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?
John Michael Kaleel, 69, has been extradited from Australia to Los Angeles to be sentenced for child sexual abuse. He fled after his conviction. Read the full story.
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.
South Australian junior Wil Holmes clinched the under-23 men's time trial title at the Australian Road Cycling Championships in Ballarat. Get the full race results and reaction.
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.
Australian cycling star Luke Plapp defends his national time trial title in Perth, with Jay Vine tipped as the main challenger. Get the full preview and schedule.
Western Power begins a major trial of insulated high-voltage conductors in Perth's hills, aiming to slash bushfire risks and improve network reliability. Learn how this innovation could protect communities.
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.
An Illawarra man will face a District Court trial accused of grievous bodily harm after his newborn son suffered multiple fractures. The father has pleaded not guilty.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
From a shocking murder in a quiet street to a high-profile AFL star's downfall, revisit the Geelong court cases that dominated headlines in 2025. Discover the stories behind the verdicts.
A Townsville father with terminal cancer vows to fight on after a promising clinical trial fails to deliver a cure. His story highlights the urgent need for new treatment options.
Waverley Council's controversial terms for Bondi Beach have ignited public backlash. A formal review is now underway. Discover the details and have your say.
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.
From political upheaval with Donald Trump's Senate trial to a record-breaking Telethon, 2025 was a year of major events. Explore the key moments that shaped the world.
Thousands of backpackers celebrated Christmas at Sydney's Coogee Beach after heeding warnings to avoid Bronte following the Bondi attack. The move averted a repeat of last year's chaos.
Suzanne Lupica, charged with murdering a Port Kennedy aged care resident, has been found mentally unfit to stand trial. The WA Supreme Court heard chilling details of the alleged attack. Read the full story.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
A 17-year-old Cairns youth has been committed to stand trial in the District Court over an alleged violent home invasion and sexual assault in Manunda. Get the latest court details.
A Queensland mother will stand trial accused of staging her four-year-old son's drowning death in a backyard pool. Meanwhile, Bondi mourners held a paddle-out tribute for massacre victims.
A unique clinic in Newcastle is pioneering a world-first trial using low-dose radiation to treat Dupuytren's disease, offering new hope for patients with the hereditary condition.
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.
Police have increased the reward to $500,000 for information on the 2005 death of 21-month-old Jordan Thompson in Singleton. Detectives believe people in the Hunter community hold vital clues.
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.
Darcy Jenson, on trial for allegedly orchestrating a deadly Bali shooting, apologised to the victim's widow in court. The Sydney man faces the death penalty if found guilty.