Australia Tech News Archives

Huskee Launches Groundbreaking Reusable Cup System in Sydney, Showcasing Advanced Barcodes

David Leane on June 18, 2025

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Fast Overview

Huskee unveils Borrow by Huskee, a reusable cup system in Sydney.
Distinct QR codes on every cup allow for real-time tracking and returns.
Cups can be borrowed for a period of 14 days from participating cafes and Smart Bins.
Collaboration with GS1 Australia facilitates scalable reuse through Next Gen barcodes.
The Borrow cup is produced from 100% recyclable polypropylene.
Expertly sanitized and repackaged at Huskee’s WashHub.

Huskee’s Reusable Cup Innovation in Sydney

In an effort that has the potential to greatly lessen coffee cup waste, Sydney-based start-up Huskee has rolled out Borrow by Huskee, an intelligent reusable cup system. This initiative, currently available at International Towers Barangaroo, seeks to eradicate the reliance on single-use coffee cups by enabling consumers to borrow a cup for their coffee orders from participating locations.

Operation Mechanism

The system streamlines sustainability for consumers. When ordering a beverage, customers can opt for a reusable cup instead of disposable options. They have a 14-day timeframe to return it to any participating cafe or deposit it in a tech-enabled Smart Bin. This closed-loop process guarantees that cups are collected, sanitized, and reintegrated into circulation effortlessly.

Advanced Barcode Technology

At the core of Borrow by Huskee is the cutting-edge implementation of QR codes on every cup. These Next Gen GS1 barcodes allow for real-time tracking and returns via the Borrow App and a network of collection sites. This technology not only boosts user convenience but also encourages a traceable, circular economy in the coffee sector.

Environmental and Financial Implications

The partnership with GS1 Australia illustrates how global standards can foster scalable, sustainable solutions. By establishing a common language for circularity, these systems can aid both the environment and the economy. Saxon Wright, Co-Founder of Huskee, aspires for this initiative to motivate cafes and venues throughout Australia to implement similar systems in the next year.

Eco-Friendliness and Cleanliness

The Borrow cup is fashioned from 100% polypropylene, recognized for its strength and recyclability. This is in line with Huskee’s pledge to sustainability, as the material is fully recyclable within the HuskeeLoop end-of-life program. Additionally, Huskee’s WashHub ensures that each returned cup is expertly cleaned, dried, and repackaged prior to reuse, upholding high hygiene standards.

Huskee introduces a smart reusable cup system in Sydney

Recap

The introduction of Borrow by Huskee in Sydney marks a notable advancement towards minimizing waste from single-use coffee cups. With distinct QR codes, a comprehensive app for tracking, and a recyclable cup design, Huskee is setting the foundation for a more sustainable future in the hospitality industry. The initiative is already picking up momentum, with ambitions for nationwide implementation.

Q: What is Borrow by Huskee?

A: Borrow by Huskee is a reusable cup system that allows consumers to borrow and return cups from participating cafes, minimizing the reliance on single-use coffee cups.

Q: How does the QR code technology function?

A: Each cup is equipped with a unique QR code that enables real-time tracking and returns through the Borrow App and a collection point network.

Q: What is the composition of the Borrow cups?

A: The cups are constructed from 100% polypropylene, selected for its durability, safety, and complete recyclability.

Q: How are the cups sanitized?

A: Cups are professionally cleaned, sanitized, dried, and repackaged at Huskee’s WashHub before their next use.

Q: What is the borrowing period for a cup?

A: Customers can borrow a cup for a maximum of 14 days before returning it to a participating venue or Smart Bin.

Q: What role does the partnership with GS1 Australia play in the system?

A: GS1 Australia supplies Next Gen barcodes that improve traceability and interoperability, promoting scalable and sustainable reuse systems.

