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?
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.
An Australian inventor has created a world-first safety collar for cricket shirts, designed to protect players from catastrophic neck injuries following on-field tragedies. Discover the innovation set to change the game.
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.
Tired of travel chaos, Brisbane parents invented TernX, a carry-on suitcase that unfolds into a stroller. With 774% growth and TIME award, it's revolutionising family travel. Discover the game-changer.
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.
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.
Australian authorities have seized over 400kg of illegal drugs using a custom AI model. The 2025 State of the Service report highlights AI's role in boosting public service innovation and capability.
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.
Townsville's Smart Precinct NQ brings together innovators and entrepreneurs to celebrate regional success and foster a collaborative tech ecosystem. Discover the future of North Queensland.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
A Townsville scientist's persistence turned a rejected concept into a major global beauty industry partnership. Discover how local innovation is making a worldwide impact.
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.
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.
Australian businesses face greater danger chasing wrong trends than missing them by 2026. Expert Lanna Hill reveals how to identify genuine opportunities versus distractions.
Perth-based Singular Health Group submits 510(k) to US FDA for its cloud-based 3D medical imaging platform. Approval could transform global healthcare access and slash duplicate scan costs.
Australian researchers develop revolutionary wearable patch to track fetal movements at home. This breakthrough technology could transform prenatal care for expectant mothers.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Discover how single mother Bette Nesmith created Liquid Paper in her kitchen, turning a simple idea into a 25 million-bottle-per-year business that changed office work forever.
Larry Platt's career in science and engineering, ignited by a teenage explosion, spans almost 60 years. The Emergent Group founder shares his journey and views on the Hunter's future.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
Discover the winners of the 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards, celebrating record-breaking innovation and export success from regional NSW manufacturers. Learn how local companies are competing globally.
Australia's premier science agency CSIRO is cutting 350 research positions despite chronic underfunding. Learn how this threatens innovation and why experts warn it's becoming a 'glorified consultancy'.
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.
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks was caught unaware of the 'Journo Feed' proposal during a National Press Club address, as the broadcaster faces scrutiny over its digital strategy and the costly Bluey rights blunder.