Discovering the Festival’s Deeper Message of Peace, Love and Inner Renewal

Discovering the Festival’s Deeper Message of Peace, Love and Inner Renewal

Discovering the Festival’s Deeper Message of Peace, Love and Inner Renewal

A beautifully illuminated home is a joy to behold. Yet Diwali invites us to consider another kind of illumination: the light we bring to our thoughts, relationships and everyday actions. As we prepare to light a lamp, a meaningful question arises: What needs to become brighter within me? Diwali, also known as Deepavali, takes its name from a row of lamps. Its familiar lights express the victory of light over darkness and the hope of spiritual renewal. This celebration is also an invitation to rediscover the soul’s inner light and renew our relationship with the Divine. The festival’s message becomes especially meaningful when its outer beauty is reflected in the way we live.

The light of the soul

Our deepest identity is the soul: an eternal point of spiritual light, distinct from the physical body through which we express ourselves. This understanding encourages us to look beyond appearance, possessions and social roles, and recognise the spiritual being within.
Viewed through this understanding, the traditional earthen lamp carries a beautiful symbolism. The clay represents the body, while the lighted wick represents the soul.

The oil symbolises spiritual knowledge that sustains awareness of our original qualities, including peace, love, purity and joy. Just as a lamp needs replenishment, our inner life needs attention and nourishment.

The question, therefore, is not simply whether we have lit a lamp, but whether we are allowing its message to guide us. Can I remain respectful during a disagreement? Can I recognise another person’s worth without comparing it with my own? Can I bring understanding into a conversation that might otherwise become an argument?
These everyday choices give the festival a life beyond the evening’s celebrations.
Cleaning the inner home

Preparing for Diwali often involves cleaning and refreshing the home. The Brahma Kumaris interpret this as an invitation to examine the mind as well: to notice resentment, jealousy and unhelpful habits, and consciously cultivate new ways of thinking and behaving. The emphasis is not merely on removing the old, but on nurturing something better in its place.
We might begin with one honest question: “Which habit would I like to change?” Perhaps it is speaking before listening, repeatedly revisiting an old disagreement, or overlooking the good in someone close to us. Instead of demanding a complete transformation overnight, we can practise one different response today.

The custom of settling old business accounts and opening new ones also has a spiritual interpretation. It can remind us to address unresolved relationships, take responsibility for our conduct, and begin again with respect and goodwill. In this sense, Diwali invites us to stop adding fresh bitterness to an old difficulty.

Forgiveness need not mean pretending that a hurt never occurred or accepting harmful behaviour. We can maintain necessary boundaries while choosing not to make resentment the centre of our lives. An apology, an honest conversation or a quiet decision to stop retaliating may be our first step towards a new beginning.

Even the exchange of sweets offers a lesson. In Brahma Kumaris teachings, it is a reminder to bring sweetness into speech: words that convey sincerity, affection and respect rather than sarcasm or humiliation. A sweet offered by hand becomes more meaningful when accompanied by kindness from the heart.

A different kind of wealth

Diwali’s association with Lakshmi invites reflection on what it means to be prosperous. Honouring Lakshmi involves more than seeking material abundance; it is an invitation to cultivate a virtuous life. Their teachings also connect Diwali with the coronation of Lakshmi and Narayan in the Golden Age, understood within their spiritual worldview as an era of purity, harmony and abundance.
Beyond material possessions, are we cultivating the inner wealth of peace, kindness and contentment?

Financial security deserves care and responsible effort. Alongside it, however, we can value the wealth of a clear conscience, trustworthy relationships, generosity and contentment. A celebration need not become a competition over decorations, clothing or gifts. Its richness can lie in making someone feel welcome, appreciating a family member or sharing without expecting recognition.

The spiritual challenge is to let the qualities we admire become qualities we practise.
Keeping the flame alive

Raja yoga meditation involves recognising oneself as a soul and establishing a loving connection with God, the Supreme Soul, understood as an incorporeal source of spiritual qualities and strength. The practice can be undertaken with open eyes and brought into ordinary daily life.

A simple Diwali reflection might be I am a peaceful soul. I turn my attention towards the Supreme Source of peace and love. Today, let my words be gentle and my actions considerate.

The purpose of such a pause is not to withdraw from responsibilities, but to approach them with a clearer intention. Before answering a difficult message, entering a busy workplace or beginning a family conversation, we can remember the quality we wish to express.

From celebration to daily living

Brahma Kumaris Diwali messages emphasise that this light is to be shared across the human family. Inner renewal and concern for others belong together: the celebration becomes an opportunity to bring hope, humility and goodwill into our relationships.

We can give this message a practical form by including someone who might otherwise be alone, listening to a person whose experience differs from ours, or offering help without making them feel indebted. These gestures need not be grand to be meaningful.

