Macathur Advocate July 2025

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HEADSPAE OPENS AT ORAN PARK

SAVE THE CATS

FIVE much-loved pet cats are staring at an uncertain future, with the recent passing away of their owner. If no home is found soon, they risk being put down. Up until a few weeks ago, Tim, Gary, Tom, Puss and Tabby were part of a bigger group of 13 pet cats, all cared for and loved by William (name changed), a 78-yearold Campbelltown resident. William was unmarried, had no kids and lived alone. After retiring from his job at the local council, William lived a quiet life with his beloved cats. More inside:

ISSUE 31 | July 2023

How to get Advocate

The Macarthur Advocate is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

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MACARTHUR'S TRUSTED LOCAL MEDIA VOICE

Design and production

Design2Pro, Ju Ju Garphics.

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Support Partner Local Business Awards in Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly.

EVERY YOUNG PERSON DESERVES ACCESS TO CARE headspace opens at Oran Park

YOUNG people living in South Western Sydney are benefiting from a new mental health support service, headspace Oran Park.

South Western Sydney PHN (SWSPHN) has funded Grand Pacific Health to deliver the service, designed to provide a safe and welcoming space for young people aged 12 to 25.

headspace aims to provide an integrated approach to wellness by offering support for a young person’s mental, physical and sexual health, as well as counselling in areas such as work and study goals, or problems with alcohol or drugs.

SWSPHN Chief Executive Officer, Dr Keith McDonald PhD, praised the team at headspace Oran Park who had worked “tirelessly” to establish the new service and welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with Grand Pacific Health in its delivery.

“Grand Pacific Health is a recognised health service provider which is currently the lead agency for 12 headspace centres, including two satellite centres across NSW, as well as a centre at Liverpool and Edmondson Park,” he said.

“An outreach service in Narellan has also opened to complement the Oran Park service and improve access to young people who live, work and study in the Camden Local Government Area.”

Dr McDonald said SWSPHN was proud to facilitate and fund services like headspace on behalf of the Australian Government, which enhanced access to mental health treatment in our region.

“The Oran Park centre will complement other youth services funded by SWSPHN, including headspace centres in Campbelltown, Liverpool, Edmondson Park and Bankstown, as well as ReFrame in the Wollondilly and Wingecarribee Shires,” he said.

headspace National Chief Executive Officer Jason Trethowan said: “We’re proud to see headspace Oran Park officially open, creating a welcoming place for young people to get support with their mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug use, and vocational goals.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures almost two in five young Australians aged 16 to 24 have faced a mental health disorder in the past year.

The Camden Local Government Area, including Oran Park, has a relatively young population, with almost 20 per cent of the total classified as youth. By 2045, the number of children aged 0 to 9 is expected to grow by nearly 20 per cent in Oran Park and 60 per cent in Camden, while the youth population is projected to rise by around 60 per cent in both Oran Park and Camden LGA.

Over the past decade, the number of 18 to 24-year-olds accessing mental health services has significantly increased, by 44.6 per cent for males, and by 69.5 per cent for females.

Clients do not need a doctor’s referral to access the service. They can drop-in to visit the service or phone the centre on 4604 3030 to make an appointment.

headspace Oran Park is located at Level 5, Suite 5.04, 3 Fordham Way, Oran Park. It is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 8.30am to 5pm and Thursday from 11am to 7pm. The headspace outreach service at Narellan is located at the Narellan Library forecourt, corner of Queen and Elyard Streets. It is open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 5pm.

Visit headspace Oran Park’s website to learn more about the service.

Headspace opens!

TraffiC UpdateS

Camden Valley Way southbound

ROAD users are advised of changed traffic conditions on Camden Valley Way, southbound, between Denham Court Road and Saint Andrews Road, Leppington from Monday, August 4 2025. These changes are required to

repair the road surface and add new line marking, to provide road users with a smoother, safer road surface.

Work will be for We will work for up to three-night shifts between Monday 4 August and Thursday 21 August 2025, weather permitting.

Night working hours are between 8pm and 5am from Sunday to Thursday. No work will be carried out Friday or Saturday nights.

If it is too wet to complete the work as planned, back-up dates of Sunday 24 August to Thursday

4 September 2025 will be used to finish the work.

There will be temporary traffic changes to make sure the work zone is safe. A single lane closure and a reduced 40 km/h speed limit will be in place for the safety of workers and road users.

Please drive to the

and

Northern Road and Dick Johnson Drive, Oran Park

ROAD users are advised of changed traffic conditions for drainage repairs at the intersection of The Northern Road and Dick Johnson Drive, Orchard Hills. The changes are necessary to improve safety for road users by improving quality of the stormwater drainage system.

TWork will take place for up to three-night shifts between Monday, July 28and Thursday, August 7 2025, weather permitting.

Work hours are from 8pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday No work will occur on Friday or Saturday nights.

If it is too wet to complete the work as planned, back-up dates of Sunday 10 August to

Thursday 14 August 2025 will be used to finish the work.

There will be temporary traffic changes while we complete this work. This includes lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h.

Please drive and ride to the conditions and follow the

Camden Valley Way and Beech Road, Casula

HERE will be site investigation work at the intersection of Camden Valley Way and Beech Road, Casula. These investigations will help with future planning at and around the intersection.

TWork will take place for up to three-night shifts between Monday July 28 and Thursday, August 7 2025, weather permitting.

Work hours are from 8pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday. No work will occur on Friday or Saturday nights.

If it is too wet to complete the work as planned, back-up dates of Sunday, August 10 to Thursday, August 14 2025 will be used to finish the work.

There will be temporary

traffic changes while work is completed. This includes lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h. The changes are necessary to complete investigation work at the intersection.

Feedback sought on upgrade at Bradbury

HE Appin and St Johns Road intersection near Bradbury will be improved to help traffic flows and bring better safety outcomes in a move to better manage traffic volumes into the future.

Central to the upgrade will be an

additional right hand turn lane from St Johns Road onto Appin Road, while the Appin Road right hand turn bay into St Johns Road will also be lengthened and improved.

Further work will see traffic island reconfigured and a new slip

lane along Appin Road. Other work will include the upgrading of utilities around the intersection, improved lighting and new pedestrian paths.

