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?
A stalled land deal between James Cook University and the Queensland government has left hundreds of planned homes in limbo, impacting Townsville's housing supply. Read more.
Escape to Hylander, a self-sufficient log cabin on 16 hectares of private rainforest near Jamberoo with coastal views. This one-bedroom property offers total seclusion just minutes from Kiama beaches.
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.
The Focus: First Nation Films festival is back at Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre on Jan 24-25. Featuring documentaries, music, and speakers like Thomas Mayo, it's a key part of Fremantle's Truth Telling program. Free entry.
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.
Discover how Graham Brown turned a passion into a profession, capturing iconic Illawarra sporting moments and earning global recognition. His story is one of timing, persistence, and pure love for the game.
The Australian Government has purchased a remote, swampy island for $7 million, citing strategic and environmental reasons. Critics question the value of the investment.
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.
Explore a fascinating year from the Illawarra Mercury's history column, featuring tales of drunken tree-chopping, fiery ships, political threats, and vintage crime. Dive into 170 years of local stories.
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region's 2025 progress, led by Port Kembla's major rezoning, unlocks thousands of jobs in clean energy and manufacturing. Industry leaders warn the region must act now or risk losing its strongest position in a generation.
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 Mount Gambier man is in hospital with serious injuries after allegedly crashing a stolen Toyota Land Cruiser near Truro. Police tracked the vehicle after a tip-off from the public. Read the latest details.
From the Hawks' championship glory to community triumphs and wild weather, Illawarra Mercury photographers Adam McLean, Anna Warr, and Robert Peet share their standout images and stories from a remarkable year.
A Kiama developer has successfully added a fifth level to a Surf Beach apartment complex via the Land and Environment Court, securing approval for five extra units. Read the full details and conditions.
Ring in 2026 across the Illawarra! Our complete guide covers Wollongong Harbour fireworks, the Summer Carnival, and live music from Royale With Cheese to Touch Sensitive. Find your perfect party.
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.
Steel giant BlueScope will earn millions from the sale of 33 hectares in West Dapto, with future profits expected from supplying building materials for over 350 new homes. Read the full details.
An Edith Cowan University professor called out 'horrendous' racist comments overheard at a Perth barber. His viral TikTok has sparked a conversation on casual racism in Australia.
More than 1300 new housing lots in Western Australia remain undeveloped, over a decade after the state government first announced the plans. Discover the delays and political fallout.
Discover the best Illawarra pubs and breweries where you can bring your dog this summer. From ocean views to craft beer, find your perfect spot.
The Shooting Stars program celebrated a decade of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls at a glamorous gala at The Ritz-Carlton, Perth. See highlights from the night.
The Illawarra Mercury unveils its exclusive list of 56 standout young athletes set to dominate courts, fields, pools, and slopes in 2025. Discover the region's future champions.
Western Australia's housing supply crisis intensified in 2025, with Perth's median home price hitting $830,000. UDIA WA's Grant Shepherd reflects on a tough year and new government initiatives aiming to boost supply and affordability for 2026.
A parliamentary inquiry has recommended the ACT government halt Woolworths' proposed land purchase at Hawker Village until extensive community consultation is completed. Read the 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.
SA Police Commissioner apologises to the family of Bonita Herewane for failures in the 2009 death investigation. Read the full statement and the family's response.
A deadly canine parvovirus outbreak is spreading across the Illawarra, claiming one puppy's life. Vets warn the soil-borne virus can linger for years. Protect your pet now.
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.