Japan’s new stance on Taiwan signals it may act decisively, not just support. Australia, the author argues, must align planning, intelligence, and readiness with Japan and the US to strengthen collective deterrence in a more distributed Indo-Pacific.

Northern Australia is ready for growth, but rigid, short-term funding and centralised policy slow progress. Effective regional development requires flexible, sustained investment, tailored programs, and place-based approaches that align with local needs and ambition.

Taiwan faces constant Chinese pressure across the Strait, blending military threat with political coercion; sustaining stability requires resilient defence, whole-of-society preparedness, and carefully calibrated support from regional partners.

A new directed-energy system shows how fast-moving aerial threats can be countered with precise, low-cost strikes — offering a glimpse of future defensive tools shaped by rapid innovation. The Dragonfire test team emphasised pinpoint accuracy at long range.

The US Space Force and NRO plan a competitive, multi-award strategy to develop and field satellites that can track aircraft and drones, while balancing long-term goals and addressing congressional concerns over E-7 Wedgetail program continuation.

Exposure to violent events can unsettle entire communities—experts explain why distress is normal, how repeated media exposure intensifies it, and what practical steps help people regain a sense of safety and emotional balance.

Many boys face severe academic, social, and mental health challenges. Male mentorship improves outcomes, but is scarce—especially in low-income families—with most mentors being women, despite evidence boys benefit more from male role models.

People with Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) often clash with non-conformists due to rigid rule systems, a need for control, moral absolutism, cognitive inflexibility, and projected self-criticism. This could make spontaneous or alternative approaches feel threatening and wrong.

Asia’s power balance is shifting fast. China is closing the gap on the US. Australia has slipped beneath Russia despite many landmark deals-now sixth. Long-term influence depends on clear priorities, steady resources and real capability.

Frequent pickleball play is linked to higher mental wellbeing. A recent study shows a clear dose-response effect: playing three or more times weekly, or for longer sessions, correlates with significantly better mental health.