Category: Australia Tech News

Quick Read

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

Cyberattacks Targeting UK Retailers: Arrests Executed

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

M&S: Most Profound Impact from Ransomware Incident

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

Arrest Details

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

Global Cooperation and Connections to DragonForce

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

Advocacy for Essential Reporting

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

Restoration and Future Projections

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

Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fast Overview

• Jay Renshaw’s creation ‘Chit’ has turned into a viral phenomenon on TikTok.
• Renshaw’s TikTok profile boasts 1.4 million followers and 14.6 million likes.
• Chit’s clips have accumulated 28 million views on TikTok.
• The humor is based on relatable workplace situations and unexpected punchlines.
• Renshaw’s content quality and comedic delivery play key roles in its success.
• The phrase “Do it lady!” has evolved into a meme, boosting Chit’s fame.

The Ascent of ‘Chit’: A TikTok Sensation

Step aside, Dunder Mifflin, there’s a new hilariously awkward office employee winning over the hearts (and laughs) of countless viewers on TikTok. Jay Renshaw, the genius behind ‘Chit’, has burst onto the platform with an account that has an impressive 1.4 million followers and 14.6 million likes from only 20 clips. It’s clear that Renshawjay is a bona fide viral sensation.

Chit’s YouTube Adventure

He also posts the videos on YouTube, amassing 11,435,171 views and 106k subscribers. Despite launching his channel in 2012, he has only shared 39 videos, with the first one uploaded just 3 weeks ago. In the realm of viral platforms in 2025, TikTok clearly holds the advantage, as the same video has only garnered 457k views on YouTube, in contrast to 28M on TikTok.

The Man Behind the Legend: Jay Renshaw

The talent bringing Chit to life is Jay Renshaw, an improv comedian affiliated with the famous Groundlings theatre in Los Angeles. Though the character of Chit has existed for approximately six years, it’s Renshaw’s recent TikTok debut that has catapulted him to fame. Renshaw’s comic timing and knack for embodying such a distinctive and unpredictable character are what truly make these sketches stand out.

“I find it equally delightful to see just how many viewers Chit has reached and touched,” “Just when I think [Chit] has extended his influence as far as possible, I discover there’s a whole new demographic that appreciates Chit just as much. It’s been this strangely universal experience, which [has], I believe, been perhaps the most satisfying aspect of it.”
Jay Renshaw, Improv Comedian, The Groundlings.

The Secret Ingredients of Success

So, why has Chit struck such a chord with such a vast audience in such a brief time? It’s a blend of elements that strikes all the right chords for viral content.

Relatable Workplace Humor

Even if you haven’t worked in a conventional office, the awkward exchanges, the mundane duties, and the quirky co-workers are universally relatable. Chit elevates these daily occurrences to a comically exaggerated level.

Unexpected Humor

Chit’s responses and non-sequiturs frequently serve as the punchline, keeping viewers engaged. One moment he’s mumbling “mhm’s” and “yeahs”, the next he’s delivering a perfectly timed, bizarre remark.

High Production Value

The sketches are well-produced and edited, providing them with a polished aesthetic similar to that of a mini-sitcom. This raises them above standard casual TikTok content, rendering them highly rewatchable.

The Catchphrase Craze

“Do it lady!” – a seemingly harmless phrase from one of Chit’s early viral clips – has taken on a life of its own. It’s become a widely shared meme, further embedding Chit into the TikTok culture. This simple, repeatable phrase has proven remarkably memorable.

For further details, visit https://www.tiktok.com/@renshawjay

Conclusion

Jay Renshaw’s comedic alter ego ‘Chit’ is captivating TikTok, amassing millions of followers and views. The wide-ranging appeal of the content, combined with high production quality and unforgettable catchphrases, has established ‘Chit’ as a cultural phenomenon. Renshaw’s achievement on TikTok eclipses his YouTube presence, emphasizing the platform’s supremacy in viral content creation.

Q: Who is Jay Renshaw?

A:

Jay Renshaw is an improv comedian from the Groundlings theatre in Los Angeles, recognized for his viral TikTok character ‘Chit’.

Q: What contributes to the character ‘Chit’s’ popularity?

A:

Chit’s popularity arises from relatable office comedy, unpredictable punchlines, high production quality, and the viral catchphrase “Do it lady!”.

Q: How does Chit’s success on TikTok compare to YouTube?

A:

Chit has experienced greater success on TikTok, with 28 million views on a single video, in contrast to 457k on YouTube.

Q: What is the importance of the catchphrase “Do it lady!”?

A:

The phrase “Do it lady!” has become a meme, further integrating Chit into popular culture and amplifying the character’s viral allure.

Hisense’s Groundbreaking Release in Australia

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

Quick Overview

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

RGB-MiniLED: Establishing New Viewing Benchmarks

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

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

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

Crafted To Impress, Engineered To Anticipate

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

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

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

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

Immersive Audio to Complement Exceptional Cinema

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

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

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

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

Pricing and Availability

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

For additional details, visit hisense.com.au

Overview

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

Q: What distinguishes the Hisense 116UX TV?

