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?
The ACT Government is pushing ahead with a new $150 million aquatic centre in Woden, despite facing criticism over costs and transparency. Discover the details and the political debate.
The Albanese government faces criticism over claims its tobacco tax will fund health measures. Experts call it a misleading 'puff piece' that ignores the true cost of smoking. Read the full analysis.
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.
A leading analyst argues US military power is constrained by financial reality, not just political will. Discover how money shapes global strategy. Read the full insight.
Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti outlines the WA Government's ongoing commitment to health, housing, and economic stability as core priorities for 2026. Read the full plan.
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 the cost of living crisis deepens, West Australians like Alana Rose are adopting savvy shopping strategies to cope. Discover how families are adapting their grocery habits.
New data reveals WA's cost of living crisis is forcing families to choose between food and bills, with smoking rates also rising. Doctors are sounding the alarm. Read the full report.
Discover Western Australia's best-kept secret: stunning beachside homes still available for under $500,000. Expert reveals where to find them from Scarborough to Walpole.
Experts warn Australia's economy is now governed by subsidy, not reform, with $100bn in off-budget vehicles hiding the true cost. Discover the risks to taxpayers.
After a year outside cabinet, the ACT Greens under Shane Rattenbury aim to prove their creative policy credentials. Can they convince Canberra voters they are serious economic managers?
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury urges creative spending reforms to tackle Canberra's budget crisis, criticising Labor's 'business-as-usual' approach. Read the full analysis.
Townsville's ECUTZ barber chain is rapidly expanding, launching two new salons as cost-of-living pressures fuel huge demand for affordable haircuts. See how they're keeping prices low.
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.
Canberra Times readers debate Trump's Greenland envoy, ACT pool closures, budget debt, and flag displays in a lively letters section. Read the full community discussion.
Australian governments are squandering a perfect opportunity for budget repair, risking higher interest rates and a weaker economy. Find out why political inaction will hit your wallet.
Jessica Page accuses Rita Saffioti of hypocrisy over a pre-Christmas budget wishlist. The Opposition slams the government's spending priorities ahead of the 2025 state election.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
Perth chef Sean Cridland shares a budget-friendly three-course Christmas menu for eight, costing under $16 per person. Get his recipes for a festive roast turkey, melon wreath, and Oreo truffles.
The federal government commits $225 million over four years to boost its internal AI, GovAI, and launch a secure AI assistant. Experts welcome the move but caution on measuring real impact.
The ACT's Auditor-General warns urgent action is needed to fix the territory's budget, with annual interest payments set to hit $1 billion. Read the full report on the fiscal crisis.
South Australia's Liberal opposition has scrapped its deadline to abolish stamp duty, creating uncertainty for homebuyers. Discover the political fallout and what it means for property affordability.
The WA government confirms an extra $1.9 billion in health funding, including $7.6m to fix ageing cardiac labs at Fiona Stanley Hospital. Read the full budget update.
WA's mid-year review reveals a $7.5bn revenue windfall from iron ore and gold, delivering an eighth straight surplus. Treasurer Rita Saffioti defends no new cost-of-living measures. Read the full analysis.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers' Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook forecasts deficits for a decade, with today's primary school children set to pay off a national debt nearing $1 trillion. Read the analysis.
The WA government unveils a budget plan offering $10,000 cash to attract 1000 skilled tradies to Perth, aiming to tackle the housing crisis and build more homes. Read the full strategy.
The Albanese government is investigating a surge in psychological injury claims among public servants, driving a workers' compensation bill to $7.9bn this year. Read the full analysis.