Life in lockdown
Stuck inside amid the COVID-19 pandemic? News.com.au has all the ideas for how to pass the time, including best books, podcasts, recipes and indoor workouts.
What you can and can’t do in Melbourne
A lot has changed in Greater Melbourne over the last month. Here’s a rundown of what you can and cannot do during the lockdown.
26 million sign up to Netflix in pandemic
Netflix added more subscribers in the first half of this year than our country has people – and it even deleted some accounts on the way.
Prehistoric new feature for phones
Google has revealed a “time-travelling” new feature that can put realistic dinosaur models right in front of you wherever you are.
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Everything new to streaming next month
From funny comedies to tense dramas, here’s what’s coming to 10 different streaming services in June. It’s a lot to take in.
‘Biggest mistake a guy like me could make’
When Reese Witherspoon called his name out at the Golden Globes earlier this year, few people had seen Ramy Youssef’s very excellent TV series.
Why Hugh won’t win Oscar for hit film
Aussie film legend Hugh Jackman is in career-best form in his latest film but despite plenty of love, it can’t break his Oscar duck.
Don’t watch TV show right before bed
You shouldn’t be surprised to find yourself pausing midway and double-checking your windows and doors are locked.
Wild true story in Jackman’s new movie
Hugh Jackman might be getting all the attention for his star turn in this new movie, but the wild story is the real draw.
Wicked new TV show’s bonkers star
There can be no other actor who is having as much fun as Nicholas Hoult in his new TV series where he gets to play a man-child ruler.
Underrated TV show you should’ve seen
With a strong commitment to making you laugh as much as possible, this clever and charming comedy really went under the radar.
Thrilling TV show offers something fresh
With great performances and three intriguing storylines, this new eight-part, globetrotting miniseries is definitely worth checking out.
Immunity lies we’ve been told
Forget chugging expensive lemon and ginger “wellness shots” – an expert shares five ways to strengthen your immune system this winter.
How we can avoid a second wave
Australians should be inviting friends over for lunch, not dinner, and requesting that they bring their own sandwich. This is why.
Odd new TV show based on bizarre true game
For three years, thousands of people participated in a real-life citywide game, now the basis of a new TV series from Jason Segel.
Odd new TV show based on bizarre true game
For three years, thousands of people participated in a real-life citywide game, now the basis of a new TV series from Jason Segel.
Snack everyone’s making in lockdown
It seems we’ve moved on from buying cake mixes and baking bread. Now it’s all about this classic treat.
New cinema movie fast-tracked home
This Australian drama starring Hugo Weaving was meant to be out in cinemas now but has been diverted for digital release at home.
Star-studded movie is bonkers mad
With Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as the most unlikely pair of detectives trying to solve a conspiracy, you know you’re in for a good time.
Sexually charged TV show you can’t resist
After you watch the first episode, you won’t be able to quantify how much you love it. Yes, it’s that good.
Good news for Emma Wiggle fans
Emma Wiggle is set to perform an at-home virtual birthday party for kids stuck indoors during the coronavirus lockdown.
$15 iso solution that’ll ‘get you into trouble’
Australian supermarkets have reported huge increases in sales of this DIY item, but experts are warning us not to attempt it at home.
Luxury item Aussies are snapping up
As we continue to spend time indoors, there’s been an unexpected demand for one homewares item that Aussies have been buying big on.
Why you’re having weird, vivid dreams
The coronavirus pandemic has sparked strange dreams among many people and there are several reasons why they may be more vivid than normal.
Triple your wardrobe space with Coke can
A woman’s storage solution “life hack” has gone viral, showing a simple way to increase your wardrobe capacity using a Coke can.
Netflix rom-com will be your new obsession
A new Netflix romantic-comedy movie has dropped on the streaming platform, and fans are already begging for a sequel.
Sharp new TV show is a hilarious binge
With a high laughs-per-minute ratio and sharp, smart writing, don’t be surprised if you binge all 10 episodes in one go.
Easy four-ingredient Arnott’s biccie recipe
The biscuit company has adapted a recipe for an iconic bestseller so you can make it at home – and you’ll only need a few pantry items.
Star’s figure-hugging Big W outfit stuns
Former Biggest Loser host Fiona Falkiner looks “bloody amazing” in a budget $39 outfit from Big W – which fans are snapping up fast.
The Office creator reveals his new TV show
Greg Daniels is best known for the US version of The Office, but his new TV series is playing in a very different sandbox.
Aussies spending on surprise new items
Big retailers have revealed changes in the spending habits of Australians during the coronavirus lockdown.
The best lockdown cooking hack
Just because everyone on your social feed is cooking, doesn’t mean you have to. Let these meal boxes do the hard work for you.
Kendrick’s TV show is coming to streaming
Anna Kendrick’s TV show is among the slate of new HBO Max original series, and it’s found a home and a date in Australia.
New Netflix TV show is a real winner
A perfect cocktail of wry humour and poignant story beats, Netflix’s new comedy is exactly what you want to watch right now.