Microsoft announces data security initiatives for cloud users in Europe

Vanessa May on June 17, 2025

Microsoft’s European Strategies for Cloud Data Protection

Brief Overview

Microsoft guarantees that European data will stay within Europe in accordance with local legislation.
Personnel based in Europe will oversee and authorize remote access to data in real time.
Microsoft’s sovereign private cloud is currently in preview, with a full rollout expected later this year.
Concerns regarding data sovereignty have been raised by European businesses.

Microsoft outlines data protection strategy for cloud customers in Europe

Concerns About Data Sovereignty in Europe

Issues surrounding the potential relocation of their data beyond Europe, especially to countries like the US, have increasingly alarmed European businesses and governments. This concern has driven leading American technology companies, including Microsoft, to implement strategies for data security and adherence to European regulations.

Microsoft’s Pledge to Data Privacy in Europe

To address these issues, Microsoft has revealed that data handled by its cloud customers in Europe will remain stored on the continent, compliant with European legislation. Management will be conducted by local personnel, ensuring complete customer control over their information.

European Personnel’s Real-Time Oversight

All remote system access by Microsoft engineers that involves European data will need approval and real-time oversight from personnel located in Europe. This initiative is designed to strengthen trust and guarantee strict adherence to local regulations.

Launch of the Sovereign Private Cloud

The sovereign private cloud from Microsoft, which is currently in preview, is anticipated to be available to the public later this year. This service is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to improve data security and privacy for cloud customers in Europe.

Conclusion

Microsoft is making substantial progress to alleviate European data privacy worries by ensuring that data remains in Europe and is regulated by local laws. With the upcoming launch of the sovereign private cloud, Microsoft intends to provide enhanced data security and foster trust among users in Europe.

Q: What drove Microsoft to improve data protection practices in Europe?

A: Microsoft introduced these strategies in response to heightened concerns from European businesses and governments about data sovereignty and adherence to local regulations.

Q: How will Microsoft make certain that data stays in Europe?

A: Microsoft will guarantee data remains in Europe by operating in line with European laws and supervising access through local personnel.

Q: What does the sovereign private cloud entail?

A: The sovereign private cloud is a service aimed at improving data security and privacy for cloud users in Europe, currently in a preview phase.

Q: When will the sovereign private cloud be available for general use?

A: Microsoft has indicated that the sovereign private cloud will be launched for general use later this year.

Q: Who will be responsible for monitoring access to European data?

A: Personnel residing in Europe will manage the approval and real-time monitoring of remote data access.

Q: What implications does this have for European customers?

A: European customers can anticipate that their data will be retained within Europe, governed by local laws, with improved privacy and oversight.

Lanrex Reveals Major Flaws in Cybersecurity for Australian Businesses

wpengine on June 17, 2025

Lanrex Reveals Major Issues in Cybersecurity for Australian Businesses

Quick Overview

A considerable number of Australian companies face vulnerabilities due to single points of failure and insufficient ongoing monitoring.
Lanrex provides a tiered cybersecurity enhancement program to remedy these shortcomings.
The collaboration with Microsoft boosts security using tools such as Microsoft Defender and 365 E5 Security.
The E5 Security add-on delivers advanced features at a lower price for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Cybersecurity Issues in Australia

Australian organizations are becoming increasingly susceptible to cyber attackers, often attributable to single points of failure and the absence of continuous monitoring. Lanrex, a managed IT service provider and partner of Microsoft, asserts that these weaknesses are widespread throughout various sectors.

Lanrex exposes cybersecurity deficiencies in Australian firms

David Reid, Lanrex.

During the CyberSecure Summit held in Sydney, David Reid, Lanrex’s Head of Operations, highlighted the necessity for a unified security strategy. Reid noted that while many companies maintain a robust security framework, they often lack the strategic execution needed for ongoing security implementation and monitoring.

Lanrex’s Tiered Cybersecurity Strategy

In response to these issues, Lanrex provides a tiered strategy designed for businesses of various sizes. This encompasses managed support and account management. The initial tier includes Microsoft Defender products, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and geo-location restrictions, among other resources.

