#Australia's Leading Provider

[natashaexploringelectrics]

NIU KQi3 Max Electric Kick Scooters for Adults:

The NIU KQi3 Max Electric Kick Scooter is a model designed for adults, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to commute short distances. Here are some key features of the NIU KQi3 Max:

Powerful motor: The KQi3 Max is equipped with a 350W motor that provides a maximum speed of 25km/h (15.5mph) and can handle inclines of up to 14 degrees.

Long range: With a 486Wh removable battery, the KQi3 Max can travel up to 70km (43 miles) on a single charge.

Convenient design: The KQi3 Max features a lightweight aluminum frame and a foldable design, making it easy to carry and store when not in use.

Smart features: The scooter comes with a Bluetooth-enabled app that allows you to monitor your speed, battery life, and other performance metrics.

Safety features: The KQi3 Max is equipped with a front and rear disc brake system, as well as front and rear lights for enhanced visibility.

[doyoulikethissong-poll]

Harold Faltermeyer - Axel F 1985

"Axel F" is an electronic instrumental track by German musician Harold Faltermeyer. It served as the theme song for the 1984 film Beverly Hills Cop, its eponymous character (as portrayed by Eddie Murphy) and the film franchise it is based from, which became an international number-one hit in 1985. The track reached number one in Ireland as well as on the US Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart. Additionally, it was a number two hit in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the UK, and West Germany. In addition to the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, the song appears on Faltermeyer's 1988 album Harold F. as a bonus track.

Faltermeyer recorded the tune using five instruments: a Roland Jupiter-8 provided the distinctive saw lead, a Moog modular synthesizer 15 provided the bass, a Roland JX-3P provided chord stab brasses, a Yamaha DX7 was used for the marimba sound, and a LinnDrum was used for drum programming. All instruments were played by Faltermeyer. According to Faltermeyer, the initial reaction to his first presentation of the track to the film's producers and director did not result in an immediate approval; it was not until director Martin Brest voiced his approval that the producers showed enthusiasm. A music video was produced to promote the single, directed by Faltermeyer.

"Axel F" has been sampled in many songs, including "Champion" by South Korean singer Psy. In 2005, Crazy Frog's version became a summer hit. It topped the charts in the UK, with some of the best weekly sales of the year, and remained at the top of the UK Singles Chart for four weeks to become Britain's third-best-selling single of 2005, outselling and outperforming the original version. It also reached number 1 in Australia, the Republic of Ireland, Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, Ukraine, Spain, and Sweden. In France, the song stayed at number 1 for thirteen weeks, only to be dethroned by Crazy Frog's second single, "Popcorn". This was only the second time that an artist had ever dethroned themself in that country. It peaked at number 3 on the US Digital Sales chart, and number 2 on the US Adult Contemporary Top 20. In 2024, as part of a tribute to celebrate the release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, the Crazy Frog Youtube Channel made a special crossover music video with Netflix, featuring scenes from the movie, but re-edited to feature Crazy Frog in them, being chased by the Beverly Hills Police and Axel Foley.

"Axel F" received a total of 88,3% yes votes!

[soon-palestine]

JULIAN ASSANGE IS FREE

Julian Assange is free. He left Belmarsh maximum security prison on the morning of 24 June, after having spent 1901 days there. He was granted bail by the High Court in London and was released at Stansted airport during the afternoon, where he boarded a plane and departed the UK.

This is the result of a global campaign that spanned grass-roots organisers, press freedom campaigners, legislators and leaders from across the political spectrum, all the way to the United Nations. This created the space for a long period of negotiations with the US Department of Justice, leading to a deal that has not yet been formally finalised. We will provide more information as soon as possible.

After more than five years in a 2x3 metre cell, isolated 23 hours a day, he will soon reunite with his wife Stella Assange, and their children, who have only known their father from behind bars.

WikiLeaks published groundbreaking stories of government corruption and human rights abuses, holding the powerful accountable for their actions. As editor-in-chief, Julian paid severely for these principles, and for the people's right to know.

As he returns to Australia, we thank all who stood by us, fought for us, and remained utterly committed in the fight for his freedom.

Julian's freedom is our freedom.

[reasonsforhope]

"Namibia is the driest country in Sub-Saharan Africa, and home to two of the world’s most ancient deserts, the Kalahari and the Namib. The capital, Windhoek, is sandwiched between them, 400 miles away from the nearest perennial river and more than 300 miles away from the coast. Water is in short supply.

It’s hard to imagine life thriving in Windhoek, yet 477,000 people call it home, and 99 per cent of them have access to drinking water thanks to technology pioneered 55 years ago on the outskirts of the city. Now, some of the world’s biggest cities are embracing this technology as they adapt to the harshest impacts of climate change. But Namibia leads the way.

How did this come about? In the 1950s, Windhoek’s natural resources struggled to cope with a rapidly growing population, and severe water shortages gripped the city. But disaster forced innovation, and in 1968 the Goreangab Water Reclamation Plant in Windhoek became the first place in the world to produce drinking water directly from sewage, a process known as direct potable reuse (DPR). 

That may sound revolting, but it’s completely safe. Dr Lucas van Vuuren, who was among those who pioneered Windhoek’s reclamation system, once said that “water should not be judged by its history, but by its quality”. And DPR ensures quality. 

This is done using a continuous multi-barrier treatment devised in Windhoek during eight years of pilot studies in the 1960s. This process – which has been upgraded four times since 1968 – eliminates pollutants and safeguards against pathogens by harnessing bacteria to digest the human waste and remove it from the water. This partly mimics what happens when water is recycled in nature, but Windhoek does it all in under 24 hours...

Pictured: These ultrafiltration membranes help to remove bacteria, viruses and pathogens. Image: Margaret Courtney-Clarke

“We know that we have antibiotics in the water, preservatives from cosmetics, anti-corrosion prevention chemicals from the dishwasher,” Honer explains. “We find them and we remove them.”

Honer adds that online instruments monitor the water continuously, and staff ensure that only drinking water that meets World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines is sent to homes. If any inconsistencies are detected, the plant goes into recycle mode and distribution is halted until correct values are restored. 

“The most important rule is, and was, and always will be ‘safety first’,” says Honer.  The facility has never been linked to an outbreak of waterborne disease, and now produces up to 5.5m gallons of drinking water every day – up to 35 per cent of the city’s consumption.

Namibians couldn’t survive without it, and as water shortages grip the planet, Windhoek’s insights and experience are more important than ever.

Interest from superpowers across the globe

In recent years, delegations from the US, France, Germany, India, Australia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates have visited Windhoek seeking solutions to water shortages in their own countries. 