When the decorations are put away, what will remain of our Diwali? Perhaps a kinder habit, a repaired relationship or a renewed commitment to live with integrity.
Let us enjoy the lamps, the colours and the shared happiness. Alongside them, let us make room for a quieter celebration within the decision to replace harshness with understanding, selfishness with generosity, and indifference with care.

Brahma Kumaris Shailer Park provides free courses in Raja Yoga meditation, positive thinking, and anger management. For further information, contact 0452 620 674 or email [email protected]. Visit brahmakumaris.org.au to learn more and discover upcoming events near your location.

Celebrate the Light of Diwali with Us!

Brahma Kumaris Shailer Park warmly invites you to a free Diwali Community Celebration on Saturday, 24 October 2026, from 4:00–6:00 pm at Logan East Community Neighbourhood Centre, 53–57 Cinderella Drive, Springwood. Enjoy meditation, music and dance as we celebrate the spirit of Diwali and share its message of peace, love and harmony. All are welcome!

Register via the QR code on the flyer. For enquiries, call 0452 620 674.
-Om Shanthi –

 

Navigating the Shift: Understanding the Economic Impact of RBA Interest Rate Hikes

Navigating the Shift: Understanding the Economic Impact of RBA Interest Rate Hikes

Navigating the Shift: Understanding the Economic Impact of RBA Interest Rate Hikes

When the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) adjusts its official cash rate target, the ripples extend through every layer of the domestic economy. As Australia’s central bank, the RBA uses the monetary policy rate as its primary lever to maintain economic stability, support full employment, and keep consumer price inflation within its target band of 2 to 3 per cent. While an interest rate rise is designed to tame persistent inflationary pressures, its real-world impact affects households, businesses, the housing market, and broader macroeconomic conditions.

The Primary Objective: Taming Inflation

At its core, an interest rate hike is an anti-inflationary tool. When prices for consumer goods, services, and energy escalate faster than desired, the economy risks overheating. By increasing the cash rate, the interest rate charged on overnight loans between commercial financial institutions, the RBA effectively raises borrowing costs across the economy.

Higher borrowing costs dampen overall demand by reducing disposable income for consumers and slowing business capital expenditures. As consumer spending cools, merchants and providers lose the pricing power that pushes inflation upward, restoring stability to the purchasing power of the Australian Dollar.

Household Finances and the “Mortgage Belt”

The most immediate and direct impact of an RBA rate rise is felt by Australian households, particularly variable-rate mortgage holders. Commercial banks almost instantly pass cash rate increases onto retail lending rates.

Reduced Household Disposable Income

For a typical household with a variable-rate home loan, a 0.25 percentage point increase adds hundreds of dollars to monthly repayments. This shift forces families to reallocate budgets away from discretionary spending, such as dining out, leisure travel, and retail shopping, toward essential servicing of debt.

Conversely, rate rises provide a welcome reprieve for savers and retirees living on fixed incomes. Higher cash rates allow banks to offer better yields on term deposits and savings accounts, though deposit rate increases often lag mortgage rate hikes.

Housing Market Dynamics

Property markets react sharply to monetary tightening. As interest rates ascend, borrowing capacity contracts sharply and banks assess prospective buyers at higher serviceability buffers, reducing the total loan amount a buyer can secure.

1. Slowing Capital Growth: Reduced buyer budgets limit competitive bidding at auctions, dampening home price expansion or leading to temporary price corrections in capital cities.

2. Shift to the Rental Sector: Prospective first-home buyers pushed out of the market often remain in the private rental market longer, maintaining upward pressure on rental yields and overall vacancy tightness.

3. Construction Industry Headwinds: Higher funding costs and reduced demand stall residential development projects, exacerbating long-term housing supply shortages.

Business Operations and the Broader Economy

For businesses, higher interest rates elevate the cost of working capital, debt refinancing, and capital investment projects. Companies face tighter margins as interest expenses climb alongside sustained operational overheads.
As businesses exercise caution with expansion and hiring, labour market tightness naturally moderates. While this helps curtail wage-driven inflation, it can lead to marginal increases in unemployment over time.

Currency and International Trade

Interest rate decisions also influence Australia’s foreign exchange market. When the RBA raises rates relative to other central banks like the U.S. Federal Reserve, yields on Australian dollar-denominated assets become relatively more attractive to international investors.

• Stronger Australian Dollar (AUD): Capital inflows appreciate the exchange rate, reducing the cost of imported goods (e.g., fuel, electronics, consumer goods), which further assists in subduing domestic inflation.

• Impact on Exporters: A stronger dollar makes Australian exports, such as resources, agriculture, and higher education are more expensive for foreign buyers, creating a dual-edged economic outcome.

An interest rate rise by the Reserve Bank of Australia is a blunt instrument with broad trade-offs. While designed to protect long-term economic stability by curbing inflation, it creates real short-term pressures on mortgage holders and commercial activity. Striking the right balance between dampening price increases and maintaining economic momentum remains the RBA’s central challenge.

