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NSW Housing Development Authority Primarily Cleared in Disputed AI Implementation

Nicholas Kinports on December 24, 2025

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Quick Read

NSW Housing Development Authority probed for improper AI tool application.
Evaluation indicates minimal risk to decision-making integrity.
Usage of the AI tool was confined to administrative functions.
All 72 reports reviewed were free of errors.
Suggestions include strengthening guidelines for AI utilization.
Minister for Planning endorses review results and suggestions.

NSW Housing Authority’s AI Tool Application Under Investigation

NSW Housing Development Authority mostly cleared in shadow AI application

A recent probe scrutinized the NSW Housing Development Authority over the implementation of an unauthorised AI tool. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, this tool was used to accelerate hundreds of housing submissions in Sydney. Consequently, a thorough review was conducted to determine if the tool’s application jeopardized the integrity of planning decisions.

Review Results: Minimal Risk of Jeopardy

The NSW government published the review results on Christmas Eve. The outcome was reassuring: the AI tool presented a “low” risk of adversely impacting planning approvals. The evaluation clarified that the tool’s role was confined to administrative applications, mainly aggregating data into reports, and did not have a direct influence on decision-making processes.

Administrative Functions and Error-Free Documentation

The investigation involved an assessment of 72 reports produced with the aid of the AI tool, all of which were confirmed to be without errors. The review underscored that planning decisions underwent stringent checks, ensuring any inaccuracies from the AI tool would have been recognized and rectified.

Suggestions and Official Reactions

The review advocated for strengthening AI usage protocols within the Housing Development Authority and ensuring that staff utilize only officially authorized tools. This is essential not only for safeguarding security and integrity but also because officially sanctioned tools are considered more effective for administrative activities.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully acknowledged these suggestions, reaffirming the authority’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of its decision-making processes. He remarked, “The independent review confirms that the integrity of the Housing Development Authority and its statutory decision-making processes remains intact.”

Conclusion

The NSW Housing Development Authority has been mostly vindicated in a review concerning its use of an unauthorized AI tool. The examination indicated a low risk to decision integrity, with the likelihood of errors in administrative reporting being minimal. Recommendations for enhancing AI usage protocols were accepted by the Minister for Planning, ensuring ongoing integrity in housing development decisions.

Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was the purpose of the AI tool?

A: The AI tool was mainly employed for administrative tasks, such as consolidating data into reports.

Q: Was the AI tool officially authorized for use by the Housing Development Authority?

A: No, the AI tool was not officially authorized for use by the Housing Development Authority.

Q: Did the AI tool impact the integrity of decision-making?

A: The review found a low risk of the AI tool affecting decision integrity, as planning decisions underwent meticulous checks.

Q: What were the main suggestions from the review?

A: The review recommended enhancing AI usage guidelines and ensuring the use of officially sanctioned tools.

Q: What steps will be taken after the review?

A: The Minister for Planning and Public Spaces has accepted the recommendations, and actions will be implemented to support the authority’s operations.

ASUS Marks Three Decades of GPU Dominance with the Amazing ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090

Nicholas Kinports on December 24, 2025

Brief Overview

ASUS commemorates 30 years with the launch of the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090.
Equipped with the latest Blackwell architecture and premium cooling materials.
Optimized for 4K gaming and advanced AI tasks.
Facilitates extreme overclocking with an overwhelming 800-watt power requirement.
Features sophisticated cooling with a quad-fan setup and liquid metal thermal substance.
Projected Australian price to exceed A$4,500.
Special edition, with limited availability anticipated.

Maximizing Power and Performance

The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 redefines GPU performance standards. By leveraging the capabilities of the innovative Blackwell architecture, ASUS achieves power thresholds that elevate the functionality of conventional power supplies. When combined with an Advanced BTF motherboard and a compatible 12V-2×6 power supply, this graphics card can utilize up to 800 watts, delivering a 10% performance enhancement compared to typical specifications. The three-ounce copper PCB layer guarantees voltage stability even during intense overclocking.

ASUS commemorates 30 years of innovation with the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090

Exceptional Thermal Engineering

ASUS utilizes cutting-edge thermal solutions to maintain optimal temperatures for this powerhouse. The quad-fan configuration boosts airflow by 20%, while the polished vapor chamber and copper heat pipes enhance surface interaction, lowering GPU temperatures by more than 5%. The application of liquid metal thermal compound, secured through a unique method, guarantees durability and dependability.

