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.
A leading analyst argues US military power is constrained by financial reality, not just political will. Discover how money shapes global strategy. Read the full insight.
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.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
WA Police face a potential $10m loss on a luxury jet lease, sparking outrage over taxpayer-funded spending. Discover the full story behind the costly aviation deal.
WA Police face scrutiny after leasing a luxury private jet for $2.1 million, with taxpayers potentially losing over $10 million. Read the full investigation.
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.
Perth's Boxing Day sales saw huge crowds at Karrinyup Shopping Centre, with nearly 100,000 shoppers expected. Discover the trends, top stores, and national spending forecasts.
Wollongong's bargain hunters weigh in on the Boxing Day vs Black Friday debate as national spending is set to hit $3.1 billion. Experts warn shoppers to track prices and beware of sophisticated scams.
Charlton Hart shares a personal reflection on spending the festive season alone, offering a raw and honest perspective on solitude, self-worth, and finding peace between Christmas and New Year's Eve in Australia.
Despite Black Friday's rise, Boxing Day remains Australia's top retail event. Newcastle centres gear up for thousands of shoppers, with national spending forecast to hit $1.6 billion. Discover the deals and data.
Boxing Day is battling to reclaim its crown as Australia's top sales event, with shoppers forecast to drop $1.6 billion. See the state-by-state breakdown and what's driving the spending surge.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Albion Park Village Meats sees a 25% surge in roast orders as Illawarra residents prioritise festive feasts. Owner Glenn Stewart says 'people find the money for Christmas'.
New data reveals Australia's laid-back approach to Christmas shopping, with 9% buying on Christmas Day. Discover the trends and total spending forecast for 2024. Plan your gifts now!
A $312,000 review of WA's universities remains unpublished as the Cook Government defends spending $46 million on external consultants over two years. Read the full story.
The annual cost for Canberra's Civic and Braddon flower boxes has surged by more than $100,000. Discover the details of the new contract and who foots the bill.
WA's Labor government spent $46.4m on external consultants in just 10 months, with the opposition slamming the 'alarming' outsourcing rate. Read the full breakdown.
International tourism to Western Australia has officially rebounded, surpassing 2019 levels with record spending. Discover the key markets driving this boom and what it means for the state's economy.
Townsville's visitor economy is surging as tourists extend their stays, injecting millions into local businesses. Discover how this trend is reshaping the region's future.
Bankwest data shows a drop in Black Friday shoppers across WA as households tighten budgets. Discover the spending trends and what it means for the local economy.
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.
Paul Murray argues the WA and Federal Labor governments must curb spending to ease the cost of living crisis. Read his analysis on fiscal policy impacts.
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.
Despite cost-of-living pressures, Australian pet owners are forecast to spend over $1 billion spoiling their animals this festive season, with WA leading per-state spending. Discover the trends driving this festive splurge.