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.
Nick Kyrgios responds to fitness criticism and calls for a 'Battle of the Sexes' rematch with Aryna Sabalenka as he makes his ATP return at the Brisbane International. Read more.
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.
Townsville businessman Troy Thompson has suffered another legal defeat in his long-running dispute with the Townsville City Council over a CBD property. Read the full details of the court's decision.
Nick Kyrgios defeated world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in a controversial 'Battle of the Sexes' exhibition in Dubai. We analyse the match's impact and the divided reaction.
Nick Kyrgios defeats women's world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in a unique Dubai exhibition. The match, featuring modified rules, sparked debate but showcased competitive tennis. Get 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 Illawarra Legal Centre celebrates four decades providing free legal advice and representation to those in need. Discover how volunteers and staff ensure access to justice.
Hollywood star George Clooney mourns the loss of his sister, Adelia 'Ada' Zeidler, who passed away at 65 after a courageous battle with cancer. Read the family's emotional tribute.
ACT Bar Council president Prue Bindon urges barristers to upskill on AI to prevent confidentiality breaches and 'hallucinated' fake legal cases. Exclusive training deal announced.
Geelong's Jasmyn Tate, 12, receives a prestigious award for her resilience through a lifelong health battle, including a rare condition and a heart transplant. Read her inspiring story.
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.
Dancer and Netflix reality star Criscilla Anderson has died at 45 after a seven-year battle with colon cancer. Read her heartbreaking final message to her family and fans.
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.
The multi-million dollar estate of Jeffrey Epstein survivor Virginia Giuffre faces legal challenges in WA Supreme Court. Her sons, ex-husband and brothers contest the inheritance.
City of Melville councillor Clive Ross fails to secure review of council payments for legal representation. Motion defeated 7-4 amid transparency concerns.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
A vital legal service for victim-survivors of sexual violence in the ACT has secured funding until 2028, addressing 'enormous and unmet' demand. Learn how this supports survivors.
A legal fight commences in the WA Supreme Court over Virginia Giuffre's multi-million dollar estate. Discover the key players and high-stakes claims involved.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
West Australian musician and educator Guy Ghouse AM has passed away at 56 after a two-year cancer battle. Remembered for his collaborations with Gina Williams.