Grog bans return: what is going on in Alice Springs and how did we get here?

Anthony Albanese and his most senior Indigenous colleagues travelled to Alice Springs this week for meetings with local organisations. Photograph: Blake Sharp-Wiggins/The Guardian

The central Australian town of Alice Springs is living through a spike in serious social unrest and violence, prompting a rapid visit by the prime minister and new alcohol restrictions.

Fresh grog rules have already come into effect, and Anthony Albanese said a total ban could be on the cards.