News

Latest news from the department.

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Image of a court gavel and scales of justice, with text: Prosecution update.

Councillor fined

Oct 15, 2024
A local government councillor has been found guilty by the Magistrates Court of one count of breaching confidentiality under the Local Government Act 1995 (LG Act) with respect to a minor breach complaint.
Minister Templeman with 3 BMX bike riders

Byford bike pump track and Keirnan Park projects on track

Oct 15, 2024
Major improvements to sport and recreation facilities in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale are on track thanks to combined WA Government funding of more than $23 million dollars.
A person on a trail bike rides through the forest

Grant to fund a feasibility study to help establish off-road vehicle hub for Manjimup

Oct 14, 2024
The WA Government has provided $57,000 in funding to the Shire of Manjimup to help establish an off-road vehicle (ORV) hub that will cater for the growing popularity of this recreational activity.
A group of young people stand in front of a colourful wall mural

Place Innovation Awards recognise public spaces brought to life

Oct 9, 2024
Projects that transform under-utilised or degraded public places into vibrant and attractive spaces for use by local communities have been recognised at the second annual Minister for Local Government’s Place Innovation Awards.
Adults sit in a TAFE classroom watching and listening to a presentation

Music workshops share learnings on Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property

Oct 9, 2024
More than 170 participants took part in free workshops offered to music creators and organisations in Boorloo (Perth) covering the Australian Music Centre’s Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP) Policy.
Horses competing on a grassy horse racing track.

$1.5 million to support a new horse racing event in Kalgoorlie

Oct 7, 2024
The horse racing industry in the Goldfields is a clear winner with a WA Government commitment of $1.5 million over three years to enhance the annual Kalgoorlie Race Round, a significant social event on the local calendar.
A close up portrait of a brown, black and white puppy.

Lotterywest grant to give Dogs' Refuge Home a new leash on life

Oct 7, 2024
The Dogs' Refuge Home in Shenton Park is embarking on a major redevelopment project that will improve conditions for its furry residents and volunteers.
Montage of 8 actors taken from movie stills

West Coast Visions initiative funding boost

Oct 4, 2024
Screenwest has announced its highly coveted West Coast Visions initiative is now worth $1.5 million thanks to an increase in funding.
A section of a crowded nightclub, with lots of people and lights

Licensees warned about overcrowding

Oct 2, 2024
The Director of Liquor Licensing Lanie Chopping is warning licensees that they could face prosecution if they fail to comply with occupancy limits at licensed venues in Western Australia.
Image of a working with children card, with a red circle through it

Banned Drinkers Register — Approved Identification update

Sep 27, 2024
From 30 September 2024 the WA Working with Children (WWC) card, issued by the Department of Communities, will not be accepted as an approved ID for the Banned Drinkers Register (BDR).
2 black and 2 yellow labrador puppies in the arms of a trainer at Guide Dogs WA

Guide dog graduates take the next step to helping our community

Sep 27, 2024
A group of 13 dogs, many assisted by WA Government funding, will soon be serving our community after graduating from their Guide and Assistance Dog training.
Artist’s impression of the redeveloped Perth Concert Hall.

Redevelopment to allow iconic Perth Concert Hall to shine

Sep 26, 2024
The $150.3 million redevelopment of the much-loved Perth Concert Hall is set to begin in early 2025, to restore the building's architectural legacy, preserve its renowned acoustics and enhance connections to the surrounding forecourts.
Page reviewed 10 June 2025