulnerability

Upon noticing the inadequate security measures, Dean discovered several unprotected API endpoints on the card issuer’s website. By utilizing a Python script, he successfully brute-forced the 10,000 possible four-digit PIN combinations. The lack of limits on PIN attempts allowed him to find the correct PIN in a matter of minutes.

Feedback from The Card Network

Dean reported the flaw to The Card Network (TCN), but was met with a protracted and arduous process. After sharing a YouTube video outlining his experience, TCN refunded him the $500 lost from one card. However, they did not provide any incentive or strategy to address the vulnerability.

Official Statement from TCN-Incomm

Incomm, the parent company of TCN, confirmed the vulnerability but offered minimal details. They mentioned that various security tools are employed to monitor for suspicious activities, yet specific countermeasures were not disclosed. They acknowledged the challenges in verifying misuse of cards due to the anonymous nature of gift cards.

Conclusion

The findings by Simon Dean underscore a serious security concern regarding gift cards in Australia, especially those issued by The Card Network. Despite pinpointing the flaw, the reaction from TCN and Incomm has been limited, leaving the solution to the issue unclear. Consumers are urged to exercise caution and report any problems immediately.

Q: What vulnerability did Simon Dean uncover?

A: Dean identified that unprotected API endpoints on TCN’s website allowed unrestricted brute-force attempts to guess gift card PINs.

Q: How did Dean confirm his findings?

A: Dean utilized a Python script to brute-force the PINs and verified the correct one by checking against the physical card.

Q: What did TCN do in response to the vulnerability?

A: TCN reimbursed Dean but did not provide a bug bounty or a comprehensive plan to address the vulnerability.

Q: How long did it take Dean to crack the PINs?

A: Dean managed to write the script and crack the PINs in under 15 minutes.

Q: What guidance is offered to consumers facing similar issues?

A: Consumers are advised to reach out to the gift card department at the point of purchase for rapid resolution of any issues.

Q: What security measures does TCN claim to have implemented?

A: TCN claims to implement various security tools and technologies to track suspicious activity, although they do not specify which measures.

Seflorgo Open Ear Headphones Over Ear Buds Review

Matthew Miller on September 3, 2025

Seflorgo Open Ear Headphones Over Ear Buds, IP67 Waterproof True Wiress Earbuds with Dual DSP Noise Cancelling Mic for Work and Sports, Advanced Bluetooth 5.4

Department of Health to Consolidate Security Operations Framework

wpengine on September 2, 2025

Brief Overview

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is consolidating its cyber security efforts.
A sole provider will oversee the complete cyber security process, improving threat identification and reaction.
Health employs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework to steer this project.
The department is pursuing essential capabilities such as SOC, SOAR, incident management, and recovery.
Current tools under management include Tenable, Splunk, and Microsoft Defender.
Security use cases will utilize MITRE ATT&CK and MaGMa frameworks.
David Lang from Services Australia has been appointed as the department’s new cyber security leader.

Insight into Health’s Cyber Security Approach

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is making notable progress in strengthening its cyber security infrastructure by consolidating its operations under one provider. This initiative is part of a broad enhancement program designed to improve the department’s capability to efficiently identify and address cyber threats.

Consolidating Cyber Security Efforts

No longer relying on a best-of-breed strategy, the department aims to simplify its cyber security operations through consolidation. This centralization encompasses frontline threat detection, orchestration, and swift response, all functioning within a unified framework.

Department of Health to centralise SecOps model

Framework and Desired Capabilities

Following the guidance of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework, the department aims to establish a security operations center (SOC), security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR), while enhancing its incident reaction and recovery protocols. This initiative will take advantage of existing tools such as Tenable for managing vulnerabilities, Splunk for security information and event management (SIEM), and Microsoft Defender.

Improving Threat Perception

To further enhance threat awareness, the department intends to integrate security use cases based on MITRE ATT&CK and MaGMa frameworks. These use cases will be augmented by cyber intelligence sharing feeds, bolstering the department’s ability to proactively recognize and neutralize threats.

Leadership and Future Path

David Lang, recently brought in from Services Australia, will lead the cyber security enhancement initiative. His leadership will be crucial in realizing the department’s aspiration for a stronger and more cohesive cyber security stance.

Conclusion

The Department of Health is implementing decisive measures to integrate its cyber security operations, aiming to establish a more cohesive and effective system to combat potential threats. This strategic realignment is backed by the NIST framework and includes the implementation of advanced SOC, SOAR, and incident management capabilities. Under David Lang’s leadership, this transition is anticipated to be executed effectively, securing the department against developing cyber threats.

Q: What is the reason for the Department of Health unifying its cyber security operations?

A: The goal of the unification is to improve efficiency, optimize processes, and enhance detection and response capabilities within a comprehensive cyber security strategy.

