Council calls for action on problem gambling

Brimbank City Council says its residents have lost $1.4 billion on electronic gambling machines in in the past decade. Now it’s calling for fines and limits on withdrawals.  

15 May, 2018

Councils’ coastal risk: study points to resource shortage

As Queensland councils spearhead programs to mitigate the impact of rising sea levels, new research warns some local authorities lack capacity to manage coastal risks.

15 May, 2018

Local governments tackle water waste

Extensive community education programs and the use of smart technologies are among the tools being used by “water wise” councils in Western Australia.

14 May, 2018

Budget: transport infrastructure spend needs ‘smart ideas’

The Commonwealth should link its budget’s infrastructure investment to its innovation agenda to ensure new technologies are used to reduce construction and maintenance costs, analysts say.

10 May, 2018

Budget: disappointment on local roads, community infrastructure

Local government peaks welcome ongoing funding for key roads, bridges and regions programs but say inaction on financial grants means councils face a shortfall.

9 May, 2018

Federal Budget 2018: a state-by-state spending analysis

Government and public policy experts provide a state-by-state analysis of Budget 2018-19, handed down last night by Treasurer Scott Morrison. 

8 May, 2018

Agencies need better training on terrorism: police commander

Few police or emergency services are adequately preparing their staff to respond to major terrorist incidents, an Australian Federal Police commander has warned.

8 May, 2018

APS review brings public service skill, capacity into focus

The Australian Public Service leadership calls on staff to share their views in a “frank and fearless manner” with the government’s review into the APS while union raises concerns about panel membership.

8 May, 2018

NT budget: public sector job and wage cuts condemned

The Northern Territory Government’s cuts to the public sector wage bill have been criticised while its $28 million boost to local government and rural infrastructure has been praised.

4 May, 2018

Victorian budget: Infrastructure, regions the big winners

Local government, transport and health groups have welcomed the Andrews Government’s record investment in infrastructure and community services.  

4 May, 2018

Councils adopt e-forms in digital transition

Residents in more than half of Queensland’s councils will soon be able to lodge council forms online, with self-service on multiple devices and the potential for instant messaging.

4 May, 2018

Global smart cities body targets Australia

An international collaboration of global technology companies, advisors and planners is moving to support governments in Australia in the development and roll out of smart city initiatives.

1 May, 2018

Aboriginal ranger jobs a boost for native land conservation

An indigenous ranger employment program in remote south-western Australia is tackling rural unemployment while rehabilitating native plants through traditional indigenous agricultural techniques.

30 April, 2018

Research warns South Australia on rate cap

As an inquiry in Victoria hears evidence against rate capping, new research finds that the introduction of rate capping in South Australia could restrict council service delivery, cause infrastructure decay and result in higher charges for taxpayers.

27 April, 2018