Megadrought conditions have gripped the US since 2001, and the Colorado River – which provides 40 million people with drinking water – has been running at just 50 per cent of its traditional flow. As a result, several states including Texas, California, Arizona and Colorado are beginning to embrace DPR.

Troy Walker is a water reuse practice leader at Hazen and Sawyer, an environmental engineering firm helping Arizona to develop its DPR regulations. He visited Windhoek last year. “It was about being able to see the success of their system, and then looking at some of the technical details and how that might look in a US facility or an Australian facility,” he said. “[Windhoek] has helped drive a lot of discussion in industry. [Innovation] doesn’t all have to come out of California or Texas.”

Pictured: The internal pipes and workings of Namibia's DPR plant. As water becomes scarcer in some parts, countries are looking to DPR for solutions. Image: Margaret Courtney-Clarke

Namibia has also helped overcome the biggest obstacle to DPR – public acceptance. Disgust is a powerful emotion, and sensationalist ‘toilet to tap’ headlines have dismantled support for water reuse projects in the past. Unfortunately, DPR’s biggest strength is also its biggest weakness, as the speed at which water can re-enter the system makes it especially vulnerable to prejudice, causing regulators to hesitate. “Technology has never been the reason why these projects don’t get built – it’s always public or political opposition,” says Patsy Tennyson, vice president of Katz and Associates, an American firm that specialises in public outreach and communications.

That’s why just a handful of facilities worldwide are currently doing DPR, with Windhoek standing alongside smaller schemes in the Philippines, South Africa and a hybrid facility in Big Spring, Texas. But that’s all changing. Drought and increased water scarcity worldwide are forcing us to change the way we think about water. 

Now, the US is ready to take the plunge, and in 2025, El Paso Water will begin operating the first ‘direct to distribution’ DPR facility in North America, turning up to 10m gallons of wasterwater per day into purified drinking water – twice as much as Windhoek. San Diego, Los Angeles, California, as well as Phoenix, Arizona are also exploring the technology."

Of course, DPR is not a silver bullet in the fight against climate change. It cannot create water out of thin air, and it will not facilitate endless growth. But it does help cities become more climate resilient by reducing their reliance on natural sources, such as the Colorado River. 

As other nations follow in Namibia’s footsteps, Windhoek may no longer take the lead after almost six decades in front.

“But Windhoek was the first,” Honer reminds me. “No one can take that away.”"

-via Positive.News, August 30, 2023

[fatehbaz]

British ships carrying plants and seeds from around the world arrived in Botany Bay on January 20 1788. This story is overshadowed by convict ships and Royal Navy vessels, but the cargo on board also had a lasting impact. Colonists, convicts and Indigenous Australians were all affected [...]. Some of these plants [...] were food sources [...]. Others were attempts to expand the British Empire. Could the new territory be exploited as a tropical plantation? In the parliamentary debate over destinations for convict transportation [considering potential locations for sending prisoners], Sir Joseph Banks and James Matra, both members of James Cook’s 1770 expedition [to the South Pacific], spruiked the potential of the new colony as an extension of the empire. Matra claimed the colony was “fitted for production” of “sugar-cane, tea, coffee, silk, cotton, indigo and tobacco”. Banks claimed Botany Bay was an “advantageous” site, with fertile soil [...].

Two plants carried by the First Fleet stand out as examples of botanical imperialism: prickly pear cactus (Opuntia) and sugarcane.

Banks, as head of the Royal Society of London [and as a close adviser to King George, and also as a plant-collecting botanist who turned the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in London into the world's leading botanical garden], selected these species as experiments to compete with European trade rivals. His goal was to break a Spanish monopoly in producing fabric dye and to expand British cultivation of sugar outside the West Indies.

Prickly pear cactus was imported because it is the preferred food of the cochineal insect.

Dried cochineal were crushed to make a vibrant, colourfast scarlet dye for textiles. Discovered in the New World by Spanish colonists, cochineal replaced kermes, another insect that had provided red dye since antiquity. Cochineal dye was ten times stronger than kermes or vegetable dyes.

From cardinals’ capes to British officers’ red coats, cochineal was a product for elite consumers signifying power, wealth and prestige.

New Spain, based in Mexico, had a monopoly on cochineal. Banks wanted to break the stranglehold on the scarlet dye by establishing production in New South Wales.

Plants infested with the precious insects were imported from Brazil in 1788. The project soon failed when the cochineal died, but the cacti survived. Colonists used cacti as natural fences and drought-resistant animal fodder.

Without insects to feed on them the plants spread, uncontrolled, to cover more than 60 million acres of eastern Australia by the 1920s. Poison, crushing and fire failed to stop the cactus. [...] Opuntia cacti remain an environmental hazard. [...] The roots of these early imperial projects are deeply embedded in Australian culture and history, with an enduring legacy.

---

All text above by: Garritt C. Van Dyk. "The botanical imperialism of weeds and crops: how alien plant species on the First Fleet changed Australia". The Conversation. 25 January 2024. [Some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Italicized text within brackets added by me for clarity and context.

[todropscience]

SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALE CALVES ARE LITTLE MILK THIEVES

Drone footages made during the nursing season, off Encounter Bay, South Australia have revealed an unknown behaviour in southern right whales (Eubalaena australis), with some calves involved in direct and intentional movement to steal milk from other lactating mothers, with the intention to drink some delicious extra milk.

This phenomenon called allosuckling has potential benefits for the calf as it may gain extra milk to help it grow in size and strength, but it may be disadvantageous to the non-biological mother as she needs to provide milk to her own offspring. According to lead researcher of the study, whales have a capital breeding strategy, where during the nursing season the mother does not feed and is not able to replenish her lost energy reserves.

Allosuckling, the suckling of milk from a non-biological mother, occurs in some species of mammals, whoever, this is the first time is reported in baleen whale calves.

Gif description: A calf performing allosuckling, and the non-biological mother showing an evasive reaction, Sprogis & Christiansen, 2024.

reference (Open Access): Sprogis & Christiansen, 2024. Allosuckling in southern right whale calves. Mamm Biol

[zvaigzdelasas]

Celebrity chef José Andrés' World Central Kitchen, among the largest providers of desperately needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, is pausing its operations following the deaths of 7 workers in an Israeli airstrike, the organization said Tuesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said an investigation into "a tragic case of our forces unintentionally hitting innocent people" was underway.

Despite coordinating movements with the Israeli military, the convoy was hit Monday as it was leaving the Deir al-Balah warehouse, WCK said. The team had unloaded more than 100 tons of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza on the maritime route.

The workers killed include a Palestinian and citizens from Australia, Poland, United Kingdom and a dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada. [...]

Haaretz reported that Israelis fired three missiles in quick succession at three vehicles[...]

Netanyahu vowed Tuesday to probe the deaths of the World Central Kitchen workers.

