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BusinessNZ – Exactly what it says on the tin: Food exporting simplified

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Source: BusinessNZ

Today’s announcement from government to reduce regulatory red tape for exporters means competing on the world stage will soon be easier for some Kiwi businesses.
By the end of the month, food exporters will no longer need to apply for exemptions from New Zealand rules if their products already meet the importing country’s requirements.
ExportNZ Executive Director Joshua Tan says the change reflects long-standing recommendations made by exporters.
“This is a sensible, long-awaited fix that ExportNZ and our members have been calling for. Simplifying labelling and composition exemptions has been on the agenda for some time, and we’re pleased to see it addressed.”
Tan says the new system will simplify the process of getting products to market.
“Currently, exporters have to navigate a costly, time-consuming process to secure approvals on a product-by-product basis. The new approach gives businesses more certainty, cuts compliance costs, and reduces delays. It’s a change that will make a real difference to Kiwi exporters competing on the global stage.
“ExportNZ looks forward to working with officials on any further changes to the export process which make it simpler for New Zealand-owned businesses to enter other markets.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

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Natural health sector welcomes commitment to unlock dietary supplement exports

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Source: Natural Health Products NZ

Natural Health Products NZ has welcomed the Government’s decision to slash red tape for food exporters and is encouraged that dietary supplements have been identified as the next priority for reform.
“This is exactly the kind of practical, business-friendly approach our sector needs,” says Natural Health Products NZ spokesperson Samantha Gray.
“For more than a decade, we’ve been advocating for a fix to New Zealand’s broken and outdated dietary supplement regulations. Today’s announcement shows the Government is now moving in the right direction.
“We’re particularly encouraged by the explicit commitment to tackle dietary supplements as the next priority. This will unlock export opportunities worth $500 million annually, particularly in high-growth markets like the Middle East and Asia that the Government is prioritising.
“Different countries have varying regulatory requirements for health claims and composition. Our exporters should be free to meet those requirements without unnecessary barriers, helping us maximise the Government’s free trade agreements.
“Our sector is ready to contribute significantly to New Zealand’s export growth. We have innovative companies ready to commercialise NZ R&D and prepared to expand into new markets – we just need the regulatory framework to support them.”
Natural Health Products NZ is calling on the Government to move urgently on developing workable exemptions for dietary supplements.
“We’re hopeful Ministers Hoggard and Seymour will maintain this momentum and deliver the reforms our growing sector needs.”
Natural Health Products NZ is the peak industry body representing around 80% of the $2.3 billion sector whose members range from small businesses to companies employing thousands of New Zealanders, across manufacturing, distribution, research and retail.

MIL OSI

Trusted by Millions: FBS Wins Best Islamic Forex Broker Asia 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 September 2025 – FBS, a leading global broker, announces its latest recognition as the Best Islamic Forex Broker Asia 2025. The BRM awards highlight FBS’s ongoing commitment to creating trading conditions that respect clients’ values while ensuring the highest standards of safety, fairness, and responsibility.

FBS Wins Best Islamic Forex Broker Asia 2025

FBS offers a range of services aligned with the principles of Islamic finance, including:

  • Swap-free accounts — trade without overnight interest.
  • Negative balance protection — the account balance will never fall below zero.
  • Segregated accounts — client funds are securely held in top-tier banks, separate from company assets.

Beyond trading, FBS has established itself as a socially responsible broker. The company runs regular CSR initiatives across the globe, including projects during Ramadan that provide food aid, support education, and assist vulnerable communities.

“This award is not only recognition of our strong trading conditions but also of our mission,” an FBS spokesperson commented. “We believe in responsible trading, protecting our clients, and giving back to society. Together with our traders, we’re building a future where financial growth and positive change go hand in hand.”

FBS thanks its global community of traders and partners for their trust and loyalty. With every milestone, the company strengthens its vision of providing secure, ethical, and client-first trading opportunities across the world.

To learn more about FBS and its services, visit FBS.com.

Disclaimer: This material does not constitute a call to trade, trading advice, or recommendation and is intended for informational purposes only.

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Hashtag: #FBS #trading #forex #Asia #Broker

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Supercharges NSS in Global Chip Race

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Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 September 2025 Malaysia’s semiconductor ambitions are moving in step with its role as ASEAN chair, with investment momentum signalling a larger regional shift in the global chip supply chain. In the first half of 2025, the country secured RM190.3 billion (USD45.2 billion) in approved investments, an 18.7 per cent increase over the same period last year.

