Parliament recalled to debate new hate speech laws
Federal MPs will return early to debate Australia's 'toughest ever' hate laws, targeting radicalisation and visa cancellations, following the Bondi terror attack. Read the latest.
Category : Search result: local council powers
Federal inquiry into local councils' financial crisis
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?
Cessnock Council's 40% rate hike plan gets low survey response
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.
Council CEO paid more than NSW Premier sparks ratepayer fury
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 Mac Council outlines $80 million spending plan
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.
Geelong's WTF: Chicken, Potholes & $1.2m Fix Plan
Geelong's 'WTF' campaign tackles a missing chicken, potholes, and more. Discover how the council's $1.2 million plan aims to fix community gripes. Read the full story.
Judge declares Cairns police search unlawful
A Cairns judge has thrown out drug evidence, ruling a police search unlawful because an officer relied on the smell of cannabis from months earlier. Read the full ruling details.
New WA Local Government Inspector Begins Powers to Tackle Dysfunction
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.
Council bosses paid more than NSW Premier
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
Belmont residents brand annual electors' meeting a 'waste of time'
A City of Belmont residents' group has labelled annual electors' meetings a 'complete waste of time', questioning council engagement after low attendance and over 20 motions were presented. Read more on the local democracy debate.
WA Govt 2026: Commuter Savings, Council Reform
WA's 2026 transport changes will save commuters money while tackling council dysfunction. Get the details on the state's new cost-of-living and governance measures.
Missing canoe trailer found at council recycling centre
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.
Newcastle Baths Plan Sparks Outcry Over Swimming Neglect
Newcastle Council's redevelopment plans for the iconic Ocean Baths focus on a cafe/restaurant, but locals argue swimming facilities and change rooms are being overlooked. Read the community's concerns.
Christmas bin collection changes for Illawarra
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
New Toilet Blocks Fast-Tracked for Townsville Parks
Townsville City Council accelerates construction of new public toilets at Pallarenda and Rowes Bay parks after securing additional funding. Read about the local upgrade.
Townsville binman brings festive joy as Santa
A Townsville City Council worker is delivering Christmas magic to local kids by dressing as Santa on his garbage collection route. Meet the man behind the beard spreading joy.
Councillor Vera Dirou's $5000 Donation to Women's Centre
Townsville Councillor Vera Dirou has made a generous $5000 donation to the Women's Centre for a second consecutive year, supporting vital local services. Read about this inspiring community commitment.
Ex-US intel chief: Bondi attack exposes Australian agency failures
A former top US intelligence officer says Australian agencies failed to share critical clues before the Bondi massacre. Could better intel sharing have prevented the tragedy? Read the full analysis.
Cockburn Council to hear petitions after 8-year hiatus
Cockburn councillors vote 7-2 to bring public petitions back to council meetings, overturning a 2017 policy. The move aims to enhance local democracy despite staff concerns over cost.
Murray CEO Dean Unsworth named 2025 Local Government Leader
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.
Court ruling on union delegates sparks industry fury
Mining and energy groups warn a Federal Court decision creates a 'two-tiered' workplace class, expanding union delegate powers beyond Fair Work Commission limits. Read the full story.
Council calls for state cash to fix public toilets
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.
Expanded police search powers for Geelong areas
Victoria Police granted new powers to stop and search without warrant in Geelong CBD, Corio, and Waurn Ponds to combat knife crime and public violence. The 12-month order starts April 26.
Newcastle councillors defer $70m Civic Park plan
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.
Geelong Area Business Liquidations Listed for December 8
A list of companies in the Greater Geelong council area that entered liquidation on December 8 has been published. Discover the affected businesses and the implications for the local economy.
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.
East Fremantle Council votes to pay itself super
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Councillor's $24k car win on council card sparks policy debate
A Gold Coast councillor's $24,000 MG hatch win using a corporate credit card has ignited a debate on council expense policies. Discover the fallout and calls for reform.
Townsville Council Hiring 30 Staff for 'Back to Basics' Push
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.
Council arson damage bill blows out to $41 million
The insurance cost for the Lake Macquarie City Council arson attack has surged to $41 million, with court revelations of a 'big developer' connection. Staff may not return until 2027.
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