The man has been charged with importing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug, an offence that carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.

Authorities advised people leaving the affected area to detour inland, with evacuation routes including Birregurra–Forrest Road and Forrest–Apollo Bay Road towards Colac, while noting conditions and road access may change.

Across the country, about 18,000 people were expected to become Australian citizens on January 26, hailing from nations including India, New Zealand, Turkey, the United States, Nigeria, Malaysia, Nepal and the United Kingdom.

The spirit of Republic Day was also felt overseas, with more than a hundred people gathering at India House in Suva to mark the occasion.

Mukund Narayana Murti of Victoria has been awarded the Public Service Medal (PSM) for his outstanding contributions to strengthening Australia’s trade and investment relationships with Southeast Asia.

Handled by cameleers from Afghanistan and regions of what is now Pakistan and India, the animals were central to the development of inland Australia, carrying supplies, guiding expeditions and helping construct major infrastructure.

The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji has announced plans to introduce a certification scheme for vegetarian products, aimed at helping consumers identify food that meets Sanatan dietary standards.

“This isn’t just about providing supplies; it’s about standing side-by-side with our fellow Victorians during a very difficult time.”

High Commissioner underscored that India–Australia ties are increasingly defined not only by government-to-government engagement but by the day-to-day links between communities, universities, businesses and families across both countries.

Officers allegedly uncovered dozens of shrink-wrapped bricks containing a white substance inside the suitcases.