Report of the Australian Taskforce to combat terrorist and extreme violent material online

The terrorist attacks that took place in Christchurch on 15 March 2019 shocked the world. Citizens and governments alike questioned how the mass murder of 51 men, women and children could take place in a peaceful, democratic country like New Zealand. In the hours and days that followed, it became apparent that the internet was exploited to amplify the crimes. The alleged perpetrator livestreamed the murders on Facebook and from there, the video quickly spread, with individuals attempting to upload copies on mainstream and smaller digital platforms and websites.

Terms of Reference: Review into integration, employment and settlement outcomes for refugees and humanitarian entrants

Objectives

Refugees and humanitarian entrants have always played an important role in enriching the Australian community and building our strong economy. The review will provide advice to the Government on how to better support refugees and humanitarian entrants to make valuable contributions to our social fabric and our economy. The review will recommend ways to improve integration, employment and settlement outcomes.

The review panel will report to Government by February 2019.

Strengthening Skills: Expert Review of Australia’s Vocational Education and Training System

On 28 November 2018, the Prime Minister announced an independent review of Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector to examine ways to deliver skilled workers for a stronger economy. The review was led by the Honourable Steven Joyce, a former New Zealand Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment. Mr Joyce delivered the final report to the Government in March 2019.

A boost in national symbols resources

The Australian Government has released new and updated educational resources to strengthen knowledge of Australia’s national symbols.

Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, the Hon Patrick Gorman MP, launched the resources on 3 September 2022 which have been developed to engage the public in learning about Australia’s cultural life and Indigenous history.

Australian Bravery Decorations announced

On 17 August 2022, the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) awarded 22 Australian Bravery Decorations to recognise the courageous acts of 26 people.

“The awards I am announcing today recognise people who, in a moment of peril, were selfless and brave. Confronted with danger, they chose to help others,” the Governor General said.

“On behalf of all Australians, I congratulate recipients and offer our thanks for their brave action. I encourage recipients to wear their Australian Bravery Decoration with pride.”