Singapore was the largest foreign investor with RM43.4 billion (USD10.3 billion), reflecting strong cross-border confidence in Malaysia’s trajectory.

Over 89,000 new jobs to be created through projects spanning manufacturing, services and the primary sector. The electrical and electronics (E&E) industry stood out with RM13.1 billion in new commitments, highlighting Malaysia’s push to evolve beyond its traditional role in assembly and testing. The National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), launched in 2024, has already attracted RM54.2 billion in its first year, marking a strong start towards the government’s RM500 billion target by 2030.

“What investors are responding to is Malaysia’s ability to deliver. In semiconductors, that means proven ecosystems in Penang and Johor, strong links with Singapore, and a pipeline of trained engineers ready to take on higher-value roles. The NSS gives us a clear direction, but credibility comes from how quickly projects move from approval to operation. On that front, Malaysia is building real trust,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Moving Upstream

In March 2025, Malaysia signed an agreement with Arm Holdings Plc to gain access to the UK-based firm’s design library – aiming to produce its own chips within the next decade.

Malaysia currently controls seven per cent of the global semiconductor market, with six out of the 12 largest semiconductor companies globally operating in the country.

This share is expected to increase as semiconductor players worldwide turn to Southeast Asia for a stable microchip supply chain, as the US-China trade war escalates.

A Turning Point for Local SMEs

At home, small-medium enterprises (SMEs) such as CG Global Profastex hail the NSS as “a turning point” in moving beyond traditional manufacturing into higher-value activities like advanced test development, product design enablement, and process automation.

Operating out of Penang for almost a decade now, CG Global serves both front-end and back-end semiconductor-related customers – particularly in equipment, test, and automation subsystems – in Malaysia and selected ASEAN markets.

“Traditionally, EMS SMEs operated in transactional roles—limited to basic assembly or support functions. Today, under the NSS framework, we have been actively encouraged to move up the value chain.

“It pushes us to upgrade our infrastructure, adopt advanced technologies, and build the capabilities needed to support complex, precision-driven industries,” said CG Global managing director Siti Padillah Binti Abdul Wahab.

Siti Padillah said the company plans to apply for NSS-aligned funding to scale up production capacities and adopt digital tools in order to strengthen Malaysia’s position within ASEAN semiconductor landscape.

“With the NSS as our guide, we are investing in the future—so Malaysia can lead not only in volume, but in value,” she added.

If anything, CG Global reflects the confidence boost that hundreds of homegrown enterprises have received from the NSS to pursue larger ambitions and greater appetite for growth.

Going Global as a Region

In 2024, the ASEAN semiconductor market was valued at US$95.91 billion, making up 15 per cent of the global semiconductor market that reached a record high of US$627.6 billion.

The region’s market share is set to soar in the coming months, thanks to the newly-launched Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which combines Singapore’s upstream excellence and Malaysia’s Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) strength.

Johor emerged as Malaysia’s top state for approved investments in the first half of 2025, recording RM56 billion (USD13.3 billion). Among the early movers was Japan’s Ferrotec Group, a leading supplier of materials, components and equipment for the global chip industry. The company commenced operations at its new facility in Johor in April 2025, supporting both regional and international customers.

“The JS-SEZ offers efficient cross-border logistics and connectivity with Singapore, which is critical for our operations,” said Soo Kim Fatt, director of Ferrotec Power Semiconductor Malaysia. “Its proximity to Singapore provides excellent transport accessibility, making it easier for international customers, partners, and overseas colleagues to visit Johor Bahru for meetings, technical support, and collaboration.”

“The JS-SEZ is more than just proximity. It gives investors access to Singapore’s design and R&D right next to Malaysia’s manufacturing and assembly,” said Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim. “Together with the NSS, it strengthens ASEAN’s position as a credible alternative in the global semiconductor supply chain.”

Johor’s role is also expected to strengthen further by significant technological advancements from a partnership between YTL Power International and Nvidia, focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Located at the YTL Green Data Centre in Kulai, this landmark project adds a critical digital infrastructure layer to the state’s technology ecosystem, positioning Malaysia as a leading AI hub in the region.

