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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
A NSW Supreme Court judge has ruled claims by former Cessnock councillors over the Liberal Party's candidate nomination failure are 'reasonably arguable'. The case will proceed, seeking accountability.
A 23-year-old man is assisting police after a dramatic pursuit through Cessnock's wine country, involving road spikes and a police dog squad. Read the full details of the incident.
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.
New data shows Harper and Isla are among the most popular baby names in the Hunter region. Discover the top picks for boys and girls in your local government area.
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.
Six inmates linked to the Nomads OMCG have pleaded guilty to a violent internal gang bashing at Cessnock's Shortland Correctional Centre. Read the full details of the jailhouse attack.
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 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.
Ten Hunter Valley schools get upgraded bus services after years of complaints. Better timing, coverage and safety for students in growing areas like Huntlee and Branxton.
An inmate who launched a violent attack on four prison guards in Cessnock has had his community sentence overturned and will now serve time in prison. Read the full story.
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.
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.