$2m spent on failed national police museum plan
An exclusive report reveals over $2 million in proceeds of crime funds was spent on planning a national police museum in Canberra before the project was axed due to a cost blowout to $50 million.
Category : Search result: smoking cost to economy
Labor's tobacco tax claims labelled a 'puff piece'
The Albanese government faces criticism over claims its tobacco tax will fund health measures. Experts call it a misleading 'puff piece' that ignores the true cost of smoking. Read the full analysis.
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.
Real Wages Slump: Australia's Affordability Crisis Deepens
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.
Surprise inflation fall lifts hopes of rates reprieve
A sharper-than-expected fall in inflation offers hope for Australian households, but underlying price pressures remain a concern for the Reserve Bank. Read the latest analysis.
Cook Government slammed over WA's declining health outcomes
New WA Health data reveals alarming declines in diet, exercise, and mental health, with the Opposition blaming the Cook Government's five health ministers for failing to deliver. Discover the full impact of the cost-of-living crisis on West Australians.
West Aussies Forced to Budget as Cost of Living Bites
As the cost of living crisis deepens, West Australians like Alana Rose are adopting savvy shopping strategies to cope. Discover how families are adapting their grocery habits.
WA Families Skipping Meals as Cost of Living Bites
New data reveals WA's cost of living crisis is forcing families to choose between food and bills, with smoking rates also rising. Doctors are sounding the alarm. Read the full report.
Lamb Ad Tackles Australia's Fall in World Happiness Rankings
Australia's iconic summer lamb campaign returns, using humour to challenge the nation's drop in global happiness rankings while real cost-of-living pressures bite. Discover the campaign's message and the political reaction.
FOI costs double while full document releases plummet
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.
Geelong's Cost of Living: $100 in 2005 Now $168
A Geelong Advertiser analysis reveals the true cost of living crisis. See how inflation has eroded buying power in two decades. Read the full breakdown.
Biggie Smalls' 'Mo Money Mo Problems' & RBA Rate Hikes
As the RBA eyes a February rate hike, a classic 90s rap lyric sums up Australia's inflation dilemma. We break down the economic pain, the silver linings, and why Michele Bullock is talking tough. Read more.
Councillor criticises 3% pay rise for Qld leaders
A Cairns councillor has publicly condemned a 3% salary increase for Queensland's Premier and Ministers, calling it 'obscene' amid a cost-of-living crisis. Read his full argument.
Home Pilates Reformers Boom as Aussies Seek Savings
With Pilates class costs soaring, Australians are investing in home reformers. Discover how the Aussie-owned Your Reformer brand is helping fitness lovers save money while achieving their 2026 health goals.
ECUTZ expands with two new salons in Townsville
Townsville's ECUTZ barber chain is rapidly expanding, launching two new salons as cost-of-living pressures fuel huge demand for affordable haircuts. See how they're keeping prices low.
Snake catcher says Canberrans call for help too quickly
Canberra's leading snake expert urges residents to reconsider calling for removal unless the snake is trapped. Learn when to act and how to coexist safely.
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.
Townsville NYE events scrapped, fireworks to go ahead
Townsville City Council cancels official New Year's Eve events at Strand Park, citing cost and logistics. However, the traditional fireworks display will proceed as planned. Find out the details.
RBA's Bullock Warns of Inflation Fight Until 2026
RBA Governor Michele Bullock warns inflation battle could last until 2026, with potential interest rate rises. Senator Dean Smith critiques government's economic approach. Read the full analysis.
Community Christmas BBQ in Berkeley Fights Loneliness
A free community barbecue in Berkeley on Christmas Day, organised by the Beacon of Hope Project, provided food and fellowship to combat isolation during the cost-of-living crisis.
Charities urge WA to check on neighbours this Christmas
Welfare groups warn of increasing financial hardship in WA this festive season. Anglicare CEO calls for community vigilance as emergency relief requests surge. #Christmas #CostOfLiving
Samaritans Christmas Lunch Serves Hunter Community
Over 150 volunteers served a festive feast to up to 1200 people at the 25th Samaritans Christmas Lunch in Newcastle, providing vital community support during tough economic times.
$250 Cost of Living Payment for South Australians
The South Australian government has announced a one-off $250 payment for eligible households to help with bills this Christmas. Find out if you qualify and how to apply.
Perth rents surge $2200 extra in 2025, families struggle
Perth renters faced an average $2200 annual rent hike in 2025, with house rents up $51 a week. New data reveals families are skipping meals and cutting essentials to cope with the housing crisis.
Perth Chef's $16pp Christmas Feast Menu Revealed
Perth chef Sean Cridland shares a budget-friendly three-course Christmas menu for eight, costing under $16 per person. Get his recipes for a festive roast turkey, melon wreath, and Oreo truffles.
Canberra urged to help kids in need this Christmas
A former police officer and Canberra residents call for community support as Salvation Army research reveals one in five Australian parents fear their children will miss out on Christmas presents due to financial stress.
The Importance of Christmas in Difficult Times
Amidst cost-of-living pressures and global conflicts, celebrating Christmas is a vital act of resilience and connection for Australian families. Discover why.
Geelong charities brace for Christmas surge in demand
Geelong charities are preparing for a record-breaking Christmas as millions of Australians struggle with food insecurity. Find out how you can help support local families in need this holiday season.
Australia Needs Christmas Spirit More Than Ever
Columnist Joe Spagnolo argues that amid global conflict and economic strain, the unifying message of Christmas is vital for Australia's national spirit. Read his compelling case.
QLD Fuel Prices Jump 50c/L in 'Unfair' Christmas Hike
Queensland motorists are paying up to $25 more per tank as petrol prices spike weeks early. The RACQ slams the 'unjustified' hike as a deliberate cash grab before Christmas.
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