While there were no koalas recorded in this area while studies were undertaken, Transport for

NSW does recognise the significance of colonies throughout the region and will undertake a tree and hollow replacement program to compensate for vegetation removal and encourage the sustainability of local fauna through the area.

After

From July 20 until August 10, the public is invited to have their say on the proposed upgrade.

Details can be found at transport.nsw. gov.au/st-johns-road-upgrade

Campaign to support kids program

KIDS of Macarthur Health Foundation in partnership with Campbelltown & Camden Emergency Department has launched a powerful new campaign to support the Paediatric Life Support Program, an urgent, community-led initiative which trains Paediatric Emergency care nurses. Created by marketing consultancy IMAB2B, the latest work is the second phase of a two-year-old campaign aiming to continue to raise awareness and drive donations to fund Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) training for local nurses.

Since its inception in 2023, the program has trained 20 Campbelltown-based nurses through community donations, directly saving young lives across the region.

Recognising the urgent need for more specially trained nurses - driven largely by the region's projected population growth - IMA took on the project pro bono.

For the second iteration, the agency was responsible for strategy and messaging, creating both print and digital versions of the campaign brochure, producing a fundraising ‘hero’ video that combined program insights with a powerful success

story, and leading community and donor engagement efforts.

Designed to connect with residents, small businesses and potential donors, the campaign uses emotion-led storytelling and a clear call to action: fund a nurse, save a child’s life. With no government funding, the initiative relies entirely on community generosity.

The ‘hero’ video tells the story of young Tommy who survived a venomous funnel-web spider bite thanks to swift intervention from one of the program’s APLS-trained nurses, highlighting the program’s grassroots impact.

M“Our campaign puts real human stories front and centre,” said Jake Cush, Chief Creative Officer, IMA. “By showing how just $1,920 can fund one nurse’s specialist training, we’re making the donation ask tangible, actionable and emotionally resonant. This is marketing for good, demonstrating the direct impact a community can make.”

The latest campaign materials mark a refreshed chapter in a broader ongoing effort by the Foundation to strengthen paediatric care across Southwest Sydney, with potential future extensions into events, BTL activations and corporate sponsorship.

Alex Buttfield, Deputy Director at Campbelltown Emergency Department and lead organiser behind the Paediatric Life Support Program said: “Tommy’s survival is a powerful testament to the life-saving potential of this program and just one of many untold success stories emerging from Campbelltown ED. Every donation helps equip our nurses to respond when every second counts.”

Please visit How to Donate - Kids of Macarthur Health Foundation to donate.

See video HERE - https://youtu.be/G-a3dXzxjCo

More paramedics in south west

ORE paramedics, more nurses and more doctors will be joining the NSW health system including four paramedics in South West Sydney Zones 1 and 2. It comes as 24 NSW public hospitals have either achieved or are in the process of implementing safe staffing ratios in their emergency departments, including Campbelltown which services the local health district.

NSW Ambulance will welcome 68 new paramedic interns and six new paramedic inductees following an official ceremony at the State Operations Centre, Sydney Olympic Park.

NEW HEADSPACE F OR ORAN PARK

It was great to get along to the official opening of the new Headspace Centre in Oran Park. Headspace is the Australian Government's flagship health program for young Australians aged 12 - 25. It offers highly effective free or low-cost support for mental health, physical and sexual health, work and study, and alcohol and other drug use. Young people are our future and it's so important they have a safe and welcoming place where they can talk to someone.

Congratulations to South Western Sydney PHN (SWSPHN) and Grand Pacific for making this project possible. The centre is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8.30am to 5pm and Thursday from 11am to 7pm. To make an appointment call 4604 3030 or email headspaceoranpark@gph.org.au

Sadly, we live in the most dangerous times since the second world war with authoritarian regimes across the globe flexing their muscles. We've seen it in Iran, Russia, and we're seeing it in the militar y build-up with the Chinese Communist Party Our alliance with America is so important and that's why it's concerning the Prime Minister is more interested in getting a faceto-face meeting with the President of China. Anthony Albanese needs to meet with the US President to seek assurances on AUKUS and protect Australia from tariffs. I've also been ver y adamant that Australia needs to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP We need to manufacture our own missiles and develop drone and counter-drone capability We also need to invest more in Henderson, which is the shipyard that will be critical to developing nuclear subs.

To other news and the Federal Government is conducting several community engagement sessions about Western Sydney Airport over August and September We're being told residents can find out more information regarding flight paths and locations, noise abatement procedures and the noise monitoring program. Please contact my office for further details about dates and times.

Camden:

angus taylor.mp@aph.gov.au

They join almost 600 new paramedics who have entered the service since the beginning of the year. Four paramedics will join the South West Sydney Zones 1 and 2.

The paramedic interns will be posted across NSW to complete the on-road portion of their 12-month internships,

before taking permanent positions in metropolitan and regional areas. 10 NSW public hospitals have completed the rollout of safe staffing ratios, including Campbelltown. 14 NSW public hospitals are in the process of implementing safe staffing ratios.

WE SUPPORT empowers individuals with disabilities, the aged and people of all ages in need of support to explore brighter future

W WE SUPPORT delivers a comprehensive guide to providers working in Australia’s most dynamic and diverse region Greater Western Sydney and is published in four popular Western Sydney media brands each quarter.

Five orphaned cats need a home

FIVE much-loved pet cats are staring at an uncertain future, with the recent passing away of their owner. If no home is found soon, they risk being put down.

Up until a few weeks ago, Tim, Gary, Tom, Puss and Tabby were part of a bigger group of 13 pet cats, all cared for and loved by William (name changed), a 78-year-old Campbelltown resident. William was unmarried, had no kids and lived alone.

After retiring from his job at the local council, William lived a quiet life with his beloved cats. Though people in the community knew about his love for the felines, no one was quite aware of the number of cats he had adopted over the years.

It so happened that one day he went for his usual health check up and ended up in the hospital ICU and later passed away of a heart attack. He never got back home to his cats. The pets had food for a while as William had left it behind for them, at a place where they could find it.

Following his death, his will revealed that he left his

the Cat Protection Society.

