Latest news with #ACM
Fast Company
a day ago
- Fast Company
Gen Alpha slang baffles parents—and AI
If a Gen Alpha tween said, 'Let him cook,' would you know what that meant? No? AI doesn't either. A research paper written by soon-to-be ninth grader Manisha Mehta was presented this week at the ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency in Athens. The paper details how four leading AI models—GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, and Llama 3—all struggled to fully understand slang from Gen Alpha, defined as those born between 2010 and 2024. Mehta, along with 24 of her friends (ranging in age from 11 to 14), created a dataset of 100 Gen Alpha phrases. These included expressions that can mean totally different things depending on context—for example: 'Fr fr let him cook' (encouraging) and 'Let him cook lmaoo' (mocking). According to the researchers, the LLMs had trouble discerning the difference. In particular, AI struggled with identifying 'masked harassment,' which is concerning given the increasing reliance on AI-powered content moderation systems. 'The findings highlight an urgent need for improved AI safety systems to better protect young users, especially given Gen Alpha's tendency to avoid seeking help due to perceived adult incomprehension of their digital world,' the study reads. It wasn't just the AI models that performed poorly; parents didn't do much better. The parent group scored 68% in basic understanding of Gen Alpha slang, nearly identical to the top-performing LLM, Claude (68.1%). While the LLMs did slightly better at identifying content and safety risks in the language, only Gen Alpha members themselves scored highly in understanding the slang, its context, and potential risks. It's nothing new for young people to feel misunderstood by their parents, but now the gap is widening. Members of Gen Alpha, born post-iPhone and known as the iPad generation, have grown up online. Their native language, often sourced from online spaces (most notably gaming), evolves so quickly that what's popular today may disappear within a month.
Reuters
a day ago
- Business
- Reuters
Dutch watchdog clears DPG's acquisition of RTL Nederland
AMSTERDAM, June 27 (Reuters) - Dutch competition watchdog ACM said on Friday it had cleared RTL Group's ( opens new tab sale of its Dutch subsidiary RTL Nederland to Belgium-based DPG Media, under conditions meant to protect the independence of involved news media. RTL announced the 1.1 billion euro ($1.29 billion) deal in December 2023, nearly a year after its plan to acquire rival Talpa was blocked, over competition concerns. ACM said it had attached structural conditions to the DPG deal to protect the Dutch news market, where DPG and RTL are major competitors. DPG publishes four major Dutch newspapers and owns one of the country's main free news websites, RTL Nederland is a major news broadcaster through its television channels, website and app. As part of the conditions, RTL Nieuws and will be partly owned by an independent foundation that can decide over the hiring and firing of the editor-in-chief, the media's identity and mission and will have a veto over any possible future sale. Both media organisations will continue as separate brands with freely accessible websites, created by separate, independent newsrooms that will not exchange any content, ACM said. These conditions will remain in place also in the case of a future sale of DPG or parts of it. "News consumers must continue to be able to choose from different, independent news sources," ACM director Martijn Snoep said. "With these conditions, we have safeguarded that." RTL Nederland and DPG were not immediately available for comment. ($1 = 0.8546 euros)
The Advertiser
a day ago
- General
- The Advertiser
How inheriting a dog named Jeffrey changed a young woman's life
Voice of Real Australia is a regular newsletter from the local news teams of the ACM network, which stretches into every state and territory. Today's is written by Bega District News journalist Jimmy Parker. When Cami Hartnett discovered an ink-smudged letter on her late best friend's kitchen counter, the simple but powerful request of four words reshaped her future. "Take care of Jeffrey," it read. In that sombre moment, she made a promise. Months earlier, Cami's best friend Dan discovered an abandoned cardboard box on the side of the road in Blacktown. However, the contents inside weren't the usual items destined for the landfill. They were breathing. "Jeffrey had a couple of little mates inside the box, but they didn't survive. It was just Jeffrey, a six-week-old, Bull Arab cross," Cami recalled. "Jeffrey brought Dan so much joy for the six months he was there, and that's probably what kept him going. "But then, one day, I couldn't get on to Dan for a couple of days. So I went over there, and unfortunately, I found Dan with Jeffrey lying on him. "I had never heard a dog cry, ever. But Jeffrey was blubbering, and tears were coming from his eyes." Grief-stricken, lost, trembling and sobbing, both the then eight-month-old puppy and Cami became inseparable. Together, the pair tried to navigate a world that suddenly felt "emptier and darker" than it previously did. "I bundled up this tiny little thing. I didn't know how to support him through it, and I didn't know how to deal with this situation," Cami said. "At the time, I was a disaster, and I think he needed a lot more support than I could give." Cami had always envisioned a career surrounded by animals, this admiration evident in the tattooed reminders on her skin. "I was always obsessed with animals from as far back as I can remember," she said. "I always wanted to be a vet, but my brain didn't function well at school, so the ATAR wasn't going to be high enough." After high school, Cami took a gap year and went to Africa. She joined a tiger and lion conservation park that had a captive breeding program where she helped release big cats back into game reserves. "The park also took on a lot of lions and tigers that people had taken on as pets, due to a really bad exotic animal trade, and [many] had ended up eating family members or hurting family members," Cami said. When she returned to Australia, she studied zoology, animal management and vet nursing. But it was that note on the kitchen bench and Jeffrey that inspired her