Victoria Park Council swiftly removed 'hateful' graffiti in Welshpool. Mayor Karen Vernon condemns the act, reaffirming the town's commitment to inclusion and diversity. Report urgent issues directly to council.
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.
Geelong's 'WTF' campaign tackles a missing chicken, potholes, and more. Discover how the council's $1.2 million plan aims to fix community gripes. Read the full story.
WA's first Local Government Inspector, Tony Brown, now has full powers to oversee councils, issue fines up to $24,000, and recommend suspensions. The reforms aim to stamp out poor conduct.
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 City of Belmont residents' group has labelled annual electors' meetings a 'complete waste of time', questioning council engagement after low attendance and over 20 motions were presented. Read more on the local democracy debate.
WA's 2026 transport changes will save commuters money while tackling council dysfunction. Get the details on the state's new cost-of-living and governance measures.
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.
Newcastle Council's redevelopment plans for the iconic Ocean Baths focus on a cafe/restaurant, but locals argue swimming facilities and change rooms are being overlooked. Read the community's concerns.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Townsville City Council accelerates construction of new public toilets at Pallarenda and Rowes Bay parks after securing additional funding. Read about the local upgrade.
A Townsville City Council worker is delivering Christmas magic to local kids by dressing as Santa on his garbage collection route. Meet the man behind the beard spreading joy.
Townsville Councillor Vera Dirou has made a generous $5000 donation to the Women's Centre for a second consecutive year, supporting vital local services. Read about this inspiring community commitment.
Cockburn councillors vote 7-2 to bring public petitions back to council meetings, overturning a 2017 policy. The move aims to enhance local democracy despite staff concerns over cost.
Shire of Murray CEO Dean Unsworth has been awarded the 2025 Local Government Leader of the Year title at the IPAA WA Achievement Awards. Discover his collaborative leadership and key achievements.
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.
A list of companies in the Greater Geelong council area that entered liquidation on December 8 has been published. Discover the affected businesses and the implications for the local economy.
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.
A Gold Coast councillor's $24,000 MG hatch win using a corporate credit card has ignited a debate on council expense policies. Discover the fallout and calls for 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.
The insurance cost for the Lake Macquarie City Council arson attack has surged to $41 million, with court revelations of a 'big developer' connection. Staff may not return until 2027.
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.
Fourteen businesses in Greater Geelong were placed into liquidation last month. Discover the full list and what it means for the local economy.
City of Cockburn Mayor Bruce Reynolds will support revoking his own motion for a workplace culture review to prevent internal conflict. Details on the political manoeuvre inside.
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.