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?
The ACT Government is pushing ahead with a new $150 million aquatic centre in Woden, despite facing criticism over costs and transparency. Discover the details and the political debate.
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.
Analysis reveals Australia's freedom of information system has become more expensive and secretive, with costs doubling to $97.9 million while full releases halve. Read the full investigation.
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.
Cairns Mayor Terry James has publicly rejected a parliamentary submission by the Crime and Corruption Commission, claiming it misrepresents corruption risks in local government. Read the full story.
Muswellbrook Shire Council is consulting on a Special Rate Variation for mining land to address a looming $5 million annual revenue shortfall. The move aims to protect community services and fund economic transition.
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.
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.
Former Town of Cambridge mayor Keri Shannon has been ordered to issue a public apology and pay costs but avoids formal censure by the State Administrative Tribunal. Get the full details.
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.
The Town of East Fremantle faces a doubling of audit fees and a missed deadline for its annual report, linked to the East Fremantle Community Park finances. Read the latest local government update.
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.
Canning Council votes 7-2 to fund Mayor Patrick Hall's trip to the 2025 World Cities Summit in Singapore, sparking debate over the city's global role and foreign-funded travel.
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.
Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds is under fire for controversial remarks about workplace culture. Can he recover from this messaging misstep? Read the full analysis.
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.
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 Albanese government's controversial freedom of information reforms are headed for a Senate defeat after the Coalition and Greens joined forces to oppose the bill. Read why critics call it a 'secrecy bill'.
Surf Coast Shire Councillor Paul Barker takes legal action against his suspension, alleging a denial of natural justice. The case could set a precedent for local government disputes.
The Cook Government faces scrutiny after awarding a $5 million Motorplex contract to a company linked to bikie Benjamin David Ortin. Questions arise over due diligence.
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.
Federal government spending on external consultants surged to $756 million last year, contradicting Labor's promise to build public service capability. Analysis reveals $135m increase.
Shocking audio reveals Troy Thompson's campaign team plotting aggressive tactics against political rivals. Exclusive details from the leaked recordings that rocked Townsville politics.
Cairns councillors demand transparency as Mayor Terry James makes multiple trips to Canberra costing ratepayers over $40,000. Questions arise about value for money.
The City of Vincent urges State and Federal support for the national asbestos strategy, warning it places a 'huge burden' on local councils without proper resources and funding.