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

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

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

Q: What audio capabilities does the 116UX provide?

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

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

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

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

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

Australia’s Digital Currency Endeavor: Project Acacia

Quick Overview

• The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is progressing with its “Project Acacia” effort to create a wholesale central bank digital currency (CBDC).
• This initiative encompasses 19 pilot scenarios and 5 proof-of-concept examples utilizing actual money and assets.
• Testing includes diverse asset types such as fixed income, private markets, and carbon credits.
• Technologies like Hedera, Redbelly, and R3 Corda are part of the endeavor.
• The RBA’s objective is to improve transparency, mitigate operational risks, and decrease expenses.
• The emphasis remains on wholesale digital currency instead of consumer cryptocurrency.

Project Acacia: A New Chapter for Australian Finance

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has initiated a critical journey toward establishing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) through its “Project Acacia” initiative. This project represents an experimental stage featuring 19 pilot projects and 5 proof-of-concept use cases to investigate the integration of digital currency in wholesale financial markets.

Evaluating Real-World Implementations

Project Acacia transcends theoretical discussions; it engages real money and assets across an array of asset classes, including fixed income, private markets, trade receivables, and carbon credits. The venture will examine settlement assets such as CBDCs, stablecoins, and bank deposit tokens.

Collaboration and Technological Framework

The RBA is partnering with various industry stakeholders and utilizing cutting-edge technology platforms like Hedera, Redbelly, R3 Corda, and Canvas Connect. These systems will support testing over the upcoming six months, with outcomes expected in the first half of the subsequent year.

Advantages of a Wholesale CBDC

As per the RBA, a wholesale CBDC presents multiple benefits, including mitigating counterparty and operational risks, optimizing collateral use, and enhancing transparency and auditability. This initiative is projected to reduce expenses for financial institutions and their clientele.

Emphasis on Wholesale Over Retail

The RBA concentrates on wholesale applications of digital currency, asserting that there are no economic gains from introducing a retail cryptocurrency. The initiative is crafted to fortify the framework of Australia’s wholesale financial markets rather than targeting individual consumers directly.

Conclusion

Australia is advancing with “Project Acacia,” a pivotal move by the Reserve Bank of Australia towards implementing a wholesale central bank digital currency. This initiative entails real-world testing across different asset classes in collaboration with several industry partners, aiming to enhance transparency, minimize risks, and lower costs in financial markets.

Q: What is Project Acacia?

A: Project Acacia is an initiative led by the Reserve Bank of Australia to evaluate and investigate the implementation of a wholesale central bank digital currency across various financial markets.

Q: What are the primary objectives of the project?

A: The primary objectives include reducing counterparty and operational risks, optimizing collateral usage, and increasing transparency and auditability in wholesale financial markets.

Q: Why is the RBA prioritizing wholesale CBDCs instead of retail?

A: The RBA perceives that there are no economic advantages in launching a retail cryptocurrency and is instead focusing on enhancing the structure of wholesale financial markets.

Q: Which platforms are utilized in Project Acacia?

A: The project employs platforms such as Hedera, Redbelly, R3 Corda, and Canvas Connect for testing objectives.

Q: When should we anticipate the project results?

A: Testing is slated to proceed for six months, with findings expected in the first half of the forthcoming year.

Quick Read

• Viva Energy adopts a new HR system utilizing Dayforce.
• This transition follows the acquisition of Coles Express and includes the sites from OTR Group.
• The integration focuses on enhancing efficiency and removing manual tasks.
• Viva Energy is now the largest fuel and convenience retailer in Australia.
• The project encountered simultaneous challenges but was completed on schedule.

Viva Energy’s HR Evolution

Viva Energy, currently recognized as Australia’s leading fuel and convenience retailer, has successfully made the switch to a greenfield HR and payroll system powered by Dayforce. This strategic decision follows the acquisition of Coles Express and includes several hundred OTR Group locations.

Jason McNamara (left) presents at the Dayforce Summit.

The Separation Challenge

According to a transition services agreement, Viva Energy had a two-year period to implement independent core systems post-acquisition of Coles Express, necessitating the development of new greenfield payroll and HR systems from the ground up, as no previous systems were handed over from Coles.

OTR Group Integration

At the same time, the operations of the OTR Group were transferred to the new Dayforce platform, acknowledging the constraints of their previous HR systems. This extensive upgrade was crucial for optimized operations.

Gains in Automation and Efficiency

Prior to the transition, Coles Express operated using a combination of SAP SuccessFactors and Kronos, with many manual procedures still in place. The new system brings in digital functionalities and self-service options for staff, substantially decreasing manual tasks and boosting efficiency.

Managing the Project and Overcoming Challenges

The HR transformation formed part of six simultaneous initiatives, including enterprise resource planning and cloud solutions. Despite the demanding timelines, the project team, comprising Dayforce and Pinpoint HRM partners, remained dedicated and accomplished a successful transition.

Improved Payroll Functions

The shift has simplified payroll operations, alleviating the Monday rush to approve timesheets for 700 sites. Site managers can now oversee timesheets throughout the week, making processes easier and lightening the load on payroll personnel.