The subsequent tier enhances the first by adding improved alerting and remediation functions, concentrating on risks identified in Office 365 and the behavior of Microsoft Defender for endpoints.

Enhancing Security with Microsoft Products

Lanrex’s partnership with Microsoft significantly augments its cybersecurity offerings. As the world’s largest security vendor, Microsoft supplies a variety of security tools utilized by over 1 million corporations. Their zero-trust security model anticipates breaches and authenticates every user and device.

Karen Negus, Microsoft’s Director of SMB Security for Asia, promotes a comprehensive, end-to-end security perspective. The company is consistently updating its SMB offerings to deliver thorough solutions.

Advanced Security Features with Microsoft 365 E5

In March, Microsoft launched the 365 E5 Security add-on for Business Premium, providing advanced security functionalities at a lower price point. The add-on incorporates real-time risk-based conditional access, identity protection, and Extended Detection and Response (XDR).

This package bolsters device, email, and collaboration security, thereby making advanced cybersecurity more attainable for smaller organizations.

Conclusion

Australian businesses encounter significant cybersecurity obstacles, frequently due to single points of failure and inadequate monitoring. Lanrex, in partnership with Microsoft, delivers cutting-edge solutions to fill these gaps, offering a tiered security enhancement program that utilizes Microsoft’s comprehensive security products.

Q: What are the primary cybersecurity challenges for Australian businesses?

A: The primary challenges consist of single points of failure, insufficient continuous monitoring, and inadequate strategic implementation of security protocols.

Q: How does Lanrex address these cybersecurity challenges?

A: Lanrex provides a tiered cybersecurity enhancement program designed for businesses of all sizes, incorporating Microsoft security tools and a strategic approach to continuous security implementation and monitoring.

Q: What role does Microsoft play in Lanrex’s cybersecurity framework?

A: Microsoft offers powerful security tools, including Microsoft Defender and 365 E5 Security, which are integrated into Lanrex’s solutions to bolster protection and mitigate security vulnerabilities.

Q: In what ways does the Microsoft 365 E5 Security add-on support SMBs?

A: The E5 Security add-on provides advanced cybersecurity functionalities at a reduced cost, making it accessible for smaller companies. It includes features such as real-time risk-based conditional access and Extended Detection and Response (XDR).

Quorum Employs AI to Provide Major Cyber Time Savings for Australian Companies

Matthew Miller on June 16, 2025

Concise Overview

Quorum’s AI-powered solution is aiding Australian businesses in alleviating cybersecurity alert fatigue.
By leveraging Microsoft’s Security Copilot, companies decrease daily alerts from 300 to 35 actionable items.
AI instruments like Copilot can introduce data exposure risks if not adequately supervised.
Effective data governance and permission structures are critical for reducing AI-related risks.
Quorum’s customized AI solutions empower businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.

AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions

Australian organizations burdened by cybersecurity alerts are experiencing relief through Quorum’s AI-powered methodology. By incorporating Microsoft’s Security Copilot, Quorum assists businesses in reducing alert fatigue and honing in on actionable threats.

Quorum using AI for efficient cybersecurity solutions

Daniel Tracey, Quorum’s Principal Consultant for Cybersecurity, elaborated at the CyberSecure Summit in Sydney on how their partnership with Microsoft has facilitated the automation of alert responses. This innovation has significantly lowered the number of daily alerts necessitating human engagement from 300 to 35.

Handling “Impossible Travel” Alerts

The approach is especially beneficial for managing “impossible travel” alerts, which arise when employee logins from distant places raise security flags. With large teams traveling around the globe, manually verifying each alert was a cumbersome task.

“We employed Security Copilot to evaluate these alerts, determining if they represented actual threats. Most turned out to be false positives, enabling us to concentrate on real issues,” Tracey stated.