With taking in of the cats not legally binding on them, in the absence of it being specifically mentioned in the will, the charities were at liberty to decide on that.

At this point, the estate solicitor reached out to a local cat rescue group, who stepped in to take care of the cats in the interim. Posts on the social media about the plight of these helpless cats ensured that help poured in generously in the form of essential supplies and pet food.

“There was a huge outpouring of support and items sent and donated for the care of the cats from the community, it has been incredible,” said Nicole W, founder and director at Meow & Forever, the local cat rescue group.

pleased to see that many of the cats have found homes already through the local rescue group and ourselves,” said Nerida Atkin, Feline Services Manager at the Cat Protection Society of NSW Limited.

“RSPCA NSW is committed to exploring every possible strategy to ensure the remaining cats can enjoy good quality of life. Our animal care team is meeting with a member of the rescue group this week to review the cats' behavioural needs and rehoming options, one of which involves the cats continuing their adoption journey at an RSPCA NSW shelter. However, no decision has been made regarding the cats at this time,” said an RSPCA NSW spokesperson.

entire estate to two animal and cat charities – RSPCA (Royal

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) NSW and

Of the 13 pet cats, five have been adopted and/or found foster homes and an additional three have been taken in by the Cat Protection Society, one of the beneficiary charities, under the condition that they are not to be euthanised.

“It is a sad situation indeed. We have been working closely with the local rescue group to look after the cats, this will be an ongoing process. We are very

Time is however, running out. All five urgently need short to medium term foster carers and/or be adopted at the earliest. These guys truly deserve a second chance at finding a new home, to create new memories and being pampered.

If anyone is interested in fostering/ adopting them, kindly get in touch with the beneficiary charities or Meow and Forever Cat Rescue at info@meowandforever.org

Warning over early morning scams

CPA Australia is warning Australians to watch for tax scams via emails and texts, especially those arriving early in the morning to catch people off guard. These phishing scams impersonate the ATO or government agencies, often claiming urgent action or refunds. Scam losses have surged, with phishing alone causing $13.7 million in early 2025. CPA urges the public to pause, stay alert, and verify messages before clicking, particularly during the busy tax season.

ATO is now ready for business

THE ATO has launched its ‘Ready for Business’ campaign to help new small business owners understand tax, super, and GST obligations. With half of businesses failing within three years, often due to tax errors, the ATO offers guidance via email. It urges correct GST registration, especially for those earning over $75,000 or in ride-sourcing. Side hustles and PAYG instalments are also in focus to avoid tax surprises and improve compliance.

Charity support reaches new record

THE 11th Australian Charities Report reveals strong growth in the sector, with charity revenue reaching a record $222B—up 10.7%—and staff numbers increasing by over 70,000. Charities now employ 1.54 million people, outpacing construction and manufacturing. Volunteer numbers rose to 3.77 million. While revenue growth was led by extra large charities, many small charities struggled. Rising demand, driven by cost-of-living pressures, continues to challenge capacity.

Parental concern medically valid

ANEW study in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health shows that parental concern about a child worsening in hospital is as significant as abnormal vital signs in detecting serious illness. Led by Monash University researchers, the study urges clinicians to ask, “Are you worried your child is getting worse?” during checks. Findings revealed worried parents were four times more likely to have children needing intensive care, highlighting the need to formally integrate caregiver input into hospital early warning systems.

Approval for sleep apnea drug

THE TGA has approved Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a drug used for type 2 diabetes and obesity, to also treat moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in adults with obesity. OSA affects 780,000 Australians and is linked to serious health risks. Mounjaro works by promoting weight loss, reducing airway blockages. It’s the first approved medicine for OSA in Australia, offering an alternative to CPAP machines and surgery. Experts hail it as a major breakthrough for sleep and obesity-related health care.

Fewer Aussies are seeing specialists

MEDICARE data shows a 10% drop in Australians seeing medical specialists over five years, despite population growth. Rising costs—some first appointments exceed $900—are deterring patients, with up to 20% skipping referrals due to cost concerns. Medicare covers only part of these fees, and insurers can’t assist outside hospital settings. Experts warn this trend risks worsening health outcomes and overburdening public hospitals. The government plans to list specialist fees online to help patients find affordable care and encourage price transparency.

The cost of confusing food labels

RESEACH from RMIT University and End Food Waste Australia shows that confusing and inconsistent food labels are causing Australians to throw away edible food, costing households up to $2,500 annually. Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food each year, much of it still safe to eat. Clearer labels with simple icons and storage advice could significantly cut waste. Experts urge government, retailers, and producers to collaborate on a national labelling framework, which could prevent nearly a million tonnes of waste by 2030.

Venue

WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at S

Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Austr For Exhibitors

Exhibitor Bump In: Tuesday 21st Oct – 3-5pm

Exhibitor Bump out: Thursday 23rd – 9am Workshops

Commencing at 9am and running ever y h with a 30-minute break in between Details announced soon.

Workshops require registration at ww w.wexpo.com.au

Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.

 Business

• Business & Work Visas

• Labour Agreements

• Training Visas (407)

• Partner Visas

• Parent Visas

• Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)

• Citizenship

MAIN EVENT

10 dedicated exhibitor spaces for AI and tech businesses, networking area PLUS...

AI in Action: Hype, Help or Hindrance? Panel Discussion, 9.30AM

AI is everywhere, but is it actually helping your business?

In this candid, no-fluff panel, four experts explore how small and midsize businesses can cut through the noise to make AI understandable, effective, and safe. From real-world use cases to

October 22, Hall 5, Grand Parade

navigating vendor hype, we’ll cover what makes AI worth the investment, when it adds complexity, and how to approach it without overhauling everything overnight. Expect grounded insights, practical tools for decision-making, and a clear-eyed look at AI’s possibilities - and limitations - in today’s business context.

Panelists include: Kate Dodd Founder and Director Intent Strategy

Limited audience spaces available. Register at www.wexpo.com.au

Careen Matthews AI Innovator & Founder, Humaneer

John-Paul Costales, Startup+Scaling Advisor & Founder, Be Useful Moderator to be advised

Sponsorship and exhibitor enquires:

SWR 99.9 FM –Loud, Live & Local!