"It happens in war," he said [sic]. "We are conducting a thorough inquiry and are in contact with the governments. We will do everything to prevent a recurrence."[...]

Hamas condemned the "heinous act" and demanded the U.N. Security Council put an end to Israel's "crimes of the occupation and its aggression" against Palestinians and their supporters.

"This crime reaffirms that the occupation still insists on the policy of systematic killing against defenseless civilians and against international relief teams and humanitarian organizations, within the framework of efforts to terrorize their employees, to prevent them from continuing their humanitarian duties," the militant group said in a statement.[...]

“I am heartbroken and appalled that we, World Central Kitchen, and the world lost beautiful lives today because of a targeted attack by the Israeli military," CEO Erin Gore said.[...]

The United Nations agency charged with leading the humanitarian aid effort in Gaza has complained for months about obstacles created by Israeli officials. In a report issued Monday, prior to the WCK tragedy, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) said that "access impediments continue to severely compromise the ability of humanitarian actors to reach people in the Gaza Strip." Since March 1, 30% of humanitarian aid missions to northern Gaza were denied by Israeli authorities, the agency said.[...]

The obstacles prompted other efforts, including sea shipment such as the one World Central Kitchen was using Monday. The U.S., partnering with Jordan and other regional nations, has also used airdrops. But trucking aid in from Egypt is viewed as the best method for meeting the tremendous demand.

2 Apr 24

[fatliberation]

I totally understand and can empathize with fat activists when it comes to medical fatphobia. But I do think its important to provide nuance to this topic.

A lot of doctors mention weight loss, particularly for elective surgeries, because it makes the recovery process easier (Particularly with keeping sutures in place) and anesthetic safer.

I feel like its still important to mention those things when advocating for fat folks. Safety is important.

What you're talking about is actually a different topic altogether - the previous ask was not about preparing for surgery, it was about dieting being the only treatment option for anon's chronic pain, which was exacerbating their ed symptoms. Diets have been proven over and over again to be unsustainable (and are the leading predictor of eating disorders). So yeah, I felt that it was an inappropriate prescription informed more by bias than actual data.

(And side note: This study on chronic pain and obesity concluded that weight change was not associated with changes of pain intensity.)

If you want to discuss the risk factor for surgery, sure, I think that's an important thing to know - however, most fat people already know this and are informed by their doctors and surgeons of what the risks are beforehand, so I'm not really concerned about people being uninformed about it.

I'm a fat liberation activist, and what I'm concerned about is bias. I'm concerned that there are so many BMI cutoffs in essential surgeries for fat patients, when weight loss is hardly feasible, that creates a barrier to care that disproportionately affects marginalized people with intersecting identities.

It's also important to know that we have very little data around the outcomes of surgery for fat folks that isn't bariatric weight loss surgery.

A new systematic review by researchers in Sydney, Australia, published in the journal Clinical Obesity, suggests that weight loss diets before elective surgery are ineffective in reducing postoperative complications.

CADTH Health Technology Review Body Mass Index as a Measure of Obesity and Cut-Off for Surgical Eligibility made a similar conclusion:

Most studies either found discrepancies between BMI and other measurements or concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support BMI cut-offs for surgical eligibility. The sources explicitly reporting ethical issues related to the use of BMI as a measure of obesity or cut-off for surgical eligibility described concerns around stigma, bias (particularly for racialized peoples), and the potential to create or exacerbate disparities in health care access.

Nicholas Giori MD, PhD Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Stanford University, a respected leader in TKA and THA shared his thoughts in Elective Surgery in Adult Patients with Excess Weight: Can Preoperative Dietary Interventions Improve Surgical Outcomes? A Systematic Review:

“Obesity is not reversible for most patients. Outpatient weight reduction programs average only 8% body weight loss [1, 10, 29]. Eight percent of patients denied surgery for high BMI eventually reach the BMI cutoff and have total joint arthroplasty [28]. Without a reliable pathway for weight loss, we shouldn’t categorically withhold an operation that improves pain and function for patients in all BMI classes [3, 14, 16] to avoid a risk that is comparable to other risks we routinely accept.

It is not clear that weight reduction prior to surgery reduces risk. Most studies on this topic involve dramatic weight loss from bariatric surgery and have had mixed results [13, 19, 21, 22, 24, 27]. Moderate non-surgical weight loss has thus-far not been shown to affect risk [12]. Though hard BMI cutoffs are well-intended, currently-used BMI cutoffs nearly have the effect of arbitrarily rationing care without medical justification. This is because BMI does not strongly predict complications. It is troubling that the effects are actually not arbitrary, but disproportionately affect minorities, women and patients in low socioeconomic classes. I believe that the decision to proceed with surgery should be based on traditional shared-decision making between the patient and surgeon. Different patients and different surgeons have different tolerances to risk and reward. Giving patients and surgeons freedom to determine the balance that is right for them is, in my opinion, the right way to proceed.”

I agree with Dr. Giori on this. And I absolutely do not judge anyone who chooses to lose weight prior to a surgery. It's upsetting that it is the only option right now for things like safe anesthesia. Unfortunately, patients with a history of disordered eating (which is a significant percentage of fat people!) are left out of the conversation. There is certainly risk involved in either option and it sucks. I am always open to nuanced discussion, and the one thing I remain firm in is that weight loss is not the answer long-term. We should be looking for other solutions in treating fat patients and studying how to make surgery safer. A lot of this could be solved with more comprehensive training and new medical developments instead of continuously trying to make fat people less fat.

[aquadraco20]

Bearded dragon substrate, humidity, and diet.

Inspired by @kaijutegu's recent post, let’s talk about calcium sand.

So, calcium sand, and substrate in general, has been attributed to impaction in bearded dragons (and other reptiles, but for this post, we’re just focusing on dragons.) However, while some substrates are more natural choices than others, and as such are more digestible, substrate itself is typically not the root cause of impaction. Improper husbandry such as dehydration, improper lighting, diet and supplementation all negatively impact the digestive system as well as the body in general, and the problems only compact when these factors are stacked together.

Firstly, lets look at a bearded dragons natural habitat. This video courtesy of the veterinarian Jonathon Howard, known online as the Beardie Vet, shows the texture of the substrate that wild dragons live on. The sand is loose on top but packed underneath. The grain size is about 96% fine sand.

Next, lets look at this map.

This map courtesy of Claire Jaworski overlays wild bearded dragon sightings from iNaturalist over a soil composition map of Australia. Note how many of the sightings are found in Calsisol zones. Calsisol (also known as calcarosol) zones are characterized by containing 15% or more calcium carbonate. We know that bearded dragons engage in geophagy, or intentionally eating substrate. This is likely a natural behavior that they would perform in the wild to fulfill their biological need for calcium. We provide calcium as a supplement so that they do not perform this behavior in captivity (however this is not the only vitamin we should be providing!!!)

