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.
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'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.
Median ATAR scores for Canberra's 2025 Year 12 cohort will remain hidden, continuing a trend of limited transparency. A delayed advisory committee review means data won't be public until at least 2026.
Senior Australian public servants and military chiefs accepted thousands in gifts, including flight upgrades, sports tickets, and luxury items. Explore the full disclosure of perks declared on the official register.
Perth's CBD parking levy raises over $60 million annually, but a lack of transparency on its spending is fuelling public frustration. Clarity on fund allocation is now essential.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
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.
Cottesloe councillor Katy Mason has resigned and is moving to Nedlands. She is considering running in the upcoming Nedlands council election. 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'.
Surf Coast Shire Councillor Paul Barker takes legal action against his suspension, alleging a denial of natural justice. The case could set a precedent for local government disputes.
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.
City of Cockburn Mayor Bruce Reynolds will support revoking his own motion for a workplace culture review to prevent internal conflict. Details on the political manoeuvre inside.
The Attorney-General's Department could not produce evidence supporting claims of AI bots overwhelming FOI systems, used to justify a controversial 'truth tax'. Read the full investigation.
Discover how digital trading platforms have democratised commodity markets, making them accessible to farmers and small producers across Australia. Learn about the transformation from exclusive old boys' clubs to transparent online systems.
Federal government spending on external consultants surged to $756 million last year, contradicting Labor's promise to build public service capability. Analysis reveals $135m increase.
Shocking audio reveals Troy Thompson's campaign team plotting aggressive tactics against political rivals. Exclusive details from the leaked recordings that rocked Townsville politics.
Cairns councillors demand transparency as Mayor Terry James makes multiple trips to Canberra costing ratepayers over $40,000. Questions arise about value for money.
The City of Vincent urges State and Federal support for the national asbestos strategy, warning it places a 'huge burden' on local councils without proper resources and funding.
Cairns Mayor Terry James faces integrity investigation over $12 coat rack purchase and secret backyard meeting. What this means for local governance.
WA Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley is seeking urgent advice on the turmoil at City of Perth, including an unlawful motion and staff resignations. Residents demand action.
Melville Council forces ratepayers to cover an $80,000 bill for a special election after a councillor's resignation. The Palmyra-Melville-Willagee ward faces months of under-representation.
Perth's acting CEO resigns after declaring council's workplace culture review unlawful and flawed. Read the explosive details behind the sudden departure.
City of Melville councillor Clive Ross fails to secure review of council payments for legal representation. Motion defeated 7-4 amid transparency concerns.
City of Cockburn considers significant increases to infrastructure contributions for developers, potentially adding thousands to project costs. Learn how this affects local development.