Your Voice. Your Community. Your Station. Sydney’s West has it's very own community radio station – broadcasting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from our studios in Blacktown Showground. Whether you're tuning in for music, local news, or diverse cultural programming, SWR brings the heartbeat of Sydney's West straight to your speakers. From Horsley Park to the heart of the city, our signal reaches across most of the Sydney metropolitan area –and our passion for community reaches even further.

OUR SPONSORS:

With years of experience in the voice-over industry, Nicole Senior has lent her voice to major campaigns for brands including (but not limited to) Aussie Broadband, Helloworld Travel, SumUp, Maxwell & Williams, The Salvation Army, Blackmores, 1800 GOT JUNK?, QV Skincare, TAS Police, and Melbourne Airport. Working remotely from her professional Studiobricks VO Edition voice booth, Nicole delivers clear, engaging performances tailored to each client’s tone and style. Beyond voiceovers, she writes, produces, and hosts podcasts, bringing together creative storytelling, technical precision, and a deep understanding of brand messaging. Her work reflects a blend of professionalism, warmth, and versatility –making her a trusted voice across radio, digital, and commercial platforms.

experience? No problem! At SWR 99.9 FM, we believe everyone has a story to tell. That’s why we offer opportunities for anyone to start their own show. Whether you're into music, talkback, culture, or comedy – we’ll help you get on the air. Join us today and become part of a vibrant, creative community. Visit swr999.com.au to learn more and express your interest.

Contact SWR 99.9 FM

EducatioN

MACQUARIE COMMUNITY COLLEGE TURNS 75

History of delivering positive education

SEVENTY-FIVE years ago, the Eastwood Evening College opened. From that single location, it has changed and grown to become Macquarie Community College

- Western Sydney’s leading not-for-profit provider of community-based education and training.

With a vision of shaping stronger communities through the power of learning and connection, the College has empowered many thousands of Western Sydneysiders, says Theresa Collignon, who recently marked her 10th years as CEO of Macquarie Community College:

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating 75 years of improving the lives of students through education and training. “The College of today started in 1950 under the motto of “Dum Spiro Disco”, which is Latin for ‘While I breathe, I learn’, and the hardworking team has been dedicated to lifelong learning to this day,” adds Ms Collignon.

“This milestone reflects the hard work of our team and our

passion for delivering affordable and inclusive learning opportunities to meet the needs of our students, communities and local organisations.

The past 75 years have seen the College expand to six dedicated campuses across Blacktown, Carlingford, Chatswood, Epping, Mount Druitt and Ryde. The seventh location, an additional Mt Druitt campus, is set to launch this July.

Macquarie Community College has continued to grow and innovate its offering, going

from 63 programs in 1950 to hundreds today. This was driven in large part by the need for employment-ready graduates to fill critical skills gaps and courses to help migrants to participate fully in their new communities and in the workforce.

In the late 1990s the College commenced delivery of the Adult Migrant English Program and became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) delivering nationally recognised qualifications. This

was followed in 2015 by its registration as a provider under the NSW Government’s Smart and Skilled program.

Range of support benefits

In addition to its broad range of Short Courses for work, leisure and life-long learning, the College offers a range of programs to support job readiness for individuals and workplaces. These include Foundational Skills and Adult Community Education (ACE) programs, Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) and Certificate and Diploma level Vocational Educational and Training (VET) qualifications.

The College has had a range of positive effects in its diverse communities across Western Sydney through inclusive education that allows students to find purpose, connection and accelerate their careers.

Mereline Murimwa-Rarami, Aged Care Services Manager at SydWest Multicultural Services says: “Macquarie Community College offers enormously flexible

training arrangements for our care staff, allowing them to continue working whilst also undergoing training.

Another organisation to benefit from the College’s community-led approach is Junaya, a non-government, community-based organisation providing services for families within Blacktown.

“Macquarie Community College has been a beacon of opportunity in Western Sydney, empowering individuals through person-centred education that meets people where they are,” says Junaya Executive Officer, Valerie Karim.

Under Ms Collignon’s leadership, the College also expanded into High School education for Years 9 and 10 with the launch of Gateway Community High in 2021.

The independent, alternative high school meets a growing need for small, welcoming and supportive learning environments for young people at risk of disengaging with their formal schooling. Its success saw it add HSC programs in 2024.

MCC celebrating 75 years.

Take steps to lower your risk of D ABETES

in Western Sydney

Diabetes has been an issue for Western Sydney, in fact, the diagnosis rates of diabetes in Western Sydney is higher than the New South Wales average. This has left Western Sydney to be labelled a diabetes ‘hotspot’ for many years.

Western Sydney is home to over 1 million adults and with diabetes rates continuing to climb, NSW Health estimates that 13% are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes while over 290,000 people are estimated to be at a high risk of developing diabetes (1).

In response to this health crisis, the Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) initiative was established in 2014. WSD is a partnership between Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Western Sydney Local Health District, Diabetes Australia and the former Department of Planning, Industry and Environment with an Alliance of over 140 partner organisations.

WSD is dedicated to improving diabetes prevention and management efforts through a series of partnerships and innovative programs. The WSD team offer plenty of educational resources to help inform the Western Sydney community on the high rates of type 2 diabetes in the region, ways to help prevent against developing type 2 diabetes and how to detect it early.

Lowering your Risk

It’s important to be aware of things you can do to lower your risk of developing diabetes. You can lower your diabetic risk if you:

9 Eat a mix of food from the five food groups every day (as per the Australian Dietary Guidelines).

9 Drink plenty of water

9 Exercise regularly

9 Manage your weight

9 Avoid smoking

9 Have regular health check ups

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body can’t process insulin properly or is not making enough insulin.

Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, resulting in long term health complications including heart, kidney, eye and foot damage.

Are you at Risk of Diabetes?

WSD is encouraging adults to get a blood test if they:

• Have a family history of diabetes

• Have an inactive lifestyle

• Are overweight or obese

• Had diabetes during a pregnancy

• Have a Pacific Island, Indian subcontinent, Chinese, Southeast Asian, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island background.

It is critical to visit a GP early. GPs can help prevent or manage diabetes-related complications by providing guidance on diet, exercise, and medication, and by coordinating care with other specialists.

To help find a GP, you can visit Healthdirect here.