How to prepare for listing photos

How to prepare for listing photos

How to prepare for listing photos

When your property first hits the market, it’s often the first time you see your home from someone else’s perspective – and hopefully it’s a stunning one! Your hero image creates the real first impression. From there, every photo is an opportunity to showcase your property through the lens, so it’s worth taking time to ensure each one captures your home at its very best. Prepping your home for photography shouldn’t be a last-minute rush. Where you have time, spending time getting your home photo-ready will make a noticeable difference to the final result.

Knowing where to start can feel overwhelming, so talk to your agent about your home’s standout features. They can also help guide you on which areas will have the biggest impact and where will benefit from your efforts being focused.

Kerb appeal

Buyers will want to know how your property looks from the street, so you want to make it count. Tidy the garden beds, mow the lawn, straighten the letterbox, sweep the paths and remove unwanted items such as wheelie bins from being in view. You don’t need to completely redesign the front garden, often a simple tidy-up is all it takes.

Declutter

Clutter has a way of showing up in photos. What might seem insignificant on a kitchen bench can become the focal point of an image. Clear surfaces, minimise everyday items and keep styling simple to create a clean, well-maintained look.

Remove personal items

Your listing photos are there to showcase the property itself. While your personality makes it a home, your buyers are trying to picture it becoming their own home. Packing away some personal photographers or sentimental items can help them make that connection.

A sense of space

Space can be tricky to capture in photographs, add too much furniture and a space can appear smaller than it is. Less is often more. If you are able to, consider key pieces of furniture, remove larger pieces or rearrange placement to help enhance the flow of the space.

Finish the DIY

Those little jobs that aren’t quite finished yet – it’s time to wrap them up! Touch up the paintwork, replace loose handles or fix anything that is left incomplete before the photographer arrives. Presenting a home that feels well cared for gives buyers confidence and helps them focus on the property, rather than the jobs still to be done.

Credit: REMAX Australia

Tax Coffee Corner

Tax Coffee Corner

Tax Coffee Corner

by Hitesh Mohanlal

Welcome to this months tax coffee corner. It’s also where we take the latest tax and business developments and translate them from “ATO-speak” into something that resembles plain English.

So, basically, plenty of reasons to grab a coffee before you find out how the ATO is going to suck the life out of you and make your life a misery.

Deductions for rental properties that double as holiday homes

Owning a holiday home sounds wonderful. A place to escape to, enjoy with family and perhaps make a little rental income on the side.
From a tax perspective, however, the ATO is not quite as interested in the holiday part.
Where a property is a holiday home, it must be used (or held for use) mainly to produce rental income before the owner can claim expenses relating to its ownership and use.
If this requirement is not met, expenses that may be entirely non-deductible include:
• interest expenses;
• council and water rates;
• body corporate fees; and
• repairs and maintenance.

Where the property is used mainly to produce rental income but there is some minor private use—for example, a week or a few weekends in the off-season when there are no bookings—the ownership and use expenses must still be apportioned accurately to reflect the periods of private use.
In other words, just because the property is advertised for rent does not automatically mean all the expenses are deductible. The actual use of the property matters.

ATO alert: $21 billion in lost super

The ATO is urging individuals to check whether they have lost or unclaimed super, with more than $21 billion waiting to be reunited with its owners.
Super can become lost when an account is inactive and the fund cannot contact the member, often following a change of job, address or phone number.

It is worth checking whether you have old super accounts sitting around from previous employers. You may be pleasantly surprised—although unfortunately, finding lost super is generally more exciting than finding a forgotten $20 note in an old pair of trousers.
You can check for lost or unclaimed super through ATO online services.

ATO motor vehicle registries data-matching program

If you own a vehicle, you may want to remember that the ATO is interested in more than just your tax return.
The ATO is acquiring motor vehicle registries data from state and territory authorities from the 2026 to 2030 income years.

The information will be matched against ATO records to identify taxpayers who are not meeting their registration, lodgements, reporting or payment obligations across several taxes, including GST, FBT, fuel tax credits and income tax.
The data will also be used to support ATO compliance activities through modelling, risk profiling and case selection. In other words, they are spying on you.

Payday Super: keeping within the timeframe

Payday Super continues to be an important issue for employers.
Under Payday Super, contributions must be received by an employee’s super fund within seven business days after payday.

To help employers stay on track, the ATO recommends that employers:
For new employees, or where an employee changes their fund, employers generally have 20 business days to make the initial contribution.

The good news is that the ATO has stated that employers who genuinely try to comply will not be the focus of its compliance action during the first year of Payday Super.
That said, “I thought payroll had done it” is probably not the compliance strategy anyone should be relying on.

