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?
Australia's dominant 4-1 Ashes series win over England has triggered a lucrative bonus payout for the players. Discover the financial rewards behind the triumph.
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.
An Australian traveller shares her success using an eSIM and Alipay in China. Get expert advice on connectivity, mobile payments, and navigating the Great Firewall for your next trip.
Torrential rain causes severe flooding across Queensland, with crocodile-infested rescues, towns cut off, and a potential cyclone threat. Disaster funding expanded for recovery.
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 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.
From Centrelink boosts to higher tolls and new cash rules, discover the key changes affecting millions of Australians from January 1, 2026. Stay informed.
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.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
More than a million Australians on Youth Allowance, Austudy, and Carer Allowance will see their fortnightly payments rise from 1 January 2026. Find out how much you'll get.
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.
The Treasury Department will review $2.3 billion in unlawful payments to states for energy rebates. Secretary Jenny Wilkinson denies any code of conduct breaches. Full details from the Senate estimates hearing.
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.
Canberra residents face exclusion as key government services refuse cash payments. Elderly and vulnerable citizens demand accessible payment options in a digital-first world.
Southeast Queensland families affected by catastrophic superstorms can access up to $900 in emergency payments. Learn about eligibility and recovery efforts.
City of Melville councillor Clive Ross fails to secure review of council payments for legal representation. Motion defeated 7-4 amid transparency concerns.
Perth commuters will soon tap on with phones or credit cards as Transport Minister Rita Saffioti announces major public transport payment overhaul. Learn what's changing.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Australian National University releases details of Genevieve Bell's $362,587 exit payment and new $500k professor role following senate estimates questioning. Learn the full financial breakdown.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
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.
Kiama's historic police residence faces severe deterioration with falling gutters and overgrown vegetation. Council unanimously backs motion seeking state government assistance for restoration.