Western Sydney Diabetes

Events in Action 2025

National Diabetes Week 2025

In the lead up to National Diabetes Week 2025 (July 13-19), Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) is partnering with Westpoint Shopping Centre Blacktown to run the Wellness Expo.

As part of the Wellness Expo, the WSD team will be offering a HbA1c test which will reveal the average blood sugar levels over the past three months and can tell people if they’re at risk, or already living, with Type 2 diabetes.

It only takes 3 minutes - no fasting, no prep, and you can pick up some educational resources as well.

There will be lots happening!

Some Westpoint stores will also offer:

9 Mini health chats

9 Product demos

9 Friendly advice from health experts

We invite everyone to join the Wellness Expo and take advantage of the free services, health checks, and expert advice available.

2kg Challenge

As part of their efforts to help boost preventative approaches to diabetes, Western Sydney Diabetes has launched the 2kg Challenge. By joining the 2kg Challenge, you’ll get 8 weeks of support with healthy eating, exercise tips, and helpful advice. You’ll be guided through texts, emails, and videos, plus you’ll be part of an online community where you can get support and stay updated.

If you’re at risk for diabetes, losing just 2kg can lower your chances of getting diabetes by 30%! It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

You can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes in 5 simple steps.

1. Check in with your eating

2. Choose your way to move

3. Explore tools that suit you

4. Plan to keep going

5. Become a 2kg champion

Learn more and sign up for the 2kg Challenge here!

There are more community programs available to you as well which include GP involvement such as Live Life Get Active and Heart Foundation Walking Groups.

You can find out more about these here.

WSD Aboriginal Clinic

Data on hospital admissions in the Western Sydney area shows that nearly 20% of Aboriginal adults who present to hospital have diabetes, compared to just 14% of non-Aboriginal adults (2).

A clinic in Western Sydney is bridging the gap and improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples with diabetes.

The Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) clinic at Mount Druitt Community Centre emphasises cultural support and trust as a means of improving health outcomes.

The clinic is open on Monday specifically for adults who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and have Type 1 and complex Type 2 diabetes.

Aunty Rita Wright of Mount Druitt attended the clinic and said it helps those in her community who may be hesitant to seek medical intervention.

Aunty Rita said working with WSLHD Aboriginal Chronic Care nurse Shirley Brown ‘makes all the difference’.

“Shirley is always there for us; she explains things to us and tells us we’ve got to do it. That’s the difference, having her here. She understands us,” Aunty Rita said.

Learn more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Monday Clinic here.

More programs are available to you in Western Sydney which involve GPs providing support to your community. These include Too Deadly for Diabetes and Pasifika Preventing Diabetes, you can find out more info on this here.

Further Information and Resources Available for you

WSD has produced plenty of helpful resources including more than 130 educational videos for patients and 30 educational videos for GPs featuring specialists explaining the impact diabetes can have on you, diabetes management, how to prevent diabetes, diet tips and different types of diabetes medicines.

WHEN IT’S TIME FOR A WINTER GETAWAY

Weekend in the Blue Mountains is a must

GRAB your friends or a loved ones and rejuvenate in the Blue Mountains’ clear skies and fresh air this winter. It is the perfect location to pass chilly nights and days and go home refreshed.

Blackheath

Along with hundreds of bushwalks throughout the Blue Mountains there are many urban local nooks and crannies to find and the region of Blackheath is a great base for exploration. At the top of Govetts Leap Drive, just off Great Western Highway is a village cluster of pubs, cafes and shops, a popular spot of sitting in the sunshine enjoying a coffee, bookstore, music shop and antique shop browsing or enjoying a pub meal.

Recharge at the Parklands Country Garden and Lodges

Drive two minutes along Govetts Leap Drive and discover the tranquility of the Parklands property. Set on 28 acres of land, this former mansion feels like a private home and the expansive winter gardens are broody in their winter glory. Walk into the warm main house, straight into the reception area and be welcomed with a warm mulled wine. The adjacent loungeroom with fireplace and gorgeous winter-themed paintings is the perfect spot to relax for a while and the garden visible from the large windows. The city starts to feel a million miles away.

Private Winter haven

The lodges on the property are generously sized modern cottages, with warm towel racks, a fireplace and homely private lounge area. Sit outside in the private courtyard wrapped in warm rugs and do some stargazing. Parklands provides a Stargazing checklist. Can you see the Milky Way, Sagittarius, Saturn, Milky Way Core or Omega Centauri? This is such a fun activity whether you’re here to connect with 30, 40 or 60 year old friends, a loved one you haven’t spent time with of late or it's a fun romantic getaway. It’s very grounding and puts life in perspective to gaze into the skies.

Accessible Country Stays - Wheelchair Access

Anyone who reads my monthly write ups knows that something I’m passionate about is accessible travel. Why should people in wheelchairs miss out on all the fun? Opened in April 2025, the Parklands provide several ‘Lakeside Canopy’ glamping lodges and one of them has Australian certified wheelchair access. Yay. Drive right up the front door, this door access is level entry, there is

away from the rat race visitors would really feel absolutely amazing. A basket of breakfast delights can be delivered down to these glamping lodges if you don’t feel like wandering up to the light-filled breakfast room to partake in the leisurely barista-made coffees, hot breakfast, chia pudding and fruit breakfast.

It’s your leisure time and your choice.

Insta @parklandslodges 132 Govetts Leap Road Blackheath NSW +612 4787 7211 www. parklands.com.au

Govetts Leap Lookout

A five minute drive down Govetts Leap Road is the World heritage jaw-dropping lookout and base to enjoy some scenic walks. The lookout here is accessible for wheelchairs. The walks from here, being reasonably steep down into the valley and crossing scenic creeks, are not suitable for wheelchairs. The easiest walk takes approximately 15 minutes and requires some level of fitness.