Conclusion

Viva Energy’s implementation of a Dayforce-based HR system signifies an important milestone in its development as Australia’s largest fuel and convenience retailer. By integrating operations from Coles Express and OTR Group, Viva Energy has improved efficiency and minimized manual procedures, setting the stage for streamlined and effective management throughout its extensive network.

Questions & Answers

Q: What prompted Viva Energy’s switch to a new HR system?

A: The change was essential following the acquisition of Coles Express, necessitating the formation of independent core systems within a two-year window.

Q: What obstacles did Viva Energy encounter during the transition?

A: The initiative was part of six concurrent programs, dealing with tight deadlines and the need to merge operations from both Coles Express and OTR Group.

Q: How has the new Dayforce system enhanced operations?

A: This system has automated payroll functions, diminished manual workloads, and provided digital self-service functionalities to employees, improving overall efficiency.

Q: What was a major advantage of using Dayforce for Viva Energy?

A: A key advantage was the capability to approve timesheets throughout the week, decreasing pressure on payroll teams and enhancing operational efficiency.

Q: What role did the project partners play in the transition?

A: Dayforce and partner Pinpoint HRM played a crucial role in the success of the project, maintaining a collaborative team approach to ensure timely completion.

Quick Overview

• The latest Tesla Model Y features remarkable enhancements in design, technology, and comfort.
• Includes a full-width front light bar along with new wheel styles.
• The interior boasts upgraded seating, enhanced ventilation, and a Smart Shift capability.
• Improved Autopilot and HW4 computer deliver sophisticated driving assistance.
• Starting price is A$64,373; additional upgrades are available at higher prices.
• Tesla provides trade-in incentives and inventory reductions.

Exterior Features and Design

The latest Tesla Model Y showcases an eye-catching full-width front light bar, contributing a contemporary feel to the vehicle’s design. Its newly designed wheels, available in 19″ Crossflows or 20″ Helix 2.0, present a modern appearance, while the contrasting center cap may not suit all tastes. Additionally, the rear features an afterburner light bar which creates an impressive and detailed visual impact.

Upgraded Camera Technology

A newly installed front-facing camera improves parking and obstacle awareness. This camera is equipped with a washer function to remove road dirt, enhancing the overall driving experience. The camera system works seamlessly with Tesla’s HW4 computer, which facilitates the Enhanced Autopilot for a better driving experience.

Innovations in the Interior

The Model Y’s interior has undergone substantial improvements. The seats are now more supportive and feature improved ventilation, making them suitable for extended journeys. The air conditioning now includes a Swing feature, which maintains consistent airflow without creating chilly spots.

Smart Shift and Advanced Technology

Reintroducing the indicator stalk, Tesla has listened to user input, refining the driving interface. The Smart Shift feature intelligently determines driving direction based on object recognition, ensuring a modern and intuitive driving experience. The HW4 computer and the newest software significantly enhance navigation and Autopilot functions.

Experience on the Road

The newly designed suspension system in the Model Y improves ride comfort without sacrificing maneuverability. The vehicle features a heightened ride height and substantial suspension travel, boosting passenger accessibility and minimizing cabin noise.

Solutions for Storage

Storage capabilities are a highlight of the Model Y, offering a generous rear cargo area with a parcel shelf and a deep lower storage compartment. The frunk continues to be one of the largest in its category, providing extra storage solutions for different requirements.

Concluding Remarks

The latest Tesla Model Y merges cutting-edge technology with functional features, making it an attractive option for families in Australia. With a base price of A$64,373 and numerous upgrade possibilities, it balances luxury with affordability. Tesla’s current deals, including trade-in incentives and reduced prices on inventory, present additional reasons for prospective buyers to consider this model.

Overview

The latest Tesla Model Y showcases notable advancements in both design and technology that upgrade the driving experience. With enhancements in exterior design, interior comfort, and sophisticated driving functions, it emerges as a leading choice in the electric vehicle marketplace. The competitive pricing, coupled with Tesla’s promotional offerings, makes it an appealing selection for Australian buyers.

Q: What are the notable exterior features of the updated Model Y?

A: Notable exterior features comprise a full-width front light bar, revamped wheels, and a rear afterburner light bar, all contributing to the vehicle’s visual attractiveness.

Q: How does the upgraded camera system enhance driving?

A: The new front-facing camera assists with parking and obstacle detection, including a washing system for keeping the view clear and improving safety.

Q: What are the main updates to the interior?

A: Key interior upgrades consist of more comfortable and ventilated seating, the Swing air conditioning feature, and the comeback of the indicator stalk for better usability.

Q: Can you explain how the Smart Shift feature operates?

A: Smart Shift automatically determines driving direction using object recognition technology, enhancing convenience and adding a modern flair to driving.

Q: What distinguishes the driving experience in the Model Y?

A: The revised suspension system offers improved comfort and handling, while the vehicle’s construction minimizes cabin noise, creating a quieter ride.

Q: What storage capabilities are provided by the Model Y?

A: The Model Y features ample storage options, including a spacious rear cargo area, a deep lower storage compartment, and a sizable frunk for added utility.