Australia ‘deeply disappointed’ by Laos methanol poisoning allegations.

In the year The Australian government said it was “deeply disappointed and saddened” that Laos was not pursuing more serious charges in 2024 over six backpackers who died after drinking methanol-laced alcohol.

Australians Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were among six people who died in the Vang Vieng hotel in November 2024.

The statement comes after Australian media reported that Laos would face charges of up to a year in jail and a $1,600 (£1,100, £829) fine against those found responsible.

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said she had called Laos’ ambassador in Canberra.

Laos has yet to confirm any charges but the BBC understands officials there will hold a press conference later on Friday.

In a statement, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs said: “This terrible news adds to the deep pain and grief of the families and friends of Holly and Bianca.”

We have consistently made clear our expectation that charges reflect the seriousness of the risk. That includes the Prime Minister and we communicate our expectations directly to our counterparts.

Jones and Bowles were among six foreign visitors who died after enjoying free drinks at the popular Nana Bapacker Hostel in Vang Vieng. Other victims included British, American and Danish tourists.

The free bullets are thought to be contaminated with methanol, a toxic substance commonly found in paint thinner but sometimes illegally mixed with alcohol to cut costs.

Earlier this year, ten people linked to the hostel were charged with destroying evidence, receiving suspended sentences and fines of $185 (£135) each – something one victim’s brother described as an “absolute joke”.

And on Thursday, Australian media reported that the Laos ministry had written to Australian victims’ families saying that those convicted of the most serious charges could only face fines and a year in jail.

Bianca’s father Mark Jones told Australian broadcaster ABC it would be “a fit of rage”, while Holly’s father Shaun Bowles said it was “very difficult” to understand the expected charges.

“To think that my daughter’s life and the lives of five other people are worth less than a year and less than $1,600,” Jones told ABC.

“I call on the Australian government to do everything possible to intervene. Prime Minister Albanese to meet with his counterpart in Laos and insist that there is some real justice for the deaths of two Australian citizens.”

The Lao Embassy in Canberra has been contacted for comment.

Wong said Australia had appointed the Australian government’s special envoy, Pablo Kang, to “explore all avenues” in the investigation and asked him to travel to Laos on Friday to convey Australia’s objections.

She added that she would present Australia’s views to her Lao counterpart at the next ASEAN meeting.