$1,000 standard deduction for work expenses

There has been some confusion surrounding the new $1,000 standard deduction for work-related expenses, so here is an important clarification.
The ATO has recently updated its Employees guide for work expenses to remind taxpayers that the new $1,000 standard deduction cannot be claimed for the 2026 income year.

From 1 July 2026, applying to the 2027 income year and later years, employees may choose either:
• the standard deduction for work-related expenses of up to $1,000; or
• a deduction for the actual work-related expenses they incur.
Taxpayers should continue keeping records for deductible work expenses incurred from 1 July 2026.

If, at the end of the 2027 income year, they choose to claim their actual expenses, they must have the required written evidence for those expenses.
So, despite the new $1,000 standard deduction, throwing away your receipts just yet may not be the best idea.

Final thought

As always, tax rules continue to change, and the difference between a deduction being available, partially available or not available at all can sometimes come down to the specific circumstances.

A little planning and good record keeping can therefore save considerably more time, money and frustration later.
Please note: Many of the comments in this publication are general in nature and anyone intending to apply the information to practical circumstances should seek professional advice to independently verify their interpretation and the information’s applicability to their particular circumstances.

Diwali’s Light: Hindu Philosophy and Australia’s Multicultural Spirit

Diwali’s Light: Hindu Philosophy and Australia’s Multicultural Spirit

Diwali’s Light: Hindu Philosophy and Australia’s Multicultural Spirit

As the evening air grows soft and warm across Australia and our streets begin to shimmer with the gentle light of diyas, my heart fills with a deep, quiet gratitude. Diwali is a season that brings our community together, but it is also a time that invites introspection. As I look out at our vibrant Indian Australian community, flourishing in every corner of this great nation from Calamvale to Canberra, Melbourne to Perth, I am often asked what lies at the core of our cultural resilience and seamless integration into modern Australian society.
The answer, I believe, lies in the very soul of Hindu philosophy: Sanatan Dharma, the Eternal Way.

At a time when global discourse is too often fragmented by division, it is worth reflecting on why Hindu philosophy is intrinsically compatible with all world religions and why its core teachings offer a timeless blueprint for peace, harmony, and mutual respect.

The Philosophy of Pluralism: Many Paths, One Truth

To understand why Hindus, navigate pluralistic societies like Australia with natural ease, one must look to our most ancient spiritual text, the Rig Veda:
“Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti” (Truth is One, though the wise call it by many names.)
Unlike traditions that demand strict adherence to a single dogma or exclusive path to salvation, Hindu thought has recognized for thousands of years that the Divine is infinite and therefore, the ways to approach the Divine must also be infinite.

We do not merely tolerate other faiths; we fundamentally respect them as valid spiritual journeys. To a practicing Hindu, whether a person kneels in a church, bows in a mosque, sits in quiet meditation in a Gurdwara or temple, or finds sacred purpose through secular humanism, they are seeking the same ultimate Reality. This foundational belief removes any impulse toward forced conversion, spiritual superiority, or ideological conflict. It allows Indian Australians to embrace our neighbours of all faiths and backgrounds with open arms and genuine warmth.

Core Goodness: The Pillar Teachings of Hindu Thought

The inherent goodness of Hindu philosophy is rooted in practical, living virtues that elevate individual character and nurture community well-being:

1. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family)

Inscribed in the Maha Upanishad, these noble ideal forms the cornerstone of our social ethos. We are taught that geographical, cultural, and religious boundaries are secondary to our shared spiritual origin. When we look at our fellow Australians regardless of their background, we see extended family. This mindset is why our community naturally steps forward during times of national need, whether organizing charity drives, supporting local food banks, or volunteering during bushfires and floods.

2. Ahimsa (Non-Violence in Thought, Word, and Deed)

Popularised globally, Ahimsa is far more than the absence of physical violence; it is the active practice of compassion. It encourages us to speak with gentle honesty, act with empathy, and live in harmony with nature. This reverence for all living beings is why environmental stewardship, vegetarianism, and respect for the earth are so deeply woven into Hindu daily life values that resonate powerfully with modern environmental consciousness.

3. Karma and Dharma (Right Action and Ethical Duty)

The laws of Karma (cause and effect) and Dharma (righteous duty) teach us personal accountability. We believe that every action, word, and intention returns to us, encouraging a life led with integrity, selflessness, and responsibility. Dharma reminds us to fulfill our duties as good citizens, loving family members, and dedicated professionals, contributing constructively to the Australian nation that has welcomed us so generously.

4. The Divinity Within All (Tat Tvam Asi)

In Hindu thought, the Divine presence (Atma) resides within every living soul. When we greet one another with folded hands and say “Namaste,” we are not merely exchanging pleasantries, we are saying: “The Divine in me acknowledges and bows to the Divine in you.” How can hatred or prejudice exist when we recognize the sacred in every person we meet?