Next we should consider humidity, as there is not much standing water in their natural habitat, as well as diet, which they also obtain water from.

Contrary to popular belief, the natural habitat of bearded dragons has a very wide range of humidity, both throughout the day and throughout the year. When they are found basking, the humidity typically ranges between 10-30%. However, the morning after rain can be around 60%.

According to these maps, which measured the humidity of Australia over the course of 30 years, many dragons would be found in areas that range between 50-70% humidity in the morning and 20-40% at 3 in the afternoon.

It is also important to note that dragons are frequently found in burrows when not out and about. In these burrows, the humidity can be higher than the surrounding air.

As far as diet, this entire post is just a fantastic resource, again, courtesy of the Beardie Vet. In the wild, adult female dragons would be ingesting 48% plant matter in their diet, with males ingesting 68%. As far as moisture content, “Most plants/herbs are around 85% water – herbage 80% water, flowers observed eating >90% water; Insects are about 65% water – Termites 60% water, crickets 67% water.”

Bearded dragons, while they do not spend a lot of time drinking, are dependent on both the natural humidity cycle and their diet to stay hydrated. It is not natural to maintain a humidity of 30% or lower all year round, and compounded with poor diet and lack of access to water, can lead to dehydration, which in turn disrupts the digestive system’s ability to do its job.

So let's bring it back. Bearded dragons are naturally found on substrate with calcium in it. If you look at Zoomed or Fluker’s calcium supplement, for example, you will see that they are calcium carbonate. If you look at the ingredients for T-Rex, RepTerra or Komodo’s calcium sand, all are made with the exact same calcium carbonate.

So what’s the problem? The problem is, in the absence of poor husbandry, the ratio. Remember that Calsisol is 15% or more calcium carbonate. Well, most bags of calcium sand are 100% calcium carbonate. They should not be used straight, instead mixed together with other safe substrates such as children's play sand, excavator clay, and pesticide and fertilizer-free topsoil to create a natural and safe substrate mixture. The proper substrate will not only allow them to create burrows like they would in the wild, it will allow females a safe place to lay eggs (which they can do even without the presence of a male), help retain heat, and keep humidity at normal levels, as well as provide natural enrichment.

Thank you for reading.

[turn3tifosi]

I. knowing me, knowing you

oscar piastri x childhood best friend!reader

first loves don't last, and break-ups aren't always dramatic fights

series masterlist | main masterlist

It was so lovely. So innocent, so carefree. You were each other's first loves, bound together by a thread that started in childhood and wove through the years. From neighboring houses in the sunny suburbs of Australia to a cramped but cozy apartment in bustling London, you were inseparable.

"We see each other more than we see our families, even when we're back home in Australia," he remarked one evening, his eyes crinkling with that familiar smile as you kissed him goodnight and headed back to your parents'.

True love, you once believed, could conquer anything. But sometimes, true love means letting each other go, knowing deep down that you can't provide what the other truly needs. You knew yourself, and you knew Oscar.

You yearned for stability, the comfort of a partner who would return home every night to share dinner and gossip with you in the kitchen. Oscar, with his career in racing that took him everywhere, could never be that constant presence.

He, on the other hand, craved someone who could stand by him at the tracks, sharing in his triumphs and consoling him in his defeats. You supported him as best you could, but your commitments to university and career aspirations meant you couldn't always be there.

"So, this is it then?" Oscar's voice was tinged with resignation as he sat across from you in the familiar kitchen of your shared apartment. You looked at him, really looked at him, and saw not just the man he'd become, but glimpses of the boy who once picked flowers for you in the playground, the teenager who vowed every win would be dedicated to you. His laughter echoed in your mind, mingling with the tears you'd shed together on difficult nights.

"There's nothing else we can do, Osc." Your voice was calm, almost too calm, a tone that he had come to associate with moments of quiet anger or disappointment. He remembered the fights, rare but intense, like the one where you couldn't make it to his most crucial race. You weren't one to yell, but when your usually bubbly voice turned flat, it spoke volumes.

"I don't blame you for not being able to be there," Oscar began, his voice thick with emotion. "And I hope you don't blame me for needing someone who can." His words hung heavily in the air, a mutual understanding that neither of you could fault the other for their dreams and desires.

"This has been beautiful, hasn't it?" you whispered, the weight of finality settling over your shared space. "Our friendship will always be incomparable." The tears you'd been holding back threatened to spill over, matching the silent tracks that marked Oscar's face.

He reached out, instinctively, his hand seeking yours. "I think I should go, Osc," you said softly, pressing a kiss to his knuckles before pulling away, your heart heavy with the ache of farewell.

As you left the apartment that had been a sanctuary for your shared dreams and memories, you couldn't help but glance back one last time. The space felt emptier now, devoid of the laughter and whispered confidences that had once filled its corners. Yet, amidst the sorrow, you held onto the hope that letting go would someday lead you both to the happiness and fulfillment you sought, even if it meant finding it apart.

Author's note: Part 1 of my ABBA inspired fics!!!!

[bethanysnow]

How I think Stray Kids would date a Plus Size Girlfriend!~ Makenae line!

Hyung Line

-Han

This man is going to deny his feelings so hard???? Like my god- he is gonna flirt with you, hold your hand, be an absolute adorable pain in your ass. Let you in, and if asked about it? Nahh, we are just friends. And its gonna crush you. But he knows as soon as it left his face he shouldn't have said it. He is just protecting his heart and he is scared.

He is so internal about his deep feelings that most people wouldn't be able to tell if he was upset, but if you see that his eyes are gonna light up like fireworks. We see how aware he is around Leeknow, how in the SKZ show he did with Minho he was able to tell like 'wait 10 seconds and if he sighs or huffs he didn't really wanna do it' THIS MAN IS SO DETAILED?! Like we know he is an angst boy, and loves writing heartbreaking songs, I don't think that he would change that about himself, but he would write about your troubles. How he is so desperate to see yourself the way he sees you. Which I think if he was to date a plus-size girlfriend it would unironically be a like Noona thing? We all joke and tease that this man is subby and needs a minho or a dominate woman, but I think he just likes to not have to be 'the pants' as it were. I don't get a super typical masc vibe so having someone who is on the other side of the spectrum is helpful. He isn't a dominant person, he doesn't like the attention a lot of the time. He reminds me of like very calm and collected kinda he will be your peace. He will remind you to drink water, and hold you when you're sad, but also wants to be held.

