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?
WA Police intensify Operation Moorhead, seizing illegal e-scooters and charging teenagers for reckless behaviour in Perth's northern suburbs. Read the latest.
Perth's northern suburbs get a major aquatic upgrade as the $13 million, competition-ready 50m pool at Arena Joondalup sets its public opening date for February 27, featuring AI safety tech and enhanced accessibility.
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.
Global pop star Addison Rae cooled off at Cottesloe Beach before her high-energy Wildlands Festival performance, telling the Perth crowd she 'wants to live here'. Read more.
TikTok star Addison Rae delivered a glittering, Britney-esque performance at Wildlands Perth, telling fans she loves the city and wants to move there. Read about the full festival highlights.
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 chemical spill has led to the evacuation of Craigie Leisure Centre in Perth's northern suburbs. Emergency services are on scene. Read the latest updates.
A teenage boy is in a stable condition at Joondalup Hospital after a suspected shark incident at Catalina Beach in Mindarie. Authorities are investigating.
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.
Adrian Beau Cardinal, a Perth massage therapist, faces court accused of indecent assault. The alleged incident occurred during a professional session in May 2023. Read the full details.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
The City of Wanneroo has abandoned its controversial $21.2 million Scenic Park sports hub proposal following strong community opposition. Read about the council's decision and future plans.
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.
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.
Western Australian golf courses have made a strong showing in Australia's top 100 public courses, with Joondalup Resort leading the charge. Discover which local tracks made the prestigious cut.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Joondalup councillor Nigel Jones resigns after attempting to expense beer from Crazy Horse Revue strip club during Adelaide conference. Exclusive interview before holiday departure.
Joondalup councillor steps down after strip club beer photo triggers investigation into his military service claims. Read the full story of the political fallout.
Joondalup councillor Nige Jones admits mistake after charging ratepayers for a drink at Adelaide strip club while facing new questions about embellished military service claims.
Two men threatened a taxi driver and stole his vehicle in Heathridge early Tuesday. The stolen taxi later crashed in North Beach. Police investigation ongoing.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
The City of Joondalup is conducting further remediation at Hillarys Dog Beach after tests detected 'very low levels' of asbestos. Public safety measures are in place.