Archived News for Professionals in Local Government - December, 2015
The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) wants Cairns MP Rob Pyne to publicly apologise for his “baseless” claims against councils.
WA council figures collated for critique
The Western Australian government says it will soon put council financial information online, so that ratepayers can see how their council stacks up.
Water quality gap linked to life expectancy
One expert suggests the 10-year life expectancy gap between rural and metropolitan Australia could be linked to water quality.
Palmer's plays keep hundreds at risk
The Queensland Government and the French territory of New Caledonia are avoiding Clive Palmer's attempts to keep his refinery afloat.
Farm funds to find high-tech paddocks
A new Federal Government initiative will bring some high-tech tools to one of the world’s oldest activities.
Farm study shows health hinged on weather
A new study has shown the mental health strain that climate change can bring for Australian workers.
Locals leaping into big batteries
Australian energy firms Natural Solar and Origin will be the first to install Tesla Energy’s Powerwall in the local market.
SA planning change put aside
Controversial planning law changes have been put aside for the SA Parliament’s Christmas break.
Wind farm money re-jigged
Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt has given the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) a mandate that allows it to invest in wind projects.
Hazelwood review finds big holes
A new round of inquiry has slammed various aspects of Victoria’s Hazelwood mine, which caught fire and burned for 45 days last year.
Social and economic hits plotted in Tassie
A landmark report says Tasmanians cannot blame social disadvantage or low government spending for being behind on social and economic indicators.
Days left to settle decades-old title claim
A bush hearing next week is set to settle a native title claim lodged two decades ago.
FIFO fight still flying in WA
A stoush between the tiers of West Australian government continues this week, with one rural shire taking on the Barnett Government over a FIFO camp.
Newcastle ex-GM stays sacked
Newcastle’s final council meeting for 2015 has seen an attempt to reverse the sacking of the former general manager.
Rate capping report calls for renewed support
A new report on the Victorian Government's rate capping policy warns that council debts may have to increase to compensate for rates staying in line with inflation.
Science and strength lacking in CSG review
A parliamentary inquiry in Victoria has recommended that the state’s ban on coal seam gas (CSG) extraction should continue, but cannot decide how long it should last.
Blue-green blooms get broad response
Toxic blue-green algae has appeared in sections of the NSW’s Menindee Lakes.
Small town seeks big help
Farmers and residents around the NSW town of Caragabal are lobbying state and federal governments for funds to secure their water supply.
Palmer persists in CITIC money-grab
The fate of around 800 Queensland workers hinges on an expected decision from Clive Palmer about his Yabulu nickel refinery near Townsville.
Housing help falls flat in NT
The Northern Territory Government has responded to repeated complaints that its home buyers’ insurance scheme is not working.
Carnarvon moves to gather more Sun
WA’s Carnarvon Shire is setting up two new battery storage systems that it hopes will boost the area's renewable energy use and help the local economy.