Yuletide Dinner at the Hydro Majestic

plenty of space around the bed and the bathroom has wheelchair provisions. Enjoy the view of the duckpond, firepit or gardens from the verandah. These glamping lodges are a fun way to get a group of couples together or for a romantic getaway or somewhere to finally start writing that novel by yourself. The silence of the countryside is wonderful and there’s an open air freestanding bath tub discreetly located down the side of each lodge. After a few days to a week

An eight minute drive along the Great Western Highway from Parklands is the iconic Hydro Majestic Hotel, a popular destination since 1905. During daylight hours be sure to drop in to marvel at the expansive Megalong Valley below that you won’t see in the winter hours after the sun goes down. In the evenings across winter the dining theme in the Wintergarden Restaurant is Yuletide until August 2nd. This 5 course degustation menu includes thoughtfully put together delights such as Poached Lobster, Cured Ocean Trout and Avocado Mousse, Quail and Duck Wellington, Chargrilled Venison and parsnip, prosciutto. Dessert Passion fruit yoghurt and mint leaves, Raspberry Mousse, Berry Twigs and Raspberry Sorbet. Cocktails of note are Passion Whiskey and Courtside and the wines are a delightful selection.

@hydrobluemountains www.hydromajestic. com.au 52/88 Great Western Hwy Medlow Bath NSW 2780 phone +612 4782 6885 for bookings.

Sydney Coolcation: Spicers Potts Point

AFTER a shabby week, a winter ‘coolcation’ at Spicers Potts Point is the ultimate reset button. These beautifully restored Victorian terraces are the epitome of Sydney heritage, set within a vibrant, eclectic neighbourhood. A pre-dinner sunset stroll down Victoria Street is a must at this time of the year, with sparkling, tree-filtered views of Sydney Harbour.

Accommodation

Guests don't just stay here but are made to feel genuinely special, a reflection of the thoughtful design in every room. The decor is intentionally curated, revealing commissioned artwork, high-quality furnishings, and boutique touches like the Spicers Signature aromatic oil reeds that truly capture the hotelier's essence. Time stands still as you walk into your room. Stress fades.

A special memory was the complimentary happy hour at the communal bar. Our host, Phillip, was wonderfully personable, welcoming us with a glass of Tattinger and instantly making us feel like we were enjoying a drink in a friend's stylish terrace home, far from any stuffy

corporate hotel vibe. The relaxed and informal atmosphere made meeting other guests a part of the fun, remarkable for such elegant surroundings.

Breakfast

Breakfast at Spicers Potts Point is an experience in itself, with the choice of in-room dining or the gorgeous Garden Room. We opted for the latter and were certainly not disappointed. Stepping into the light-filled space,

surrounded by lush greenery, felt like a tranquil escape. My husband savoured his perfectly prepared omelette, while I indulged in the divine French Toast, beautifully adorned with fresh berries. The refined tone set a sophisticated yet unhurried start to the day!

The Neighbourhood

A Sunday morning meander through Potts Point is bliss. The area boasts some of Sydney's most magnificent terrace

homes on Challis Avenue and Rockwell Crescent, effortlessly meshed with the buzzing energy of Kings Cross just a few blocks away. The Cross is undergoing an intriguing gentrification, with new highend residential projects preserving local heritage with their timeless facades. If your ideal neighborhood includes art deco gems, European wine bars, incredible artisanal bakeries, and a buzzing caf? society scene, this is your spot. We even stumbled upon a set of vintage crystal tulip flutes in an antique shop on Macleay Street – a perfect memento of our stylish escape.

Cap off your coolcation with a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales, a mere ten-minute stroll away. The current Yolnu Power exhibit showcases intricate indigenous art from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. Quite simply, you will love discovering or rediscovering this fringe precinct of the CBD. While its flashier neighbours sometimes grab the spotlight, Potts Point is dynamic, and Spicers beautifully reflects the cosmopolitan vibe of this special place.

https://spicersretreats.com/retreats/spicerspotts-point/ instagram spicersretreats 122 Victoria Street Sydney, NSW

Experience Mt Lewis Pizzeria

IRECENTLY had the pleasure of dining at Mount Lewis Pizzeria, and the experience was memorable. It was easy to spot on approach as there was a long queue out the door. The service was outstanding right

from the start. The staff were incredibly welcoming, guiding me to my seat with a warm smile and making sure I was comfortable. The decor was chic with a large menu board easily viewable.

I decided to try the manouche with za’atar and a cheese and tomato ka’ak The manouche, with its crispy za’atar

topping, sesame seeds, and pizza dough base, was a standout. The herbs and spices gave it a bold, aromatic flavor, while the cheese and tomato ka’ak felt simpler, offering a more neutral taste but still satisfying.

Mt Lewis Pizzeria offers a delightful blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist. The atmosphere, though

located on a busy street, was pleasant, and the food was well worth the wait. It’s a place I would definitely return to, especially to try their pizzas.

Mt Lewis Pizzeria 797 King Georges Rd, South Hurstville Website: mtlewispizzeria.com.au Instagram: @ mtlewispizzeria

Kimchi and K-Pop on Sussex

LOOKING for a lively dining experience with a festive vibe in the heart of Sydney’s Chinatown? Look no further than Butchers Buffet on 363 Sussex Street.

Our end-of-week Friday night fatigue quickly disappeared the moment we stepped into this expansive, neon-lit space.

The buzz of K-pop playing on TV screens, the glow of electric blue lighting, and the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling meats from the all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ immediately set the tone for the weekend.

We kicked things off with Pork Bulgogi, Wagyu Beef Belly, and Japchae potato noodles—all full of flavour and self-cooked on individual table BBQs— washed down with a crisp, refreshing lager. My dinner date opted for the fruity Korean soju, served in cute shot glasses that added to the playful atmosphere.

Diners take control of their own Korean BBQ experience, but attentive staff regularly refresh the hotplates, making

the process smooth and comfortable. The restaurant also caters for a range of dietary needs, offering halal-friendly chicken and beef options. Our standout was the kimchi—bold, tangy, and rumoured to hail from a generations-old traditional Korean recipe that delivered real depth and authenticity.

A perfect accompaniment to the wide range of fresh meats and delicious flavours. Bookings are highly recommended. As we left, a long queue had already formed outside, a testament to the restaurant’s growing popularity. We capped off the night with

a stroll down Dixon Street, peach iceblocks from the dessert bar in hand! I can’t wait to return with my family for another delicious and lively evening.