Q: Which frameworks are guiding this effort?

A: The primary framework is the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), supplemented with insights from MITRE ATT&CK and MaGMa frameworks.

Q: What tools will the chosen provider oversee?

A: The provider will manage tools such as Tenable for vulnerability oversight, Splunk for SIEM, and Microsoft Defender.

Q: How does the department plan to enhance its threat awareness?

A: By incorporating security use cases guided by MITRE ATT&CK and MaGMa frameworks and utilizing cyber intelligence sharing feeds.

Q: Who is heading the cyber security enhancement initiative?

A: David Lang, who has recently joined from Services Australia, will lead the initiative.

Q: What result is expected from this unification?

A: The anticipated result is a more resilient, streamlined, and effective cyber security framework to protect the department’s digital resources.

boAt Immortal 131 Wireless Gaming Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on September 2, 2025

boAt Immortal 131 Wireless Gaming Earbuds with 40 Hours Playtime, Clear Calling with ENx™, Low Latency, RGB Lights(Black Sabre)

Australia Post and Shopify Collaborate to Streamline Business Shipping

David Leane on September 2, 2025

Optimizing Shipping for Australian Enterprises

Quick Overview

Australia Post collaborates with Shopify to ease shipping for businesses.
This integration enables smooth parcel handling within the Shopify ecosystem.
Automatic tracking number generation and bulk order handling boost efficiency.
Enhanced customer experience via the Shopify ‘Shop’ application.
Online retail in Australia experiences notable expansion.

Collaboration Between Australia Post and Shopify

Australia Post and Shopify have established a strategic alliance designed to simplify the shipping experience for Australian enterprises. This partnership facilitates a seamless incorporation of parcel management right within the Shopify platform, providing a significant benefit to local vendors.

Australia Post collaborates with Shopify for better shipping solutions

Australia Post: A Reliable Postal Provider

Australia Post, officially recognized as the Australian Postal Corporation, has served as the nation’s postal service for over 215 years. With more than 2.3 billion deliveries to 12.7 million addresses last year, it boasts one of the largest retail networks in Australia, operating over 4,000 Post Offices and employing more than 64,000 individuals.

Shopify: A Global E-commerce Pioneer

Shopify stands as a premier e-commerce platform that empowers businesses to sell both online and offline. It supports millions of enterprises across more than 175 countries, providing critical infrastructure for commerce with plans suited to various business requirements.

Advantages for Merchants

Automatically Assigned Tracking Numbers

The integration automatically provides tracking numbers to Shopify merchants for outgoing packages via Australia Post, minimizing manual data entry efforts.

Streamlined Bulk Order Processing

Shopify’s latest bulk order processing capability enhances the fulfillment workflow, which is essential for effectively scaling operations.

Effortless Shipping Management

Businesses now have the ability to manage shipments, print labels, and monitor packages straight from the Shopify admin dashboard, thereby saving time and improving operational efficiency.

Implications for Consumers

This partnership benefits customers utilizing the Shopify ‘Shop’ app by enhancing their post-purchase interaction through improved delivery tracking and management capabilities.

“As customer expectations rise, we are committed to innovating and enhancing the systems our business clients depend on. This partnership provides exactly what Australian enterprises have been requesting: a smarter, more efficient approach to managing shipping, which saves them precious time.” Gary Starr, Australia Post’s Executive General Manager of Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services

Shaun Broughton, Managing Director at Shopify, emphasizes the importance of supporting small and emerging businesses, which play a crucial role in Australia’s economy.

Conclusion

The alliance between Australia Post and Shopify signifies a major advancement in streamlining shipping processes for Australian enterprises. With automated systems and improved order management, merchants can work more effectively, while consumers benefit from enhanced service experiences.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the primary objective of the Australia Post and Shopify partnership?

A: The partnership aims to simplify the shipping process for businesses by integrating parcel management into the Shopify platform.

Q: How do Shopify merchants benefit from this integration?

A: Merchants gain advantages from automatic tracking numbers, streamlined bulk order processing, and easier shipping management, all of which save time and increase efficiency.

Q: What effect does this have on consumers?

A: Consumers using the Shopify ‘Shop’ app will experience enhanced post-purchase and delivery tracking services.

Q: How significant is the growth of online shopping in Australia?

A: Online shopping in Australia has witnessed substantial growth, with $19.2 billion spent online in the past quarter alone, a 15% increase year-over-year.

Q: Who stands to gain from this partnership?

A: Both small and large businesses utilizing Shopify can benefit from the improved shipping capabilities, aiding their growth and operational effectiveness.

Q: Where can I find additional information about Shopify services?

A: More information can be found on the official Shopify website: https://www.shopify.com.au.

