A controversial state government proposal to grant Queensland mayors more authority, including hiring and firing CEOs, has sparked a fierce rift among local councils. Discover the details of the plan and the heated debate.
A Canberra Times analysis reveals no local agencies are on the federal government's high-value advertising panel, with millions flowing to Sydney and Melbourne firms. Discover the details and the government's response.
The federal government has approved a $52.2 million loan to Hallett Group to build a low-carbon cement plant in South Australia, aiming to slash emissions and boost local manufacturing. Read the full story.
WA's new Local Government Inspector Tony Brown has selected his first council for proactive monitoring following recent controversies. Discover the details and what it means for governance.
The number of GP clinics in the Illawarra offering bulk-billing has skyrocketed to 42, a dramatic increase following a federal government incentive expansion. Discover how this change is improving healthcare access.
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 ACT Government is pushing ahead with a new $150 million aquatic centre in Woden, despite facing criticism over costs and transparency. Discover the details and the political debate.
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.
WA's first Local Government Inspector, Tony Brown, now has full powers to oversee councils, issue fines up to $24,000, and recommend suspensions. The reforms aim to stamp out poor conduct.
Experts warn Australia's economy is now governed by subsidy, not reform, with $100bn in off-budget vehicles hiding the true cost. Discover the risks to taxpayers.
Analysis reveals Australia's freedom of information system has become more expensive and secretive, with costs doubling to $97.9 million while full releases halve. Read the full investigation.
Millions of Australians will save on prescription costs as PBS co-payments drop to $31.60 from New Year's Day. Find out how the federal government's policy affects you.
Amid growing public outcry, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces demands to establish a federal royal commission into the Bondi Beach massacre and the surge in anti-Semitism. Critics accuse the government of inaction.
WA's Labor government spent $46.4m on external consultants in just 10 months, with the opposition slamming the 'alarming' outsourcing rate. Read the full breakdown.
A 61-year-old Central Coast man has been sentenced to four years in prison for defrauding the Australian government through a scam involving visa applications and business grants. Read the full details of the case.
Shire of Murray CEO Dean Unsworth has been awarded the 2025 Local Government Leader of the Year title at the IPAA WA Achievement Awards. Discover his collaborative leadership and key achievements.
A Canberra resident criticises a UNSW report advocating 30km/h speed limits, demanding hard data on accident reduction. Plus, letters on gambling ads, defence procurement, and more.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ends 2025 on a high after a crushing election win and Coalition chaos. But political analyst Mark Kenny warns of looming dangers from hubris and secrecy that could undo Labor's success. Read the full analysis.
Paul Murray argues the WA and Federal Labor governments must curb spending to ease the cost of living crisis. Read his analysis on fiscal policy impacts.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
The ACT Greens propose a law to ban 'partisan' government advertising, targeting Chief Minister Andrew Barr's monthly column. The government defends its communications as factual.
Queensland's Premier and Resources Minister warn new federal environmental laws will sacrifice the state's crucial gas projects and cost thousands of jobs. Read the full story.
The Albanese government's controversial freedom of information reforms are headed for a Senate defeat after the Coalition and Greens joined forces to oppose the bill. Read why critics call it a 'secrecy bill'.
The Cook Government faces scrutiny after awarding a $5 million Motorplex contract to a company linked to bikie Benjamin David Ortin. Questions arise over due diligence.
Bruce Lehrmann's appeal against a civil rape finding has been dismissed. The Full Federal Court not only upheld the original verdict but strengthened it, finding he was aware Brittany Higgins did not consent. Read the full analysis.
Bruce Lehrmann has failed to overturn a civil finding he raped Brittany Higgins. The Full Federal Court dismissed his appeal, upholding the damning judgment. Read the full details.
A 24-year-old NSW woman faces charges after airport security x-rays uncovered $312,000 in cash in her hand luggage. AFP investigates the source of the funds.
Queensland farmers face uncertainty and fear massive costs as the new federal Environment Protection Australia law creates confusion over land clearing and development approvals. Read more.
A former top bureaucrat warns Australia needs a political 'fixer' to navigate looming economic and social challenges. Discover why and what it means for the nation's future.
Christopher Gerard Condon has federal weapons charges dropped in Townsville Magistrates Court. Read the full details of this surprising legal outcome.