Harmonising Heritage with Our Modern Australian Home

Living in multicultural Australia under the Southern Cross is a privilege that highlights the true beauty of our heritage. Our compatibility with the wider Australian community is not an accident of history; it is the natural expression of a philosophy that celebrates diversity as a divine design.

As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, let us carry these noble values in our hearts. Let our diyas illuminate not just our homes, but our minds and actions. Let us continue to build bridges of understanding, share our rich traditions with pride, and practice the universal compassion that defines the best of human spirit.
May the light of peace, wisdom, and unity shine upon our readers, our diaspora, and our entire nation.

BASAVA SAMITI OF ASIA PACIFIC UNVEILS ITS NEW DIGITAL PRESENCE

BASAVA SAMITI OF ASIA PACIFIC UNVEILS ITS NEW DIGITAL PRESENCE

 

Basava Samiti Asia Pacific (BSAPAC), a volunteer-driven registered Charity with operations in Australia and beyond has upgraded its operations to strengthen digital engagement across its chapters. The digitised platform streamlines volunteer recruitment, event registration, memberships and multilingual content support. The timing builds on the significant success of the 2nd Asia Pacific Basava Convention held in Perth in May 2025, while setting the stage for the 3rd Convention in Sydney in May 2027.

Community members can join as volunteers, participate in educational programs, donate to support initiatives, and upskill through the Learn2Grow program. BSAPAC also offers precious, hard-to-find merchandise and publications celebrating Guru Basava’s legacy and its journey.

This digital transformation demonstrates BSAPAC’s commitment to blending ancient wisdom with contemporary technology for meaningful community change.

BRISBANE:

BSAPAC Founder Girija Karekal attended the Krishna Janmastami Celebrations in Brisbane along with other eminent leaders on the September 5th, 2026, at Croatian Club Brisbane in Rocklea. Federal Member for Oxley Milton Dick, Queensland MP Jess Pugh (Mount Ommaney), and Queensland MP Margie Nightingale (Inala), Dr Preethi Suraj, President of FICQ, and Sarah Hutton, Brisbane City Councillor along with the organisers of the ISKON festival are seen here in the photo. The eight-hour celebration featured traditional devotional music, drama performances, spiritual discourses, children’s activities, and Prasadam distribution.

SYDNEY:

BSAPAC Marketing team attends “Designing Services Around Real Lives, Not System Boundaries” by Sognos Solutions at Microsoft office
On the morning of 17 September, three members of Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific’s marketing team, Reihaneh Rahmati, Maria Luqman, and Shwetha Ananth, made their way to Microsoft’s office in North Sydney for a session that gave us a lot to reflect on. The event, titled “Designing Services Around Real Lives, Not System Boundaries”, was co-hosted by Sognos Solutions and Microsoft as part of a broader conversation series aimed at leaders across the not-for-profit health, social and community care space.

From the outset, this wasn’t framed as another discussion about doing more with less. Instead, it asked something bolder. What if the biggest breakthrough waiting for this sector over the next decade has nothing to do with stretching stretched budgets even further and everything to do with helping people live more independently, contribute more meaningfully, and reach a kind of potential our current systems were never built to support?

The session was led by Bill Gye OAM, and within the first few minutes it became clear why he’s considered one of the most trusted and respected voices in community led mental health across Australia. Bill holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology and a Masters in Cognitive Science from UNSW, but it’s his decades of hands on leadership that really shaped the conversation.

He has worked in the care and community sector since 1978, and his career includes serving as CEO of Community Mental Health Australia from 2019 to 2024, CEO of Ostara Australia, one of the country’s largest specialist mental health employment service providers, General Manager of Recovery Services at OneDoor Mental Health, formerly known as the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW, and CEO of Options Community Enterprises.

He currently serves as Director of Education and Training at WEA Sydney and writes a Substack series called Surviving and Thriving in the Age of Intelligent Machines, alongside several co-authored peer reviewed papers. Few people in this space have spent as long thinking seriously about how artificial intelligence intersects with human services, and it showed.

Bill spoke candidly about how emerging technology, particularly Al, has the potential to amplify the knowledge, encouragement and personalised support that genuinely help people build skills, strengthen their wellbeing and move toward greater independence. He was careful not to paint an overly rosy picture though.

He acknowledged the very real risks and barriers that come with introducing new technology into care settings, and spent real time unpacking them rather than glossing over them for the sake of optimism. What made the session so compelling was how he wove together decades of expertise in care, recovery, behaviour change and community participation with a clear eyed view of where these technologies are heading, and what that trajectory could mean for delivering more effective, more timely support to the people who need it most.

The point that stuck with all three of us walking out of that room was the idea that Al’s real value in this sector has very little to do with replacing the human element of care, and everything to do with lifting the administrative weight that so often gets in the way of it.

