Victoria’s ‘major crime problem’ and ‘lack of trust’ in police sparks force’s biggest overhaul in years

A severe solar storm on November 12, 2025, allowed skywatchers in Australia and New Zealand to witness stunning displays of the aurora australis. The phenomenon was particularly visible in Victoria and the Blue Mountains, where the lights were seen over iconic landmarks like the Three Sisters near Katoomba. This event highlights the impact of solar activity on Earth's atmosphere and provides a rare opportunity for people to experience natural beauty.

An investigation has revealed that decades of abuse against thousands of young men by staff at a detention centre in County Durham were ignored and dismissed by the prison service, police, and the Home Office. This alarming report highlights a systemic failure to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable, raising serious concerns about oversight and accountability within the UK's detention system. The findings underscore the urgent need for reform to ensure the safety and rights of detainees are prioritized.

Victoria's government has proposed a plan that would allow children as young as 14 to be sentenced as adults, potentially facing 20-year jail terms for violent crimes. This initiative, announced by the Allan Labor government, mirrors similar laws enacted in Queensland. The proposal has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights, Indigenous, and legal experts, as well as advocacy groups, who argue it represents an alarming regression in juvenile justice. Critics emphasize the negative implications of treating young offenders as adults, raising concerns about the impact on vulnerable populations and the effectiveness of such punitive measures.