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.
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.
Public health expert Jessica Page slams the government's lag in implementing vape laws, calling it a failure that puts young Australians at risk. Urgent action is needed now.
Newcastle locals voice concerns over pedestrian safety on shared pathways with e-bikes and scooters. Letters also tackle political blame over Bondi and housing policy. Read the community's call to action.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
Despite a looming deadline, one-third of Perth's metropolitan councils have failed to adopt the state's short-term rental planning scheme, raising concerns over enforcement and housing supply. Read more.
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.
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.
A new study reveals 20% of alcohol products in Australia lack mandatory pregnancy warnings, four years after regulations took effect. Experts call for urgent enforcement.
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.
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.
A proposed 94-place childcare centre in Fairy Meadow requires a rule variation as it's within 500m of three service stations. The DA outlines plans for two-storey use and traffic management. Read the full details.
Federal government accelerates controversial land clearing regulations amid concerns farmers would clear vegetation before new laws take effect. No transition period provided.
A Corrimal woman developed nerve damage after her GP told her to 'chill out and take a multivitamin' for what turned out to be vitamin B6 poisoning. Learn about new TGA regulations.
Three American bulldogs granted permission to remain at Cockburn property after council appeal. Owners faced objections over irresponsible behavior including throwing poo bags.
Recent council decisions show common sense in short supply as official petitions get sidelined. Discover how local governance is being undermined across Australia.
Three Townsville tobacconists face 90-day closures under Queensland's tough new tobacco laws. Learn how these regulations are combating illegal sales.
Audit reveals Douglas Shire Council paid former employee triple their wage as contractor. Investigation uncovers serious procurement breaches and governance failures.
McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could be disqualified from the Las Vegas GP due to excessive skid block wear, potentially reshaping the F1 championship battle.
Townsville's most productive barramundi fishing spots face closure under council's new weir restrictions, sparking outrage among local anglers and tourism operators.
Byron Shire Council proposes tough new parking restrictions targeting boats, caravans and trailers clogging residential streets. Find out how this affects residents.
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.