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.
New ABS data shows core inflation eased to 3.2% in the year to November, slightly below forecasts. The result may reduce immediate pressure for a February RBA rate hike. Read the full analysis.
As the RBA eyes a February rate hike, a classic 90s rap lyric sums up Australia's inflation dilemma. We break down the economic pain, the silver linings, and why Michele Bullock is talking tough. Read more.
New data reveals a stark trend in the Hunter: dog registrations are exploding while birth rates fall. Meet locals choosing 'fur babies' and explore the numbers behind this societal shift.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate at 4.35% and signalled a prolonged pause, with no hikes expected before 2026. Discover what this means for mortgages and the economy.
Newcastle Herald readers demand leadership on a maritime museum, protest a 40% rate hike in Cessnock, and debate the city's light rail performance. Read the full community debate.
Geelong's property market finished 2024 strongly with solid auction clearance rates and notable sales in the final week. Discover which suburbs performed best and what it means for local real estate.
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.
New crime data exposes Geelong's most dangerous suburbs. See the shocking figures for Corio, Norlane, and more. Find out what's being done to tackle crime in your area.
Anglicare Australia's 2025 Jobs Snapshot reveals a dire shortage of entry-level jobs, with 25 long-term unemployed for every vacancy. The report condemns a privatised system that profits from poverty.
Australia faces a heavy penalty after bowling just 74 overs on Day 1 of the Gabba Test. Critics blast the 'unacceptable' slow play, suggesting deliberate tactics. Download the 7NEWS app for more.
A Canberra property journalist with eight years of perfect rental history reveals why she still needs her parents as guarantors, exposing the harsh realities of Australia's rental crisis. Read her story.
Skydive Australia instructors in Wollongong have walked off the job over a bitter pay dispute, grounding holiday plans. The union warns of massive pay cuts under a new 'piece rate' deal.
Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock appears before Senate estimates one week before the final cash rate decision. Defence, Veterans' Affairs, and Health officials also face questioning. Follow the key developments.
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.
A new report reveals Townsville's rental vacancy rate has crashed to 0.7%, sparking fears for the city's future. Experts warn of severe social and economic consequences if action isn't taken. Read the full analysis.
The Hunter region faces a critical jobs shortage despite low unemployment. Professor Phillip O'Neill reveals why generating 37,000 new positions is essential to avoid becoming another 'place left behind'.
RBA November minutes reveal Michele Bullock's board is prepared to keep interest rates on hold for months to combat persistent inflation. Get the latest economic update.
Australia's unemployment rate drops to 4.0% as economy adds 60,600 jobs in October, reducing chances of imminent RBA rate cuts. Full analysis inside.
Western Australia's unemployment rate fell to 3.6% in May 2024, defying national trends with strong jobs growth. Discover how WA's economy continues to outperform.
Actor Timothée Chalamet faces backlash after calling a woman's child-free life 'bleak'. Fans react as Australia's fertility rate hits a new low. Read the full story.
Yass Valley residents face potential 40% rate increases as council warns of severe service cuts without additional revenue. Learn about the three proposed options.
Townsville mayoral candidate David Kippin labels rival Nick Dametto's $800m election promises as 'fantasy' that could force rate hikes. Read the explosive debate.
The Reserve Bank shocks economists with a Cup Day interest rate cut, providing immediate relief for Australian homeowners ahead of the holiday season.
The Reserve Bank of Australia keeps cash rate at 4.35% for eighth consecutive meeting, with economists predicting no cuts until next year amid persistent inflation pressures.
The Reserve Bank of Australia maintains its cash rate at 4.35% for the fifth consecutive meeting, balancing stubborn inflation against economic growth concerns. Find out what this means for your wallet and the economy.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has kept interest rates on hold at 4.35% in its Melbourne Cup Day meeting, extending financial pain for homeowners while offering cautious optimism about inflation.
Cessnock residents face financial strain as council proposes massive 40% rate increase over three years, citing infrastructure costs and financial pressures.