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?
Yass Valley Council rejects moving the ACT border to keep lucrative Parkwood housing land, citing a 'substantial and growing revenue base' crucial for its financial future.
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.
As a severe heatwave looms, we revisit the Hunter's 1939 furnace that killed scores, halted work, and left a tragic mark on local records. Discover the history to understand the present.
A major fire at Singleton's Waste Management Facility continues to burn, forcing its closure. Council urges residents to never put batteries or gas bottles in kerbside bins. Read the latest updates.
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.
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.
A B-double truck carrying lithium-ion batteries caught fire on the Hume Highway near Yass, closing the road in both directions. Motorists face 90-minute delays. Stay informed and avoid the area.
A major truck fire has forced the closure of the Hume Highway in both directions near Yass. Motorists face significant delays with diversions via Yass Valley Way. Check live updates.
Two men face court after NSW police discover $1.5 million in cash concealed inside a lounge in a van during a routine stop on the Hume Highway. Read the full details.
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.
Experience over 4.5 million lights, new attractions, and festive fun at Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular from Nov 7, 2025 to Jan 26, 2026. Book tickets now!
A cheeky platypus interrupted a historical tour at Hamilton Hume's Cooma Cottage, sparking a conversation about Australia's iconic wildlife and the best places to spot echidnas in the ACT and NSW South Coast.
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.
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.
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.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
A $5 million federal initiative will transform Hunter's Mt Arthur and Macquarie Coal sites into sustainable assets, creating a national blueprint for economic resilience.
Joondalup residents face potential service cuts as the city council confronts a $20 million operational deficit. Learn how this budget crisis could impact your community.
As BHP's Mt Arthur coal mine prepares to close in 2030, Muswellbrook residents demand a lasting positive legacy. New research reveals community hopes for post-mining future.
A $24 million overtaking lane is planned for the Golden Highway west of Merriwa to improve safety and traffic flow. Have your say on the proposal until December 12.