Linking Aspiration with Execution: Transforming Dreams into Existence

wpengine on September 2, 2025

Execution translates strategy into concrete outcomes.
Leaders require clarity and orientation towards their goals.
OKRs assist in preserving strategic coherence.
Adaptability and openness are crucial for strategy modification.

The Significance of Implementing Strategy

In the swiftly evolving landscape of today, successful strategy implementation is vital. Leaders encounter challenges from economic shifts, geopolitical issues, and tech innovations, necessitating an efficient method to attain outcomes.

Concentration and Responsibility

Swan emphasizes the necessity of clear objectives and aspirations. Leaders ought to prevent the dilution of resources by attempting to tackle too many goals at once. Clearly defining initiative ownership and ensuring progress visibility can foster better decision-making.

Adopting OKRs for Achievement

Monday.com employs Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to effectively align with their strategic aims. Swan recommends concentrating on a select few major goals rather than an abundance of smaller ones. Adaptability is crucial; leaders must frequently reassess goals and be transparent about obstacles and resource requirements.

Execution: The Genuine Catalyst

Execution ought not to be regarded merely as a concluding phase but as a catalyst for results. Strategy must be transparent, adjustable, and embraced by the team to secure favorable results.

Overview

In summary, closing the divide between strategy and execution is vital for organizations to flourish in a shifting environment. By emphasizing clear objectives, leveraging frameworks like OKRs, and prioritizing execution, leaders can transform their strategic vision into reality.

Q: What is the significance of execution in strategy?

A: Execution brings strategy to fruition, rendering it actionable and quantifiable, thus achieving concrete results.

Q: What constitutes OKRs?

A: Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) provide a structure for establishing and monitoring goals, ensuring coherence and measurable outputs.

Q: How can leaders keep their attention on goals?

A: Leaders can sustain focus by defining clear, succinct objectives and assigning accountability, ensuring progress visibility.

Q: Why is adaptability essential in strategy execution?

A: Adaptability enables organizations to respond to evolving circumstances, revisit objectives, and make needed adjustments for success.

Tesla’s FSD Addresses Unsecured Right Turns in Australia

Nicholas Kinports on September 1, 2025

Fast Overview

Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) is currently undergoing tests on Australian roads, concentrating on unprotected right turns.
The testing took place in Wodonga, encountering intricate traffic situations.
FSD demonstrated noteworthy performance but needed occasional human assistance.
Obstacles include fast-moving traffic, poor visibility, and tricky bends.
Input and testing are vital for software enhancements.

FSD’s Distinctive Challenges on Aussie Highways

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) (Supervised) system is under strict evaluation in Australia, where right-hand drive and local driving conditions introduce distinct hurdles. While many are aware of its features in the US, Australian roads necessitate tailored adjustments, especially for managing unprotected right turns.

Tesla's FSD Navigating Complex Turns Down Under

Testing Location: Wodonga

During a recent assessment in Wodonga, FSD was tested to its extremes. The selected intersection demanded the vehicle traverse four lanes of traffic, prompting swift decision-making. This test reflected the work of US FSD tester Chuck Cook, who has thoroughly documented FSD’s performance with unprotected left turns in the US.

Intricate Traffic Conditions

The Wodonga evaluation posed various challenges, such as traffic traveling at 60 km/h and diminished visibility due to the setting sun. One intersection involved traffic approaching from a blind turn, complicating the scenario and necessitating precise timing from the FSD system.

Varied Outcomes Emphasize Need for Progress

The outcomes revealed a mix of successful autonomous navigation and instances requiring human intervention. While FSD displayed impressive capacity in assessing traffic speed and identifying safe openings, the necessity for occasional manual oversight pointed out areas needing enhancement.

Ongoing Feedback and Enhancement

Continual testing and feedback are vital for honing Tesla’s FSD technology. The knowledge gained from real-world experiences on Australian roads is crucial for upcoming software updates, ultimately striving for safer and more dependable self-driving capabilities.

See the Test in Motion

To gain a closer perspective on the test, encompassing both its successes and difficulties, watch the complete video below:

Conclusion

Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) is progressing on Australian roads, effectively navigating intricate intersections under tough conditions. While the technology shows potential, further advancement is essential to minimize human involvement and enhance safety.

Q: What distinguishes FSD testing in Australia?

A: Australia’s right-hand drive and particular road conditions, like unprotected right turns, create unique challenges not often faced in the US.

Q: Why was Wodonga selected for the evaluation?

A: Wodonga provided complex intersections with multiple traffic lanes and challenging visibility, making it an excellent testing site for FSD’s functions.

Q: How did FSD perform during the evaluation?

A: The FSD exhibited commendable results in various scenarios but needed human assistance in other cases, indicating areas for growth.

Q: What are the future steps for FSD development in Australia?

A: Ongoing testing and feedback from real-world experiences are crucial for refining FSD software, decreasing human intervention, and improving overall safety.