Weird DIY item that’s gone ‘gang busters’
While men are growing their beards in lockdown, new sales from Priceline reveal women have taken the complete opposite route.
Cool stuff you couldn’t do pre-virus
There are a lot of unexpected upsides of being stuck at home due to the lockdown laws, such as working out with Olympian Pita Taufatofua.
Task you can finally get done at home
Being stuck in isolation may have you flexing your green thumb but here’s what you need to know before you head out to your local hardware store or garden centre.
Five kind things to do during lockdown
The world might be an anxious and chaotic place right now, but here’s five things you can do to give yourself an instant boost, while helping others.
Chris Evans’s splashy new TV series
You may know him best as Captain America but Chris Evans is expanding his dramatic horizons in this expensive new streaming show.
Restaurant meal box that keeps selling out
One of Sydney’s most popular restaurants is helping customers whip up gourmet meals at home – but you’d better get in quick.
Inspiring books to read in lockdown
If you’re worried about your excess screen time, it might be time to switch to a book. These 10 titles will keep you occupied during isolation.
Isolation item earns Aussie $150k in 7 mins
A new isolation must-have has earned an Aussie brand a huge amount of money as many describe the item as the “best I have ever worn”.
Arnott’s ‘secret’ biscuit recipe revealed
It’s been a closely guarded secret for almost a century, but after 94 years Arnott’s have shared a recipe for one of its classic biscuits.
Tense TV spin-off of iconic movie
Thrilling and suspenseful, you wouldn’t believe a TV series spin-off from a classic movie could be this good.
Isolation habits according to your star sign
If you’re looking to pick up a new isolation hobby, allow us to make some recommendations based solely on your star sign.
$8 solution to lockdown cooking ‘problem’
Aussies are already “sick” of making dinner every night, turning to a home delivery service that has seen sales double in lockdown.
10 ways to get fit during virus lockdown
The gym might be closed but you can still stay active (and sane). Here are 10 online workouts you can do from your living room. No equipment needed.
How to shed those kilos in lockdown
If you want to lose a few stubborn kilos while in lockdown, you're going to need to change your relationship with food. We ask the experts how.
Star-studded TV concert announced
The biggest names in Australian music will gather to perform a televised concert on Anzac Day, to appreciate workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.
10 podcasts to get you through lockdown
Want to laugh, cry, or even solve a cold case? You need one of these podcasts, designed to help you get through coronavirus isolation.
Eight hacks for home-schooling parents
Home-schooling is the new reality for many families and virtual learning has never been more important. These eight programs will make things easier.
How to commit to learning a language
Learning a foreign language is a bucket list item for many, but here’s how to stay motivated and inspired while doing it in isolation.
Dad mobbed over cutlery drawer photo
A dad has been roasted after sharing the way he organises his cutlery drawer – so which way is right? An expert has weighed in.
Easy desserts to make in lockdown
There are plenty of tricks you can use to create Insta-worthy treats and it can take as little as four ingredients to get a brilliant result.
New mega puzzle has 50,000 pieces
This jigsaw puzzle is so big that when completed it’s over 8 metres wide and almost 2 metres high. And the price will have you gasping.
Now you can learn to dance from home
With a whole host of things going virtual, here’s one thing you’ll be glad to try from the comfort of your own living room – without an audience.
The TV porn we can all get behind
Forget the curvature of the human body, what about the curvature of a building? If it’s house porn, sign us up!
Super compulsive TV show to binge now
Everyone has secrets and everyone has an ulterior motive in this thrilling TV series you could start bingeing today.
Hand sanitiser you can make at home
Hand sanitiser might be a hot commodity right now with the product sold out in supermarkets nationwide, but it’s actually just as easy to make your own.
Pub quizzes taking over living rooms
While going to your local is out of the question, DIY pub trivia nights are steadily gaining popularity. Here are five sites which make it super easy to host your own.
Wine deliveries to help survive lockdown
Forget toilet paper – keep your alcohol supplies topped up during lockdown with these delivery services. Social distancing just got a whole lot easier.
Meditation apps to get you through iso
If being in isolation has you feeling tense, these seven meditation and mindfulness apps and programs will offer you some calm during the day.
The best $24 you’ll spend in isolation
Coronavirus has thrown our travel plans out the window, but this ‘experience’ will bring the world to your lounge room – and for a fraction of the price.
Best free courses to upskill during isolation
It’s tempting to sit around binge-watching Netflix during isolation – but these free online courses could help you upskill during the COVID-19 crisis.
Five easy lunches to make at home
As the nation goes into lockdown, you can still have a healthy bite that’s easy to prepare for that all-important lunch break.
Why coronavirus is ruining your sleep
If you've finding it hard to switch off at night or spending your time in bed tossing and turning, you're not alone. Here's how to fix it.
Clever heist movie to watch tonight
Daniel Craig is off-the-charts outrageous in this fun and clever heist movie you could watch at home tonight.
How to make McNuggets at home
As the world continues to live life in lockdown, one enterprising 19-year-old chef is enlightening the world about one fan favourite: chicken nuggets.