Tapping the Talent Pool

Beyond infrastructure and investments, Malaysia is also actively positioning itself as a regional talent magnet and a training hub for semiconductor expertise.

As of mid-2025, Malaysia has trained over 13,000 high-skilled semiconductor talents – more than one-fifth of the 60,000 target outlined in the NSS.

The government sees this as part of a regional effort. During the one-year anniversary of the NSS, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia’s training and upskilling initiatives are part of a “broader, regional, ASEAN-wide push”, pointing to deep STEM pipelines in Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia. Under Malaysia’s chairmanship, initiatives such as the ASEAN Framework for Integrated Semiconductor Supply Chains (AFISS) are promoting cross-border training and collaboration.

MIDA is working with investors to align training and academic programmes with industry needs. “Talent is the decisive factor for the next phase of growth. Our priority is to make Malaysia both talent-rich and talent-ready, while attracting the best from around the region,” said Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim.

The Test Ahead

The NSS has given Malaysia a running start, drawing global names, lifting SMEs and tying national ambition to ASEAN’s broader potential. Its early success lies not only in billions invested but in the alignment, it has fostered between government, industry and regional partners.

Home

Hashtag: #MIDA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Franklin Templeton celebrates 35th anniversary in Singapore

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 September 2025 Franklin Templeton, one of the world’s largest global asset managers, is celebrating 35 years of serving clients in Singapore, highlighting its long-standing commitment to delivering world class investment solutions in the country.

[From left to right] Manraj Sekhon, Chief Investment Officer of Templeton Global Investments; Tiffany Hong, Chief of Staff to the CEO, Franklin Templeton; and Tariq Ahmad, Head of APAC, Franklin Templeton; pictured together at Franklin Templeton Singapore’s 35th Anniversary Event.

Since establishing its presence in Singapore in 1990 with a dedicated emerging markets research office, Franklin Templeton — through its Singapore entity, Templeton Asset Management Ltd — has grown to become a trusted partner for retail and institutional investors in the Lion City over the years. Franklin Templeton was among the first few foreign fund managers to offer overseas funds to the investing public in Singapore in 1996 with the establishment of Singapore’s first umbrella and feeder fund into the Franklin Templeton Luxembourg funds, along with Singapore’s first emerging markets fund that year. The following year, Franklin Templeton continued to break new ground with the launch of Singapore’s first global equity fund. Franklin Templeton has also played a key role in advancing financial literacy and investor education in Singapore and the broader region through its education platform – the Franklin Templeton Academy.

Singapore today serves as one of the key regional offices for Asia Pacific, anchoring the firm’s investment leadership across public and private markets, while also housing strategic regional functions including distribution, operations, marketing, human resources, compliance, and legal.

Manraj Sekhon, Chief Investment Officer of Templeton Global Investments and Co-CEO of Templeton Asset Management Ltd said: “Franklin Templeton is proud to celebrate 35 years in Singapore – a journey that has mirrored the remarkable evolution of the nation’s financial landscape. We have had the privilege of contributing to the growth of one of Asia’s most sophisticated capital markets, providing local investors with access to global opportunities and delivering deep, differentiated investment expertise across markets. Today, Singapore is not only the headquarters for Templeton Global Investments, one of our Specialist Investment Managers, but also a strategic hub as part of our firm’s broader global footprint.”

Tariq Ahmad, Head of APAC at Franklin Templeton and Co-CEO of Templeton Asset Management Ltd said, “As Franklin Templeton celebrates 35 years in Singapore – alongside the nation’s 60th year of independence – we reflect on a shared journey of growth and transformation. We are honored to have been a trusted partner to our clients through different market cycles and are proud of the relationships we have built here over the past decades. This year, we have been working on a number of pioneering initiatives from launching the country’s first retail tokenized fund, to expanding access to high-quality secondary private equity for investors. Looking ahead, we remain committed to driving innovation and delivering future-ready investment solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients in Asia Pacific.”

Franklin Templeton’s commitment to Singapore and the Asia Pacific region is reflected in its strong partnerships with leading institutional clients and financial institutions – both global and local – delivering customized investment solutions to meet the evolving needs of the market. Looking ahead, the firm remains focused on deepening its presence in Asia Pacific by continuing to add to its diversified suite of investment capabilities designed to serve a broad spectrum of investor segments across the region.

