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.
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.
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.
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region's 2025 progress, led by Port Kembla's major rezoning, unlocks thousands of jobs in clean energy and manufacturing. Industry leaders warn the region must act now or risk losing its strongest position in a generation.
Exclusive: Defence officials secretly considered a European alternative to the highly-touted Henderson shipyard in WA, raising doubts about its future and the promised jobs boom. Read the full investigation.
Wandarra opens a $10 million advanced manufacturing facility in Townsville, creating 50 jobs and positioning the city as a leader in sustainable industry. Discover the future of green manufacturing.
Construction on the $600m Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone begins early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read about the region's energy future.
Construction on the $4 billion Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone will begin early 2026, creating nearly 600 jobs and connecting 1.8GW of clean power. Read more about this major NSW project.
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.
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.
Anglicare Australia's 2025 Jobs Snapshot reveals a dire shortage of entry-level jobs, with 25 long-term unemployed for every vacancy. The report condemns a privatised system that profits from poverty.
Plans for twin 'Rock' service stations north of Newcastle gain momentum, set to create 100 jobs and revive a site with deep Australian road trip history. Construction approval expected soon.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
A critical Santa shortage in Western Australia has agencies issuing an SOS for teachers and coaches. With under three weeks to go, find out how the festive season is at risk and who's stepping up.
A major dual-service centre is set to rise on the Pacific Highway near Tea Gardens, creating 100 jobs and reviving the iconic 'Rock' site destroyed by fire in 2018. Read about the community's excitement and the project's strategic importance for freight.
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.
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 Albanese government has rejected crucial recommendations from a damning report on political patronage, choosing a weak framework over legislation to curb 'jobs for mates' culture. Read why trust in politicians remains so low.
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.
A new report reveals systemic 'jobs for mates' appointments in the Australian public service, sparking calls for urgent reform. Read the full investigation.
Australian caravan manufacturer Zone RV has collapsed into administration, resulting in 120 job losses. Administrators are now assessing the future of the business. Read the full story.
The Australian government's tepid response to a damning review into public sector appointments undermines public confidence. Read why stronger action is needed to restore integrity.
AI tools like Midjourney and Adobe Firefly are transforming digital design in Australia, offering scalability but raising concerns over jobs and creativity. Discover the full impact.
The ACT government's CBR2030 economic framework aims to expand hybrid work, citing major gains in inclusion and productivity. The plan targets 300,000 jobs by 2030.
The Albanese government has finally published the Briggs report into public board appointments, which criticises 'patronage and nepotism'. Discover the findings and the government's new framework.
Officials from Home Affairs, Infrastructure and the APS Commission front Senate estimates. Follow live updates as Minister Gallagher faces questions on the delayed jobs-for-mates review.
A $171 million solar module factory is set for Black Hill, creating over 100 jobs and boosting Australia's renewable manufacturing under the Solar Sunshot program.
The Hunter region faces a critical jobs shortage despite low unemployment. Professor Phillip O'Neill reveals why generating 37,000 new positions is essential to avoid becoming another 'place left behind'.