The crisis lurking in Australia’s stormwater drains

As plastic pollution in oceans worsens, an expert is calling on councils to rethink how they manage stormwater drains to prevent plastics from entering waterways.

13 August, 2018

Councils offer aid to drought-stricken farmers

Councils in states worst affected by drought are providing support and aid to affected farmers and communities in the wake of one of the worst dry seasons in decades.

9 August, 2018

Local governments in South Australia oppose rate capping

All but two of South Australia’s councils have opposed the state’s rate capping legislation, prompting speculation the plan is destined for failure.

6 August, 2018

Councils change organisational structures to meet demands

Local government managers should create environments that promote risk-taking and innovation, new research finds.

6 August, 2018

Best and brightest councils in NSW celebrated

An app connecting residents to council is among the initiatives recognised as part of Local Government Week.

3 August, 2018

Broken Hill moves out of isolation to lead collaboration

This remote council is reaching out to like-minded organisations to explore efficiencies and learnings.

31 July, 2018

New parks blend recreation, culture and environment

A plan for the parklands in Greater Sydney’s new Parkland City and a ‘wild play garden’ in Centennial Park among the government projects recognised in major architecture awards.

26 July, 2018

Partnership powering councils’ climate change action

A not-for-profit initiative supporting local government efforts to reduce emissions and adopt clean energy has been ‘overwhelmed’ by the interest from councils.

23 July, 2018

Governments partner on affordable housing initiative

A partnership launched by Newcastle City Council to tackle a worsening affordable housing shortage has been welcomed, while new research calls on councils to review planning approaches.

23 July, 2018

Noticeboard: Randwick GM Ray Brownlee exits

Also in this wrap: new CEO takes on Central Coast Council; Greg Steele appointed to executive team at Arcadis; and Productivity Commission appoints a new chairman.

20 July, 2018

Criticism mounts over South Australia’s rate capping plan

The South Australian Government’s rate-capping plans are facing opposition from councils while experts call for improved transparency on service delivery costs instead.

20 July, 2018

Lake Macquarie adopts smart city to drive jobs, innovation

Partnership between a council, an economic development company and a network provider delivers Australia’s first smart city network across a local government area.

20 July, 2018

Experts call for action on council governance

State governments are being urged to tackle legislative inconsistencies and improved governance frameworks in the wake of Queensland’s Ipswich Council being stood down.

16 July, 2018

Council museums in ‘precarious funding environment’

Local government has found itself responsible for Australia’s growing array of local museums and a new analysis highlights many are struggling with staffing and resourcing.

16 July, 2018