He will fall in love with you internally and grow to love your body. Which is a pain, but its true I think. First thing out of his boys mouth is how cute you are, and prepare to have your cheeks squished. Lots of demanding kisses, lots of hand holding. If you can carry him? OOO YOU'VE GOT HIM IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND! He loves to be baby, but don't let that fool you that he is any less man than changbin or Channie or anyone else

-Felix

I think out of everyone (this may be controversial) this man is the one that is going to have the most internal problems with the idea. Where for hyunjin its a lot around his perception, but for felix its all internal. I say this because like Chan, he lived in Australia, and moved to Korea. He is going to have a lot of complexes regarding his looks. He went and starved himself for 5 ish days because he felt he needed to for a fashion show. (which isn't true) He did martial arts and as someone who dated a person who also did martial arts with a similar amount of awards, there is so much conversation around what your body can do? In that culture? Pushing past those limits, finding your inner strength. This is great in theory, but not so in practice if done poorly because it forces you to think far more critically and not constructively about yourself. He has on record talked about how not great he thinks he looks and it breaks my heart and I very much think that it would affect a relationship. Not that I think he is worried about public reception, but he might buy into a lot of the bad science that's out there around plus-size bodies. I also think him and Chan would make jokes that aren't that.... well-received?

But if he gets through all of that, you have an absolute dork on your hands. He is so ready to skip chapters and be 4 years married going to your daughter's dance recital. He will dote on you and lay on you, and just hold your face in his hands and squish your cheeks to make duck lips. He is I think like Han in that softer masculinity, not that it's any less masculine. He's just not gonna be very dude-bro about it. If you want to take the lead he's all for it. If you want him to be the lead he'll happily step up. I think like some other members of SKZ he wants to provide for you, he wants to make sure you are happy and taken care of and feel loved. If you have a love language or a attachment style he will research it, or if you have an interest he will look into it to try and talk to you about it. Being plus size I think it wouldn't affect him much and if you needed to sit he'd sit with you.

He knows shame, and so if you were stuck in a situation where you felt shame like going to dinner with friends or being invited to do a day outing and getting winded? He would defend you or try his best to make it suck less. He is such a quiet reliance that he will be your security when the world falls apart.

-Seungmin

This motherfucker doesn't give a single flying fuck about how you look. Or how you think you look or if you think you look bad. It will always go like this

"Whats wrong?"

"...It's nothing"

Punches you in tiny "what's wrong?"

"I just don't feel pretty okay? Or like I deserve you or just gahh!"

"..Well that's dumb. Of course you deserve me. We love each other."

and he will walk away, run back ruffle your hair or give you a kiss and walk away again. THATS IT! I think if it was really serious he would listen and try to help, but he knows hes not gonna change how you feel about yourself in some grand gesture. We know he teases a lot of people, but if you made him aware that 'hey lets not' I think he'd be considerate about it. He'd then tease you about something else, but he knows not to super cross lines set up. If someone around yall makes a 'joke' or tries to make fun of you I believe he'd either try and spin it in a way where its not bad, or he'd play threaten violence but you know its not as...play as people believe it to be. He is I think also in the line of softer masculinity, but is more leaning towards the hyung line of masculine than someone like Felix. (everyone has their moments of course)

He is one of those people that I see wanting an equal partnership, someone he can have banter with (not just be rude and see if you put up with it) but like actual witty banter. He is simultaneously baby but also is happy to hold you close. He doesn't care about looking stupid in public so don't let you think for a moment he wouldn't hold your hand in public. He would bring you up in any conversation, just so proud of you and your accomplishments. He is rather shy of a person, until you get to know him then he is a twerp so if you can bounce with that energy you've got a good relationship in spades.

-I.N

This man is such a dweeb! In a good way! But his clumsy ass would actually be falling head over heels! I dont think hes gotten a lot of outside experience in the dating scene due to school and then just instant idol life? So someone with similar youthful energy that matches his would do really well. I think he'd need someone his age too, unlike Han who would be interested in a noona. Noona stuff for him I feel is more kidding than real relationship material.

This is where I have to apologize to Jeongin stans, I do not have a single romantic or interested bone in my body for IN other than 'he is baby, let me feed him food'. I wanna take care of him like a big sister, not a girlfriend. Though because of this I will link some fics to hopefully make it better. (I haven't read these so be warned)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@7ndipity @kaciidubs @itshannjisung @dreamescapeswriting @moonlightndaydreams @cutesyh @maymayribee @hanjisunglover @ldysmfrst

[natashaexploringelectrics]

Mobility Innovations: A Look at the Latest Technological Advances.

In a rapidly evolving world, how we move has undergone a remarkable transformation. Mobility innovations are at the forefront of this change, revolutionizing the way we navigate our cities, reduce our carbon footprint, and embrace sustainable living. In this blog, we will embark on a journey through the fascinating realm of mobility innovations, shedding light on their paramount significance in modern living.

As technology continues to advance at breakneck speed, our mobility options have expanded beyond imagination. From the humble beginnings of walking to the invention of the wheel, from the automobile revolution to the era of public transit, the history of human mobility has been nothing short of extraordinary. However, with urbanization and growing environmental concerns, there has never been a more critical time for continuous innovation in mobility.

The Evolution of Mobility

Wheels of Progress

The journey of human mobility traces back thousands of years, from the earliest forms of transportation, such as walking and riding animals, to the groundbreaking invention of the wheel. This section will explore the historical context of mobility and the pivotal role played by innovations like the wheel in shaping human civilization.

Milestones in Transportation

Delve into the major milestones in transportation that have defined different eras of human history. From the mass production of automobiles in the early 20th century to the advent of public transit systems, each development has significantly impacted the way we move.

Necessity of Innovation

As cities expand, and the world faces pressing environmental challenges, the need for continuous innovation in mobility becomes evident. We will discuss how rapid urbanization and environmental concerns are driving innovation in transportation and inspiring new ways to move efficiently and sustainably.

The Rise of Electric Mobility

Electrifying Change

Introduce the concept of electric mobility as a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based transportation. Discuss how electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the automotive industry and addressing environmental concerns.

Green Benefits

Highlight the environmental benefits of electric vehicles, including their role in reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. Explore how electric mobility contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

From Cars to Bikes

Explore the growing popularity of electric cars and bikes as precursors to the rise of electric kick scooters. Show how these innovations have paved the way for more eco-friendly and efficient forms of urban transportation.

Electric Kick Scooters: A Game-Changer

Defining Electric Kick Scooters

Define electric kick scooters and outline their key features, such as their compact design, electric propulsion, and ease of use. Explain how these scooters have quickly gained popularity as a convenient mode of urban transportation.

Urban Mobility Revolution

Provide statistics and insights into the exponential growth of electric kick scooter-sharing services in cities worldwide. Discuss how these scooters are reshaping urban transportation, reducing traffic congestion, and providing affordable alternatives to traditional commuting methods.

