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 Premier Roger Cook asks for patience on stamp duty reform while Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas pushes for immediate action. Explore the debate on housing affordability.
An off-duty doctor provided critical first aid after a multi-vehicle collision at Banya near Caloundra. Two young sisters are fighting for life. Police are investigating.
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.
Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas outlines 10 key tax reforms to help first home buyers enter the property market. Read his plan to ease the financial burden.
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.
Vulnerable Australian teens report increased distress and isolation following the under-16s social media ban, with Kids Helpline receiving nearly 100 related contacts. Experts and parents grapple with the consequences.
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.
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's property market is on track for a $1 million median house price, creating a nightmare for first-home buyers. Experts call for urgent supply and tax reforms to address the crisis.
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.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Vince Zampella, co-founder of Infinity Ward and creator of Call of Duty, has died in a fiery car crash in California aged 55. Read the tragic details and tributes.
South Australia's Liberal opposition has scrapped its deadline to abolish stamp duty, creating uncertainty for homebuyers. Discover the political fallout and what it means for property affordability.
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.
The Ford Ranger Super Duty, designed and tested in Australia, undergoes extreme validation for remote work. Available mid-2026 from $93,990. Discover its rugged features.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Western Australia's stamp duty revenue has surged to $1.2 billion, far exceeding forecasts. This windfall highlights the urgent need for broader state tax reform to create a fairer and more stable system. Read the full analysis.
The WA government is collecting a $1 billion stamp duty windfall as a housing mobility crisis locks people in place. Discover the impact on homeowners and the call for tax reform.
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.
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.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
The Newcastle Jets' unbeaten A-League Women start is on hold as six players depart for international duty, forcing a fixture postponement. Coach Hoyle sees a silver lining.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
Former Tongan test rugby player Penikolo Kula Latu receives a community sentence for a one-punch assault that left an off-duty police officer with serious injuries at a Newcastle nightclub.
Joondalup residents face potential service cuts as the city council confronts a $20 million operational deficit. Learn how this budget crisis could impact your community.
Maitland Council expresses disappointment as cruise ships cancel visits following Newcastle's approval of Rising Tide protest, costing local businesses millions.