Statement from Council

Published on 27 November 2025

Council is releasing this statement in response to discussions on online community noticeboards and a recent media enquiry.

Council will not discuss individual employment matters publicly. Directly naming staff in social media or media reports is inappropriate and unacceptable. These individuals are not political figures; they are professionals engaged by Council to serve and support the community.

Council has a duty of care to protect the privacy and wellbeing of staff, and that duty extends to former staff. Attempts to intimidate, vilify, or cast aspersions on these individuals because of their employment with Council are wholly unacceptable. Targeting individuals who serve the community undermines constructive dialogue and does not serve the public interest.

All councils are likely to have ongoing legal matters, including VCAT. Various communication protocols are in place with a very small number of community members, these restrictions are imposed in fulfilment of the Chief Executive Officer's duties to provide staff and Councillors with a safe working environment.

Council draws attention to the media release issued yesterday condemning occupational violence, Council condemns occupational violence.

Council is committed to maintaining confidentiality and protecting the integrity of its workplace. Although some may be disappointed in Council not being able to provide greater specifics to questions, this is not an attempt to avoid scrutiny or obscure the truth; it reflects the ethical and legal responsibility of every employer to protect staff privacy and wellbeing.