to establish "Trail Sniffers Dog Behaviour and Training" to help others navigate, train and advocate for dogs. During Jeffrey's adolescent years, Cami said he began to get antsy, reactive, and had some negative experiences with other dogs. Reactive canines might appear aggressive when, in reality, it was an overreaction rooted in distress, from fear, excitement, or frustration. Cami stressed that reactive dogs were not bad; they were just misunderstood pups. "I had no idea what this was," Cami said. "I knew I had to learn. I owed it to Dan, Jeffrey, and myself to be the best guardian I could be. "I'd seen dogs at the vet being aggressive because they're in pain, so I reached out to Ian Shivers from Bondi Behaviourist. He's a dog guru. He taught me everything. "I never thought about the 'why' behind a dog's behaviour, I just thought it was happening and you've got to stop it, when realistically, Jeffrey was triggered by incredible trauma that would affect anyone." Cami said she learnt that it wasn't about changing Jeffrey's behaviour, but supporting him, and helping him feel safe. "Once I started chatting with Ian, I decided that's what I wanted to do, help other people understand their dogs," she said with a smile. Based in Merimbula, Trail Sniffers offered virtual behaviour and training services, making behaviour and training support accessible from anywhere in the world. Suitable to dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, Trail Sniffers aimed to help pet parents address common "problem" behavioural issues, understand body language, and how to better meet their needs. Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732 or 13YARN 13 92 76. Voice of Real Australia is a regular newsletter from the local news teams of the ACM network, which stretches into every state and territory. Today's is written by Bega District News journalist Jimmy Parker. When Cami Hartnett discovered an ink-smudged letter on her late best friend's kitchen counter, the simple but powerful request of four words reshaped her future. "Take care of Jeffrey," it read. In that sombre moment, she made a promise. Months earlier, Cami's best friend Dan discovered an abandoned cardboard box on the side of the road in Blacktown. However, the contents inside weren't the usual items destined for the landfill. They were breathing. "Jeffrey had a couple of little mates inside the box, but they didn't survive. It was just Jeffrey, a six-week-old, Bull Arab cross," Cami recalled. "Jeffrey brought Dan so much joy for the six months he was there, and that's probably what kept him going. "But then, one day, I couldn't get on to Dan for a couple of days. So I went over there, and unfortunately, I found Dan with Jeffrey lying on him. "I had never heard a dog cry, ever. But Jeffrey was blubbering, and tears were coming from his eyes." Grief-stricken, lost, trembling and sobbing, both the then eight-month-old puppy and Cami became inseparable. Together, the pair tried to navigate a world that suddenly felt "emptier and darker" than it previously did. "I bundled up this tiny little thing. I didn't know how to support him through it, and I didn't know how to deal with this situation," Cami said. "At the time, I was a disaster, and I think he needed a lot more support than I could give." Cami had always envisioned a career surrounded by animals, this admiration evident in the tattooed reminders on her skin. "I was always obsessed with animals from as far back as I can remember," she said. "I always wanted to be a vet, but my brain didn't function well at school, so the ATAR wasn't going to be high enough." After high school, Cami took a gap year and went to Africa. She joined a tiger and lion conservation park that had a captive breeding program where she helped release big cats back into game reserves. "The park also took on a lot of lions and tigers that people had taken on as pets, due to a really bad exotic animal trade, and [many] had ended up eating family members or hurting family members," Cami said. When she returned to Australia, she studied zoology, animal management and vet nursing. But it was that note on the kitchen bench and Jeffrey that inspired her to establish "Trail Sniffers Dog Behaviour and Training" to help others navigate, train and advocate for dogs. During Jeffrey's adolescent years, Cami said he began to get antsy, reactive, and had some negative experiences with other dogs. Reactive canines might appear aggressive when, in reality, it was an overreaction rooted in distress, from fear, excitement, or frustration. Cami stressed that reactive dogs were not bad; they were just misunderstood pups. "I had no idea what this was," Cami said. "I knew I had to learn. I owed it to Dan, Jeffrey, and myself to be the best guardian I could be. "I'd seen dogs at the vet being aggressive because they're in pain, so I reached out to Ian Shivers from Bondi Behaviourist. He's a dog guru. He taught me everything. "I never thought about the 'why' behind a dog's behaviour, I just thought it was happening and you've got to stop it, when realistically, Jeffrey was triggered by incredible trauma that would affect anyone." Cami said she learnt that it wasn't about changing Jeffrey's behaviour, but supporting him, and helping him feel safe. "Once I started chatting with Ian, I decided that's what I wanted to do, help other people understand their dogs," she said with a smile. Based in Merimbula, Trail Sniffers offered virtual behaviour and training services, making behaviour and training support accessible from anywhere in the world. Suitable to dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, Trail Sniffers aimed to help pet parents address common "problem" behavioural issues, understand body language, and how to better meet their needs. Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732 or 13YARN 13 92 76. Voice of Real Australia is a regular newsletter from the local news teams of the ACM network, which stretches into every state and territory. Today's is written by Bega District News journalist Jimmy Parker. When Cami Hartnett discovered an ink-smudged letter on her late best friend's kitchen counter, the simple but powerful request of four words reshaped her future. "Take care of Jeffrey," it read. In that sombre moment, she made a promise. Months earlier, Cami's best friend Dan discovered an abandoned cardboard box on the side of the road in Blacktown. However, the contents inside weren't the usual items destined for the landfill. They were breathing. "Jeffrey had a couple of little mates inside the box, but they didn't survive. It was just Jeffrey, a six-week-old, Bull Arab cross," Cami recalled. "Jeffrey brought Dan so much joy for the six months he was there, and that's probably what kept him going. "But then, one day, I couldn't get on to Dan for a couple of days. So I went over there, and unfortunately, I found Dan with Jeffrey lying on him. "I had never heard a dog cry, ever. But Jeffrey was blubbering, and tears were coming from his eyes." Grief-stricken, lost, trembling and sobbing, both the then eight-month-old puppy and Cami became inseparable. Together, the pair tried to navigate a world that suddenly felt "emptier and darker" than it previously did. "I bundled up this tiny little thing. I didn't know how to support him through it, and I didn't know how to deal with this situation," Cami said. "At the time, I was a disaster, and I think he needed a lot more support than I could give." Cami had always envisioned a career surrounded by animals, this admiration evident in the tattooed reminders on her skin. "I was always obsessed with animals from as far back as I can remember," she said. "I always wanted to be a vet, but my brain didn't function well at school, so the ATAR wasn't going to be high enough." After high school, Cami took a gap year and went to Africa. She joined a tiger and lion conservation park that had a captive breeding program where she helped release big cats back into game reserves. "The park also took on a lot of lions and tigers that people had taken on as pets, due to a really bad exotic animal trade, and [many] had ended up eating family members or hurting family members," Cami said. When she returned to Australia, she studied zoology, animal management and vet nursing. But it was that note on the kitchen bench and Jeffrey that inspired her to establish "Trail Sniffers Dog Behaviour and Training" to help others navigate, train and advocate for dogs. During Jeffrey's adolescent years, Cami said he began to get antsy, reactive, and had some negative experiences with other dogs. Reactive canines might appear aggressive when, in reality, it was an overreaction rooted in distress, from fear, excitement, or frustration. Cami stressed that reactive dogs were not bad; they were just misunderstood pups. "I had no idea what this was," Cami said. "I knew I had to learn. I owed it to Dan, Jeffrey, and myself to be the best guardian I could be. "I'd seen dogs at the vet being aggressive because they're in pain, so I reached out to Ian Shivers from Bondi Behaviourist. He's a dog guru. He taught me everything. "I never thought about the 'why' behind a dog's behaviour, I just thought it was happening and you've got to stop it, when realistically, Jeffrey was triggered by incredible trauma that would affect anyone." Cami said she learnt that it wasn't about changing Jeffrey's behaviour, but supporting him, and helping him feel safe. "Once I started chatting with Ian, I decided that's what I wanted to do, help other people understand their dogs," she said with a smile. Based in Merimbula, Trail Sniffers offered virtual behaviour and training services, making behaviour and training support accessible from anywhere in the world. Suitable to dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, Trail Sniffers aimed to help pet parents address common "problem" behavioural issues, understand body language, and how to better meet their needs. Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732 or 13YARN 13 92 76. Voice of Real Australia is a regular newsletter from the local news teams of the ACM network, which stretches into every state and territory. Today's is written by Bega District News journalist Jimmy Parker. When Cami Hartnett discovered an ink-smudged letter on her late best friend's kitchen counter, the simple but powerful request of four words reshaped her future. "Take care of Jeffrey," it read. In that sombre moment, she made a promise. Months earlier, Cami's best friend Dan discovered an abandoned cardboard box on the side of the road in Blacktown. However, the contents inside weren't the usual items destined for the landfill. They were breathing. "Jeffrey had a couple of little mates inside the box, but they didn't survive. It was just Jeffrey, a six-week-old, Bull Arab cross," Cami recalled. "Jeffrey brought Dan so much joy for the six months he was there, and that's probably what kept him going. "But then, one day, I couldn't get on to Dan for a couple of days. So I went over there, and unfortunately, I found Dan with Jeffrey lying on him. "I had never heard a dog cry, ever. But Jeffrey was blubbering, and tears were coming from his eyes." Grief-stricken, lost, trembling and sobbing, both the then eight-month-old puppy and Cami became inseparable. Together, the pair tried to navigate a world that suddenly felt "emptier and darker" than it previously did. "I bundled up this tiny little thing. I didn't know how to support him through it, and I didn't know how to deal with this situation," Cami said. "At the time, I was a disaster, and I think he needed a lot more support than I could give." Cami had always envisioned a career surrounded by animals, this admiration evident in the tattooed reminders on her skin. "I was always obsessed with animals from as far back as I can remember," she said. "I always wanted to be a vet, but my brain didn't function well at school, so the ATAR wasn't going to be high enough." After high school, Cami took a gap year and went to Africa. She joined a tiger and lion conservation park that had a captive breeding program where she helped release big cats back into game reserves. "The park also took on a lot of lions and tigers that people had taken on as pets, due to a really bad exotic animal trade, and [many] had ended up eating family members or hurting family members," Cami said. When she returned to Australia, she studied zoology, animal management and vet nursing. But it was that note on the kitchen bench and Jeffrey that inspired her to establish "Trail Sniffers Dog Behaviour and Training" to help others navigate, train and advocate for dogs. During Jeffrey's adolescent