  The SKA will be a transformational instrument in the study of our local
Universe. In particular, by virtue of its high sensitivity (both to point
sources and diffuse low surface brightness emission), angular resolution and
the frequency ranges covered, the SKA will undertake a very wide range of
astrophysical research in the field of nearby galaxies. By surveying vast
numbers of nearby galaxies of all types with $\mu$Jy sensitivity and
sub-arcsecond angular resolutions at radio wavelengths, the SKA will provide
the cornerstone of our understanding of star-formation and accretion activity
in the local Universe. In this chapter we outline the key continuum and
molecular line science areas where the SKA, both during phase-1 and when it
becomes the full SKA, will have a significant scientific impact.
