Government consultant spending jumps $135m despite pledge
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.
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.
Pauline Hanson's Senate burqa performance ignites fierce debate about racism, political theatrics and media coverage in Australian politics. Read the full analysis.
Townsville candidate slams LNP's controversial campaign ad comparing him to disgraced former mayor. Read about the political battle heating up Queensland elections.
Joondalup councillor steps down after strip club beer photo triggers investigation into his military service claims. Read the full story of the political fallout.
Brisbane Broncos' controversial rebrand faces fan backlash over removed 'Broncos' text from logo and navy away strip. Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers praises the changes. Read more.
South Africa's Test coach Shukri Conrad faces backlash after using racially charged term 'grovel' against India. Proteas dominate Day 4 in Guwahati. Read the full story.
Pauline Hanson's repeat of her 2017 burqa stunt in the Senate has led to suspension and widespread condemnation, revealing deeper issues in Australian politics. Read the full analysis.
Pauline Hanson faces bipartisan condemnation after controversial comments about the burqa during Senate debate. Political leaders unite in criticism of her remarks.
North Melbourne's Ash Riddell broke AFLW disposal record with 45 touches but received zero votes in shocking oversight. Room reaction spoke volumes about controversial umpiring decision.
Under-fire cricketer Usman Khawaja has stirred controversy by playing golf before the Perth Test, then mocking critics on social media after scoring just 2 runs. Will he be dropped for the second Test?
Pauline Hanson sparks outrage with repeated burqa stunt in Australian Senate. Political leaders condemn the controversial demonstration as racist and divisive.
Perth Wildcats coach John Rillie erupts over critical non-decision that cost his team late in nail-biting 85-83 loss to Melbourne United. Read the explosive details.
Controversial $50 million Strand apartment development in Townsville seeks approval to increase height to 10 storeys, facing community opposition over scale and character concerns.
Queensland LNP under fire for using taxpayer funds on Facebook ad defending man convicted of assaulting woman. Political controversy erupts over messaging priorities.
A Christmas promotion featuring live reindeer at Jesmond Central shopping centre has sparked animal cruelty allegations and community backlash, prompting the centre to cancel future appearances.
India's calculated gamble backfires spectacularly as South Africa claims stunning 30-run Test victory on controversial Eden Gardens pitch. Cricket world reacts to the batting collapse.
Controversial OnlyFans creator Bonnie Blue announces visa approval for Australian Schoolies events, sparking parental concerns about her plans with recent graduates.
A 19-year-old faces charges for gluing googly eyes on Mount Gambier's controversial $136,000 statue. She's now crowdfunding legal costs as community debate over the artwork continues.
Rio Tinto shelves controversial $4.5 billion Jadar lithium mine in Serbia following public protests and permitting delays. Read about the cost-cutting move.
Peppermint Grove Council schedules extraordinary election for vacant seat despite receiving zero nominations. The unusual situation raises questions about local government participation.
Federal government requires contractors to disclose AI use in public service work. New plan includes AI chatbot, training and accountability measures to harness technology safely.
Surf Coast councillor Kate Gazzard faces criticism after moving to Western Australia while representing Torquay ward. Locals question her ability to serve effectively from across the country.
The City of Canning council has achieved an equal gender balance, with Mayor Patrick Hall praising the 'young' and functional team as a role model for local government.
A Belmont residents' group accuses the City of Belmont of censorship after a question was edited out of a public council meeting recording and minutes. Discover the controversy.
Newcastle residents clash over e-bike safety and climate protests as letters reveal deep divisions on transport, housing and environmental policy in the Hunter region.
Western Australian councils confront a $3 billion asbestos removal bill. Alison Xamon argues ratepayers shouldn't foot this massive environmental cleanup cost.
The AFL's 2026 fixture grants Carlton prime slots for Opening and Gather Rounds, sparking debate on merit vs. popularity. Discover the full schedule and fan reactions.
Yass Valley residents face potential 40% rate increases as council warns of severe service cuts without additional revenue. Learn about the three proposed options.
Two senior BBC executives resign after editing a Trump speech, sparking debate about media integrity. What happens next to the broadcaster?
Queenscliff Council CEO Martin Gill will finish his role early following a decisive council vote. Discover what's next for the coastal community leadership.