Setting New Records with Superior Overclocking Features

Tailored for serious overclocking enthusiasts, the ROG Matrix features a Memory Defroster catered to sub-zero cooling conditions. This function helps avoid memory freezes during extreme overclocking, empowering users to pursue world records with confidence. Additionally, the card includes hardware level sensors to monitor and prevent long-term sagging.

Comprehensive Software Management and Intelligent Monitoring

The ASUS GPU Tweak III software suite delivers intricate control over the card’s performance, allowing users to easily modify settings. The Power Detector+ functionality keeps an eye on the power connector for potential issues, while a calibration tool aids in preserving the card’s structural integrity by signaling users of possible sagging.

Availability and Pricing in Australia

Prepare for a premium price for this limited-edition card, with Australian expected costs likely to surpass A$4,500. Availability will be restricted, directed to specialized retailers. Enthusiasts should stay alert for pre-order chances, as demand is expected to be substantial.

Conclusion

The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 signifies ASUS’s 30-year journey in GPU innovation. It integrates state-of-the-art architecture with cutting-edge cooling and overclocking functionalities, making it an invaluable addition for both gaming and professional environments.

Q: What distinguishes the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090?

A: Its blend of the innovative Blackwell architecture, advanced cooling technologies, and extreme overclocking potential mark it as a top-tier, limited-edition GPU.

Q: How does ASUS maintain optimal cooling for the card under load?

A: The card boasts a quad-fan design, a vapor chamber, and a copper heat pipe arrangement, complemented by a liquid metal thermal compound to ensure excellent cooling performance.

Q: What are the anticipated prices and availability in Australia?

A: The card is projected to be priced above A$4,500, with limited quantities provided through specialized PC retailers.

Q: What kind of software support does ASUS offer for the ROG Matrix?

A: ASUS provides the GPU Tweak III software suite, which empowers users to handle performance settings, track telemetry, and secure the card’s structural integrity.

ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones Review

Matthew Miller on December 24, 2025

ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones (2.4 GHz & Bluetooth 5.3, ROG SpeedNova, 24-bit 96 kHz Audio, Dirac Opteo, Bone-Conduction AI Microphones, Adaptive ANC, 46-Hour Battery Life)- Black

University of Sydney’s Digital IT Code Repository Breached

wpengine on December 24, 2025

Data Breach of IT Code Library at the University of Sydney

Brief Overview

The IT code library online at the University of Sydney was compromised.
Information of 27,500 people, including current staff, affiliates, and alumni, was exposed.
Personal information such as names, birthdates, and addresses has been breached.
The investigation into the breach is ongoing and is expected to conclude by 2026.
Those affected and relevant authorities have been informed.

Overview of the Breach

The University of Sydney faced a major cybersecurity breach concerning its online IT code library. This incident revealed historical data files containing personal information for roughly 27,500 existing and former staff, affiliates, and alumni.

Incident of data breach at University of Sydney

Breach Specifics

The notification from the university indicated that the incident involved unauthorized access and the downloading of certain data files. These files were historical records mainly utilized for testing during the coding development phases. The breach affected personal details, such as names, birth dates, contact numbers, residential addresses, and basic employment information.

Effects on Individuals

Approximately 10,000 current employees and affiliates, 12,500 past employees and affiliates, and around 5,000 alumni and students, along with six supporters, are among those impacted. The data spans from 2010 to 2019, with the latest records accurate as of September 2018.

Response from the University

Nicole Gower, Vice President of Operations, stated that an inquiry is in progress and is anticipated to extend into 2026. The university has reassured that the breach was confined to this specific platform, with no other systems compromised. Efforts to inform both the involved individuals and the pertinent authorities have been undertaken. The compromised datasets have been removed from the code library.

Conclusion

The intrusion into the University of Sydney’s online IT code library highlights the critical necessity for robust cybersecurity practices, particularly in educational settings that manage extensive personal data. With the investigation still ongoing, the university is concentrating on minimizing risks and averting future issues.

Q: What information was compromised during the breach?

A: The breach revealed personal information, such as names, dates of birth, contact numbers, residential addresses, and employment-related data.

Q: How many people were impacted by this breach?

A: About 27,500 individuals were impacted, incorporating current and former staff, affiliates, alumni, students, and supporters.

Q: What measures has the University of Sydney taken in response?

A: The university has alerted the relevant authorities, notified those affected, erased the datasets from the code library, and launched an investigation.

Q: Will this breach affect other university systems?

A: The university indicated that the breach was confined to a single platform and did not affect other systems.

Q: How long is the investigation projected to last?

