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.
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.
Seabourn marks its 40th anniversary with a unique 120-day Cape to Cape World Cruise in 2028, visiting 50 destinations across five continents. Book early for savings.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
Perth is set to host six world-class sporting events in 2026, including the FINA World Swimming Championships and the IAAF World Cross Country Championships. Discover the full schedule.
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.
Hobart Hurricanes star Tim David faces a nervous wait after a hamstring injury against Perth Scorchers, putting his BBL season and T20 World Cup role in doubt. Read the latest.
From the Paris Olympics to a global sewage emergency, 2025 was a year of extremes. Explore the events that defined the world. Read the full recap now.
Australian captain Pat Cummins sets sights on T20 World Cup after Adelaide Ashes heroics, while confirming spinner Nathan Lyon faces months out with injury. Get the latest cricket news.
Explore the 5,000-year evolution of the bellows, from ancient slave-powered tubes to the Han Dynasty's double-action piston. Discover how this simple invention fuelled civilisation's metal age.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Australian captain Pat Cummins will miss the final Ashes Tests due to a back injury, casting doubt on his T20 World Cup campaign. Coach Andrew McDonald confirms the cautious approach.
Wollongong athletics star Maiya Hewitt, 16, has smashed the world championship qualifying time with a stunning 400m personal best. Discover her race strategy and path to Oregon.
Newcastle Knights centre Bradman Best is prioritising fitness for 2026, aiming for a home World Cup after a life-changing year welcoming his first child. Read his plans.
Australian monobob star Bree Walker secures her second straight World Cup victory in Latvia, heading into the festive break as a top gold medal contender for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Bunbury sailor Craig Head guides his GOSH yacht to a triumphant Fremantle arrival after a brutal 23-day Southern Ocean leg, securing the team's third consecutive win in the Clipper Round the World Race.
Former Australian Test cricketer Joe Burns will miss Italy's T20 World Cup debut after being dropped over contractual issues. Get the full story on this shocking team change.
Canning Council votes 7-2 to fund Mayor Patrick Hall's trip to the 2025 World Cities Summit in Singapore, sparking debate over the city's global role and foreign-funded travel.
Forget the leather and safety pins. This festive season, Australia is urged to embrace everyday kindness as the ultimate rebellion, inspired by 2025's biggest blockbuster films and backed by new data.
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.
Scottish darts star Cameron Menzies issues apology after punching water table in frustration following first-round World Darts Championship exit, citing family tragedy. Latest from London.
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.
Australian cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia overcame a second-round scare to stop unbeaten challenger Huseyin Cinkara. The IBF champ eyes unification bouts in 2025. Get the full fight night recap.
The Socceroos' 2026 World Cup journey is set, with matches in Canada, Seattle, and California. Get all the dates, times, and key details for Australia's Group D campaign in North America.
The Socceroos have landed in Group D for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We analyse the opponents, the challenges, and why this draw is being welcomed by the Australian camp.
McCauley's Beach provided epic conditions for the Australian Junior Surfing Titles finale, crowning new national champions who will represent the Irukandjis at the 2026 World Juniors.
US soccer analysts are celebrating an 'easy' draw against the Socceroos for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Coach Tony Popovic warns opponents face a 'rude shock' if they underestimate Australia. Full group details and reaction.