Technological Advances in Electric Kick Scooters

Powering the Future

Explore the latest innovations in electric kick scooter technology. Discuss advancements in battery technology that have led to longer ranges, faster charging times, and improved energy efficiency. Highlight the role of cutting-edge materials and design in enhancing scooter performance.

Smart and Connected

Delve into the integration of smart features in electric kick scooters. Explore how GPS tracking, mobile apps for ride management, and connectivity options are making scooter rides more convenient and enjoyable for users.

 Safety and Regulations

Safety First

Address safety concerns associated with electric kick scooters, emphasizing the importance of helmet usage, speed limits, and responsible riding practices. Provide practical tips for riders to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

Evolving Regulations

Explain the evolving regulations surrounding electric scooters in different cities and countries. Discuss how governments adapt to the rise of electric scooters and what riders need to know to comply with local laws.

The Future of Mobility

Beyond Tomorrow

Speculate on the exciting future of mobility innovations, with a particular focus on electric kick scooters. Discuss potential advancements in design, materials, and sustainability that will further shape the world of urban transportation.

Changing Cities

Explore how mobility innovations are influencing urban planning and reducing traffic congestion in cities. Highlight the role of electric kick scooters and other emerging forms of sustainable transportation in creating smarter and more efficient urban environments.

Join us on this captivating journey through the world of mobility innovations, where the wheels of progress never stop turning. Discover how the latest technological advances are not only changing the way we move but also paving the way for a more sustainable and interconnected future.

[kaitaiga]

Craig Alan Jones - Black Ops OC

GENERAL

Age: 46 (1981)

Birthday: 23 July, 1935 in Adelaide, South Australia

Occupation: SASR Trooper, ASIS Officer

Affiliation: Special Air Service Regiment (SASR)(Formerly), Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)

Rank: Lieutenant (Formerly)

Face Claim: Mel Gibson

Height: 186cm (6'1)

Hair Colour: Dark Brown

Eye Colour: Blue

Identifying Marks: Scarring on legs, mole on left cheek

Languages: English, Indonesian, Vietnamese (minimal), Russian (minimal)

Song Associated: Sharp Dressed Man - ZZ TOP

AFFILIATES

CIA

Russell Adler

Frank Woods

Alex Mason

Lawrence Sims

Lazar Azoulay

"Bell"

Aleksandra Clarke R. (@alypink)

MI6

Helen Park

New Zealand Army

Koa “Hunter” Nikau ( @islandtarochips )

Other

Abby Mason (@revnah1406)

PERSONALITY AND TRAITS

Myers-Briggs Type: ENTP-A

Generally, Craig is a relaxed but confident, goal-oriented individual.

He isn’t afraid to speak his mind when he has opposing views on a matter. He prides himself on his own experiences that have built said opinions, which may come off as arrogant at times.

Craig has a habit of working alone without noticing, working autonomously to get a job done. He is self-motivated and does what he thinks is best for an outcome.

As a trooper, he learnt to be adaptable and resourceful to any given situation.

SKILLS/SPECIALISATIONS

As an SASR trooper, Craig has to work in a smaller force element, therefore has undergone training in many different areas, including:

Parachuting (HALO/HAHO)

Combat Survival

CQB/CQC

Demolitions

Signaller

SF Weapons Handling (mounted heavy-weapons, sniper, etc)

Urban Combat

BACKSTORY

Craig was born on the 23rd of July, 1935 in Adelaide. Raised just outside of the main city, his father was part of the city council in Bradbury and lived well beyond his means. Craig attended prestigious primary and secondary schools but was always rebellious, preferring to skip going to school to commit petty crimes, tarnishing the family name as he knew that due to his father's status, he could bypass getting in trouble.

Due to this and in addition to not wanting to follow his father’s path of going to university and becoming part of the city council, this lead to many arguments between the two and at 16, he was thrown out of the house and had to fend for himself on the streets. Craig’s father, not wanting to have any association with him anymore, placed a fake obituary in the newspaper to officially cut ties with him.

For two years, Craig changed his identity and worked at a plant nursery before undergoing mandatory national service within the Australian Army at 18. He enjoyed his occupation and the perks that came along with it that he fully enlisted into the Army after his mandatory service finished and later into the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) in 196X. He spent his first brief deployment in Borneo during the Indonesia-Malaysia conflict before shipping out to Nui Dat, Vietnam in 1966 as part of Sabre 1 squadron.

Unbeknownst to his unit whilst in Vietnam, Craig was ordered by ASIS to keep an eye out and investigate any intel that could hint towards any Soviet activity, passing anything he finds onto a CIA contact. This contact was revealed to be Russell Adler. The two become acquainted and would go onto Operation Fracture Jaw alongside Lawrence Sims.

For the remainder of the Vietnam War, Craig and the SASR continued to work closely with MACV-SOG, providing intel and support until 1971 where he returned to Australia. He truely florished in his time spent in the military, from a petty thief to an extraordinary soldier who lead his unit through countless battles, a great leader and mentor.

COLD WAR

Fast forward to 1981, Craig now works under ASIS as an intelligence officer. Due to his knowledge and intel of Perseus from Vietnam, plus his connections to Adler, he joins the crew at the CIA safehouse to help track him down once and for all.

Missions:

Fracture Jaw

Brick in the Wall

Echos of a Cold War

End of the Line

The Final Countdown

Two years later in 1983, Craig married his unnamed wife and thus his son Lachlan Jones was born.

TRIVIA

Craig prefers to wear his R.M Williams boots in the style, 'The Craftsman' in dark tan.

His main choice of attire includes: two button down shirts layered and unbuttoned (inner white and outer dark blue) with a brown leather bomber jacket on top, boot-cut blue jeans and a brown leather belt along with his boots.

Smokes occasionally, likes the brand 'Lucky Strike'.

Drives a red Mitsubishi Starion.

Favourite weapons include: HK MP5, Sterling Submachine Gun, Colt M16A1 and L9A1 Browining Hi-Power.

Frequently visits casinos and likes to gamble.

He prefers his coffee made black with lots of sugar.

[bokutosbiceps]

public privacy

matsuoka rin x f!reader | fluff + smut | 1.9k words

summary: rin takes you back to japan for gou’s graduation + your first stop is a familiar hot springs resort. rin lets the heat get to his head.

warnings: handsy/horny rin, mentions of death and depression, mild cursing, suggestive themes, nsfw, nsfw under the cut, almost voyeurism, fingering, humping, semi-public sex, it gets so sad then so horny lol

18+ MINORS DNI

“Ah, this place is just like I remember it!” Rin dropped his duffel bag on the tatami mat next to the door and stretched his arms into the air, sighing.