A: The inquiry into the breach is expected to carry on until 2026.

Q: What actions are being taken to avert future breaches?

A: The university is likely reviewing its cybersecurity protocols and implementing enhanced security policies to prevent future incidents.

Samsung plans to incorporate Gemini AI into kitchen devices by 2026

Matthew Miller on December 23, 2025

Samsung's Incorporation of Gemini AI into Kitchen Appliances

Samsung Launches Gemini AI in Kitchen Appliances at CES 2026

Samsung is gearing up for an incredible showcase at CES 2026, presenting its newest collection of kitchen appliances. The standout feature is an updated Bespoke AI Refrigerator with cutting-edge technological improvements.

Quick Insights

Samsung collaborates with Google to embed Gemini AI into kitchen appliances.
Revamped Bespoke AI Refrigerator equipped with an enhanced AI Vision system.
Improved recognition of a wider array of food items and user-labeled containers.
Launch of AI Wine Cellar featuring a real-time AI Wine Manager.
Local pricing and availability in Australia to be unveiled.

Transforming Kitchen Appliances through Partnership with Google

Samsung is embracing its alliance with Google to infuse Gemini and Google Cloud features into the kitchen. This partnership aims to elevate vision-centric AI capabilities to new heights in home appliances, streamlining daily tasks and enriching the kitchen experience with smarter automation.

“By spearheading the use of vision-based AI technology, Samsung has been at the forefront of innovation in the kitchen appliance sector.” – Jeong Seung Moon, Executive Vice President and Head of R&D Team for Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics.

Bespoke AI Refrigerator: A Significant Advancement

The freshly introduced Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub, central to the announcement, showcases a greatly enhanced AI Vision system. The integration of Google Gemini into a Samsung refrigerator signifies a major milestone for enthusiasts of the Google ecosystem.

Previously, the Family Hub could identify only 37 varieties of fresh produce and 50 types of pre-registered processed goods, often leaving users frustrated with obscure or homemade items. The recent version seeks to resolve these constraints, enabling a broader recognition of food items, thereby accommodating diverse family requirements.

Enhancing Food Recognition and Management

A key enhancement is the system’s capability to identify processed foods without needing separate registrations, minimizing the usual manual input to keep a smart fridge current. Samsung is also progressing towards recognizing user-labeled items, addressing a long-standing consumer demand. This improvement allows for more precise inventory management, aiding better meal planning and diminishing food waste by tracking expiration dates.

“Samsung will reach unprecedented levels of innovation through this joint effort with Google Cloud and will leverage these continuous initiatives to provide superior consumer experiences in the forthcoming year.” – Jeong Seung Moon, Executive Vice President and Head of R&D Team for Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics.

Unveiling the AI Wine Cellar

In addition to the refrigerator, Samsung is introducing the Bespoke AI Wine Cellar, integrating a comparable AI Vision system with Google Gemini. This advancement assists wine aficionados in curating their collections with a high-positioned camera monitoring each bottle.

The system automatically identifies labels and refreshes the SmartThings AI Wine Manager instantaneously, removing the need for manual barcode scanning. It can pinpoint the specific shelf and section for each bottle, facilitating effortless location tracking via the app.

The AI Wine Manager offers extensive information about wines and food pairing recommendations, making the curation of wine collections more intuitive and data-informed.

Expected Launch in the Australian Market

Samsung Australia has not yet disclosed local availability or pricing for the Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub and AI Wine Cellar. Considering Australia’s affinity for high-end kitchen technology, it’s likely these products will eventually be available in the region.

Conclusion

Samsung is poised to transform kitchen experiences with the integration of Google Gemini AI, enhancing the intelligence and functionality of appliances. From advanced fridges to intuitive wine cellars, these innovations promise to provide efficiency and convenience for contemporary households. As we anticipate their debut in Australia, the potential effects on everyday living are highly awaited.

Q: What is the primary feature of the new Bespoke AI Refrigerator?

A:

The primary feature is the upgraded AI Vision system, which can identify a wider range of food items and user-labeled containers, simplifying inventory management and meal preparation.

Q: How does the AI Wine Cellar improve user experience?

A:

The AI Wine Cellar incorporates a system that automatically recognizes and tracks wine bottles, updating the AI Wine Manager in real time without manual scanning, and offers food pairing suggestions.

Q: When will the new appliances be available in Australia?

A:

Samsung Australia has yet to confirm the local availability or pricing for the Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub and AI Wine Cellar. Information is expected to be released closer to the local launch.

