A warning from a Government watchdog - for councils to manage their finances carefully

Financial sustainability's a hot topic during this year's local elections, with some candidates running campaigns based on rates increases.

A report on recent council audits shows local government face significant pressure.

Auditor-General Grant Taylor says his office remains concerned about the viability of the local Government sector - as these are making it more difficult for councils to balance budgets.

Total council debt's doubled since 2017 -- with five councils holding more than a billion dollars in debt.