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.
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.
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.
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.
A Canberra property journalist with eight years of perfect rental history reveals why she still needs her parents as guarantors, exposing the harsh realities of Australia's rental crisis. Read her story.
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.
A new JLL report forecasts WA's economic lead over other states will narrow as resource demand moderates, but defence, critical minerals and a tight industrial market will drive commercial property. Read the full analysis.
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.
A new report reveals Townsville's rental vacancy rate has crashed to 0.7%, sparking fears for the city's future. Experts warn of severe social and economic consequences if action isn't taken. Read the full analysis.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
Western Australia's severe rental crisis leaves 40,000 households in housing stress. Urgent government action needed to address this blight on our wealthy state.
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.
Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud warns next year's budget will be the 'hardest ever' as council works to meet state government requirements for financial recovery.
Experienced councillor Libby Stapleton becomes Surf Coast Shire's new mayor, bringing extensive local government experience to lead the coastal region.
Wollongong Council has approved halving developer contributions for new hotels to 1%, sparking debate over lost revenue versus tourism incentives. Read the full story.
Geelong councillors clash over manhole cover crisis causing traffic chaos on Cheesmans Rd. Residents demand immediate action on infrastructure safety.
AGL and the Australian Energy Council reaffirm commitment to net zero by 2050, creating a stark divide with the Coalition's new climate policy. Discover how this impacts Australia's energy future.
Newcastle councillors receive clear technical advice that open-air dressing rooms at Newcastle Ocean Baths contravene modern design standards, creating legal obligations.
Lake Macquarie councillors have voted for a fundamental review of coastal flooding policy as properties at risk surge to 12,000. Discover what this means for homeowners.