City of Launceston in the news

The City of Launceston Council reported an underlying operating surplus of approximately $387,000 for the 2025-26 financial year, demonstrating improved financial management and continued investment in community services.

Don Wing AM, former City of Launceston Mayor, is being remembered for his dedicated public service and lasting impact on the city.

A Launceston mayoral candidate boycotted a debate because a $50 fee was charged for the public to ask questions.

During an October 1, 2026 council meeting, City of Launceston Deputy Mayor candidate Alan Harris faced accusations of electioneering while asking for updates on various projects.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced a significant upgrade to UTAS Stadium in Launceston, focusing on enhanced facilities, job creation, and boosting sports tourism for the region.

Launceston mayor Matthew Garwood explained $17,934 in credit card expenses, including alcohol, food, and clothing, in a Facebook video, citing relationship building and cultural reasons.

Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood defended over $17,000 in credit card spending on items like cocktails, AirPods, and meals, claiming they were for official council business and adhering to policy guidelines.

Launceston Council chose education over a ban on wood heaters, despite significant health costs, with no by-law review for 15 years.

Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood's council credit card was used for nearly $18,000 in expenses over three years, including personal items, alcohol, and expensive meals, sparking controversy.

Daniela Cavalletti, a candidate for Deputy Mayor, seeks to improve communication between the Launceston City Council and the public to foster unity.

The City of Launceston Council received a state award for significantly reducing its corporate greenhouse gas emissions by 19% through its Towards Zero Emission Action Plan.

Launceston's local government elections are approaching, with some councillors seeking re-election, others stepping down, and several contending for the deputy mayor role after a controversial term.

Launceston council faces criticism over a $1 million public art installation that locals say looks like coconuts, despite the mayor's defense that it was a community-approved project funded by the state government.

The City of Launceston council has confirmed that $100,000 in funding for repairs to the Lilydale Memorial Hall's severely degraded floor will proceed despite budget uncertainties caused by a rate cap.

A $1 million sculpture, Sky Vessels, has been installed at Launceston's Southern Outlet, funded by the state government and designed by a local artist, sparking public conversation.

The Lilydale Memorial Hall's $100,000 renovation is at risk due to a collapsing, moisture-damaged floor and council budget cuts stemming from a rate increase cap.

The City of Launceston council's plan to transfer an abandoned cottage to the Trevallyn Bowls Club is stalled due to an existing lease held by the Trevallyn Park Improvement Association, which is unwilling to surrender it.

The City of Launceston council is reviewing its property portfolio and addressing significant asset deterioration with a new 10-year financial plan involving substantial capital investment and strategic debt to achieve an operating surplus by 2028-29.

Launceston is undergoing significant urban development, including a controversial new public art installation, major playground upgrades, new hotel and commercial buildings, and various infrastructure improvements.

The state government withdrew $12 million in funding for a new bus interchange, leaving the City of Launceston council with a $25-30 million solo bill for the project at a new location.