Archived News for Professionals in Local Government - June, 2014
A range of upgrades have been announced for Melbourne’s road and public transport networks.
New problems from old mines continue to cost millions
Media investigations have shown the ongoing costs of the mining industry in New South Wales, with close to $9 million spent dealing with legacy mine issues in the last five years.
More fear for farm studies prompts National call
A rural Parliamentarian says Nationals MPs should be more outspoken about massive fee hikes to the degrees relevant to their regions.
Globe-trotting government needs questioned
Outrage is stirring over the amount that Victorian councils spend on overseas travel for councillors.
Online planning plans prompt concern in WA councils
The West Australian Local Government Minister Tony Simpson is looking at a new system that would see planning applications for local councils moved online.
Regional posts short-changed by mail's main office
Some post office operators say Australia Post is not paying them enough, as their business costs continue to escalate.
Science staff fight taken up nationwide
Staff rallies will continue as CSIRO fights to preserve its ranks.
Suspension kept minutes from Central Darling's return
Six months under administration will continue for the Central Darling Shire Council, as the Local Government Minister calls for an inquiry.
Thousands call for heads to roll at tropical locale
Thousands have signed a petition calling for the sacking of a regional council.
Millions saved means monitor to continue
A trial for some high-tech water-saving equipment will continue, after reports of broad successacross Queensland's Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay regions.
Water worries and gas calls for NSW Nationals
Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane says the NSW government should share gas royalties with landowners, but that he would die before creating a domestic reservation.
Water change shows legal tide favours mines in QLD
Showing the extreme mining-friendliness of the Queensland Government, a law has been changed to prevent investigation of a controversial quarrying practice.
Poor price keeps hitting once rich regions
The Singleton Chamber of Commerce says it has become a victim of the diminished global coal price, with low demand hitting businesses hard in rural New South Wales.
Great minds need fertile grounds in public service
A new report says the Australian Public Service must promote innovation and creative minds within its ranks.
Independence questioned as funds follow party lines
There are accusations of extreme political pandering being thrown at the Federal Government, after it was revealed that it has so far funded projects in LNP electorates at a rate about three times higher than others.
Local tier's big call to bring back Federal help
A conference this week has brought together many of the people who bring real government to peoples’ everyday lives.
Road funds to save lives with broader base
The Federal Government has made it easier for councils to access funds from a $200 million pool for road safety projects.
Go-ahead with no checks for WA gas frack
The Western Australian Environment Department will allow coal seam gas fracking with no prior environmental assessment.
Irrigation taken back for regional know-how
Six local governments have used broad public support as a sign that they should take over the administration of their irrigation schemes.
River links new lessons on the Murray
Modern technology will connect people along an ancient river system, in a program to show students the ongoing importance of the Murray Darling Basin.
Wild laws lifted to let rivers run new course
A Federal Court judge in Queensland has ruled that declarations to protect three river systems in Cape York were invalid, and made only to appease election promises.