In recent weeks we have observed a disturbing rise in misinformation and harmful comment on social media, directed at Hepburn Shire Council, its staff, and councillors. The leak of the draft Local Government Inspectorate Report, the ESC application for a rate increase and the Council Plan process have sparked comment and debate in the community which has escalated into personal attacks, intimidation, and threats in social media. This behaviour is not only unacceptable but also deeply damaging to our community.
Disagreement and debate are natural, even necessary, in a functioning democracy. Councillors and public officials expect scrutiny and are open to constructive feedback. However, there is a significant difference between engaging in a good-faith discussion and launching defamatory or abusive attacks. Disinformation—intentionally spreading falsehoods—further undermines public trust and harms the very community members it claims to inform.
Cr Lesley Hewitt spoke on the matter at last week’s Council meeting calling for respectful debate. “Some people have conflated these issues, combining them with their own personal grudges and have been threatening and abusive to various staff and officers and to some Councillors,” she said. “Again, no-one is above criticism but there are ways of doing this that are not harmful to people.” She recounted a personal experience during a Rainbow story time at ChillOut – a message on one little girl’s T-Shirt reading “Be kind”.
Council has acknowledged the issue and is taking steps to address it. Mayor Don Henderson expressed his dismay at the spread of baseless rumours and the hostility directed toward Council staff and elected representatives. While acknowledging that robust debate is a healthy part of democracy, he made it clear that threats and abuse will not be tolerated. Incidents of harassment will now be referred to the police and relevant authorities.
Council has outlined multiple ways for residents to provide feedback constructively. The Participate Hepburn website, questions or addresses at Council meetings, and direct communication channels offer opportunities for engagement without resorting to toxic social media channels.
Healthy debate, even passionate disagreement, is essential for us to resolve the current financial crisis in our community. But when discourse turns toxic, it erodes the foundation of a strong, connected community. At the heart of this issue is a simple but crucial principle: respect. We must hold ourselves and each other to a higher standard—one based on integrity, constructive dialogue, and yes, kindness.
The Editorial Committee of The Wombat Post
