The Local Government Filming Protocol (Protocol) has been updated replacing the 2009 version. The Protocol is issued under Section 119D of the Local Government Act 1993 and sets out requirements for both councils and filmmakers associated with filming related activity approvals. The Protocol also prescribes filming related fees and forms and provides guidance relevant to filming activities.

The Commonwealth Government has announced an advance payment of the preliminary FY 2025-26 Financial Assistance (FA) Grants, representing approximately 50% of the amount councils are entitled to. Further adjustments to the remaining payment will take into account: - the determination by the Commonwealth - Treasurer of the final adjustments for FY 2024-25 - the Local Government Grants Commission’s (the Commission) final recommendations for FY 2025-26

Tuesday, 24 June 2025 The Minns Labor Government is building better communities by investing in a vibrant arts and cultural scene, safer and more accessible public spaces and supporting the work of community organisations. Supporting the Arts, Sports and CultureSydney...

Wednesday, 18 June 2025 Animal care in far west NSW has received a major boost with the Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig officially opening the newly upgraded RSPCA Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital. Thanks to a $1.8 million investment from...

Wednesday, 18 June 2025 The remote communities of Central Darling Shire in far west NSW will head to the polls on 20 September to elect council representatives for the first time in more than a decade. Minister for Local Government...

Amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) relating to council de-amalgamations have commenced, effective 22 May 2025. The amendments replace existing provisions within the Act with new provisions setting out a clearer pathway for councils to seek to de-amalgamate.

The 2025/26 fees payable for registration and permits for companion animals have been adjusted for inflation under clauses 18 and 27 of the Companion Animals Regulation 2018 (CA Regulation)(based on the Consumer Price Index or CPI). The new fees are effective from 1 July 2025.

The Office of Local Government (OLG) has issued a guideline on free speech in local government in NSW (the Free Speech Guideline). The Free Speech Guideline is available on OLG’s website here. The Free Speech Guideline provides practical guidance to councils on what free speech means in the context of NSW local government.

The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) has determined an increase of 3% to mayoral and councillor fees for the 2025-26 financial year, with effect from 1 July 2025. The Tribunal is required to determine the remuneration categories of councils and mayoral offices at least once every 3 years under section 239 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act). The Tribunal last undertook a significant review of the categories as part of its 2023 determination and will next review these categories in 2026.

Wednesday, 14 May 2025 Hundreds of new apprentices and trainees vital to the delivery of essential local services have hit the ground running with councils across the state, thanks to a landmark $252.2 million investment by the Minns Labor Government....