Overview
- The government and DrinkWise unveiled “Drinking? Drink Mindfully” with the parents of Bianca Jones and Holly Morton‑Bowles, offering videos and clear guidance on alcohol risks including methanol poisoning.
- Resources are rolling out across airports, schools and social media, with Smartraveller Schoolies cheat sheets and Jetstar in‑flight videos from December, plus outreach at Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane airports on November 29.
- Wong said Australia has made about 50 diplomatic representations, the Lao prosecutor is considering a police investigation report, and AFP assistance remains offered but unaccepted.
- Families condemned reports that the Nana Backpackers site is preparing to reopen as Vang Vieng Central Backpacker Hostel, a move Wong told the Lao ambassador should not proceed.
- A year after six travellers died in Vang Vieng, including the two 19‑year‑old Australians, no criminal charges have been publicly filed in Laos.