years, Cami said he began to get antsy, reactive, and had some negative experiences with other dogs. Reactive canines might appear aggressive when, in reality, it was an overreaction rooted in distress, from fear, excitement, or frustration. Cami stressed that reactive dogs were not bad; they were just misunderstood pups. "I had no idea what this was," Cami said. "I knew I had to learn. I owed it to Dan, Jeffrey, and myself to be the best guardian I could be. "I'd seen dogs at the vet being aggressive because they're in pain, so I reached out to Ian Shivers from Bondi Behaviourist. He's a dog guru. He taught me everything. "I never thought about the 'why' behind a dog's behaviour, I just thought it was happening and you've got to stop it, when realistically, Jeffrey was triggered by incredible trauma that would affect anyone." Cami said she learnt that it wasn't about changing Jeffrey's behaviour, but supporting him, and helping him feel safe. "Once I started chatting with Ian, I decided that's what I wanted to do, help other people understand their dogs," she said with a smile. Based in Merimbula, Trail Sniffers offered virtual behaviour and training services, making behaviour and training support accessible from anywhere in the world. Suitable to dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, Trail Sniffers aimed to help pet parents address common "problem" behavioural issues, understand body language, and how to better meet their needs. Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732 or 13YARN 13 92 76.
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- Health
- The Advertiser
He had cancer - but still won't quit smoking. Meet the influencer kids love
Despite having a testicle removed due to cancer, cream bun-scoffing social media personality Alex Wood has no plans to quit smoking. Those familiar with his posts on Instagram and TikTok, each with 70,000-75,000 followers, may know him as the "cream pie guy" or "happy Allan". The Gold Coast 29-year-old has even made an appearance on national breakfast television as the man who - literally - stuffs whole cream buns into his mouth. And he's frequently seen with a cigarette between his lips or tucked behind his ear and a beer in hand, sharing videos of drinking sessions and chronic hangovers. He's not alone. Sixty-one per cent of young people report seeing content about vaping and smoking on social media. A 2024 University of Queensland study found young people exposed to these posts were more likely to try them. But for Mr Wood, it's all part of being his authentic self, warts and all. "I just am who I am," he told ACM, the publisher of this masthead, over the phone while on the way to the gym one morning. "I genuinely love having a beer and a cigarette." Mr Wood, who is charismatic and comes across as sincere, said he does not advocate smoking and encourages people who've never tried cigarettes to steer clear. "I've got ADHD, so I've got an addictive personality, so I get addicted to everything," he said. "A lot of people resonate with that because there's so many fake people online now; they pretend to be someone else when it's not who they are." In the under-regulated world of social media - and in the context of strict bans on tobacco and e-cigarette advertising in Australia - Mr Wood, who says he's not being paid to promote alcohol or cigarettes, is not breaking any laws. Though he does have plenty of impressionable child fans, including nine-year-olds who ask for selfies. "I just enjoy an afternoon beer and I like going out on the weekends and letting some steam off and having some fun," he said. "Everyone's adults; they can make their own decisions." Mr Wood said he promotes "balance" and "moderation" by also going to the gym every day, journaling, and taking breaks through fundraisers like "dry July" where he stops drinking for a month. (He started dry July two weeks early in 2025 because he said he needed a reset.) "I'm pretty real on my page, so I told people I was obviously drinking too much, so I think it's good to show the boys, and whoever follows me, that if you do feel like you are drinking too much, it's OK to take a break," he said. Australian health guidelines recommend people aged under 18 should not drink alcohol and adults should consume no more than 10 standard drinks a week - and no more than four standard drinks on any one day. When ACM approached the eSafety Commissioner, which regulates online safety, about the potential harms of alcohol and smoking content on social media - especially for children - it was directed to the federal health department. The department limited most of its responses to the legal and regulatory restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertising and sponsorship. But a spokesman said Health Minister Mark Butler had urged social media companies to do more to limit this kind of content on their platforms. "[Mr Butler] has previously written to social media companies regarding tobacco and e-cigarette content appearing on their platform, and encouraged social media companies to take a proactive approach to ensuring those products do not appear on their platforms," the spokesman said. He also pointed to government initiatives like the 2024 "Give up for Good" campaign, as well as resources like and information about the dangers of vaping. All these materials state there is no safe level of smoking or vaping. Jocelyn Brewer, a psychologist who specialises in digital wellbeing, said social media accounts like Mr Wood's could be a "teaching moment" for children and parents. "Parents need to be clear that social media platforms allow anyone to post publicly on whatever content they want to," she said. "[And] what the community guidelines around content cover (and don't cover), and the risks of kids being exposed to certain content - especially how algorithms promote sensationalised content over factful kinds." In the absence of content restrictions, parents should have regular, casual conversations with their kids about social media trends and reinforce their family's values. "We have a responsibility to teach young people [the] skills to recognise and navigate content that is mis/dis/malinformation and have media literacy skills to be able to identify, report and distance themselves from content that is low grade, risky, misaligned and