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?
Explore Brodie Castle in the Scottish Highlands, where a Mediterranean-style ceiling, East India Company treasures, and a world-famous daffodil collection await. Plan your visit today.
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.
The owners of Geelong's Market Square are locked in a Supreme Court fight over their mother's multimillion-dollar estate. Discover the family dispute details.
The North Queensland Wildlife Trust has donated $64,800 to fund critical conservation projects, aiming to protect vulnerable native species from extinction. Learn how this funding will make a difference.
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.
Australia's 2025 Corporate Reputation Index reveals stunning falls for major companies. Discover which brands lost trust and the costly reasons why. Read the full analysis.
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.
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.
Readers praise Canberra's National Arboretum while Senate estimates scrutinise the War Memorial's Carlyon Prize 'debacle'. Letters also tackle climate policy, trust in government, and Ukraine funding.
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.
Assistant Minister Andrew Leigh leads a national crackdown on unfair corporate practices, as new research reveals Australian trust in big business is at its lowest ever. Discover the new laws and the sinister shift away from 'the customer is always right'
Discover how embedding genuine diversity and inclusion into brand DNA, not just campaigns, builds consumer trust in multicultural Australia. Learn from industry leaders.
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.
Troy Dametto takes office as Townsville's new mayor, pledging transparency, trust and fiscal responsibility. Learn about his vision for the city's future.
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.
Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud warns next year's budget will be the 'hardest ever' as council works to meet state government requirements for financial recovery.
Wollongong Council has approved halving developer contributions for new hotels to 1%, sparking debate over lost revenue versus tourism incentives. Read the full story.
Hundreds of jobs secured as The Disability Trust is named preferred buyer for Bedford, South Australia's second-largest disability employer. No job losses expected.