Recognizing AI Risks

While AI tools bolster cybersecurity, they also introduce risks, particularly regarding data exposure. Oscar Gonzalez, Microsoft’s SMB Cybersecurity Lead for ANZ, cautions against the risks of data leaks, both accidental and intentional, underscoring the significance of data governance.

“Establish a data classification scheme and proper permission levels to alleviate these risks,” Gonzalez recommended.

Case Study: AI in Practice

Gavin van Niekerk, Quorum’s Practice Manager for Cybersecurity, recounted how a Melbourne-based electrical wholesaler enhanced its security posture utilizing Quorum’s AI solutions. Initially lacking proactive monitoring, they now utilize Quorum’s SOC team to bolster data security without risking overexposure.

“They now use AI with confidence, understanding their security maturity and prepared to advance,” van Niekerk remarked.

Conclusion

Quorum’s AI-driven solutions considerably enhance cybersecurity by alleviating alert fatigue and prioritizing actionable threats. Nevertheless, organizations must stay alert to AI-related risks, particularly data exposure. Sound governance and a well-structured data security framework are vital for the safe utilization of AI technologies.

Q: What is Quorum’s AI-powered solution?

A: Quorum’s AI-driven solution utilizes Microsoft’s Security Copilot to automate and optimize the management of cybersecurity alerts, significantly decreasing the number of alerts that require human intervention.

Q: How does Quorum’s solution handle “impossible travel” alerts?

A: The solution employs Security Copilot to assess these alerts, frequently identifying them as false positives, thus enabling security teams to concentrate on real threats.

Q: What are the risks tied to using AI in cybersecurity?

A: Risks include potential data exposure and leaks that can happen either accidentally or maliciously. Effective data governance and permission frameworks can help lessen these risks.

Q: How can businesses reduce AI-related risks?

A: By instituting a solid data classification and governance framework, ensuring appropriate permission levels, and consistently reviewing their security posture.

Q: What was the result of Quorum’s involvement with the Melbourne-based wholesaler?

A: The wholesaler enhanced its data security posture, gaining assurance in utilizing AI tools without risking data exposure, and establishing a proactive monitoring system.

NSW Nationals Shift to Discard Net Zero and Withdraw from Paris Agreement

Nicholas Kinports on June 16, 2025

NSW Nationals Alter Their Position on Climate Policy

Quick Read

NSW Nationals opt to drop net zero emissions goal.
Party aims to retract from the Paris Agreement.
Worries regarding the economic effects of existing climate policies.
Possible political consequences within the Coalition.
Grassroots initiative emphasizes Australian priorities.

NSW Nationals’ Climate Policy Revision

In a significant development, the NSW Nationals have voted to relinquish their pledge to net zero emissions and support Australia’s pullout from the Paris Agreement. This determination was reached at their yearly conference in Coffs Harbour, mirroring a rising feeling among party members that existing climate frameworks do not adequately serve regional Australia.

Economic Issues Propel Policy Change

Supporters of the new path assert that the pursuit of net zero has heightened living expenses, affecting prices related to food, energy, and transportation. They argue that Australia’s pledge has yielded no discernible environmental advantages and that the nation’s rich resources should permit some of the lowest costs for food and energy in the world.

Consequences for Employment and Industry

The emphasis on net zero has allegedly resulted in job reductions as businesses relocate to nations with laxer environmental standards. The party’s choice highlights a call for the Australian government to focus on domestic prosperity over global obligations.

Exiting the Paris Agreement

After the net zero vote, the NSW Nationals endorsed a resolution calling for the Federal Government to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. Members contend that international climate treaties place undue economic pressure on Australia, impeding its growth potential.

Political Fallout

This policy alteration may heighten scrutiny on the federal leadership of the National Party and the larger Coalition, revealing a divide between urban and regional beliefs regarding climate policy. As Senator Matt Canavan remarked, it is time for the “AUSTRALIAN government to prioritize AUSTRALIANS.”

