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?
Discover Newcastle and Lake Macquarie's jam-packed school holiday program. From Dungeons & Dragons campaigns to the Model Newcastle Regatta, find fun for all ages. Plan your family adventure now!
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.
An Australian inventor has created a world-first safety collar for cricket shirts, designed to protect players from catastrophic neck injuries following on-field tragedies. Discover the innovation set to change the game.
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.
Tired of travel chaos, Brisbane parents invented TernX, a carry-on suitcase that unfolds into a stroller. With 774% growth and TIME award, it's revolutionising family travel. Discover the game-changer.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
Newcastle locals outline key resolutions for City of Newcastle in 2026, including restoring Campbell Park access, returning the Maritime Museum, and finding a suitable basketball stadium site. Read the community's priorities.
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 Council's redevelopment plans for the iconic Ocean Baths focus on a cafe/restaurant, but locals argue swimming facilities and change rooms are being overlooked. Read the community's concerns.
Plans for the Newcastle Ocean Baths cafe reveal potential alcohol sales and a rooftop terrace. The council's management plan outlines hours and capacity as community debate continues.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Newcastle councillors demand the return of a state fund to offset unpredictable mine subsidence costs, arguing its 2023 scrapping has stalled housing projects and $3B in investment.
Local favourites Thomas and Nova Carias-Cox will open Sunnyboy Park at Foreshore Park in January, offering family-friendly food and coffee. The new kiosk and accessible amenities mark a key milestone in the park's revitalisation.
Newcastle's nationally significant maritime heritage collection is homeless as its lease expires in March 2026. Councillors clash over accountability and solutions for the 8,500-item cache.
Local operators Thomas and Nova Carias-Cox will launch Sunnyboys Park at Newcastle's Foreshore Park in late January, offering family-friendly fare. The opening marks a key milestone in the park's revitalisation.
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's 8500-item maritime heritage collection is at risk with no storage solution secured just months before its council-funded lease expires in March 2026. Read the latest.
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.
Australian authorities have seized over 400kg of illegal drugs using a custom AI model. The 2025 State of the Service report highlights AI's role in boosting public service innovation and capability.
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.
Townsville's Smart Precinct NQ brings together innovators and entrepreneurs to celebrate regional success and foster a collaborative tech ecosystem. Discover the future of North Queensland.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
A Townsville scientist's persistence turned a rejected concept into a major global beauty industry partnership. Discover how local innovation is making a worldwide impact.
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.
Newcastle Council approves changes to an eight-storey Hall Street development, swapping one-bedroom units for three-bedroom apartments in response to market demand. Read the full details.
Liberal councillors call for a ban on Rising Tide using public land after a weekend of protests in Newcastle Harbour led to over 140 arrests and significant economic disruption. 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.