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.
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.
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.
Exclusive: DPS Secretary Jaala Hinchcliffe commits to fixing the department's culture of secrecy and bullying after a series of controversies. Read her plan for transparency.
New government data shows specialist homelessness services in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie are supporting almost nine people daily. Advocates warn the system is at breaking point.
Cairns Regional Council has finalised a new 10-year, $90 million waste collection contract with Cleanaway. The deal promises improved services and new jobs for the region.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Northlake Electrical loses its City of Fremantle contract despite a lower price bid, as a new tender scores higher on experience. The owner demands a review.
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.
Illawarra's Serendipity Support Services marks International Day of People with Disability, offering participant-centred care, SIL homes, and community programs. Discover their family-run approach.
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.
Elderly Magnetic Island residents face crisis as essential care provider ends services. Community demands immediate government action to fill critical gap.
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.
WA government reveals design for $158 million high-security youth detention facility, but Unit 18 won't close until 2028. Get the latest on Perth's justice reforms.
Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud addresses concerns about proposed waste collection changes, confirming no immediate changes to bin services. Full community consultation planned.
Australia Post reinstates weekend delivery services across metro areas until Christmas to handle holiday parcel volumes. Get your gifts sent by key December dates.
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.
Former firefighter John Marsh's experience reveals the immense pressure facing firefighters. Discover why they deserve more than just gratitude and what real support looks like.
Western Australia expands virtual emergency service for children, giving parents more options to avoid busy EDs. Learn how this initiative is transforming pediatric care.
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.