Lake Macquarie councillors have followed the recommendation of an independent regulator, voting to give themselves a pay rise.
The 2.5% increase will see councillors take home just under $29,700, while the mayor will pocket $116,110.
Meanwhile, Lake Macquarie councillors voted last night to introduce portfolios of responsibility for elected representatives - in a similar fashion to state and federal politicians.
The 7 portfolios include areas such as lifestyle and wellbeing, connected communities and shared decision making, allowing councillors with particular skills in these areas to make a more effective contribution to the running of the city.