Rin had to return to Japan for Gou’s high school graduation and decided to take this opportunity to bring you to his home country for a little getaway, complete with introducing you to his family and friends. Hence the immediate reservation made at Anago Hot Springs three days before Gou’s graduation to spend some romantic alone time with you before subjecting you to the chaos that was Iwatobi.

“Oh, have you been here before?” You asked, kicking the door shut behind you and dropping your bag next to his. Rin hummed in confirmation and approached you, taking your hand and leading you to the big glass window that completed one of the walls of your room. He positioned you in front of him and secured his arms around your waist, resting his chin in between your neck and shoulder and gazing out at the view of the shoreline that the window offered.

“Yeah, but this time is gonna be different.” You could hear the lilt in his voice and turned your neck to look at his face. The smirk that you expected to be there was flourishing on his face and his fingers started to rub circles into your hips.

“Why is that?”

“Because I’m here with you.” He placed a chaste kiss to your jawline before releasing you. “Let’s go into town, I’m starving!”

Rin held your hand as you two walked through town, stopping at various food and activity stalls to sample snacks and challenge each other to multiple games. Once you had both had your fill, Rin opted to walk with you along the shore, still holding your hand.

“I missed the beaches here so much.” He smiled, looking out over the water simmering under the moonlight. You cocked an eyebrow at him.

“We have beaches in Sydney, babe. We literally live five minutes from one of the biggest tourist beaches in Australia.”

“Yeah, but…something about the beaches in Japan is different.” Rin stops walking to fully face the water, prompting you to stand beside him and acknowledge the water as well. The water was a deep blue, that somehow glowed even in the darkness, and the lull of the waves along the shoreline seemed to have a gentle calm to it. You could immediately understand what he meant once you stopped to regard it the way that he did. “Maybe it’s because I always came to the beach when I needed to clear my head.” He smiled softly and started to scrape at the sand with his toe. “Or maybe it’s because it’s the last place my dad ever saw. Makes me feel close to him.” 

You turned your head to see Rin still smiling down at the sand, no doubt thinking about his late father who had drowned at sea while working an honest job to provide for his little family. You squeezed his hand. “Is that why you swim?” You asked slowly, trying to make Rin feel safe enough to talk about his feelings. He was probably feeling a multitude of emotions since coming back to Japan after two long years of being away. He was probably being reminded of all the feelings he felt during his time here. He was probably feeling the closest he’d felt to his dad in a long time.

“At first, I wanted to train hard so I could carry out the dream that my dad never got to see through.” Rin chuckled gently and lifted his head to look out across the ocean again. “But after meeting Haru, Makoto, Sousuke, and the others, I started to swim for myself. I trained hard so that I could swim with them.” Rin let go of your hand momentarily to kneel down and brush his fingertips across the waves. “I wonder if you’ll like them.” He straightened up and dried his hand on his pants before grabbing your waist.

“I’ve met Haru.” You smiled fondly at the memory of the black haired, blue eyed man staying in your apartment when he came to visit Rin last winter. You had never seen two humans bicker more than Rin and Haru, but you could see the years of friendship between them with just a glance. 

Haru took to you immediately upon seeing you interact with Rin. Mainly the way you liked to tease him and make him blush. Haru knew Rin was in good hands with you in Australia. He knew of the loneliness Rin experienced during his first time living in Australia, and was glad to see he didn’t have to worry about that this time around.

“Yeah, you guys are just two peas in a pod. Arguing with me about every single damn thing.” Rin shook his head and squeezed your hip, causing you to giggle.

“Tell me about the others.”

“Well, Sousuke, you’ve met him on facetime. There’s not really much more to him than the stubborn, responsible guy you’ve spoken with. He’s probably kept me the most grounded out of any of my friends, but he’s a pain sometimes, the bastard.”

You remember meeting Sousuke one evening when you had arrived home and found Rin laughing and chatting with him over facetime. Rin immediately took the opportunity to introduce you two and the first thing you did was take note of how handsome Sousuke was. This lead to a string of teasing on your part, petty jealousy on Rin’s part, and more teasing on Sousuke’s part. The next time Sousuke happened to be facetiming Rin, Rin made it his life’s mission to keep you away, as if you were going to fall in love with Sousuke just upon seeing his face again. But over time, Rin got over his petty jealousy and allowed you to befriend his best friend. Now, Sousuke was someone you kept in touch with—mainly to gossip about Rin.

Rin went on to talk about Makoto, Nagisa, Momotarou, and Nitori, reminiscing about all the fun times they had together before he left for Australia. Rin talked about his high school days for the duration of the walk back to your inn.

He chatted with you about all the things he wanted to show you once you were back in his hometown while you slipped out of your street clothes and into the robes that the onsen provided.

“I’m gonna take a dip in the hot springs before bed. What are you gonna do?” You asked, securing the belt of the robe around your waist. Rin grinned and did the same.

“I’m gonna join you.”

“Rin, you know very well they are not co-ed pools.” You narrowed your eyes at him as he followed you into the hall after locking your room door.

“Awe, c’mon, it’s late. There’s probably not gonna be anyone around!” Rin pleaded with you all the way to the entrance of the hot springs. You stopped in front of the women’s entrance and smirked at him.

“If I didn’t know you any better I would think you’re just trying to see me wet and naked.” You ran your fingers up along the collar of his robe, lingering to wrap your fingers around the fabric and pull Rin close to you.

“I’m just trying to spend time with my beautiful girlfriend.” Rin said innocently. He leaned in and let the tip of his nose brush against yours. “Getting to see you wet and naked is always a perk, though.”

You placed a chaste kiss to his lips before letting go of him and pushing open the door to the women’s entrance. “You’ll survive, honey. Try not to pass out from the heat!” You waved at Rin before disappearing behind the door, leaving him speechless, hot, and bothered.

You made quick work of slipping out of your robe and slippers, stashing them away in a cubby, and rinsing yourself off before sliding into the warm water. You let out a content sigh, somewhat relieved that you were the only one in the pool and allowing yourself to feel the stress of the long day of travel evaporate from your body with the steam. 

You were about to doze off when the door to the entrance opened and you heard the sequential splash of someone rinsing themselves off. Before you could turn around to politely greet whoever it was that would join you, a figure flashed across your field of vision and dove into the pool.

A creeping suspicion crawled its way up your chest as you shielded your face from being splashed with the steamy water. You lowered your arm just in time to catch a glimpse of a wet mess of maroon locks as Rin swam up to you, stopping only to rest his arms on your thighs and float in front of where you were sitting against the rim of the pool. A smirk was plastered across his lips.

“If you think you can get rid of me that easily, think again, baby.” Rin grinned at you and pushed himself out of the water to start nibbling on your neck, sneaking one of his hands to fit in between your thighs and push them apart.

“Matsuoka Rin, we are in public!” You scolded, pushing his hands away from in between your thighs. He just smirked at you and pressed his bare chest against yours.