When carers and support workers spend less time buried in paperwork and system navigation, they get more time back for the relationships and conversations that actually move the needle for the people they support. That idea resonated deeply with us as a community organisation. It echoes something Guru Basava has taught for centuries, that dignity in work matters, and that people, not systems, should always come first.

We left the session carrying a genuinely important question with us. How do we, as a growing community organisation, harness the potential of Al while keeping our innovation human centred, inclusive and environmentally responsible. How do we make sure that as our own digital strategy evolves, equality and shared responsibility stay just as relevant to how we lead our community as they have always been, rather than becoming values we simply refer back to on paper.

A heartfelt thank you to Bill Gye OAM for such a thoughtful, honest and genuinely inspiring session, and to Sognos Solutions and Microsoft for hosting such a well organised and thought provoking morning. We’re grateful for the perspective we’ve come away with, and we’re looking forward to carrying these insights into our own digital strategy and community work in the months ahead.
For more insights and updates, follow Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific.

PERTH

BSAPAC Perth conducted another successful Mahamane event on the 12th Sept 2026. Over 150 people attend the Mahamane event each month to celebrate and inculcate the Guru Basava philosophy.

Perth’s Basava Samiti of Asia Pacific (BSAPAC) Chapter hosted another inspiring Mahamane gathering on September 12, 2026, welcoming over 150 community members. Held monthly on the second Saturday, this event has become a cornerstone of Perth’s Indian community life.

The Mahamane brings together families and community members to discuss the teachings of Guru Basava, a 12th-century philosopher and social reformer from Karnataka who championed equality, rejected caste discrimination, and promoted community service.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EjQbNyemy/

During these gatherings, members engage in meaningful discussions on Vachanas-poetic verses from the Sharana tradition-exploring their relevance in today’s world. A distinctive feature is dasoha, where families rotate hosting and distribute blessed food, reinforcing the principles of community sharing and service.

The Perth Chapter also runs a monthly Kannada Shaale for children, preserving cultural heritage for younger generations.

Founded in 2020, BSAPAC operates across eight cities including Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, and New Zealand. The organisation’s mission is to Engage, Educate, Empower, and Enlighten through volunteer-led charitable activities and cultural programs.

Good news! hepatitis B treatment is now easier to access in Australia

Good news! hepatitis B treatment is now easier to access in Australia

Read BUILD_Phase4_QA_FINISH_REVIEW.md and execute BUILD_Phase4_QA_FINAL_ASSERTIONS_PROMPT.md from the ADHD Life Organizer folder. Complete only the remaining assertions and evidence corrections. Preserve the working design and sample data, test mutations in disposable copies, return the final QA report, and stop before Phase 5.

From 1 September 2026, all GPs (family doctors) and authorised nurse practitioners can prescribe hepatitis B medication in Australia. Before this date, only a small number of GPs with special training and received accreditation could prescribe the medication. Now, you can get a prescription from your regular GP or a GP close to where you live. This is a big step forward. The government has removed barriers so people can access hepatitis B treatment more easily in Australia.

All GPs can get free training and support from ASHM. ASHM is a national organization that provides training, resources, and support for health professionals working in hepatitis, HIV and sexual health. The ASHM’s website also has a list of doctors and nurse practitioners who have received hepatitis B treatment training. For more information can be accessed at www.ashm.org.au.

In Queensland, 30% of people living with chronic hepatitis B require treatment. However, only less than 10% are currently on treatment (National Viral Mapping Project Report: Hepatitis B).

If you have chronic hepatitis B and are not sure if you need treatment, please talk to your doctor now.

If you are already on the treatment, please take your medication every day. Current treatment is not a cure, but it can control the hepatitis B virus and reduce the risk of liver cancer. You can find more information about hepatitis B medication in our brochure “How to take Hepatitis B Medication in Australia” at www.eccq.com.au/bbv. The resource is available in English, Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Thai, Khmer, Karen, Hindi, Dari, Burmese, Vietnamese, Swahili, and Korean.

If you, your family, or your friends with chronic hepatitis are considering treatment, and need more information and support, please contact us at [email protected].
Remember: whether you are on treatment or not, all people with chronic hepatitis B need to see their doctor every six months to check their liver through blood tests, an ultrasound (for some high-risk groups) or Fibroscans if required by your doctor.

ECCQ’s Love Health Program is funded by Queensland Health. ECCQ is accredited by QIP against the QIC Standards.

Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Fiji Day and the Legacy of the Fiji-Indian Diaspora

Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Fiji Day and the Legacy of the Fiji-Indian Diaspora

Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Fiji Day and the Legacy of the Fiji-Indian Diaspora

Every year on the 10th of October, Fijians around the world gather to mark Fiji Day, a national milestone celebrating the nation’s independence, cultural heritage, and resilient community spirit. For the readers of the Australian Indian Times, Fiji Day holds a uniquely personal significance. It represents not only the sovereignty of a cherished Pacific island nation, but also the enduring journey, rich cultural contributions, and vibrant identity of the Fiji-Indian community both across the South Pacific and within multicultural Australia.

