Australia news live: man charged after allegedly stabbing woman with scissors in Melbourne

A man faces multiple charges after allegedly attacking a mother and her young son with a pair of scissors outside a Melbourne police station. The incident, described as a random act, saw the accused punch the child before stabbing the mother.

The victims, who were visiting from Phillip Island, were taken to hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Police have charged the man, from Sunshine West, with a series of offenses including affray, intentionally causing injury, unlawful assault, and conduct endangering life. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

Authorities do not believe the attacker and the victims knew each other. The investigation into the assault is ongoing.

In separate news, Australia may experience a surge in datacentre construction as artificial intelligence firms rush to secure approvals before new environmental regulations take effect. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to discuss federal regulations for datacentres with the national cabinet. These proposed rules aim to ensure datacentres do not inflate power prices, require them to use renewable energy, cover their own connection costs, and minimize water usage. Developers will also need to consider appropriate sizing and location, keeping them away from residential, school, and agricultural areas.