Q: What advantages come from integrating Google Gemini AI into kitchen appliances?

A:

The integration of Google Gemini AI into kitchen appliances is designed to simplify everyday operations, bolster automation, and enhance the overall kitchen environment with advanced vision-based capabilities.

Behringer T-Buds Wireless Earbuds with Noise Cancel Review

Matthew Miller on December 23, 2025

Behringer T-Buds Wireless Earbuds with Noise Cancel

Defence Reveals IT and Digital Contractor Expenditures

wpengine on December 23, 2025

Defence Expenditure on IT and Digital Contractors

Brief Overview

Defence allocated $410 million for IT and digital contractors in 2023-24.
Total government expenditure on external IT workforce was nearly $1.8 billion.
Initiatives are being implemented to enhance internal capabilities and lessen contractor dependence.
Health, Treasury, and Social Services also represent significant expenditures.

Insight into Defence Expenditure

The Australian Department of Defence has disclosed an expenditure of $410 million on IT and digital contractors for the 2023-24 fiscal year. This is the first instance where these costs have been specifically outlined, shedding light on Defence’s involvement in governmental IT spending.

Overall Government IT Labour Expenses

The total government expenditure on IT and digital external labour comes to just under $1.8 billion, reflecting a reduction from $1.92 billion in 2021-22. This drop corresponds with a strategic shift towards building internal capabilities and decreasing reliance on external contractors.

Defence’s Standing Among Government Departments

Defence is at the forefront of IT and digital contractor expenditures, outpacing other departments such as Health and Aged Care ($296 million), Treasury ($176 million), and Employment and Workplace Relations ($171 million). This demonstrates Defence’s large investment in digital innovation and technology progression.

Contractors Versus Internal Resources

The most recent audit highlights a governmental strategy to enhance internal capabilities. The government is advocating that departments reduce hiring external labour and concentrate on developing internal skills, particularly in vital fields like IT.

Consequences and Future Pathways

The audit’s results hint at a positive initiative by the government to optimise costs related to external IT labour. By prioritising internal development, the government aspires to create a more resilient and self-sufficient public service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Defence’s considerable spending on IT and digital contractors mirrors a larger governmental movement towards managing the costs of external labour while bolstering internal capabilities. This strategic adjustment aims to ensure efficient and effective resource management across public service sectors.

Q: What was Defence’s total spending on IT and digital contractors for 2023-24?

A: Defence allocated $410 million for IT and digital contractors in 2023-24.

Q: How does the overall government spending on external IT labour compare to earlier years?

A: The total expenditure was nearly $1.8 billion, down from $1.92 billion in 2021-22.

Q: Which other departments were significant spenders on IT and digital contractors?

A: Major spenders include Health and Aged Care, Treasury, and Employment and Workplace Relations.

Q: What is the government’s approach regarding external labour recruitment?

A: The government aims to enhance internal capabilities and diminish dependency on external contractors.

Defence expenditure on IT and digital contractors disclosed

Twitch Improves Visibility for Australian and New Zealand Streamers, Ignites Debate Over Promotion of OnlyFans Softcore Material

David Leane on December 23, 2025

Quick Read

Twitch unveils a specific directory for streamers from Australia and New Zealand.
This effort seeks to enhance local visibility and assist regional creators.
Debate emerges regarding the promotion of NSFW content in the directory.
Questions are raised about the absence of filters for adult material.

Twitch Unveils ANZ Directory

To improve the discovery of local talent, Twitch has launched a new directory tailored for Australian and New Zealand streamers. This initiative makes it easier to locate creators within the same time zone who reflect local culture.

Debate Over NSFW Content

However, the ANZ directory has sparked debate by displaying NSFW content without adequate warnings. The leading channel, velvet_7, listed under ‘Just Chatting’, faces criticism for endorsing material that verges on softcore pornography, with direct links to OnlyFans via their Linktree.

Twitch directory controversy with adult content

Community Reaction and Concerns

While the move to support regional creators is generally welcomed, numerous individuals express disappointment regarding its implementation. The visibility of adult content at the forefront of the directory is regarded as a distraction from the legitimate and diligent content creators that the directory intends to showcase.

Potential Effects on Local Creators

For many emerging streamers, visibility is a key aspect of their developmental journey. Twitch’s plan to give a platform to local creators is compromised by the inclusion of content that may not correspond with the desired family-friendly image, potentially influencing the perception and outreach of authentic creators.