1. Historical Foundations: A Story of Dual Milestones

October 10 holds a profound dual significance in the history of Fiji:

• The Deed of Cession (1874): On October 10, 1874, King Seru Epenisa Cakobau and the high chiefs of Fiji formally ceded the islands to the British Crown, initiating nearly a century of colonial rule.

• Independence Reclaimed (1970): Exactly 96 years later, on October 10, 1970, Fiji officially lowered the Union Jack and raised its sky-blue national flag, emerging as an independent, sovereign nation.

Modern Diaspora: Cultural Integration in Australia

Intertwined with this political journey is the saga of Girmit, the era between 1879 and 1916 when over 60,000 Indian contract labourers were brought to Fiji under the indentured system. Known as Girmitiyas, these men and women endured extraordinary hardship, transforming the agricultural landscape of Fiji while preserving their ancestral heritage, languages, music, and spiritual traditions. Over generations, they forged a distinct, resilient Indo-Fijian culture that remains an essential pillar of modern Fijian society.

2. The Cultural Tapestry of Fiji Day Celebrations

Fiji Day is the climax of Fiji Week, a week-long period filled with national pride, cultural performances, interfaith prayers, and civic gatherings. In Fiji, official festivities feature military parades, 21-gun salutes, traditional Meke dances, and address by national leaders emphasizing unity under the national motto: “Rerevaka na Kalou ka Doka na Tui” (Fear God and honour the King/Queen), alongside the overarching philosophy of Bula spirit.

Central to the celebration is the sharing of traditional food and fellowship:

• The Earth Oven (Lovo): Root crops, meats, and fish wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked over hot stones beneath the earth.

• Fiji-Style Indian Cuisine: Rich, fragrant lamb and chicken curries cooked with distinct island spices, served alongside dhal, roti, and home-made pickles.

• The Sacred Kava Ceremony (Yaqona): The communal preparation and sharing of kava, symbolizing peace, mutual respect, and friendship across all communities.

3. Fiji Day Across Australia: A Vibrant Community Hub

In Australia, home to one of the largest Fiji-born diaspora communities outside the Pacific, Fiji Day is celebrated with remarkable enthusiasm across major metropolitan and regional centres.

These gatherings serve as vital bridges for younger generations born in Australia, providing a vibrant platform to connect with their roots, learn traditional crafts, and appreciate their unique heritage.

4. The Indo-Fijian Contribution to Australian Multiculturalism

The Fiji-Indian community in Australia occupies a unique cultural space, rooted in ancient Indian heritage, nurtured in the soil of the Pacific Islands, and thriving within contemporary Australian society.

Through hard work, civic leadership, and academic and professional excellence, Fiji-Australians have made substantial contributions to Australian business, medicine, education, public service, and sport. Their unique blend of languages, including Fiji Hindi, a distinctive dialect evolved during the Girmit era, stands as a testament to cultural adaptability and historical survival.

During Fiji Day, this community reflects on its multifaceted journey with deep pride:

• Honouring the Ancestors: Remembering the sacrifice of the Girmitiyas who built the foundation of the community through grit and unity.

• Embracing Inclusivity: Celebrating side-by-side with iTaukei Fijians, reinforcing the shared bond of island brotherhood.

• Strengthening Australian Bonds: Enriching Australia’s multicultural landscape through cultural openness, hospitality, and active civic participation.

Fiji Day is far more than an anniversary of independence; it is an enduring celebration of identity, harmony, and togetherness. As flags fly and song rings out at celebrations across Australia, the day reminds us that no matter where the journey of migration leads, the spirit of unity, warmth, and resilience will always shine bright. Happy Fiji Day to all—Vinaka Vakalevu and Happy Fiji Day!

How the Global Fuel Crisis Is Impacting Australia

How the Global Fuel Crisis Is Impacting Australia

How the Global Fuel Crisis Is Impacting Australia

As global geopolitical tensions, trade route disruptions, and supply chain bottlenecks continue to shake global energy markets, the ongoing fuel crisis has emerged as a major economic challenge for Australia. Although geographically isolated and rich in natural resources, Australia imports over 90% of its refined liquid fuels and leaving the country highly exposed to global price spikes and supply disruptions. From individual household budgets to national supply chains, the fallout of the current fuel crisis is felt across every corner of the Australian economy.

1. Pressure at the Bowser and Household Budgets

The most immediate and visible manifestation of the crisis is the cost of petrol and diesel at retail service stations. With global crude oil prices surging well above historic baselines, average Australian pump prices have regularly reached $2.40 to $2.80 per litre in major metropolitan centres.
This sudden escalation forces significant budget adjustments for suburban and regional households:

• Erosion of Disposable Income: Families are forced to redirect discretionary spending from dining, retail, and domestic travel toward essential commuting expenses.

