Archived News for Professionals in Local Government - February, 2021
Authorities have announced plans for a “transformational” new sewer in Melbourne.
Drones flown for health boost
A new project will investigate using drones for remote NT health delivery.
New firm seeks giant fibre
A new company has announced plans to build a $1.5 billion, 20,000km fibre-optic “backbone” for Australia.
PC calls for water reform
The Productivity Commission has called on the Commonwealth to modernise is national water policy.
State creating turbine noise laws
The Victorian Government may soon require wind farms to apply for permits to produce turbine noise.
Call for broader jab scheme
The peak local government lobby wants frontline council workers to receive early COVID-19 vaccination.
Dutton steers crime funds
Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has pushed grant funding to projects he personally chose, against the advice of his department.
QLD calls for insurance fund
Queensland councils want the Commonwealth to set up a national reinsurance pool.
Big water take questioned
Fortune Agribusiness has applied to use 40,000 megalitres of water a year for a major fruit and vegetable project.
Millions left in QLD flood fund
Less than a quarter of the Federal Government's $300 million flood recovery grant scheme has been claimed.
Inaction linked to further issues
Regulatory delays may be contributing to critical problems at a lead-zinc mine in the Northern Territory, according to experts.
New Acland stoush continues
A fresh Land Court hearing into the planned expansion of the New Acland coal mine has been ordered.
CEP launches big battery plan
Plans have been unveiled for the “world’s biggest battery”, to be built in NSW.
NSW riddled with regional issues
An inquiry into regional health services in NSW has heard of tragic shortages in under-served areas.
Sydney coal plan cut off
The NSW planning commission has rejected the proposed expansion of a coal mine beneath Sydney's drinking water catchment.
'Roo boost questioned
The Victorian Government has been accused of “massively over inflating” kangaroo numbers to support a larger cull.
Booze plans falling short
An expert review has found some gaps in local government responses to alcohol-related harm.
Call to update airport plans
Councils say planning rules in Melbourne’s airport flight path are outdated.
Pork probe looks at fire fund
A NSW pork barrelling inquiry is investigating a secretive $177 million bushfire fund.