New analysis reveals Australia's cost-of-living squeeze is far worse for some. Discover how your location, sector, and occupation determine your financial pain and what reforms are needed now.
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.
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.
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.
Canning Council votes 7-2 to fund Mayor Patrick Hall's trip to the 2025 World Cities Summit in Singapore, sparking debate over the city's global role and foreign-funded travel.
A former director of the troubled 3 Property Group is taking legal action in the Federal Court, alleging he was coerced into a directorship and is owed over $669,000. Read the full details of the case.
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.
Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds is under fire for controversial remarks about workplace culture. Can he recover from this messaging misstep? Read the full analysis.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
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 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.
South Australian ambulance workers have voted to accept a new pay and conditions deal, ending a long dispute. The agreement includes significant wage increases and improved allowances. Read the full details here.
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.
Townsville University Hospital staff could lose up to a quarter of their wages in a bitter contract dispute. Unions warn of a devastating blow to workers and regional healthcare.
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.
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.
Early childhood educators across Australia celebrate second pay rise with up to $200 weekly increase. Learn how this historic wage boost impacts the childcare sector.
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.