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.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
From housing and tourism to infrastructure and youth, discover the 2026 goals of Cairns and Far North Queensland's key leaders. What's their vision for the region?
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.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
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.
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.
Centacare FNQ launches a permanent School Savvy Hub in Cairns, offering free uniforms, supplies, and support to ease the financial burden on families. Learn how this initiative helps the community.
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.
A new $176 million tourism hub is set to transform Cairns, boosting the Far North's $3.2 billion visitor economy and creating hundreds of local jobs. Discover the plan.
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.
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.
Discover the elite rugby league stars who dominated Far North Queensland over 25 years. Relive the glory days of local legends who shaped the game.
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.
Far North Queensland Dance Academy celebrates eight remarkable graduates who've progressed from childhood classes to professional careers. Discover their inspiring journeys.
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.
Wollongong Council has approved halving developer contributions for new hotels to 1%, sparking debate over lost revenue versus tourism incentives. Read the full story.
Four Albion Park residents petition Shellharbour Council for an acoustic barrier and double glazing to combat 'unhealthy' traffic noise and pollution from Ashburton Drive.
A 25-year-old woman suffered serious head injuries after being struck by a Lime e-bike in Bondi. The rider was arrested for suspected intoxication. Read more about e-bike safety concerns.
Far North Queensland businesses claimed major victories at the Queensland Tourism Awards, with Cairns operators winning gold across multiple categories. Discover the local champions driving tourism excellence.
A Brighton father spends $100k on home security after brazen theft, but council targets his cameras. Police use his tech to catch teen criminals. Read the full story.