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 rock fisherman's life jacket kept him afloat in heavy seas off Kiama, highlighting its critical importance. Surf lifesavers also responded to multiple after-hours rescues on Illawarra beaches over a scorching weekend.
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.
A young woman is being treated for a suspected broken leg after a leap at The Farm, Killalea, prompted a major emergency response involving police, SES, and a rescue helicopter.
A man fights for life after a Kiama beach rescue as NSW Surf Life Saving reveals seven drownings since New Year's Day. Authorities plead for water safety and self-responsibility.
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 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.
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.
Kiama Council greenlights 23 new rooms for Mercure Gerringong, tackling the Illawarra's critical tourist accommodation shortage. Plans include a rebrand and new facilities.
Relive the year's most thrilling Illawarra sports stories. From the Hawks' NBL championship to local clubs ending decades-long droughts, discover the moments that defined 2025. Read the full countdown now.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
A 50-year-old woman has been charged with mid-range drink driving after allegedly crashing her Toyota LandCruiser into a Gerringong martial arts studio. No one was injured in the incident.
Surf lifesavers from Austinmer to Kiama stood in silent reflection on Illawarra beaches to honour those killed in the Bondi Beach terror attack. The community joined for a National Day of Reflection.
Kiama Council has formally opposed a state push for a 14-storey tower in Akuna Street, urging the Planning Minister to refuse the plan. Read the latest on this major development clash.
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.
Discover how Becky Morgan and Robert Blackburn's sandwich shop Lane on Collins became a Kiama sensation, with their chicken katsu sandwich winning community hearts. Explore their journey from private dining to local favourite.
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.
Artificial intelligence cameras now monitor Kiama's dangerous rock platforms after 11 fishing deaths in 15 years. The technology alerts emergency services when someone is swept into the water.
Major planning changes are set to transform the Illawarra region with 11,000 new homes and taller buildings proposed across Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. Discover how these developments will reshape our communities.
Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud addresses concerns about proposed waste collection changes, confirming no immediate changes to bin services. Full community consultation planned.
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.