Hurstville and Sutherland Shire councils are developing iPhone applications (apps) that will enable residents to access council information via their mobile phones.

Hurstville had hoped to be the first council with an app in St George and Sutherland Shire but Rockdale trialled a similar app last year.

A Rockdale Council spokesman said it was abandoned after it "failed to meet expectations".

Hurstville mayor Steve McMahon said the innovative app would give residents and visitors a greater flexibility to stay in touch with the council 24 hours a day.

"People will be able to sit on a train and request a tree removal, check availability at local car parks before they start driving and even view the local bus timetable," he said.

"It is all about making life easier for a generation of people who don't have the time to deal with council by waiting on hold or reading brochures."

"It will also allow residents to report a problem in the community, including potholes, damaged footpaths or illegally dumped rubbish in the suburbs.

"This means residents can lodge a works report with council at any time of the day, which in turn will be logged into council's system for further action as required."

Cr McMahon said the app was scheduled to go live by mid next year and would be available for free download from the iTunes App Store.

Following its launch, the council will explore the option of developing a similar product for Android and other smart phones.

The app will include details on:

- news and what’s on

- reserves and parks

- library services

- waste collection

Will you use the applications?