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?
WA councils claim a loophole allowing some not-for-profits to dodge rates is costing them vital revenue for services. WALGA demands a $200k review to fix the system. Read more.
Less than 5% of Cessnock households responded to a survey on a proposed 39.9% rate increase, with 82% opposed. Council faces a crucial vote amid claims of survey bias and cost-of-living concerns. Read the full story.
A sharper-than-expected fall in inflation offers hope for Australian households, but underlying price pressures remain a concern for the Reserve Bank. Read the latest analysis.
New ABS data shows core inflation eased to 3.2% in the year to November, slightly below forecasts. The result may reduce immediate pressure for a February RBA rate hike. Read the full analysis.
New data reveals WA's cost of living crisis is forcing families to choose between food and bills, with smoking rates also rising. Doctors are sounding the alarm. Read the full report.
A man has died after a fierce fire tore through a Wollongong unit. An off-duty firefighter tried to help but was forced back by flames. Police treat the blaze as suspicious.
As the RBA eyes a February rate hike, a classic 90s rap lyric sums up Australia's inflation dilemma. We break down the economic pain, the silver linings, and why Michele Bullock is talking tough. Read more.
A 34-year-old man has drowned in rough seas at Jervis Bay, marking the second tragic death on the NSW South Coast in 48 hours. Authorities urge extreme caution amid dangerous coastal conditions.
Experts forecast a potential downturn for Canberra's luxury housing market in early 2026, with rising interest rates likely to boost demand for more affordable apartments. Key suburbs to watch revealed.
The alarming decline of spin bowling in Test cricket, highlighted by recent Ashes tactics, demands urgent ICC intervention to protect the sport's future and inspire the next generation.
NSW's container deposit scheme has paid out $1.5 billion in refunds, recycling 15 billion containers. The state plans to include wine and spirit bottles from 2027, boosting the circular economy.
Police are appealing for public help to find April Ansell, 14, missing from Wyoming on the Central Coast since Friday morning. Live updates from the Newcastle Herald.
A Sydney mother has died after rushing into dangerous surf to save her son, part of a tragic toll on NSW beaches. Authorities urge swimmers to stay between the flags.
Tributes flow for Melissa Austin, 45, who drowned at a NSW beach. Her death is part of a tragic cluster of coastal fatalities, prompting urgent water safety warnings.
A multi-agency search resumes for a 25-year-old man at Coogee and a 14-year-old boy at Palm Beach after separate incidents. Authorities issue urgent warnings after multiple drownings on the NSW coast. Stay informed and stay safe.
Police hold serious concerns for 37-year-old Matthew Bodley, missing from Callala Bay since November 20. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Thousands celebrated New Year's Eve on Newcastle's Foreshore as families and revellers shared hopes for travel and adventure in 2026. NSW Police ran a major operation amid health warnings about dangerous drugs.
Hunter SES crews faced their busiest year ever, responding to over 5000 incidents and 10,000 volunteer hours in 2025's severe storms and floods. Read about their heroic efforts.
A new study reveals stark differences in cancer rates across Australia, with NSW bearing the highest burden. Discover the state-by-state breakdown and what experts say it means for healthcare.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate at 4.35% and signalled a prolonged pause, with no hikes expected before 2026. Discover what this means for mortgages and the economy.
Newcastle police have charged two women after allegedly finding cocaine, MDMA, and $65,000 cash during a vehicle stop in Waratah West. Read the latest on this major drug supply case.
A body discovered near Old Bar in NSW has ended the search for a 37-year-old man missing since December 9. Police investigations into his disappearance are ongoing.
A teenage boy and two adults were injured in a serious dog attack in Raymond Terrace. Police euthanised the loose Staffordshire Bull Terrier-Mastiff cross. Read the latest details.
RBA Governor Michele Bullock warns inflation battle could last until 2026, with potential interest rate rises. Senator Dean Smith critiques government's economic approach. Read the full analysis.
From Eden's 'consolation prize' trophy to Marine Rescue NSW's critical medical evacuations, discover how the Far South Coast community supported weather-beaten Sydney to Hobart sailors in the 2025 race.
The body of a 64-year-old man has been recovered from the Hume Weir at Table Top, NSW, four days after he went missing while boating with two children. The children were rescued unharmed. A report is being prepared for the coroner.
Police urge motorcyclists to ride within their limits after a devastating spike in fatalities on northern NSW roads. The road toll rises as double demerits remain in force.
Discover six easy, family-friendly bushwalks in and around the Illawarra, perfect for getting kids outdoors. Includes details on trails, wildlife, and safety tips for a memorable adventure.
A desperate search for a 34-year-old fisherman missing from Shell Cove's Bushrangers Bay has been scaled back. Emergency services combed the area for two days without success.