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 State of Disaster has been declared for 18 Victorian municipalities, including Golden Plains Shire, as the Mount Mercer grassfire remains uncontrolled. Stay informed on the latest warnings and conditions.
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 Golden Plains community is remembering Wendy Hellebrand, a dedicated nurse and volunteer described as its Florence Nightingale. Read her inspiring 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.
The husband of Murray-Wellington Shire President Linda Balcombe faces court over alleged harassing phone calls to a fellow councillor. Read the latest on this political scandal.
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.
The revitalised Murray Library has reopened with a fresh new look, funded by a $200,000 Community Bank Pinjarra grant. Join the celebration this Saturday, January 10, 2026!
Will Sutherland smashed two final-over sixes to clinch a thrilling BBL win for the Renegades over the Stars in front of 68,124 fans at the MCG. Read the full match report.
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 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.
A terminally ill woman with a visible disability permit was shamed with a nasty note at a Sydney surf club. Her husband demands action as the club investigates the shocking incident.
A bushfire emergency warning is in place for parts of the Shire of Gingin, north of Perth, with residents told to leave immediately. The fire has burnt 150 hectares amid scorching 41.4C heat.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council issues a formal warning to residents living unlawfully in sheds, caravans, and other structures. Learn the rules and potential fines.
WA's planning body has greenlit a $25 million Woolworths development in Pinjarra, overriding the Shire of Murray's concerns about the location's impact on the historic town centre. Discover the details.
The Shire of Murray has finished installing its new licence plate recognition CCTV network, boosting community safety with real-time data for police. Read about the project and its funding.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Upper Hunter farmers celebrate as the critical Coulsons Creek Road reopens just before Christmas, ending a costly five-year detour. The $60 million project fixes a botched council upgrade.
Muswellbrook Shire Council is consulting on a Special Rate Variation for mining land to address a looming $5 million annual revenue shortfall. The move aims to protect community services and fund economic transition.
A 48-year-old man faces court after allegedly lighting fires in Sydney's Royal National Park during a high fire danger day. Police were alerted by public tip-offs.
Doug William Diver, former Shire of Ashburton deputy president, has been charged with multiple child sex offences. The 68-year-old will face court in Perth. Read the full details.
Shire of Murray CEO Dean Unsworth has been awarded the 2025 Local Government Leader of the Year title at the IPAA WA Achievement Awards. Discover his collaborative leadership and key achievements.
Surf Coast Shire Council urgently requests $3 million from the state government to repair a complex landslide on the Great Ocean Road. The damage threatens the iconic route's stability and safety.
Sydney's Sutherland Shire Mayor condemns 'reprehensible' online calls for violence, urging unity 20 years after the Cronulla riots. Police are monitoring closely.
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.
Catholic Care Victoria has submitted plans for a new 30-unit social housing development in Bannockburn. The project aims to address the critical shortage of affordable homes in the Golden Plains region.
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.
The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River has approved plans to demolish the heritage-listed Inne Town Backpackers and replace it with a larger facility for seasonal workers. Read the full story.