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?
Discover how the 'buy nothing' challenge and circular economy are transforming Australian communities, reducing waste, and building neighbourhood connections. Join the movement.
The Singleton Waste Management Facility will reopen on Monday following a major tip face fire in late December. Council crews worked around the clock on remediation. Read the latest updates.
A full summary of Friday's proceedings at Cairns Magistrates Court, including charges for assault, drug possession, and traffic offences. Stay informed on local justice outcomes.
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.
A new report reveals manufacturers are failing to meet recycling targets, creating 1.2 million tonnes of packaging waste. Discover the culprits and the urgent call for reform.
A major fire at Singleton's Waste Management Facility continues to burn, forcing its closure. Council urges residents to never put batteries or gas bottles in kerbside bins. Read the latest updates.
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 massive illegal tyre dump discovered near Townsville is an environmental time bomb. A standoff over who pays the $100,000 clean-up bill leaves the hazard untouched. Full story.
Wollongong Art Gallery has closed an exhibition after artist Anthony Lister was charged with multiple offences, including alleged sexual assault. The council is monitoring the case.
A rubbish fire at the Singleton waste management facility blanketed parts of the Hunter region in smoke on December 31. Follow live updates and safety alerts.
A young woman faces serious charges after a brazen drive-by shooting in Sydney's west. More than 30 bullets were fired into a home with 11 people inside. Read the latest.
A detailed look at the cases heard at Geelong Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, December 31, including charges of assault, theft, and driving offences. Stay informed on local justice outcomes.
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.
A full list of individuals appearing at Geelong Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, December 30. Details on charges including assault, theft, and traffic offences. Follow for local legal news.
Lake Macquarie City Council awards Daracon Group the contract to expand the Awaba Waste Management Facility, adding over a decade of capacity for 220,000 residents. Construction starts 2026.
Canberra residents urged to recycle responsibly over the holidays. Learn what wrapping paper, cards & packaging can go in the yellow bin, plus Christmas collection changes.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
OzHarvest chef reveals 5 simple tips to reduce festive food waste, saving households money and keeping edible food out of landfill. Learn how to transform leftovers and use ingredients fully.
A push to conceal large skip bins from public view in the City of Canning has been rejected by council. The on-call service sees 1500 bins used monthly. Read the debate.
Wollongong City Council has finalised a new seven-year domestic waste management contract worth over $140 million with Remondis, starting July 2027. Read the details of the deal.
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 30-year-old Ingham man has faced court on multiple charges including possessing dangerous drugs and weapons after a police stop. Read the full details of the case.
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.
A major shift is underway as Australians abandon supermarkets for direct farm purchases. New data reveals a crisis of confidence in food origin, quality, and waste. Discover the sustainable alternatives.
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.