Summary

The NSW Nationals’ choice to forsake net zero objectives and the Paris Agreement signifies a crucial change in Australian climate policy, spurred by economic concerns and a wish to emphasize national interests. This action has the potential to transform internal party relations and sway discussions in forthcoming federal elections.

Q: What prompted the NSW Nationals to discard net zero?

A: The choice was motivated by worries concerning the economic ramifications of current climate policies, such as increasing costs for food, energy, and transport.

Q: What are the consequences of exiting the Paris Agreement?

A: Departing from the Paris Agreement could free Australia from global climate responsibilities but may draw criticism from environmental advocates and international allies.

Q: How could this decision impact the Coalition?

A: It may foster discord within the Coalition, shedding light on disparities between regional and urban viewpoints on climate policies.

Q: What is the wider political consequence of this decision?

A: The decision might shape future federal election battles, with climate policy emerging as a crucial topic of discussion.

For more details, visit the NSW Nationals website.

BT Leader Expects AI to Escalate Job Cuts

Nicholas Webb on June 16, 2025

Effects of AI on BT Workforce and Upcoming Strategies

Brief Overview

The CEO of BT Group foresees that AI might result in more extensive workforce reductions.
There are plans to achieve a cost reduction of £3 billion (A$6.3 billion) by the year 2030.
The potential separation of BT’s network infrastructure division, Openreach, is being contemplated.
Robust demand for fiber broadband is enhancing BT’s financial results.

AI’s Influence on BT’s Workforce Plan

BT CEO forecasts further job losses due to AI advancements

Under the guidance of Chief Executive Allison Kirkby, BT Group is bracing for a potential wave of job cuts driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. With targets set to eliminate over 40,000 jobs and save £3 billion (A$6.3 billion) by the decade’s end, the true impact of AI remains a significant consideration.

Prospects for Future Workforce

As a prominent broadband and mobile provider, BT plans to considerably scale back its workforce, potentially impacting around 55,000 roles, inclusive of contractors, by 2030. This strategic direction corresponds with prior remarks from ex-CEO Philip Jansen, who noted the necessity for a streamlined workforce and a lower cost structure by the 2020s.

Openreach: Possible Spin-Off

Allison Kirkby has suggested that spinning off Openreach, BT’s network infrastructure division, may be on the horizon if its value continues to be undervalued in the company’s stock price. While not an immediate priority, the option remains viable.

Financial Results and Market Strength

BT has reported a strong appetite for fiber broadband and has realized more than £900 million in cost efficiencies, strengthening its earnings and cash flow. The resilience of Openreach has counteracted declines in other segments, where traditional services are fading and device sales are diminishing.

Conclusion

BT Group is in the midst of a transformative phase, utilizing AI to possibly optimize its workforce while contemplating strategic business shifts like the potential Openreach separation. With an emphasis on cost management and market durability, BT’s forthcoming strategies will be crucial for maintaining its competitive position.

Q: What are the primary drivers of BT’s job reductions?

A: BT’s goal is to decrease its workforce to lower costs and enhance efficiency, with AI advancements playing a pivotal role in facilitating these reductions.

Q: In what ways could AI affect BT’s operations?

A: AI may enable BT to automate operations, resulting in a reduced workforce and additional cost savings, improving overall efficiency.

Q: Why is Openreach significant to BT’s business approach?

A: Openreach is essential for BT’s network framework, and its potential separation could release value if its market valuation is not mirrored in BT’s stock price.

Q: How has BT’s financial status been of late?

A: BT has experienced strong demand for fiber broadband, realizing considerable cost savings and showcasing resilience in its network infrastructure, despite downturns in other sectors.