DISCLAIMER: This press release is for information only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation and was prepared without regard to the specific objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person who may receive it. This document may not be reproduced, distributed or published without prior written permission from Franklin Templeton.

Any research and analysis contained in this document has been procured by Franklin Templeton for its own purposes and may be acted upon in that connection and, as such, is provided to you incidentally. Although information has been obtained from sources that Franklin Templeton believes to be reliable, no guarantee can be given as to its accuracy and such information may be incomplete or condensed and may be subject to change at any time without notice. Any views expressed are the views of the fund manager as of the date of this document and do not constitute investment advice. The underlying assumptions and these views are subject to change based on market and other conditions and may differ from other portfolio managers or of the firm as a whole.

There is no assurance that any prediction, projection or forecast on the economy, stock market, bond market or the economic trends of the markets will be realized. Franklin Templeton accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct or indirect consequential loss arising from the use of any information, opinion or estimate herein.

The value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount that you invested. Past performance is not necessarily indicative nor a guarantee of future performance.

Copyright© 2025 Franklin Templeton. All rights reserved.

Issued by Templeton Asset Management Ltd, Registration Number (UEN) 199205211E.

Hashtag: #FranklinTempleton

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Northbound lane of State Highway 2 near Upper Hutt closed following crash

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Source: New Zealand Police

The northbound lane of State Highway 2 near Upper Hutt is closed at the intersection with Totara Park Road following a crash. 

The crash, involving two cars, was reported to Police at 12.40pm.

One person is reported to have sustained serious injuries and one person minor injuries.

The road is expected to remain closed for around the next two hours (as at 3pm).

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

MIL OSI

Invasive trees felled as track work continues at Hahei

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Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  03 September 2025

The conifer removal is part of the Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project reinstating walking access to the picturesque Coromandel beach. This long-term initiative is focused on safeguarding the cultural and environmental values of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience.

Local arborists have been on site since Monday (1 September), removing the pinus pinaster trees, more commonly known as maritime pine or cluster pine.

Michael Sparrow, DOC’s Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project Manager says the exotic trees can spread fast, threatening this stunning landscape and crowding out native vegetation.

“By removing these conifers, we give native plants and trees a better chance to flourish along the Hahei Beach Short Walk and help enhance the mauri of the area.

“The largest of these conifers has a trunk girth of a metre and is about 35m tall. Mature trees release masses of windblown seeds. If not removed, they’ll take hold here and can spread widely, becoming extremely costly to control.”

The conifer removal follows a successful community planting day at nearby Waimata Gemstone Bay. The planting – led by Destination Hauraki Coromandel as part of its Good For Your Soul initiative – saw 300 native trees planted by members of Ngāti Hei, community members, and staff from local public sector agencies.

“This planting ensures Mautohe Cathedral Cove can be enjoyed now and safeguarded for future generations,” says Michael.

“What makes it special is that it’s a collective effort – iwi, residents, businesses, visitors, and tourism operators are all contributing.”

The conifer removal comes during Conservation Week 2025 and the launch of DOC’s Always Be Naturing campaign, which encourages New Zealanders to take action for nature.

“It’s fantastic this community values and takes action to care for and enhance this incredible place,” says Michael.

“There are simple and easy ways we can all do our bit for nature. Visit the Get involved section of the DOC website to see what you can do today.”

An estimated two million hectares of New Zealand is affected by wilding conifers. Uncontrolled infestations spread at 5% per year (approx. 90,000ha/year). Without any control they will form dense forests that have environmental consequences on our native ecosystems, use up scarce water, and alter iconic landscapes.

The arborists’ work is expected to be concluded on Friday (5 September). The wood from the felling will be broken down at site and left to rot down naturally.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

Absen 2,000㎡ LED Displays Illuminate Vietnam’s 80th National Day Celebrations at Ba Dinh Square

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Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 September 2025 – On 2 September, commemorations marking the August Revolution and Vietnam’s 80th National Day were held at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, with the Chinese delegation attending by invitation. As a global leader in LED display technology and applications, Absen supplied multiple LED display products and control solutions for the celebrations, comprehensively meeting the stringent requirements for image presentation, stable operation, and service assurance demanded by high-profile international events.

