Local Council Updates

Blacktown City residents are being encouraged to get into the Christmas spirit by decorating their homes, attending the much-loved carols and supporting families in need. Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said this was a special time that brought people together and showcased the warmth of our community. “Christmas is one of the most anticipated times […]

By Julie Ryan A proposal to allow two separate homes on eligible rural and conservation properties in the Hawkesbury has completed public exhibition, bringing potential new housing options for families and farm workers a step closer. Community submissions closed on 29 October 2026. Hawkesbury City Council will now review the submissions before forwarding the proposal, […]

Hawkesbury City Council has launched a podcast to help residents understand local decisions and what they mean for the community. The first episode of Chambers and Beyond is now available, offering an accessible look at the decisions, projects and services shaping the Hawkesbury. Hosted by Council’s General Manager Will Barton, the podcast features Mayor Mary […]

A new shared path along Norwest Boulevard is giving people a safer and more convenient way to walk or cycle between homes, workplaces, shops and public transport. The Hills Shire Council has completed the 2.6-kilometre Norwest Boulevard Shared Path, upgrading the existing footpath on the eastern side of the road between Windsor Road and Old […]

Hawkesbury City Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett was elected as the new Mayor of Hawkesbury City attonight’s Council meeting, Tuesday 8 September 2026. Councillor Nathan Zamprogno was elected Deputy Mayor. Mayor Lyons-Buckett said it was an immense honour to be elected Mayor of Hawkesbury City. “I wish to thank my fellow councillors for entrusting me to serve […]

Hawkesbury Residents are encouraged to create or update their Bushfire Survival Plan by attending the Rural Fire Service’s Get Ready Weekend on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026. The bushfire danger period is from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027; however, it can vary due to local conditions. By attending Get Ready Weekend, […]

The Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a free household asbestos collection and disposal trial, set to begin in 2027. Mayor Byrne said she had long advocated for changes to make asbestos disposal more accessible and affordable. “I’ve been calling for a new approach to asbestos […]

Hornsby Shire Council is bringing back its popular Native Plant Giveaways this August for residents in the Shire’s northern suburbs, following the success of its March event for southern residents. This year, the program has been divided geographically to give more residents the opportunity to take part. The March giveaway was available to those living […]

Blacktown City Council has voted to reduce the size of a planned Special Rate Variation (SRV), following approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). IPART approved Council’s application on 4 June 2026, allowing rates to increase over three years to help fund essential infrastructure, maintenance and services needed for the city’s rapidly growing […]

Hills Shire residents are invited to celebrate NAIDOC Week and First Nations culture at the third annual Yarn at the Farm event, featuring a diverse range of fun and interactive cultural experiences for the whole family. Council’s Yarn at the Farm event is delivered in partnership with local First Nations enterprise Muru Mittigar. The day […]

Get ready for a fantastic day out as Hawkesbury Fest returns on Sunday, August 9, from 10am to 3pm at Governor Phillip Park, Windsor. Held annually during Local Government Week, Hawkesbury Fest is a free community event celebrating everything that makes the Hawkesbury special. The festival showcases the work of Hawkesbury City Council and its […]

There are so many wonderful reasons to join your local library, but Hawkesbury Library Service is here with one more just for you! During July, the Library is back with its annual Membership Drive, celebrating all new and existing members with a range of prizes for all ages. All new Hawkesbury Library members who join […]