Grandparents contribute $63bn annually to Australian economy
Australian grandparents provide over $63 billion in unpaid childcare annually, a vital economic contribution that remains unrecognised. Discover why experts call for formal recognition.
Category : Search result: infrastructure costs
WA Bulk Billing Rates Lag Behind Rest of Australia
Western Australia faces a bulk billing crisis with the lowest rates nationally. Discover why out-of-pocket GP costs are rising and what it means for patients.
Canberra's back-to-school costs strain families, digital access key
As the 2026 school year begins, Canberra parents face rising costs. The Smith Family charity highlights digital access as crucial for student participation, with many struggling to afford devices and internet.
Hunter's Muswellbrook ranked 5th cheapest for petrol in NSW
New NRMA data reveals the Hunter's most affordable fuel locations for 2025. Muswellbrook leads the region, ranking 5th in NSW for unleaded petrol prices. Discover where to save.
Crocodile Skin Prices Set for 30% Jump by 2026
A new report forecasts a 30% price surge for crocodile skins by 2026, driven by high demand and production costs. Learn what this means for the luxury goods market.
Australian man killed, partner injured in Bali scooter crash
A Central Coast father has died and his partner is fighting for life after a scooter crash in Bali. The community rallies with a GoFundMe for the injured mother-of-two. Read the full story.
Revealed: The high cost of Geelong councils' VCAT battles
Geelong region councils have spent over $1.3 million fighting cases at VCAT in recent years. Discover which councils are spending the most and what it means for ratepayers.
Geelong Fuel Prices Hold Firm Over Christmas
Geelong drivers receive a festive reprieve as fuel prices remain stable. Discover the latest figures, expert analysis, and tips for finding the best deals in the region.
Canberra's 'Premium' Pushes Family Bus Depot to Brink
A third-generation Canberra transport operator was days from shutting its Fyshwick depot, citing a 'toxic' mix of high costs and red tape. Discover how a FlixBus deal saved it and the wider pressures on ACT businesses.
Perth home buyers paying twice the purchase price
New research reveals the true cost of a Perth home over 25 years can double the price tag. Expert warns against overpaying in competitive market. Learn the full financial commitment.
Canberra flower planter maintenance cost jumps $100k
The annual cost for Canberra's Civic and Braddon flower boxes has surged by more than $100,000. Discover the details of the new contract and who foots the bill.
Myki Fare Hikes to Cost Commuters Extra $104 a Year
Victorian public transport fares will increase from 2026, with regular commuters facing up to $104 in extra annual costs. Learn the new Myki prices and the government's weekend travel relief.
How to maximise your rebate for glasses and contacts
Learn how to strategically combine Medicare and private health insurance to reduce your out-of-pocket costs for glasses, contact lenses, and eye care in Australia.
Warning Signs It's Time to Find a New Mechanic
Is your mechanic letting you down? Learn the critical red flags in technical work, costs, and communication that signal it's time to switch for your safety and wallet.
Townsville CBD renewal threatened by surging building costs
Townsville's CBD revitalisation faces major delays as construction costs skyrocket. Experts warn projects are becoming unviable, threatening the city's economic future. Read the full analysis.
Radford College extends withdrawal deadline amid fee hike fury
Radford College extends withdrawal deadline to December 16 as parents revolt over 23% fee increases and financial mismanagement. Read the latest on the crisis.
Newcastle conduct complaints double, costs up $56k
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.
New Rules Close UK State Pension Loophole for Aussies
Australians receiving a UK state pension will now face higher costs as new rules close a loophole allowing cheap access. Expert Nick Bruining explains the financial impact.
Dairy farmer buys hay after floods as drought returns
Gloucester dairy farmer Mark Harris, hit by record floods in May, now battles drought. He's spending thousands on feed and repairs as the Hunter faces a rapid dry spell. Read his story.
Ambulance delays highlight NSW hospital bed block crisis
Newcastle residents face hours-long ambulance waits despite new stations, as paramedics queue at overcrowded hospitals. Readers demand state action on health funding and staffing.
ACT electricity bills rise 10%, but savings possible
Annual home electricity bills in the ACT have increased by 10%, but the regulator says competition is improving. Discover how shopping around can still lead to significant savings of over 20%.
Canberra private school fees jump 5-10% for 2026
Most Canberra non-government schools have raised fees by 5-10% for 2026, with Radford College imposing a 23% increase. Explore the data and reasons behind the hikes.
ACT's AMC prison costs $543 per inmate daily, highest in Australia
The Alexander Maconochie Centre costs ACT taxpayers $543.19 per prisoner daily, with a 77.2% recidivism rate. Calls grow to close the facility and return to using NSW prisons.
Townsville Defence Project Collapses After Cost Blowout
The $2.1 billion 'The Oasis' defence project in Townsville has been scrapped after labour costs ballooned by 275%. The federal government has terminated the contract with BESIX Watpac.
Neil MacDonald appointed NAIF CEO for five years
Private equity specialist Neil MacDonald will lead the $7bn Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility as its new CEO from 2026, focusing on jobs and economic growth. Read more.
Park Waves Festival Cancelled Due to Soaring Costs
Parkway Drive's ambitious Park Waves festival, set to rock Australia in 2025, has been cancelled. Rising costs crush a headbanger's dream lineup. Full refunds issued.
New Bruce Highway funding raises upgrade questions
The Australian government commits $467 million to Bruce Highway safety works, but critics argue more comprehensive upgrades are needed to address Queensland's growing transport demands.
Barnaby Joyce's resignation sparks self-interest debate
Barnaby Joyce's resignation timing raises questions about political self-interest while readers debate Indigenous justice, renewable energy costs, and international affairs in Canberra Times letters.
Perth housing crisis: Worker shortage stalls apartments
Perth faces a critical apartment shortage as construction costs soar. A severe skilled labour crisis is making new projects unviable, deepening the housing affordability crisis. Discover the solution.
WA Treasurer keeps 2026 power rebate decision pending
West Australians face uncertainty as Treasurer Rita Saffioti delays decision on 2026 electricity rebates. Will households get relief from cost of living pressures?
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