“Eh…public private.” He drew out the last word in emphasis, completing his point by looking around the empty pool before turning back to you with a mischievous grin. You let him push your thighs apart again before sinking into his touch with a sigh as he ghosted his fingers over your clit.

You moaned and let your head fall forward onto Rin’s shoulder as he continued his ministrations on your neck and in between your thighs. He cupped your cheek with his other hand and brought your head up to meet your eyes before pressing his lips to yours. The kiss was soft and sweet, he moved his lips against yours in sync with each stroke of his fingers against your clit. He successfully managed to pry your lips apart with his tongue at the same time he plunged two fingers inside of you, making you gasp into his mouth. Your sounds were almost too much for Rin to bear.

“C’mere.” He growled, quickly taking your place against the rim of the pool and grabbing your hips to have you grind your ass against his cock. He bucked his hips against you and sank his teeth into your shoulder as he continued to hump you under the water, feeling as though he might pass out from the steamy pool and the excitement of having his lover there with him.

Without any notice, Rin gently lifted you from his lap and pulled himself out of the pool before turning around to offer you his hand. “Now, let’s continue this in the room or I will pass out from all this heat.” You blushed when you noticed he was still completely hard and wondered how he was going to walk back to your room like that. You took his hand and let yourself be pulled up and out of the pool.

“I will never understand why you suggested a hot spring when you know you get dizzy from the heat.” You chuckled as you slipped back into your robe, not bothering to tie it properly as you knew it would be dragged off once you set foot in the room.

“The heat from you and the pool, babe. You and the pool.”

[reasonsforhope]

"The South Australian premier, Peter Malinauskas, has announced plans to ban political donations from state elections, paving the way for nation-leading electoral reforms.

The state’s electoral amendment bill announced on Wednesday [June 12, 2024] night will ban electoral donations and gifts to registered political parties, members of parliament and candidates. The state will provide funding to allow parties and candidates to contest elections, run campaigns and promote political ideas.

Malinauskas said his bill would put South Australia on the “cusp of becoming a world leader in ending the nexus between money and political power”.

“We want money out of politics. We know this is not easy. These reforms may well face legal challenge,” Malinauskas said.

“But we are determined to deliver them, with this bill to be introduced in the parliament in the near future.”

In a subtle challenge to his federal and state counterparts, the premier told Guardian Australia he thought it was “something that democracies everywhere should be pursuing”.

The Albanese government pledged to introduce spending and donation caps, and truth in political advertising laws, as revealed by Guardian Australia after the 2022 federal election and confirmed by a parliamentary inquiry that reported last July.

The special minister of state, Don Farrell, said last month an agreement between the major parties and the crossbench had not yet been reached. An amendment bill is still expected by the middle of the year.

In order to level the playing field for newly created parties and independent candidates, the South Australia bill will allow candidates to receive donations up to $2,700, although they will remain subject to campaign spending caps.

Those spending caps have been set at $100,000, multiplied by the number of candidates up to a maximum of $500,000.

If the bill is passed, a registered political party will be entitled to a one-off payment of $200,000 before 31 August 2026. Whichever is lower out of $700,000 or the number of party members of parliament multiplied by $47,000 will also be given to parties for operational funding.

Membership fees will be allowed to continue but will be capped at $100 or less a year.

To deter attempts to circumvent the proposed changes, a maximum penalty of $50,000 or 10 years’ imprisonment will apply.

The guide acknowledges the proposal would lead to a rise in the cost of South Australia’s electoral system, but says a tightening of expenditure and party registration rules will keep costs to a minimum.

The Albanese government is under crossbench pressure to introduce electoral reforms before the next federal election.

Lower house independents, including Kate Chaney, Zali Steggall, the Greens, David Pocock, Lidia Thorpe and the Jacqui Lambie Network, joined forces to introduce a bill for fair and transparent elections in March [2024].

The bill contained a suite of reforms including truth-in-political advertising, a ban on donations from socially harmful industries including fossil fuels, and tightening the definition of gifts to capture major party fundraisers, including dinners and business forums."

-via The Guardian, March 18, 2024

[intersectionalpraxis]

"97% of all water in Gaza is not safe for human consumption." with caption below- "Systemic change for collective liberation" -percentage/figure is from the United Nations [@/ theslowfactory on X. 01/08/24.]

"On 28 July 2010, through Resolution 64/292, the United Nations General Assembly explicitly recognized the human right to water and sanitation and acknowledged that clean drinking water and sanitation are essential to the realisation of all human rights. The Resolution calls upon States and international organisations to provide financial resources, help capacity-building and technology transfer to help countries, in particular developing countries, to provide safe, clean, accessible and affordable drinking water and sanitation for all." "In November 2002, the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights adopted General Comment No. 15 on the right to water. Article I.1 states that "The human right to water is indispensable for leading a life in human dignity. It is a prerequisite for the realization of other human rights". Comment No. 15 also defined the right to water as the right of everyone to sufficient, safe, acceptable and physically accessible and affordable water for personal and domestic uses." "Sufficient. The water supply for each person must be sufficient and continuous for personal and domestic uses. These uses ordinarily include drinking, personal sanitation, washing of clothes, food preparation, personal and household hygiene. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 50 and 100 litres of water per person per day are needed to ensure that most basic needs are met and few health concerns arise." "Safe. The water required for each personal or domestic use must be safe, therefore free from micro-organisms, chemical substances and radiological hazards that constitute a threat to a person's health. Measures of drinking-water safety are usually defined by national and/or local standards for drinking-water quality. The World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for drinking-water quality provide a basis for the development of national standards that, if properly implemented, will ensure the safety of drinking-water." "Acceptable. Water should be of an acceptable colour, odour and taste for each personal or domestic use. [...] All water facilities and services must be culturally appropriate and sensitive to gender, lifecycle and privacy requirements." "Physically accessible. Everyone has the right to a water and sanitation service that is physically accessible within, or in the immediate vicinity of the household, educational institution, workplace or health institution. According to WHO, the water source has to be within 1,000 metres of the home and collection time should not exceed 30 minutes." "Affordable. Water, and water facilities and services, must be affordable for all. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) suggests that water costs should not exceed 3 per cent of household income."

Outlined by the United Nations very CLEARLY -yet Gaza, like Tigray and Sudan, and nearly a billion people concentrated in specific spaces in the world are SUFFERING because of rampant inaction of western imperialistic governments and figurehead organizations. This IS a massive human rights violation -the IOF is DEPRIVING Palestinian people of basic necessities and is starving them... it's absolutely stunning to me that something like this isn't front page on ALL major news sources. If this was somewhere in Europe or Australia or Canada then there would be international outcry -97%!!! Despicable.