• Regional Disparity: Outer-suburban “mortgage belt” residents and regional Australians, who rely on long daily drives due to limited public transport infrastructure, are disproportionately affected by rising pump costs.

2. Freight, Logistics, and Grocery Price Inflation

Fuel is not merely a consumer product; it is a foundational input for the transport and logistics sector. Over 80% of domestic freight in Australia moves by road, heavily reliant on diesel fuel.

As wholesale diesel prices climb dramatically, trucking companies and logistics operators face shrinking profit margins. Unable to absorb these rising operational costs indefinitely, transport companies pass them along via fuel surcharges. Consequently, the price of everyday groceries, fresh produce, and consumer goods rises at supermarkets, compounding broader cost-of-living challenges across the nation.

3. Industry Vulnerability and Business Operations

Beyond transport, high energy and fuel costs weigh heavily on major economic sectors across Australia. Small-and-medium businesses that rely on service vehicles, such as tradespeople, delivery operators, and mobile services, face a immediate squeeze on operating capital, often forcing them to lift service fees to stay solvent.

4. Macroeconomic Impact: Inflation and Monetary Policy

The fuel crisis poses a complex challenge for central bankers and policymakers. Automotive fuel represents a volatile yet heavily weighted component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

1. Persistent Inflationary Headwinds: Sustained high fuel prices keep headline inflation elevated, complicating efforts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to bring inflation smoothly back into its 2–3% target band.

2. Interest Rate Stance: Because higher energy costs act as a “tax on consumption,” they cool discretionary demand while simultaneously driving up headline prices. This leaves the RBA balancing the threat of fuel-driven inflation against the risk of broader economic stagnation.

5. National Fuel Security and Resilience

The crisis has renewed intense national debate around Australia’s fuel security architecture. Because domestic oil refining capacity has contracted significantly over past decades, Australia relies on long, vulnerable maritime sea lanes for refined products.

In response, federal initiatives, such as the Minimum Stockholding Obligation (MSO) and expanded investments in the Australian Fuel Security Reserve, aim to guarantee minimum emergency reserves of diesel, petrol, and jet fuel stored onshore. Furthermore, the ongoing crisis is accelerating strategic discussions around fleet electrification for light transport and alternative fuel sources (such as renewable diesel and hydrogen) to insulate the nation from future international supply shocks.

The fuel crisis serves as a stark reminder of Australia’s vulnerability to international energy disruptions. While households and businesses navigate immediate financial strains, the overarching economic impact underlines the need for enhanced national fuel security measures alongside a strategic transition toward greater energy self-reliance.

Wings of Valor: The Extraordinary Heroism of Captain Smit Machchhar

Wings of Valor:
The Extraordinary Heroism of Captain Smit Machchhar

Wings of Valor: 
The Extraordinary Heroism of Captain Smit Machchhar

In aviation history, a pilot’s resolve is rarely tested under conditions as harrowing as those faced by Indian aviator Captain Smit Machchhar. Commanding Flydubai Flight FZ-1073 en-route from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers and crew on board, Captain Machchhar proved that true leadership, quick thinking, and sheer courage can mean the difference between tragedy and survival.

Crisis at 30,000 Feet

Cruising thousands of feet in the air, the routine flight took a violent and unforeseen turn when a severe altercation erupted inside the flight deck. The first officer launched a violent knife attack against Captain Machchhar in an apparent attempt to sabotage the aircraft and cause a catastrophic crash.

As the aircraft suddenly plunged thousands of feet in altitude, Captain Machchhar sustained severe stab wounds. Despite suffering profuse bleeding and critical injuries, he maintained total focus on the safety of the 174 lives entrusted to his care.

An Unyielding Act of Selflessness

With the cockpit secure-access protocol preventing outside entry, passengers and crew were initially helpless. Recognizing the immediate danger to everyone on board, Captain Machchhar summoned his remaining strength. In a decisive act of bravery, he unlocked the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to rush inside, intervene, and subdue the attacker.

His presence of mind stabilized a chaotic emergency. With the situation controlled, the aircraft made a safe emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia. Captain Machchhar was immediately rushed to medical care in stable condition.

Global Acclaim and Sacred Heritage

Word of Captain Machchhar’s selflessness quickly swept across international news outlets and diplomatic channels. Leaders from Israel, India, the UAE, and beyond lauded his heroism, emphasizing how his actions united people of diverse backgrounds, Indian, Israeli, and Emirati in a shared effort to preserve human life.

For readers of the Australian Indian Times, Captain Machchhar’s story reflects the deepest principles of duty, bravery, and self-sacrifice long celebrated in Indian heritage. His unflinching composure under severe trial serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary human spirit that quietly safeguards the skies every day.