Trading hours: Sunday - Thursday 11:30am10:00 pm Friday - Saturday 11:30am - 11:00pm Website: https://www.butchersbuffet.com.au instagram @butchersbuffet

SO MUCH FOR TO DISCOVER IN JAPAN Wild and wonderful Osaka

WHEN you think of travelling to Japan, you might only consider visiting Tokyo but there’s so much more to discover.

Osaka is Japan’s second largest metro area after Tokyo and with a spectacular international airport, Osaka makes much of Japan's main island of Honshu accessible. Nara, Kyoto and Kobe are within easy reach of Osaka and are incredible sidetrips or destinations in their own right.

Osaka is a city 500km southwest of Tokyo but it’s easy to travel between the two cities on the Shinkansen (bullet train) in just 2.5 hours. Osaka can proudly say it's the birthplace of instant ramen. It's a city known for quirky culture and street food and you may recognise some of the local dishes, Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki or Ikayaki by name. Did you know that people in Osaka speak a slightly different dialect (Kansai-ben)? Japanese people can tell who is from Osaka straight away when they start talking.

Experience History at Every Turn

Take a stroll down Kuromon Market, the ‘kitchen of Osaka’ and experience where fish merchants have gathered to buy and sell fish since 1822. Be prepared to be swept along in the throng of customers and merchants in the 580 metre long street, housing 190 stores all touting delicious food, kitchenwares, daily necessities, souvenirs and clothing. It's loud, energetic and great in all-weather with much of it undercover with a clear decorative roof.

Save an evening for walking Dotonbori Canal, (dug in 1612) with its vibrant neon lights, street food and nightlife in the area. Save a visit to Osaka Castle for the daylight hours and absorb the history and views over the city from this iconic landmark built

by powerful feudal lords in 1583 and picture how that history went down with enemies sneaking up to the fortified walls and the battles to establish dominance.

Shinsekai

Wander the colourful streets of the Shinsekai area, lights and thematic buildings and noise will compete for your attention in this district. Maybe you’ve come to Japan to experience the polar opposite of historical alleyways and ancient traditions, drop into Universal Studios Japan with the flagship theme park Super Nintendo World. Love a skyline? Are you a scenery-buff? Head north to Umeda Sky Building up to the observatory for views as far as the eye can see. Magic!

Osaka’s Muscle Bar

Fancy something fun to do when travelling with friends? Why not visit Osaka’s Muscle Bar, these bars are peppered throughout Japan and as the name suggests, they’re known for muscly men and is entertainment a little different to the ordinary. Here’s a quote by an Aussie female customer, explaining the Osaka experience as an opt-in lounge style bar and a little more intense than its Kyoto Muscle Bar cousin.

“You’re welcomed by shirtless waiters who are loud, theatrical, and very hands-on, literally. Think of it more as a host bar experience with a muscle twist” She explains if you’d like a hug or want to be lifted up, that is considered a service that comes with a fee. “You’re

handed a menu outlining what you can ask for—if you like the look of someone, they’ll come over and entertain you and you need to be comfortable approaching the staff and making requests”.

Website: https://kitashinchimusclebar.foodre.jp Insta: @kitashinchimusclebar

From a Cup Noodles museum in Ikeda, Taxidermy Bar in Amerika Mura, dining in the dark at Zauo Fishing Restaurant or laundromat cafe you can explore this wild and wonderful city for months and not go to the same place twice.

The Swissotel Nankai Osaka

This lovely hotel is situated right above the Nankai Namba train station and is in the heart of all Osaka’s action. Hotel decor is fresh and cosmopolitan with stencilled wall art and large windows looking out to Osaka’s streetscape beyond.

The hotel has some lovely restaurants and one of them is called SH’UN Wine & Dine and has a world travel series cuisine focus that changes every couple of months, be it Italian, Spanish or Indonesian food. The theme for July and August is the food of Germany. For specials and more info head to: https:// swissotelnankaiosaka.com/offers/shunwine-dine-world-travel-series/ Namba Station You can easily get to and from Kansai airport via the Nankai Line, the Subway Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae lines and Hanshin and Kintetsu private railways from this station and the Swisshotel is directly above the station. You can get nearly anywhere in Osaka or out to Kobe, Kyoto, or Nara from here, it’s incredibly convenient.

Book accommodation through all.com or find out more info at osaka@swissotel. com(swissotelnankaiosaka.com) +81 6-66461111 Find it at: 5-1-60 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0076, Japan

The perfect amount of heartwarming drama, laugh out loud comedy, and true story realism to kick off the Spanish Film Festival in Australia!

MANOLO Vital (Eduard Fernandez) helped found the small town of Torre Bar? on the outskirts of Barcelona, when he had to leave his hometown due to persecution.

But years later, this aged, faded revolutionary is content driving his bus route in the main city of Barcelona - even as his community argues amongst itself on how to move forward with power, sewage, water and other infrastructure issues. When tragedy strikes the suburb, Manolo decides to take drastic action to try and secure a symbolic win for his home, amidst the 1970’s boom of Barcelona.

El 47 is beautifully shot. With a little bit of extra grain, a wonderful cinematic flare, and not too polished a finish, the film immerses you into the outskirts of Barcelona in a way that will have you pining for the simple life. It also does wonders interspersing real, existing footage of Barcelona

and the busses of the period with the elements shot for the film; an intriguing blend of real archival footage, and modern footage made to look archival, occurs at various points and it is a technique I had never seen used before to that effect.

Eduard Fern?ndez, as the main protagonist, is an absolute, handsdown standout. He’s someone you can absolutely root for, bringing a warmth

and humour to his faded revolutionary character but also an inner steel that shines through.

The story is one that, perhaps on the outside, tackles a small subject; one of bringing a bus route to a town outside of the main city of Barcelona. But it is so much more than that.

Director Marcel Barrena gives this movie so much gravitas and heart in its telling, really blending in the

challenges with bureaucracy, the need for revolution that led to the founding of this city, the real-life historical impacts of the government shifts, and more.

The film never bogs itself down too much in preachy speeches, or in dramatic retelling of major historical incidents, instead referring to them often tangentially.

Instead, this movie hyper focuses on this little town, and shows how a community can build itself up from nothing in the face of immeasurable adversity, but also needs to keep fighting all the time to maintain its survival, and its purpose.