Vivid Sydney 2025 Comes to an End: 23 Spectacular Nights of Illumination, Creativity, and the Kia EV3 Exhibition

wpengine on June 15, 2025

Vivid Sydney 2025 Concludes: An Incredible Display of Light, Music, and Innovation

Quick Summary

Vivid Sydney 2025 wrapped up after 23 nights of spectacular light and cultural experiences.
The festival attracted huge crowds, significantly boosting Sydney’s economy.
This year’s theme, ‘Dream’, enchanted millions of visitors from both near and far.
For the first time, the Museum of Sydney participated in the light displays.
Performances included Tangerine Dream and Sigur Rós alongside the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Special discussions by Martha Stewart and D.W. Pine from TIME Magazine highlighted the Ideas program.
Kia featured its EV3 electric vehicle within the technology showcase.
Preparations for Vivid Sydney 2026 are already in progress with great anticipations.

Record Attendance and Economic Contribution

Vivid Sydney 2025 has demonstrated yet again why it is the largest event in Australia. The festival turned the city into an engaging canvas full of light, music, and creativity. This year’s theme, ‘Dream’, drew millions of visitors, resulting in record hotel occupancy rates and significant economic benefits for Sydney.

Themes and Features

Illuminating Light

The festival’s Light Walk was a standout, showcasing interactive installations and 3D projections. New features like the lit-up Museum of Sydney in Martin Place captured people’s imaginations.

Enchanting Music

Music fans had access to free concerts at Tumbalong Nights and exclusive shows by international stars such as Tangerine Dream and Sigur Rós at the Sydney Opera House.

Innovative Ideas

This year’s Ideas program included presentations from Martha Stewart, D.W. Pine of TIME Magazine, and sleep specialist Professor Matthew Walker, emphasizing creativity and the science of dreams.

Delicious Food

Culinary delights were plentiful, featuring sold-out dinners hosted by Nigella Lawson and the returning Vivid Fire Kitchen, which showcased fire-based cooking methods.

Technological Advancements and Creativity

Tech Partners Light Up the City

Prominent tech partners such as Samsung and Kia were instrumental. Guests were captivated by the Kia EV3 electric vehicle display along the Light Walk, blending automotive innovation with the festival.

Conclusion

Vivid Sydney 2025 was a tremendous success, reinforcing its reputation as a leading cultural event on the world stage. By fusing art, music, ideas, and innovation, the festival not only entertained attendees but also greatly enhanced Sydney’s economy. As plans for Vivid Sydney 2026 commence, expectations are elevated for yet another enchanting event.

Q: What was the theme of Vivid Sydney 2025?

A: The theme was ‘Dream’, concentrating on creativity and human connection.

Q: What impact did Vivid Sydney 2025 have on the local economy?

A: The festival resulted in record hotel occupancy and provided significant economic advantages to local businesses, aiding thousands of jobs.

Q: What new features were incorporated in the 2025 festival?

A: For the first time, the Museum of Sydney was illuminated, and the Kia EV3 electric vehicle was highlighted in the technology display.

Q: Who were some key speakers at the Vivid Ideas program?

A: Key speakers included lifestyle icon Martha Stewart, D.W. Pine from TIME Magazine, and sleep expert Professor Matthew Walker.

Q: When is Vivid Sydney 2026 anticipated to occur?

A: While precise dates are still pending, planning for Vivid Sydney 2026 is already in progress, promising another remarkable event.

Curtin University Propels Ambitious Tech Revamp

Vanessa May on June 15, 2025

Curtin University Tech Evolution

Brief Overview

Curtin University finishes the initial stage of its IT evolution leveraging AWS and ServiceNow.
CIO Jason Cowie spearheads a “radical change” in IT operations.
The institution plans to significantly decrease its applications from 900 to 50.
The subsequent phase concentrates on front-end projects, including an all-in-one student app driven by AI.
The ServiceNow CIO Dashboard is centralized for managing resources and prioritizing projects.