Double-edged sword in new Netflix movie
On the one hand, it’s an emotional story about love and loss, on the other, streaming isn’t the ideal platform for this movie.
Mum's DIY trick for ‘spotless’ windows
Not only is this DIY quaran-cleaning hack super cheap, ridiculously easy and effective, it also means one less thing to pick up at the supermarket.
Six tips to stop COVID-19 comfort eating
Easter has come and gone and an obesity expert says “there’s no reason why we shouldn’t have lost a kilo” by the time our coronavirus social isolation ends too.
Mum's hack to stop food going mouldy
This mum has a hack to increase the shelf life of everything in your fridge, as panic buying around the world skyrockets.
What we’re all missing about lockdown
The positives aren’t going to make up for the dire situation we are all in together. But there are some things to feel good about, says Melissa Hoyer.
Apple to offer TV shows, movie for free
Apple knows you’re stuck at home, so it’s offering up a selection of its subscription TV shows and movies free to watch for everyone.
How to make a 5-star hotel at home
Just because you are stuck at home, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some five-star indulgences at a fraction of the price. Here’s how.
Deeply personal story behind new Netflix movie
A new Netflix movie is dropping in time for the weekend, and it has a very personal history behind it.
Quarantine Big Mac ‘better than real deal’
We’re starting to have cravings for few things from our old life, but if you’re hankering for a Macca’s – this mum has got you covered.
Aussie legend: ‘Always glad when I’m out of work’
When your first season was award-winning and an audience favourite, going back for another round is a risky endeavour.
Best live streams from around the world
If you’d planned to go away this Easter long weekend and you’re now at home with nothing to do, don’t worry - you can see some fabulous locations.
Police reveal details of Tiger King cold case
A Florida sheriff has lifted the lid on the investigation into one of the biggest mysteries from Tiger King – what happened to Carole Baskin’s husband?
12 bread recipes without yeast
Want to unleash your inner baker, but don’t have any yeast, or the time to make a sourdough starter? Here are 12 recipes you need to know.
How to survive school holidays at home
Spending the Easter school holidays in social isolation might seem like a daunting task so here’s a list of fun activities you can access from home.
Slow cooker bread hack you need right now
A simple recipe for basic white bread, baked in a slow cooker. What? Check out this six-ingredient slow cooker bread recipe.
Luxury $300 item becomes a must-have
A high-grade item once seen as a luxury has “become a need” since we went into lockdown, as Aussies turn to at-home options for difficult tasks.
How to survive Easter at home
Australians have been urged to “stay at home” this Easter but it doesn’t mean there aren’t still plenty of ways to have fun while staying safe.
Twisty TV show will keep you guessing
A former soldier is accused of kidnap and murder. He says he’s innocent but there’s CCTV to prove it. But sometimes, video lies.
Best recipes to use up pantry staples
If you’ve got rice, pasta, noodles and beans in the cupboard but aren’t sure how to turn them into a delicious meal, here is the answer.
Photo sums up life in isolation
This confusing snap has become the posterchild for life in lockdown, as just like our new normal, it is totally mind-boggling.
‘Unsettling’ stuff Tiger King didn’t show
One of the directors of Netflix docuseries Tiger King has revealed that some of the most “unsettling” footage ended up on the cutting room floor.
Essential pantry items during lockdown
There are some items a well-stocked pantry should always have and they will save you time and money if you do it right.
Weird items we're all now buying
Australians have been buying big on “new normal” essentials - with what we’re snapping up proving very different to this time last year.
Naomi Watts throws giant iso tantrum
Australian actress Naomi Watts has documented her rough stint in isolation with a hilarious video after three of her appliances broke down.
Isolation outfit that’s selling ‘like hotcakes’
We usually only wear pyjamas to bed, but as Australia adjusts to life in lockdown, this basic item is flying off the shelves in record numbers.
‘Most controversial movie’ will be out tomorrow
Raging controversy saw its release scuttled last year and the coronavirus derailed its cinema debut. From tomorrow, you can watch it at home.
You can now buy showbags in Woolies
The Easter Show has been cancelled, but you can still snag a showbag after Woolworths stepped in to get the nostalgic treat in select stores.
‘Disturbing’ movie will absolutely terrify
Horror fans have gotten a little more than they bargained for with Netflix’s latest offering, with many left shaken to their core.
Why you’re feeling so tired in lockdown
You’re working from home and have more spare time than ever, so why are you feeling so tired and struggling to get out of bed in the morning?
‘A new low’: Star slammed over offer
Former 90210 actress Tori Spelling has been hit with a major backlash after announcing her latest business venture.
Couples share worst isolation arguments
Cooped-up couples are sharing some of their most ridiculous fights in lockdown, from leaving crumbs on the counter to letting out too many “stress farts”.
Movie so funny you might wet yourself
Few were expecting much when this comedy came out but once you’ve seen it, you’ll want to watch it again and again and again.
Delayed movie going direct to digital platforms
A satirical British comedy about the excessive lifestyle of a fashion mogul will no longer be released in cinemas in the wake of coronavirus shutdowns.
