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 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.
Parking fee revenue at Wollongong Hospital skyrocketed by 80% last financial year, reaching $3.48 million. Discover the reasons behind the surge and what it means for patients, visitors, and staff.
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.
West Australians are urged to search for their share of a $190 million pool of unclaimed cash held by the state government. Find out how to claim forgotten funds today.
Revenue NSW is holding nearly $300 million in unclaimed funds from old cheques, dividends, and overpayments. Find out if you're owed money with a simple online search.
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.
Hunter Valley residents could find a surprise cash boost, with over $14.2 million in unclaimed money held by Revenue NSW. Check now to see if you're owed funds.
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.
Western Australia's stamp duty revenue has surged to $1.2 billion, far exceeding forecasts. This windfall highlights the urgent need for broader state tax reform to create a fairer and more stable system. Read the full analysis.
The WA government is collecting a $1 billion stamp duty windfall as a housing mobility crisis locks people in place. Discover the impact on homeowners and the call for tax reform.
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.
Parking revenue at Hunter New England health facilities jumped to over $6 million last financial year. The NSW Opposition criticises the increase as a 'cash grab' on patients and staff.
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 year after Canberra's troubled switch to MyWay+, $8.9 million of passenger cash remains stranded in the old system. Discover the fallout from the 'significant failure' and what's being done.
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.
Cricket Australia faces a $3 million revenue loss after the Perth Ashes Test ended in two days. Record crowds and TV ratings couldn't offset the financial blow. Details inside.
Newcastle parking fine revenue hits $7.4 million despite state reforms slashing ticketless fines by 94%. Discover how council finances transformed.
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.
Maitland Council expresses disappointment as cruise ships cancel visits following Newcastle's approval of Rising Tide protest, costing local businesses millions.
Kiama's historic police residence faces severe deterioration with falling gutters and overgrown vegetation. Council unanimously backs motion seeking state government assistance for restoration.