Establishing the Base

Curtin University in Perth has undertaken an ambitious IT reform led by CIO Jason Cowie, who became part of the university in 2018. Assigned with the task of orchestrating a “radical change,” Cowie initiated a restructuring of the IT team to attract premier technology talent. The first phase of the reform involved phasing out outdated systems and building a cloud-based infrastructure in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Curtin University advances in innovative tech overhaul

Curtin University

iStockPhoto

Cowie’s early steps included terminating a suggested data centre update in place of a complete digital strategy. This choice led to the creation of a “foundational cloud” that effectively oversees applications and data, allowing the university to shut down one of its on-site data centres. The objective is to condense the application count from 900 to a controlled 50, ensuring improved management and security.

Complete Transparency

In 2021, Curtin implemented ServiceNow for IT service administration, beginning with incident management and support functions. The platform’s role expanded to encompass project management and risk oversight, ultimately including a performance dashboard for executive monitoring. This all-encompassing CIO Dashboard has become vital for managing resources and determining project priorities, enabling Cowie to effectively display outcomes to stakeholders.

ServiceNow’s Idea Portal further promotes engagement by enabling users to submit and vote on new projects. “We wanted everything monitored in a single central location,” Cowie stated, highlighting the significance of transparency and data-informed decision-making.

The Subsequent Phase

With foundational systems established, Curtin’s IT evolution is advancing to its second stage, concentrating on improving user experiences through AI and automation. This phase aspires to unify various student-facing applications into one seamless platform similar to online banking. Current AI projects include virtual patients for healthcare students and digital assistants for common inquiries.

The university also intends to automate the lifecycle management of its 50,000 IT assets, employing AI to streamline procurement and refresh cycles. “We aim to leverage our data and digital expertise, facilitated by AI, to evolve into a more tech-savvy institution,” Cowie noted, underscoring the aspiration to allow academic staff more freedom to concentrate on research and teaching.

Conclusion

Curtin University’s multi-year IT evolution, guided by CIO Jason Cowie, is establishing new benchmarks in educational technology. The successful completion of the initial phase positions the institution for innovative front-end advancements by utilizing cloud technology and AI to enhance user experiences and operational efficiency.

Q: What was the main goal of Curtin University’s IT evolution?

A: The main goal was to transform the university’s IT infrastructure, phase out legacy systems, and construct a cloud platform with AWS to facilitate future digital services.

Q: How is Curtin University utilizing AI in its IT evolution?

A: AI is being utilized to power an integrated student app, oversee the lifecycle of IT assets, and enrich digital engagement through virtual patient simulations and digital assistants.

Q: What part does ServiceNow play in Curtin’s IT strategy?

A: ServiceNow is fundamental to Curtin’s IT service management, project oversight, and resource allocation, providing a platform for visibility and stakeholder interaction via its CIO Dashboard and Idea Portal.

Q: What are the anticipated results of phase two in Curtin’s IT evolution?

A: Phase two seeks to modernize student interactions, streamline academic services, and diminish the number of applications to roughly 50, harnessing AI and automation to enhance user experiences.

Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter Illuminates Technology-Enabled Abuse

Matthew Miller on June 15, 2025

Brief Overview

The Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter (NBWS) is seeking assistance to tackle technology-enabled abuse against women.
NBWS points out the difficulties in identifying cyber abuse due to its multifaceted nature.
Partnering with tech organizations like N-Able IT is essential for developing cybersecurity and training for staff.
Protecting the sensitive information of residents and donors is a primary focus for NBWS.
For case management and data safety, NBWS utilizes Infoxchange.
Technological knowledge is incorporated into the NBWS Board for effective governance.
Since 2010, NBWS has grown, now providing four services and five houses to assist women and children.

Technology as an Opportunity and a Risk

The Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter (NBWS) is leading the charge in confronting an escalating issue—technology-facilitated and cyber abuse. This concern has become increasingly common among women seeking assistance from the organization.

