New residents

New to Port Stephens? Start here for easy access to information, services and resources to help you settle in.

Some of this information will help you connect to key council services such as Waste and Rates. Make sure you take the time to download our Port Stephens Waste app, it’s the easiest way to keep track of all things waste.

At Port Stephens, we have Smart Parking in some of our key business and tourist areas, and residents of Port Stephens are entitled to a park free permit and do not have to pay for parking. To apply for your park free permit, go to the Smart Parking page today!

We’ve got information to help you enjoy your new area. From finding childcare and vacation care options via our Thrive Kids team to being a tourist in your own town and experiencing all that Port Stephens has to offer.

We also haven’t forgotten your pets – don’t forget to update your new address for your pets, and learn where our dedicated dog exercise areas are.

Rates and payments

Find out how to pay your rates in a way that is convenient for you. There's also information on rate categorisation and charges, how to apply for a pensioner concession or financial hardship, and how to change your address with Council.

Report, request and apply

Find out how to report an issue, submit a request, request advice, find an application or registration form.

Smart Parking

Park Free Permits. Are you a Port Stephens resident, ratepayer or business? Find out more about your eligibility for a park free permit and apply online today.

Waste and recycling

Find everything you need to know about waste and recycling services in Port Stephens. Access the A-Z guide for disposing of items, book a kerbside collection, check our green waste events, report litter and illegal dumping, and discover waste education programs and local disposal facilities.

Development applications

Development Applications (DAs) need to be lodged for most developments in Port Stephens. Find out about the application process for different types of development and which projects are exempt.

Library services

Our library comprises 4 branches, Raymond Terrace, Tomaree, Mobile Library and Tilligerry Community Library. Residents and visitors can access a range of holiday events, print and electronic resources, technology, quiet spaces for meeting and reading.

Thrive Kids

Thrive Kids offers a range of childcare options across the Hunter region to suit your needs - including family day care, out of school hours and vacation care, plus our mobile preschool. Backed by Port Stephens Council, Thrive Kids offers quality childcare services you can trust.

Events

Check out what events are happening around the Port Stephens area.

Newsletters

Our community newsletters share a range of information about what's happening at Council. View the newsletters and sign up to receive the latest news.

Port Stephens Tourism

Find out more about where to stay and what to do on the Port Stephens Tourism website.

Visitor Information Centre

At the heart of Port Stephens you'll find the Visitor Information Centre (VIC), where our friendly local staff will welcome you to Port Stephens, share a wealth of knowledge, and help you plan the perfect getaway!

Beaches and foreshores

Find out about what boat ramps and patrolled beaches we have in the Port Stephens area and where to access them.

Pools and leisure centres

Our pools and leisure centres have a range of different features perfect for getting fit or cooling down.

Animals and pets

Owning a pet is a rewarding experience, but it's important to know your responsibilities. Find out how to register and microchip your pet, what your responsibilities are in caring for your animal and information about our refuge services.

Dog parks

Port Stephens has numerous parks and reserves where dogs may be exercised off-lead. Find out where you can exercise your dogs on or off lead and the dog prohibited areas.