Streamers from Australia and New Zealand on Twitch

Summary

Twitch’s recently launched ANZ directory represents a crucial advancement in enhancing the visibility of Australian and New Zealand streamers. Nonetheless, the ongoing promotion of NSFW content raises concerns regarding content moderation and the platform’s dedication to highlighting genuine talent from the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the aim of Twitch’s ANZ directory?

A:

The directory is designed to assist users in discovering and supporting Australian and New Zealand content creators, facilitating the process of finding streamers within the same time zone and cultural setting.

Q: What makes the directory controversial?

A:

The controversy arises from the showcasing of NSFW content without warnings, detracting from the intended emphasis on authentic local streamers.

Q: How can Twitch respond to the content issues?

A:

Twitch could enforce more stringent content filters and establish distinct sections for adult material to ensure that family-friendly content is prioritized.

Q: How might this affect local creators?

A:

While the directory provides increased visibility, the overshadowing adult content could dissuade potential audiences from engaging with the platform, impacting the outreach of genuine creators.

Havit Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on December 23, 2025

Havit Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.4 in Ear Headphones, 3D Bass Stereo Wireless Earphones with 4 ENC Noise Cancelling Mic, 40H Bluetooth Earbuds with LED Display

Defence for Combining Air-Gapped Google Cloud Services

Nicholas Webb on December 23, 2025

Defence Collaborates with Google Cloud for Air-Gapped Solutions

Brief Overview

Defence collaborates with Google Cloud for a multi-year air-gapped hyperscale cloud solution.
Projects DEF 2222 and JP 9111 will benefit from these services within the Defence Secret Environment (DSE).
The DSE is designed to unify Defence’s secure computing frameworks for nimble, cloud-native operations.
JP 9111 enhances joint command and control across multiple command tiers and coalitions.
Google Cloud services will enable expedited deployments, system enhancements, and global collaboration.
Emphasis on AI and edge capabilities to improve Defence operations.

Partnership with Google Cloud for Defence

The Australian Department of Defence has forged a substantial multi-year partnership with Google Cloud to utilize air-gapped hyperscale cloud services. This partnership aims to support two essential initiatives, DEF 2222 and JP 9111, focusing on ICT and command-and-control functionalities.

Google Cloud assists Defence with air-gapped hyperscale cloud

(L-R) – Paul Migliorini (Google Cloud), Umesh Vemuri (Google Cloud), LTGEN Susan Coyle, Chief of Joint Capabilities and Chris Crozier, CIO.

Image Credit: Kym Smith / Defence

Exploring the Defence Secret Environment

At the core of this project is the Defence Secret Environment (DSE), which is defined as the integration of Defence’s secure computing spaces. The DSE aims to move away from disjointed legacy systems towards a more agile, cloud-native future, preserving sovereignty and classified assurance.

Goals of Project JP 9111

Project JP 9111 aims to establish a Joint Command and Control (Joint C2) information framework. This framework is vital for strategizing and executing operations across various command tiers, whether autonomously, under an Australian-led coalition, or within the broader Five Eyes context.

Boosting Defence Capabilities

The services from Google Cloud are anticipated to hasten the deployment of essential systems and assist with continual upgrades. They will enhance partnership with international allies while safeguarding critical Defence assets. Moreover, the focus on edge capacity and AI integration is geared towards facilitating more efficient, intelligent, and secure Defence operations.

Conclusion

The alliance between Defence and Google Cloud signifies a tactical step towards modernizing and securing Australia’s military capabilities. By employing cutting-edge cloud technologies, Defence is set to bolster its operational efficiency, uphold national security, and reinforce international partnerships.

FAQs

Q: What are air-gapped hyperscale cloud services?

A: Air-gapped hyperscale cloud services refer to cloud computing resources that are separated from the public internet to bolster security, particularly for sensitive information and operations.

Q: What does the Defence Secret Environment (DSE) entail?

A: The DSE is a program aimed at integrating Defence’s secure computing environments, shifting from legacy systems to a cloud-oriented framework to guarantee sovereignty and security.

Q: In what ways will Project JP 9111 benefit Defence?

A: JP 9111 will create a cohesive command and control setting for strategizing and executing operations, enhancing both national and global military collaborations.

Q: Why is AI integration critical for Defence operations?

A: AI integration fosters smarter, quicker decision-making, improving the efficiency and security of Defence operations.

Q: What impact does this agreement have on Australia’s national security?

A: By enhancing Defence’s digital infrastructure and capabilities, the agreement strengthens Australia’s national security and its collaborative capabilities with global allies.