Cessnock Council votes for 40% rates rise proposal
Cessnock City Council will apply for a near 40% rate increase. If approved, residents could pay almost $600 more from 2027. Read the full debate and councillor reactions.
Cessnock City Council will apply for a near 40% rate increase. If approved, residents could pay almost $600 more from 2027. Read the full debate and councillor reactions.
WA's new Local Government Inspector Tony Brown has selected his first council for proactive monitoring following recent controversies. Discover the details and what it means for governance.
A 47-year-old motorcycle rider is fighting for life after a serious crash with a Hyundai Kona on Cessnock Road at Weston. Police are investigating and urge witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers.
A motorcycle rider is fighting for life after a collision with a car near Kurri Kurri. Emergency services, including a specialist air ambulance, rushed to the scene on Tuesday evening.
Three men face multiple charges following an alleged violent brawl at a Hunter Valley venue, where a knife was reportedly involved. Four others were taken to hospital. Read the latest details.
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.
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.
The Hunter Region endured a year of climatic extremes in 2025, with historic heat and unprecedented rainfall setting new benchmarks. Discover which records tumbled and what the forecast holds.
An antisocial trend of using cling wrap to reserve public spaces has returned to Wollongong's Stuart Park for New Year's celebrations, sparking local outrage and calls for better enforcement.
Newcastle locals outline key resolutions for City of Newcastle in 2026, including restoring Campbell Park access, returning the Maritime Museum, and finding a suitable basketball stadium site. Read the community's priorities.
Wollongong Art Gallery has closed an exhibition after artist Anthony Lister was charged with multiple offences, including alleged sexual assault. The council is monitoring the case.
A 32-year-old man faces multiple charges after police seized $20,000 cash, methylamphetamine, heroin, GHB and stun guns during a firearms prohibition search in Cessnock. Read the full details.
Lake Macquarie City Council navigated a pivotal 2025, marked by a CEO departure, a united front on housing, and emerging political shifts. Read our full review of the year's key events.
As Newcastle reviews its public toilets, locals highlight the lack of soap and inadequate facilities for the ageing and disabled. Read why these basic amenities are a public health necessity.
Wollongong residents have shared ambitious ideas, including a tunnel and a Las Vegas-style sign, for the Flinders St 'arrival boulevard' revamp. What do you think should happen?
Plans for the old Bulli Hospital site redevelopment have been revised, with Landcom proposing a two-stage subdivision due to complexities along the southern boundary. Read the latest.
Townsville City Council cancels official New Year's Eve events at Strand Park, citing cost and logistics. However, the traditional fireworks display will proceed as planned. Find out the details.
Plans lodged to replace the 50-year-old Boat Harbour Motel in Wollongong with a dual-tower apartment complex featuring affordable housing. Public exhibition open until February 9.
Townsville City Council launches free shuttle buses for Sound on the Strand festivalgoers to tackle the notorious parking nightmare. Plan your trip now!
Townsville businessman Troy Thompson has suffered another legal defeat in his long-running dispute with the Townsville City Council over a CBD property. Read the full details of the court's decision.
Newcastle Herald readers demand leadership on a maritime museum, protest a 40% rate hike in Cessnock, and debate the city's light rail performance. Read the full community debate.
Lake Macquarie City Council awards Daracon Group the contract to expand the Awaba Waste Management Facility, adding over a decade of capacity for 220,000 residents. Construction starts 2026.
A series of contentious planning decisions by the City of Greater Geelong council has left the local development community sharply divided, with some projects approved and others rejected.
Fogarty Park in Cairns CBD has reopened after a major $4.5 million revitalisation, restoring the beloved waterfront space for community events and daily enjoyment.
Two 15-year-old girls arrested over an alleged assault on a 13-year-old at Mordialloc Pier have been released without charge. Police continue to investigate and seek witnesses.
Townsville City Council accelerates construction of new public toilets at Pallarenda and Rowes Bay parks after securing additional funding. Read about the local upgrade.
The long-derelict Dimmeys Arcade in Townsville's CBD has been shrouded in scaffolding and mesh after council action over serious safety concerns. Read the full story.
A $1.2 million footpath upgrade is transforming access to The Willows Shopping Centre in Townsville, improving safety and connectivity for thousands of shoppers. Discover the details of this council-led project.
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.