January 12, 2026

Victoria Bushfires Destroy 350 Buildings; Relief Fund Launched Amid Ongoing Fires

Victoria's bushfires have destroyed 350 buildings. Authorities warn more losses as 12 fires still burn. Premier Jacinta Allan announced a relief fund and support for victims.

January 12, 2026

Trump May Block ExxonMobil from Investing in Venezuela Over 'Uninvestable' Oil Market

Donald Trump hinted at stopping ExxonMobil’s investment in Venezuela after its CEO called the country “uninvestable.” This comes after Trump urged big oil firms to pour $100bn into Venezuela’s oil sector following the removal of Nicolás Maduro.

January 12, 2026

Contaminated Water Causes Diarrhoea Outbreak in Indore’s Bhagirathpura, 8 Dead

Indore’s Bhagirathpura battles a deadly diarrhoea outbreak after drinking water from the city pipeline and borewells became contaminated. Over 3,000 people fell sick, 8 died, and hundreds were hospitalized. Authorities are fixing pipes and stopping water supply until safe water returns.

January 12, 2026

Victorian Muslim Leader Punched in Racial Attack on Melbourne Freeway; Suspects Arrested

A Muslim imam and his wife were attacked and racially abused on a Melbourne freeway. Three people have been charged after police stepped in. The victim is recovering.

January 12, 2026

Meta Deactivates Over 544,000 Under-16 Accounts in Australia Following Social Media Ban

Meta has shut down more than half a million accounts for users under 16 across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads after Australia's new social media ban took effect. The move is part of efforts to comply with the law, but challenges remain in verifying ages online.