Stories from Melbourne · Australia

The National Drug Research Institute reported that illicit alcohol consumption is increasing in Victoria. Researchers visited over 100 bottle shops during the past year and identified at least 30 stores carrying up to 14 different illicit alcohol brands. Police are investigating if this underground market is connected to recent attacks on an alcohol distribution centre and several hospitality venues in Melbourne. Alcohol policy expert Nick Taylor stated the investigation has helped identify the issue. The investigation is expanding into New South Wales to check for spirits being sold at implausible price points. The probe focuses on products that are distinctly cheaper than other market offerings.

Parts of Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, recorded maximum temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius.

Victoria's Auditor-General found that taxpayer funds from the Enhanced Maternal and Child Health Program may not be reaching the families who need them most. The program is intended to support families during the early stages of childhood.

Hawks coach Sam Mitchell stated the team is experiencing its best run in a decade following a 49-point victory over the Gold Coast Suns. The team is scheduled to play Collingwood at the MCG.

Ambulance service head Dominic Morgan reported that a heatwave led to over 33 hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses starting January 11. These temperatures represent the highest local records since 1901.

Melbourne artist Sean Lay has won the Packing Room Prize at this year's Archibald Prize. Lay won for his portrait of Australian actor Jacob Collins. The artist is described as self-taught. The winner will be announced next Friday at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The exhibition is scheduled to open to the public following the announcement. The Archibald is Australia's oldest portrait award and includes the Packing Room Prize, a $3,000 cash award decided by gallery packing staff. The winners of the Archibald and Sulman Prizes for 2026 are scheduled to be announced next Friday. The award was judged by the Art Gallery of New Zealand.

The power grid in parts of Melbourne is struggling to support the transition from gas to electric heating. Resident Marie Slacco reported that her split system heating failed during a cold snap, prompting her to consider returning to gas.

New data indicates that rental affordability in Australia has reached a critical low for low-income earners. A snapshot of nearly 49,000 listings revealed that only one rental nationwide was considered affordable for an individual on Jobseeker payments.

A Melbourne-based provider of disability support services is facing investigations by WorkSafe, police, and the NDIS Royal Commission. The provider has been issued banning orders preventing them from providing support for four and five years respectively.

Western Bulldogs forward Aaron Norton is scheduled to face Fremantle on Friday night. This comes eight days after he sustained a head injury. Teammate Tom Liberatore remains sidelined due to ongoing concussion symptoms.