Covering a total area exceeding 2,000 square meters, Absen’s large screens were meticulously deployed across various zones of Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi. They delivered a high-definition, stable visual experience for tens of thousands of on-site spectators and global broadcast audiences, featuring refined, fluid image quality and accurate color reproduction. The displays precisely captured every highlight moment, synchronously presenting signals from multiple on-site camera angles and swiftly switching between grand scenes, further amplifying the celebratory atmosphere.

As a national-level Vietnamese celebration, particularly involving large-scale outdoor ceremonies interweaving military parades, mass processions, and cultural performances, the selection of on-site display equipment was subject to exceptionally stringent criteria. It was imperative not only to withstand complex and variable outdoor lighting conditions, ensuring both spectators and media cameras could clearly capture every detail, but also to possess exceptional reliability and stability. This precluded failures such as black screens, freezing, or color distortion, thereby guaranteeing the smooth progression of the celebrations.

Following comprehensive evaluations of product quality and stability, brand reputation, and service guarantees, Absen’s stage rental solutions emerged as the preferred choice, serving as the core display platform for this national celebration.

Confronted with Vietnam’s hot and humid summer climate alongside the stability challenges of extended, high-profile live broadcasts for a national-level event, the stage rental products—including the Absen NT Series, PL V2 Series, and PL lite Series—demonstrated exceptional adaptability and reliability. Throughout both rehearsals and the main event day, the products operated flawlessly without a single fault under prolonged outdoor high temperatures, maintaining consistently vibrant and pristine visuals. This performance reaffirmed Absen’s leading capability in servicing major global events.

Hashtag: #Absen

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Be prepared before heading into the bush this spring

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Source: New Zealand Police

As New Zealand makes its way out of winter, Police are reminding people to take the right equipment when going tramping and hunting.

“We’re lucky to have great access to the outdoors, across the country,” says Detective Sergeant Alex Simister.

“But we need people to make sure when they’re heading into the bush, they’re doing it safely.

“Take the right gear, let someone know your return time and please take a beacon or communication device.

“Beacons are an essential piece of gear and can be rented for as little as ten dollars.”

Some new smart phones also have the capability to connect with satellites, giving them service in remote locations.

This feature does need to be set up beforehand.

“With the weather improving we’re expecting to see an increase in trampers and hunters – we don’t want anyone’s trip ending in tragedy.

“Even experienced people can end up in situations where they need help.”

If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code,

  1. Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group. When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone’s fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.
  2. Understand the weather. New Zealand weather can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. Weather can make or break a trip. It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.
  3. Pack warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Any trip, even if it is short and easy, needs preparation. Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.
  4. Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life. We all want our trips to go as planned – but sometimes they don’t. If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help?
  5. Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together. The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another.

Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

If you have purchased a beacon, make sure to register it at www.beacons.org.nz.

For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart.

More information on trip planning can be found at: Trip Planning — NZMSC.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI

New investment for eating disorder services

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Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today launched New Zealand’s refreshed strategic approach to eating disorders, bringing a significant funding boost and valuable updates for Kiwis for the first time in over 16 years.

“Today’s announcement increases investment in eating disorder services by over $4 million each year. That’s a 20 percent increase which will bring the total investment in eating disorders services to over $23 million annually,” Mr Doocey says.

“Support for eating disorders is best provided using a full continuum of care for eating disorders across prevention, primary health care, early intervention and community services, along with specialist and inpatient services for people with the highest needs.

“The changes today bring about meaningful changes that will ensure the strategy remains fit for purpose and continues to meet the needs of our communities.”

The new funding package includes ongoing investment to:  

  • Roll out peer support to all regional eating disorders services. 
  • Create community-based support for families and carers. 
  • Increase the capacity of specialist eating disorders services. 
  • Expand prevention and early intervention support.  

“I am pleased to mark New Zealand’s Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week with changes that will support New Zealanders navigating and battling eating disorders. The strategy sets out the actions we will take to support Kiwis, providing a roadmap and a strategic approach.

“Our mental health plan is working. We’re turning the corner on reducing wait times and increasing the mental health workforce. Recent data shows the frontline Health NZ mental health workforce has grown around 10 percent since we came into Government, and over 80 percent of people are being seen within three weeks for specialist services. 

“Whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member, reaching out for support, this Government is committed to ensuring support is there.” 

MIL OSI