simply dumb," she said. Observing the minimum age restriction of 13 on most platforms was also important, though new laws in late 2025 will ban children under 16 from accessing social media. For his part, Mr Wood has no plans to change what he presents on social media, which includes sculling "breakfast beers", eating "hungover asf cream pie", and attempting to drink six cans of beer in a row to celebrate 60,000 followers. "I met this little kid the other day - he's only nine years old or something - and he was so nervous to come over and say hello, and I got a photo with him and everything," Mr Wood said. "Then his dad came up to me afterwards and was like, 'Mate, he bloody loves you, thank you so much for taking the time to say hello to him'." Mr Wood, who grew up in a single parent household and had a mother, father and grandmother who smoked, said he was trying to be an advocate for doing better. He was fiercely anti-gambling, for example. But the nicotine-laced, addictive cigarettes were here to stay. "I don't think I want to quit fully, to be honest. "I love sitting down, having a beer and a cigarette, having a coffee and a cigarette in the morning," he said. "That's what I enjoy doing. And if I stay healthy otherwise then, you know, it is what it is." Though he acknowledged it was not "the smartest thing" after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and had a testicle removed. "I've got these boys around my age, or 25 to 30, and now [they are] all getting their testicles checked," Mr Wood said. "I do put out some really good messages to people." Tobacco, alcohol and illegal drug use combined accounted for 14 per cent of Australia's total disease burden in 2024, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Despite having a testicle removed due to cancer, cream bun-scoffing social media personality Alex Wood has no plans to quit smoking. Those familiar with his posts on Instagram and TikTok, each with 70,000-75,000 followers, may know him as the "cream pie guy" or "happy Allan". The Gold Coast 29-year-old has even made an appearance on national breakfast television as the man who - literally - stuffs whole cream buns into his mouth. And he's frequently seen with a cigarette between his lips or tucked behind his ear and a beer in hand, sharing videos of drinking sessions and chronic hangovers. He's not alone. Sixty-one per cent of young people report seeing content about vaping and smoking on social media. A 2024 University of Queensland study found young people exposed to these posts were more likely to try them. But for Mr Wood, it's all part of being his authentic self, warts and all. "I just am who I am," he told ACM, the publisher of this masthead, over the phone while on the way to the gym one morning. "I genuinely love having a beer and a cigarette." Mr Wood, who is charismatic and comes across as sincere, said he does not advocate smoking and encourages people who've never tried cigarettes to steer clear. "I've got ADHD, so I've got an addictive personality, so I get addicted to everything," he said. "A lot of people resonate with that because there's so many fake people online now; they pretend to be someone else when it's not who they are." In the under-regulated world of social media - and in the context of strict bans on tobacco and e-cigarette advertising in Australia - Mr Wood, who says he's not being paid to promote alcohol or cigarettes, is not breaking any laws. Though he does have plenty of impressionable child fans, including nine-year-olds who ask for selfies. "I just enjoy an afternoon beer and I like going out on the weekends and letting some steam off and having some fun," he said. "Everyone's adults; they can make their own decisions." Mr Wood said he promotes "balance" and "moderation" by also going to the gym every day, journaling, and taking breaks through fundraisers like "dry July" where he stops drinking for a month. (He started dry July two weeks early in 2025 because he said he needed a reset.) "I'm pretty real on my page, so I told people I was obviously drinking too much, so I think it's good to show the boys, and whoever follows me, that if you do feel like you are drinking too much, it's OK to take a break," he said. Australian health guidelines recommend people aged under 18 should not drink alcohol and adults should consume no more than 10 standard drinks a week - and no more than four standard drinks on any one day. When ACM approached the eSafety Commissioner, which regulates online safety, about the potential harms of alcohol and smoking content on social media - especially for children - it was directed to the federal health department. The department limited most of its responses to the legal and regulatory restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertising and sponsorship. But a spokesman said Health Minister Mark Butler had urged social media companies to do more to limit this kind of content on their platforms. "[Mr Butler] has previously written to social media companies regarding tobacco and e-cigarette content appearing on their platform, and encouraged social media companies to take a proactive approach to ensuring those products do not appear on their platforms," the spokesman said. He also pointed to government initiatives like the 2024 "Give up for Good" campaign, as well as resources like and information about the dangers of vaping. All these materials state there is no safe level of smoking or vaping. Jocelyn Brewer, a psychologist who specialises in digital wellbeing, said social media accounts like Mr Wood's could be a "teaching moment" for children and parents. "Parents need to be clear that social media platforms allow anyone to post publicly on whatever content they want to," she said. "[And] what the community guidelines around content cover (and don't cover), and the risks of kids being exposed to certain content - especially how algorithms promote sensationalised content over factful kinds." In the absence of content restrictions, parents should have regular, casual conversations with their kids about social media trends and reinforce their family's values. "We have a responsibility to teach young people [the] skills to recognise and navigate content that is mis/dis/malinformation and have media literacy skills to be able to identify, report and distance