Northern Beaches Women's Shelter tackles tech-enabled abuse

Challenges in Recognizing Cyber Abuse

CEO Narelle Hand highlights the difficulties in detecting technology-facilitated abuse due to its complicated nature. Victims may suspect digital monitoring, but substantiating such allegations is often challenging. This intricacy calls for specialized skills and outside support to assist these women effectively.

Developing Digital Proficiency

NBWS collaborates with technology partners like N-Able IT to bolster cybersecurity initiatives and staff training. By implementing the latest security software, NBWS guarantees that their staff and the women they support are well-guarded in the online environment.

Emphasizing Data Safety

Data safety is essential for NBWS, protecting the information of at-risk women, donors, and the organization itself. Hand underscores the significance of both legal and ethical obligations in safeguarding this sensitive information. NBWS uses Infoxchange for secure case management and vigilantly oversees donor data with their IT security team.

Incorporating Tech Expertise in Leadership

Understanding the significance of tech knowledge, NBWS integrates technological skills into its Board. This strategic decision ensures the organization stays abreast of industry developments and can make informed decisions to improve its operations and governance.

NBWS’s Development and Influence

Since its establishment in 2010, NBWS has significantly expanded from providing crisis services to offering various support through four services and five houses. This growth reflects the shelter’s dedication to uplifting women and children in need.

Conclusion

NBWS is actively working to counter technology-enabled abuse through enhanced digital capabilities, strategic collaborations, and strong data protection practices. Their commitment to integrating technology into governance and broadening support services showcases their determination to safeguard and empower vulnerable women.

Q: What constitutes technology-enabled abuse?

A: Technology-enabled abuse refers to the use of digital tools to harass, track, or control individuals, particularly in contexts of domestic violence.

Q: How is NBWS tackling technology-enabled abuse?

A: NBWS collaborates with tech firms for cybersecurity training and implements advanced software to safeguard and assist women facing such abuse.

Q: Why is data protection important for NBWS?

A: Safeguarding sensitive data is crucial for ensuring the safety and confidentiality of at-risk women and sustaining donor confidence.

Q: What is the significance of technology on NBWS’s Board?

A: Having tech expertise on the Board promotes informed decision-making and effective governance in addressing contemporary challenges.

Q: How has NBWS evolved since its founding?

A: From its beginnings as a crisis service in 2010, NBWS has grown to provide four services and run five houses to assist women and children.

Google Cloud Service Interruption Affects Key Platforms

wpengine on June 14, 2025

Disruption in Google Cloud Affects Key Platforms

Brief Overview

Google Cloud disruption impacted key platforms, such as Spotify and Discord.
Thousands of users globally were affected by the issue.
Service troubles were associated with an unnamed “underlying dependency”.
Sydney and Melbourne were included in the list of affected areas.
Most regions regained functionality by 6.15am AEST.
Downdetector noted more than 44,000 Spotify-related reports and 8,000 Discord-related reports.

Impact of Google Cloud Disruption

The recent disruption in Google Cloud services resulted in notable interruptions across various platforms, significantly affecting Spotify and Discord. Tens of thousands of users faced service interruptions, primarily due to issues with API request handling.

Regions Affected

The disruption impacted numerous regions, including Sydney and Melbourne, where several users reported service problems. Google Cloud indicated that most areas had regained functionality by 6.15am AEST.

Technical Issues and Mitigation

Google Cloud linked the service interruptions to an “underlying dependency,” which has not been clarified. Engineers made concerted efforts to resolve the situation, confirming recovery in various regions. However, the total time for complete resolution remains uncertain.

Service-Specific Disruptions

Spotify reported over 44,000 disruption incidents in the US, while Discord recorded more than 8,000. Additional services like Google Meet and the Google search engine also encountered difficulties. These figures were gathered by Downdetector based on reports from users.

Conclusion

The Google Cloud disruption resulted in considerable interruptions across major platforms, impacting a large number of users worldwide. Although most services have been reinstated, the event underscores the difficulties faced by cloud providers and the importance of dependable infrastructure.