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?
A controversial Teralba development is back, proposing 24 lots and a sewer pump station. Residents previously cited traffic, bushfire and flooding concerns. Read the latest.
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.
New analysis reveals WA's boosted first home buyer grant has increased property prices by 4.5%, adding $30k to the median home. Is the scheme helping or hurting affordability?
Newcastle ratepayers demand answers as council CEO's $608k package exceeds the Premier's pay. Former councillor reveals how Hunter coal mines triggered a 'relativity' salary spiral across local government.
Lake Macquarie City Council reveals a draft $80 million capital works plan for 2026-27, with over half earmarked for its fire-damaged Speers Point administration building. Discover the community projects set to benefit.
Queensland and Western Australia are forecast to lead Australia's property market in 2026, driven by major infrastructure projects. Experts identify the key suburbs to watch for growth. Discover where to invest now.
Discover Western Australia's best-kept secret: stunning beachside homes still available for under $500,000. Expert reveals where to find them from Scarborough to Walpole.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
A Townsville man's property was inundated with raw sewage following heavy rain, causing a health hazard. He demands action from the council. Read the full story.
A Kiama developer has successfully added a fifth level to a Surf Beach apartment complex via the Land and Environment Court, securing approval for five extra units. Read the full details and conditions.
Muswellbrook mayor Jeff Drayton defends council's approval process for the $50 million Denman Park Estate, as developer warns project is at 'brink of commercial unviability'. Read the full story.
A Port Stephens canoe club's missing trailer, thought stolen for scrap, was discovered impounded by council rangers. Read how a mix-up over registration led to the costly confusion.
Plans for the old Bulli Hospital site redevelopment have been revised, with Landcom proposing a two-stage subdivision due to complexities along the southern boundary. Read the latest.
Plans lodged to replace the 50-year-old Boat Harbour Motel in Wollongong with a dual-tower apartment complex featuring affordable housing. Public exhibition open until February 9.
Townsville businessman Troy Thompson has suffered another legal defeat in his long-running dispute with the Townsville City Council over a CBD property. Read the full details of the court's decision.
A series of contentious planning decisions by the City of Greater Geelong council has left the local development community sharply divided, with some projects approved and others rejected.
New research reveals the true cost of a Perth home over 25 years can double the price tag. Expert warns against overpaying in competitive market. Learn the full financial commitment.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Newcastle councillors demand the return of a state fund to offset unpredictable mine subsidence costs, arguing its 2023 scrapping has stalled housing projects and $3B in investment.
Perth CBD's transformation hinges on a cycle: residents need amenity, amenity needs residents. Developers like Finbar's Ronald Chan see well-designed apartments as key to unlocking true city living.
Belle Property's head office has taken direct control of its Hunter Valley operations, pledging new safety measures and support for staff and clients after a distressing period. Read the full statement.
The NSW government's draft planning framework proposes merging the Hunter and Central Coast into a single region. The Property Council calls for a clear metropolitan strategy to unlock housing and jobs.
A beloved 80-year-old rain tree in Cairns, deemed dangerous, must be removed. The extensive root damage has also condemned the adjacent family home, leaving owners devastated.
Newcastle councillors are urging the NSW government to fund a major upgrade of public toilets, citing high costs and the need for accessibility. A state inquiry backed their call.
Newcastle councillors have deferred a major plan to revitalise Civic Park and surrounds, citing a $70 million price tag and more pressing community priorities like safer streets and drainage.
Code of conduct complaints at Newcastle City Council have doubled in two years, costing ratepayers over $62,000. Nine complaints were lodged, with four still pending. Read the full report.
WA's Property Council erupts over a new $300 million CBD parking tax, warning it will cripple Perth's economic recovery and hurt workers. Read the full details.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
A versatile Lake Heights home featuring a self-contained flat, workshop, and stunning water views is set for auction on December 15. Ideal for extended families or investors.