At the end of the day, this is a movie that will have you cheering like its the final at the World Cup when Manolo gets a bus up a hill, but it’s a film that has certainly earnt that emotional pay-off, and done so in a way that feels unique, and warm.

El 47 is an interesting play on a revolutionary film, but one that will grip you in the intricacies of its story, while also being incredibly upbeat and heartwarming.

TechnologY

CAN AI CALCULATE YOUR TAX RETURN?

Like Dr Google, it isn’t perfect

AI is changing how Australians do their taxes, but experts warn it could backfire if overused. Convenience comes with risk, especially if you’re relying on AI alone.

As tax time rolls around, many Australians are asking whether artificial intelligence (AI) can help them get their tax returns done faster and cheaper. From apps that scan receipts to chatbots that explain deductions, AI may promise to take the complexity out of a traditionally stressful task.

But experts at UNSW Business School say relying too heavily on these tools could come with risks, especially for people with limited tax knowledge or more complex financial circumstances.

Professor Jennie Granger, from the School of Accounting, Auditing and Taxation, says AI can make tax time easier and faster, especially for people with straightforward financial affairs. “AI can be a good starting point,” says Prof. Granger. “It has an impressive ability to analyse issues, apply the law and respond in straightforward language.”

On the other hand, Prof. Granger and others also caution that convenience can come at a cost. “Using ChatGPT to assist with tax returns is likely to be a bad idea for people with limited tax knowledge,” says Associate Professor Sam Kirshner from the School of Information Systems and Technology Management. “When it gets things wrong, you’re the one liable.”

So, what can AI do well? Where does it fall short? And should you trust it with your tax return this year? Here’s what you need to know before handing your finances to a machine.

What can AI do for your tax return?

For individuals with relatively straightforward financial affairs, AI tools that scan statements and receipts to identify income and deductions can save time and improve accuracy, “AI will make it easier for Australians to locate records and thus get their income and deductions right,” says Professor Michael Walpole, from the School of Accounting, Auditing and Taxation. “The advantage is that they will be less likely to miss things and thus under-report income or under-claim deductions. AI can also be used to check a taxpayer’s understanding of the rules.

“The increased AI assistance will be counterbalanced by a decreased need for it as prepopulating of tax forms from data held by agencies that share it with the ATO will leave less to fill in and more to simply check,” he says.

Prof. Granger says that some apps use AI tools to scan receipts and automatically categorise them for deductions. “An example is the ATO’s myDeductions record-keeping tool, which can be downloaded to your phone.

“Once they are in the app, they can then be collated and automatically

uploaded to the relevant parts of your return. You are still doing the work of inputting and tagging the records, but they are all in one spot digitally,” she says.

“A bigger step in automation is underway with AI tools that can access your statements digitally, analyse them and provide you with the analysis that you can then upload to your tax return. For small businesses, software such as MYOB uses AI to do this.”

Prof. Granger says that AI tools such as machine learning, natural language processing and predictive analytics are already being used in the ATO’s MyTax platform. “This is used by individuals who do their own tax returns,” she says.

AI also helps personalise returns, prepopulate data, check for errors, and even give nudges to claim overlooked deductions. Prof. Granger says, “The tax return preparation process has become much easier and faster as a result.

“AI also gives taxpayers a nudge if their income or expenses seem out of pattern compared to their past history and checks for errors and calculates the likely tax result,” she says.

Statistics show that these tools are making it easier for many Australians to file their own tax return. As of April 2025, the ATO has received over 14.1 million individual tax return lodgments for 2024, which is a 3% increase compared to the year before.

“Tax agents also have AI built into their tax preparation software and can upload and prepopulate taxpayer information that the ATO holds. Some agents may also offer a virtual service, filing a digital tax return via their website with a virtual (AI) assistant as an adviser with access to a human only if needed,” says Prof. Granger.

The not-so-good side of AI and Tax

Despite the benefits, there are significant limitations. One issue is the accuracy and relevance of the information AI provides, especially if the user doesn’t know enough to verify it.

“ChatGPT’s knowledge base may not reflect recent legislative changes, and its training data tends to overweight older and more established rules,” says A/Prof. Kirshner. “That makes it poorly suited to handling newer provisions or time-sensitive compliance issues.”

Unlike tax agents, AI tools don’t accept liability when things go wrong.

“When an accountant or tax platform makes a mistake, you typically have recourse,” says A/Prof Kirshner. “Naturally, OpenAI will not accept liability, making the errors yours.”

Prof. Walpole agrees. “If you get it wrong, you may either pay too much tax or too little. If it is too little, it may be picked up and you will have an amended assessment with penalties and interest,” he says. “The penalties and interest often far exceed the tax shortfall.”

AI tools can also give outdated or irrelevant answers, sometimes for the wrong financial year or even for the wrong country. “You need to be very clear when giving it a search to undertake,” says Prof. Walpole.

Even for tools that analyse your bank statements or receipts, there are limits. Users need to ensure the categories used for deductions are correct and relevant to their return.

“It is only as good as your own understanding of what data is in your statements,” says Prof. Granger. “So, it would be wise to use this type of

tool to complement your analysis, not replace it.”

There’s also the risk of using generalised advice that doesn’t apply to your circumstances. “AI can be a good starting point,” says Prof. Granger. “But like Dr Google, it does not remove the need for you to exercise your own judgement, including a good dose of scepticism.”

What should you do this tax season?

If you’re considering using AI to help with your return this year, proceed with caution, say UNSW Business academics. While AI tools can offer valuable support, especially for recordkeeping, simple deductions, or understanding broad rules, they are not a substitute for professional judgment.

“Be careful, check its ‘homework’ and understand why it is encouraging you to claim a deduction or a tax rebate,” says Prof. Walpole.

Here is a simple guidance checklist:

• Don’t enter personal information into public AI tools.

• Only use reputable AI software with strong security.

• Double-check AI analysis for errors or omissions.

• Treat general answers as educational, not tailored advice.

• Seek expert help if your affairs are complex.

“Even though I use large language models across many domains, I am personally sticking with my tax accountant. In short, AI can be a powerful helper, but it’s not yet a reliable replacement. When it comes to your taxes, it pays to stay informed, cautious, and critical.”

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