A federal inquiry examines the worsening financial state of Australian local governments, with Hunter councils highlighting unsustainable costs from climate change, tourism, and state mandates. Will it lead to real change?
The ACT Government is pushing ahead with a new $150 million aquatic centre in Woden, despite facing criticism over costs and transparency. Discover the details and the political debate.
The Albanese government faces criticism over claims its tobacco tax will fund health measures. Experts call it a misleading 'puff piece' that ignores the true cost of smoking. Read the full analysis.
Grant Andrew Carter has been sentenced in Townsville Magistrates Court for high-range drink-driving. Read the full details of his fine and driving disqualification.
Altech Batteries' stock surged over 50% after securing a major €46.11M German government grant for its innovative CERENERGY sodium-chloride solid-state battery project. Read how this funding accelerates Europe's energy storage future.
WA's first Local Government Inspector, Tony Brown, now has full powers to oversee councils, issue fines up to $24,000, and recommend suspensions. The reforms aim to stamp out poor conduct.
Experts warn Australia's economy is now governed by subsidy, not reform, with $100bn in off-budget vehicles hiding the true cost. Discover the risks to taxpayers.
Analysis reveals Australia's freedom of information system has become more expensive and secretive, with costs doubling to $97.9 million while full releases halve. Read the full investigation.
Millions of Australians will save on prescription costs as PBS co-payments drop to $31.60 from New Year's Day. Find out how the federal government's policy affects you.
Artist Lawrence Tan spent 17 days suspended in a cherry picker to create 'Flourish', a massive native flora mural in Canberra's Braddon, funded by a $36,000 grant. Discover the story behind the artwork.
WA Mums Cottage in Mandurah receives a $23,000 Lotterywest grant to fund crisis and emergency relief for local families facing financial hardship. The charity provides vital support services.
Amid growing public outcry, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces demands to establish a federal royal commission into the Bondi Beach massacre and the surge in anti-Semitism. Critics accuse the government of inaction.
Star jockey William Pike will partner the Grant & Alana Williams-trained Dom To Shoot in the $1 million Perth Cup on New Year's Day. Get the full story on his big decision.
Western Australia's housing supply crisis intensified in 2025, with Perth's median home price hitting $830,000. UDIA WA's Grant Shepherd reflects on a tough year and new government initiatives aiming to boost supply and affordability for 2026.
WA's Labor government spent $46.4m on external consultants in just 10 months, with the opposition slamming the 'alarming' outsourcing rate. Read the full breakdown.
A 61-year-old Central Coast man has been sentenced to four years in prison for defrauding the Australian government through a scam involving visa applications and business grants. Read the full details of the case.
Shire of Murray CEO Dean Unsworth has been awarded the 2025 Local Government Leader of the Year title at the IPAA WA Achievement Awards. Discover his collaborative leadership and key achievements.
WA explorer Dynamic Metals locks in govt co-funding for diamond drilling at Cognac West, while new gold-in-soil anomalies emerge at Leinster and Lady Jane projects. Read the latest on their expanding pipeline.
Perth's iconic 1901 Bon Marche Arcade secures a $1 million heritage grant to become short-stay accommodation, revitalising Barrack Street. A new chapter for CBD heritage.
Townsville barrister Claire Grant has made history with her appointment as King's Counsel, becoming the first woman from the region to receive the prestigious honour in over a decade. Read her inspiring story.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ends 2025 on a high after a crushing election win and Coalition chaos. But political analyst Mark Kenny warns of looming dangers from hubris and secrecy that could undo Labor's success. Read the full analysis.
Paul Murray argues the WA and Federal Labor governments must curb spending to ease the cost of living crisis. Read his analysis on fiscal policy impacts.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Grant and Alana Williams target a fifth Northerly Stakes win in ten years, led by Railway Stakes quinella Amelia's Jewel and Alsephina. Read the full story on their Perth summer carnival charge.
The Albanese government's controversial freedom of information reforms are headed for a Senate defeat after the Coalition and Greens joined forces to oppose the bill. Read why critics call it a 'secrecy bill'.
The Cook Government faces scrutiny after awarding a $5 million Motorplex contract to a company linked to bikie Benjamin David Ortin. Questions arise over due diligence.
Grant Cresswell's volunteer project has fixed dozens of public basketball hoops across the Illawarra. Now relocated, he urgently needs a local to take over the community initiative and keep courts playable.
The WA Government extends its rent relief program after Perth was declared Australia's most unaffordable city. Grants of $5000 will continue until June. Read more.
Queensland farmers face uncertainty and fear massive costs as the new federal Environment Protection Australia law creates confusion over land clearing and development approvals. Read more.
A former top bureaucrat warns Australia needs a political 'fixer' to navigate looming economic and social challenges. Discover why and what it means for the nation's future.