themselves from content that is low grade, risky, misaligned and simply dumb," she said. Observing the minimum age restriction of 13 on most platforms was also important, though new laws in late 2025 will ban children under 16 from accessing social media. For his part, Mr Wood has no plans to change what he presents on social media, which includes sculling "breakfast beers", eating "hungover asf cream pie", and attempting to drink six cans of beer in a row to celebrate 60,000 followers. "I met this little kid the other day - he's only nine years old or something - and he was so nervous to come over and say hello, and I got a photo with him and everything," Mr Wood said. "Then his dad came up to me afterwards and was like, 'Mate, he bloody loves you, thank you so much for taking the time to say hello to him'." Mr Wood, who grew up in a single parent household and had a mother, father and grandmother who smoked, said he was trying to be an advocate for doing better. He was fiercely anti-gambling, for example. But the nicotine-laced, addictive cigarettes were here to stay. "I don't think I want to quit fully, to be honest. "I love sitting down, having a beer and a cigarette, having a coffee and a cigarette in the morning," he said. "That's what I enjoy doing. And if I stay healthy otherwise then, you know, it is what it is." Though he acknowledged it was not "the smartest thing" after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and had a testicle removed. "I've got these boys around my age, or 25 to 30, and now [they are] all getting their testicles checked," Mr Wood said. "I do put out some really good messages to people." Tobacco, alcohol and illegal drug use combined accounted for 14 per cent of Australia's total disease burden in 2024, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Despite having a testicle removed due to cancer, cream bun-scoffing social media personality Alex Wood has no plans to quit smoking. Those familiar with his posts on Instagram and TikTok, each with 70,000-75,000 followers, may know him as the "cream pie guy" or "happy Allan". The Gold Coast 29-year-old has even made an appearance on national breakfast television as the man who - literally - stuffs whole cream buns into his mouth. And he's frequently seen with a cigarette between his lips or tucked behind his ear and a beer in hand, sharing videos of drinking sessions and chronic hangovers. He's not alone. Sixty-one per cent of young people report seeing content about vaping and smoking on social media. A 2024 University of Queensland study found young people exposed to these posts were more likely to try them. But for Mr Wood, it's all part of being his authentic self, warts and all. "I just am who I am," he told ACM, the publisher of this masthead, over the phone while on the way to the gym one morning. "I genuinely love having a beer and a cigarette." Mr Wood, who is charismatic and comes across as sincere, said he does not advocate smoking and encourages people who've never tried cigarettes to steer clear. "I've got ADHD, so I've got an addictive personality, so I get addicted to everything," he said. "A lot of people resonate with that because there's so many fake people online now; they pretend to be someone else when it's not who they are." In the under-regulated world of social media - and in the context of strict bans on tobacco and e-cigarette advertising in Australia - Mr Wood, who says he's not being paid to promote alcohol or cigarettes, is not breaking any laws. Though he does have plenty of impressionable child fans, including nine-year-olds who ask for selfies. "I just enjoy an afternoon beer and I like going out on the weekends and letting some steam off and having some fun," he said. "Everyone's adults; they can make their own decisions." Mr Wood said he promotes "balance" and "moderation" by also going to the gym every day, journaling, and taking breaks through fundraisers like "dry July" where he stops drinking for a month. (He started dry July two weeks early in 2025 because he said he needed a reset.) "I'm pretty real on my page, so I told people I was obviously drinking too much, so I think it's good to show the boys, and whoever follows me, that if you do feel like you are drinking too much, it's OK to take a break," he said. Australian health guidelines recommend people aged under 18 should not drink alcohol and adults should consume no more than 10 standard drinks a week - and no more than four standard drinks on any one day. When ACM approached the eSafety Commissioner, which regulates online safety, about the potential harms of alcohol and smoking content on social media - especially for children - it was directed to the federal health department. The department limited most of its responses to the legal and regulatory restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertising and sponsorship. But a spokesman said Health Minister Mark Butler had urged social media companies to do more to limit this kind of content on their platforms. "[Mr Butler] has previously written to social media companies regarding tobacco and e-cigarette content appearing on their platform, and encouraged social media companies to take a proactive approach to ensuring those products do not appear on their platforms," the spokesman said. He also pointed to government initiatives like the 2024 "Give up for Good" campaign, as well as resources like and information about the dangers of vaping. All these materials state there is no safe level of smoking or vaping. Jocelyn Brewer, a psychologist who specialises in digital wellbeing, said social media accounts like Mr Wood's could be a "teaching moment" for children and parents. "Parents need to be clear that social media platforms allow anyone to post publicly on whatever content they want to," she said. "[And] what the community guidelines around content cover (and don't cover), and the risks of kids being exposed to certain content - especially how algorithms promote sensationalised content over factful kinds." In the absence of content restrictions, parents should have regular, casual conversations with their kids about social media trends and reinforce their family's values. "We have a responsibility to teach young people [the] skills to recognise and navigate content that is mis/dis/malinformation and have media literacy