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?
A new report warns clearing trees in Canberra's Jacka suburb should be avoided after a significant koala sighting. Conservationists call for transparency as development plans stall.
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.
A Kiama developer has successfully added a fifth level to a Surf Beach apartment complex via the Land and Environment Court, securing approval for five extra units. Read the full details and conditions.
A critical 17-metre floodgate on Adelaide's Patawalonga River was left open for days, endangering a vital dolphin nursery. Authorities are investigating the serious breach.
The University of Melbourne mourns the loss of its first female vice-chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston AO, a transformative science leader who died from cancer at 52.
WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby greenlights a 12-unit development in Gnarabup, rejecting nearly all appeal claims. The decision highlights tensions between tourism growth and coastal protection in the Margaret River region.
A Wollongong skip bin driver caught on film in a known dumping hotspot claims he was having sex with his wife. The EPA is investigating the incident after building waste was found.
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.
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.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
New Curtin University research reveals your Australian suburb can influence your weight. Discover the environmental factors at play and what it means for public health policy.
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.
Discover how choosing local shops this festive season directly invests in your community's future, supports jobs, and keeps your main street vibrant.
Fecal contamination in Peterson Creek puts Tablelands' iconic platypus at risk. Authorities investigate sewage sources as community demands action.
Discover Newcastle's best local businesses for Christmas 2025. Support community enterprises offering puddings, trees, markets and festive experiences while boosting the local economy.
Federal government accelerates controversial land clearing regulations amid concerns farmers would clear vegetation before new laws take effect. No transition period provided.
Labor and Greens reach agreement on EPBC Act reforms after lengthy negotiations. Will the strengthened laws actually protect Australia's environment? Read the analysis.
Environment Minister announces River Murray water buybacks as climate conference fails. SA Conservation Council warns basin continues to decline. Read the full story.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese secures environmental reforms through Greens partnership while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley claims her text message was ignored. Get the full story on Australia's new EPBC changes.
Environment Minister Murray Watt secures major EPBC reforms with Greens support after Coalition negotiations fail. Business groups express disappointment as government achieves environmental policy victory.
Anthony Albanese's proposed environmental legislation threatens Australia's mining success story, risking jobs and economic growth. Learn how these changes could impact the nation.
Exclusive polling reveals 80% of Canberrans want climate impacts considered in Albanese government's environment laws, with Labor risking voter backlash in marginal seats.
The Albanese government faces Senate hurdles with environment legislation as political divisions echo Rudd's climate wars. Analysis reveals falling GDP per capita and rising One Nation support.
Key environment group slams Hunter Transmission Project route, warning of irreversible impacts on 66 threatened species. Read the full analysis of this critical NSW energy debate.
The Environment Protection Authority has issued a prevention notice to Huntley Tip after discovering dangerous PFAS chemicals and ammonia leaching into Mullet Creek, threatening Lake Illawarra's ecosystem.
The Albanese government seeks to pass major environmental reforms next week, facing opposition calls for delay and Greens criticism over loopholes. Will Australia get new environment laws?
The City of Stirling's proposed laws to fine retailers for abandoned shopping trolleys have been scrapped after legal advice found they exceeded council powers. Discover what's next.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley declares Coalition will back Labor's environmental law overhaul if government makes seven key changes. Critical Senate vote scheduled for next Wednesday.
New environmental laws contain major loopholes that could harm the Great Barrier Reef. Conservation groups warn urgent changes are needed to protect Australia's natural wonder.