UPDATE: Spotlight fabric factory engulfed in flames

More than 100 firefighters have fought a massive blaze at a factory in Laverton, Victoria.

Fire authorities said 20 tankers were at the scene, as the complex was well alight.

Images from the scene show large plumes of black smoke and fire on the outskirts of the factory.

The fire started in a stack of wooden pallets.

Firefighters used a mechanical loader to pull apart pallets and factory stock and gain access to the flames, the Metropolitan Fire Brigade said.

Fifty workers were evacuated from the factory as smoke billowed over surrounding suburbs.