skills to be able to identify, report and distance themselves from content that is low grade, risky, misaligned and simply dumb," she said. Observing the minimum age restriction of 13 on most platforms was also important, though new laws in late 2025 will ban children under 16 from accessing social media. For his part, Mr Wood has no plans to change what he presents on social media, which includes sculling "breakfast beers", eating "hungover asf cream pie", and attempting to drink six cans of beer in a row to celebrate 60,000 followers. "I met this little kid the other day - he's only nine years old or something - and he was so nervous to come over and say hello, and I got a photo with him and everything," Mr Wood said. "Then his dad came up to me afterwards and was like, 'Mate, he bloody loves you, thank you so much for taking the time to say hello to him'." Mr Wood, who grew up in a single parent household and had a mother, father and grandmother who smoked, said he was trying to be an advocate for doing better. He was fiercely anti-gambling, for example. But the nicotine-laced, addictive cigarettes were here to stay. "I don't think I want to quit fully, to be honest. "I love sitting down, having a beer and a cigarette, having a coffee and a cigarette in the morning," he said. "That's what I enjoy doing. And if I stay healthy otherwise then, you know, it is what it is." Though he acknowledged it was not "the smartest thing" after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and had a testicle removed. "I've got these boys around my age, or 25 to 30, and now [they are] all getting their testicles checked," Mr Wood said. "I do put out some really good messages to people." Tobacco, alcohol and illegal drug use combined accounted for 14 per cent of Australia's total disease burden in 2024, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Despite having a testicle removed due to cancer, cream bun-scoffing social media personality Alex Wood has no plans to quit smoking. Those familiar with his posts on Instagram and TikTok, each with 70,000-75,000 followers, may know him as the "cream pie guy" or "happy Allan". The Gold Coast 29-year-old has even made an appearance on national breakfast television as the man who - literally - stuffs whole cream buns into his mouth. And he's frequently seen with a cigarette between his lips or tucked behind his ear and a beer in hand, sharing videos of drinking sessions and chronic hangovers. He's not alone. Sixty-one per cent of young people report seeing content about vaping and smoking on social media. A 2024 University of Queensland study found young people exposed to these posts were more likely to try them. But for Mr Wood, it's all part of being his authentic self, warts and all. "I just am who I am," he told ACM, the publisher of this masthead, over the phone while on the way to the gym one morning. "I genuinely love having a beer and a cigarette." Mr Wood, who is charismatic and comes across as sincere, said he does not advocate smoking and encourages people who've never tried cigarettes to steer clear. "I've got ADHD, so I've got an addictive personality, so I get addicted to everything," he said. "A lot of people resonate with that because there's so many fake people online now; they pretend to be someone else when it's not who they are." In the under-regulated world of social media - and in the context of strict bans on tobacco and e-cigarette advertising in Australia - Mr Wood, who says he's not being paid to promote alcohol or cigarettes, is not breaking any laws. Though he does have plenty of impressionable child fans, including nine-year-olds who ask for selfies. "I just enjoy an afternoon beer and I like going out on the weekends and letting some steam off and having some fun," he said. "Everyone's adults; they can make their own decisions." Mr Wood said he promotes "balance" and "moderation" by also going to the gym every day, journaling, and taking breaks through fundraisers like "dry July" where he stops drinking for a month. (He started dry July two weeks early in 2025 because he said he needed a reset.) "I'm pretty real on my page, so I told people I was obviously drinking too much, so I think it's good to show the boys, and whoever follows me, that if you do feel like you are drinking too much, it's OK to take a break," he said. Australian health guidelines recommend people aged under 18 should not drink alcohol and adults should consume no more than 10 standard drinks a week - and no more than four standard drinks on any one day. When ACM approached the eSafety Commissioner, which regulates online safety, about the potential harms of alcohol and smoking content on social media - especially for children - it was directed to the federal health department. The department limited most of its responses to the legal and regulatory restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertising and sponsorship. But a spokesman said Health Minister Mark Butler had urged social media companies to do more to limit this kind of content on their platforms. "[Mr Butler] has previously written to social media companies regarding tobacco and e-cigarette content appearing on their platform, and encouraged social media companies to take a proactive approach to ensuring those products do not appear on their platforms," the spokesman said. He also pointed to government initiatives like the 2024 "Give up for Good" campaign, as well as resources like and information about the dangers of vaping. All these materials state there is no safe level of smoking or vaping. Jocelyn Brewer, a psychologist who specialises in digital wellbeing, said social media accounts like Mr Wood's could be a "teaching moment" for children and parents. "Parents need to be clear that social media platforms allow anyone to post publicly on whatever content they want to," she said. "[And] what the community guidelines around content cover (and don't cover), and the risks of kids being exposed to certain content - especially how algorithms promote sensationalised content over factful kinds." In the absence of content restrictions, parents should have regular, casual conversations with their kids about social media trends and reinforce their family's values. "We have a responsibility to teach young people [the] skills to recognise and navigate