A recent report has highlighted the need for an efficient development application procedure for NSW local councils. NSW Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally has released the annual performance monitoring report on…
Category: Housing
Developers and local government clash over housing crisis
The Property Council of Australia has refuted a claim by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) that developers’ ‘land banking’ was responsible for the current housing crisis, saying the LGAQ failed…
Councils questioned over ability to respond to ageing population
A projected doubling of the older population within three decades has sparked disputes over the councils’ readiness to cater for the needs of elderly residents. NSW Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally…
Local government body hits back at PIA criticism
The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has argued the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA)’s criticism of its recent land supply review was unwarranted and returned fire suggesting the Institute lacked serious and…
Melbourne beats Sydney in sustainability stakes
Melbourne has been named one of the world’s top ten leading “2020 Global Sustainability Centers”. The 2020 Global Sustainability Centers (GSC) study by the well-regarded New York-based Ethisphere Institute took…
Green living spreads in the Townsville Solar City
Visiting Magnetic Island for the launch of the Smart Lifestyle Centre, Environment Minister Peter Garrett said the Magnetic Island Solar Suburb formed a key part of the Townsville Solar City…
Barnett announces his expanded cabinet
The incoming WA Premier Colin Barnett’s new cabinet comprises 17 ministers, while the previous Labor cabinet had 15 members. Three Nationals MPs have been put in the ministry, including the…
Rees names new NSW cabinet
NSW Premier Nathan Rees has finalised his new cabinet and revealed the allocation of portfolios. Barbara Perry is the new Minister for Local Government. The former Minister for Juvenile Justice…
Seeking ‘Common Ground’ on homeless problem
The City of Sydney is set to develop its own Common Ground model, a long-term and supported housing initiative. The decision followed unanimous endorsement of Cr Marcelle Hoff’s motion to investigate the…
Rann announces cabinet reshuffle
South Australia Premier Mike Rann has announced a major reshuffle to "freshen up" cabinet and the state’s public service. The shake-up involves two thirds of cabinet ministers changing posts or…