Overview
- Six tourists died in November 2024 after drinking methanol-tainted spirits in Vang Vieng, including Australians Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, with families saying no one has been held to account.
- Relatives say they have seen no meaningful progress in Laos despite earlier reports that authorities recommended charges against 13 suspects and that police urged some to flee.
- Australia’s DFAT has expanded warnings through airport signage, SMS alerts and a Partying Safely Hub on Smartraveller, which now includes Schoolies cheat sheets for popular destinations.
- Foreign Minister Penny Wong has promised stronger messaging ahead of Schoolies, and she is expected to launch new resources for parents, students and educators this week.
- Survivors and campaigners, including Bethany Clarke and Colin Ahearn, continue to advise young travelers to avoid free‑poured spirits and use sealed drinks, highlighting the ongoing risk of methanol poisoning.