content that is mis/dis/malinformation and have media literacy skills to be able to identify, report and distance themselves from content that is low grade, risky, misaligned and simply dumb," she said. Observing the minimum age restriction of 13 on most platforms was also important, though new laws in late 2025 will ban children under 16 from accessing social media. For his part, Mr Wood has no plans to change what he presents on social media, which includes sculling "breakfast beers", eating "hungover asf cream pie", and attempting to drink six cans of beer in a row to celebrate 60,000 followers. "I met this little kid the other day - he's only nine years old or something - and he was so nervous to come over and say hello, and I got a photo with him and everything," Mr Wood said. "Then his dad came up to me afterwards and was like, 'Mate, he bloody loves you, thank you so much for taking the time to say hello to him'." Mr Wood, who grew up in a single parent household and had a mother, father and grandmother who smoked, said he was trying to be an advocate for doing better. He was fiercely anti-gambling, for example. But the nicotine-laced, addictive cigarettes were here to stay. "I don't think I want to quit fully, to be honest. "I love sitting down, having a beer and a cigarette, having a coffee and a cigarette in the morning," he said. "That's what I enjoy doing. And if I stay healthy otherwise then, you know, it is what it is." Though he acknowledged it was not "the smartest thing" after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and had a testicle removed. "I've got these boys around my age, or 25 to 30, and now [they are] all getting their testicles checked," Mr Wood said. "I do put out some really good messages to people." Tobacco, alcohol and illegal drug use combined accounted for 14 per cent of Australia's total disease burden in 2024, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Global Demand for ACM Panels
Aluminum Composite Panels (ACM panels) are changing the way buildings are designed and constructed. These sleek, durable materials have become a preferred choice for architects, builders, and developers who want both style and function—without compromising on safety or cost. Whether it's a corporate headquarters, retail chain, residential tower, or modern public space, ACM panels are showing up more often on job sites and in architectural plans. The reasons behind their growing popularity are clear: they're lightweight, long-lasting, customizable, and easier to work with compared to many traditional materials. ACM panels are made by bonding two thin aluminum sheets to a non-metal core. This design results in a high-performance cladding material that delivers strength without the weight of solid metal. But the benefits go far beyond structure: Faster installation saves time and labor costs. saves time and labor costs. Resistance to weather, corrosion, and fading ensures long-term appearance and performance. ensures long-term appearance and performance. Fire-rated options help meet international building safety codes. help meet international building safety codes. A wide range of colors, textures, and finishes makes it easy to match any design vision. Builders appreciate how the panels reduce the load on structures, while architects enjoy the freedom to create bold, modern facades that still meet strict code requirements. Several trends are fueling the rise of ACM panels across global markets, especially in the cladding construction sector: As cities expand and skylines evolve, there's a clear shift toward buildings that are both functional and visually distinctive. ACM panels offer the clean lines, crisp finishes, and flexibility needed to create everything from minimalist office blocks to iconic landmarks. Sustainability is no longer optional. Developers and governments are demanding materials that reduce energy use and support eco-friendly certifications. ACM panels contribute through better insulation, recyclable materials, and coatings that reflect heat—helping to lower cooling costs. Events in recent years have prompted global updates to fire codes. ACM panels with fire-retardant cores have become a popular choice for meeting these requirements, especially in high-rise and commercial projects. Construction deadlines are tighter, and budgets are closely watched. ACM panels help keep projects on track with quick fabrication and installation. Their durability also means fewer repairs and replacements over time. No other cladding material offers quite the same variety. Whether the look is industrial, high-end, natural, or colorful, there's an ACM finish to match. Panels can also be shaped and curved, opening doors to innovative architectural styles. One of the most common uses of ACM panels is in cladding construction. These panels create an outer layer that protects buildings from the elements, improves energy efficiency, and delivers a strong visual statement. ACM cladding is especially valuable in large-scale commercial buildings, airports, shopping centers, and even schools and hospitals. It provides thermal and acoustic insulation while giving designers the creative freedom to stand out in a crowded skyline. For renovation projects, ACM panels are often used to upgrade aging buildings with a fresh, modern look—without major structural changes. With rapid urban development, environmental goals, and evolving design expectations, ACM panels are positioned for even greater global demand. Manufacturers are already exploring new possibilities such as self-cleaning surfaces, integrated solar technology, and more sustainable core materials. As these innovations continue, the value of ACM panels will only increase, making them one of the most important materials in modern construction. Aluminum Composite Panels have moved beyond trend status. They've become a reliable, versatile choice in both new construction and renovations around the world. The combination of strength, safety, and design flexibility makes ACM panels a go-to solution in cladding construction and beyond. For construction professionals and designers aiming for smart, sustainable, and standout buildings, ACM panels by Alumax Panel offer the perfect blend of form and function—ready to meet the demands of the future. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
