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?
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.
Townsville's vibrant Chicks in Pink fun run is back on July 28th, uniting the community to raise crucial funds for breast cancer research and support services. Join the sea of pink!
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.
A major push is on to transform a long-closed Edmonton tourism park into a 300-lot affordable housing estate. The Cairns Regional Council is seeking state government support for the critical project.
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 series of dangerous incidents across Queensland, including a snake bite and vehicle crashes, left seven people in hospital during New Year's celebrations. Read the full details.
A man in his 70s has died in floodwaters at Normanton as two weather systems isolate towns and smash rainfall records across outback Queensland. Authorities urge motorists to never drive through floodwaters.
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.
A renewable energy company has presented a major proposal to Cairns Regional Council to help the region transition to 100% renewable power by 2030. Learn about the ambitious plan.
A severe weather warning is in place for Queensland's northwest and northeast, with intense rainfall and flash flooding expected. Residents urged to prepare now.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council issues a formal warning to residents living unlawfully in sheds, caravans, and other structures. Learn the rules and potential fines.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
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.
Four companies in the Mareeba Shire have entered liquidation, impacting local jobs and the economy. Discover the affected businesses and what it means for the region.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Townsville City Council is recruiting 30 new staff in a major 'back to basics' drive to improve core services like parks, roads, and waste. Mayor Troy Thompson leads the overhaul.
Cottesloe councillor Katy Mason has resigned and is moving to Nedlands. She is considering running in the upcoming Nedlands council election. Read the full story.
Mount Molloy residents are forced onto bottled water after their town supply runs dry. Council scrambles to fix the critical infrastructure failure. Read the latest on this Far North Queensland crisis.
Queensland Police have dismantled an alleged drug trafficking network, arresting four people and seizing cash, weapons, and a significant quantity of drugs. Read the full details.
The WACA's CEO has formally requested a 10-year exemption from council rates, worth an estimated $2.5 million, to aid the historic ground's financial future. Read the full story.
Queensland Crime Commission reveals Troy Thompson faked cancer while leaking council secrets. Read the shocking details of the investigation findings.
The Queensland Reconstruction Authority launches investigation into Cairns Regional Council's handling of cyclone recovery funds. Stay informed about the audit findings.
Cairns Regional Council applies for $1.5 million security funding as vandalism and theft costs escalate across community facilities. Learn about the impact.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Thousands of Far North Queensland teachers walked off the job today, joining 50,000 educators statewide in demanding better pay and conditions. Learn how this affects local schools.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.