LATEST: The drug habits of the stars of Australian soap opera NEIGHBOURS could be revealed in a court battle involving a former castmember.

SHANE FEENEY - who played builder and family man JOE SCULLY - is suing Grundy Television after he was sacked in September 2003 following complaints about his bad habits and addiction to amphetamines.

He claims he had kicked the habit - taken up after the death of his brother in 2001 - months before his contract was terminated.

Melbourne judge Justice ROBERT OSBORN told Victoria Supreme court he would be surprised if Connor was the only actor among the 20 or 30 Neighbours cast to use drugs and the show's casting agent is expected to be questioned on whether other actors had a drug habit.

Feeney is seeking AUS$200,000 ($150,000/GBP83,000) compensation.