The Snowy 2.0 hydro scheme in New South Wales is now expected to cost up to $25 billion, more than 12 times its original estimate. An official report confirmed the figure and said the project will not be completed until late 2029. The original $2 billion estimate, announced in 2017, had no business case behind it. The author argues that other large projects, including High Speed Rail and the Suburban Rail Loop, face similar risks. The author calls for an independent authority with real power to oversee major projects and to test cost estimates before approval.
The cost of the Snowy 2.0 pumped-hydro project could reach $25 billion, more than 12 times the original $2 billion promise. Snowy Hydro says the updated target cost is $22.2 billion, with an allowance for a $25 billion scenario. The new completion target is late 2029. Energy Minister Chris Bowen says the project remains a good use of taxpayer money. Opposition members, including Dan Tehan and Angus Taylor, have called for Mr Bowen to resign over the blowouts.
Victorian taxpayers could be liable for tens of billions of dollars in a major fuel crisis, under laws that allow compensation for economic losses. A draft government proposal from June estimated the potential burden at up to $80 billion and prompted plans to update the 1970s-era Fuel Emergency Act. The amendments were not introduced before the end of the parliamentary sitting year, so any changes must wait for the next parliament. A government spokesperson said the state's fuel supply remains strong and that Victoria is better prepared for any emergency.
AU Now app
Your suburb’s news, alerts and Shorts — in one app
Alerts, Shorts and your saved stories — free on Google Play.
Police departments across the United States are facing rising costs for Flock Safety surveillance cameras and software. In Covington, Georgia, annual payments grew from $40,000 in 2020 to $201,000 by August 2026. Multiyear contracts and discounts often expand spending over time, leaving local taxpayers with ongoing bills. Replacement costs for damaged cameras are also paid by cities, since the company keeps ownership of the equipment. Some towns, including Lorain County in Ohio and Killingworth in Connecticut, have decided to end their contracts.
