CEO of Greater Bendigo Council, Andrew Cooney says it’s time to call out the disrespectful, inappropriate and cowardly commentary that has recently been directed towards our Councillors, and particularly our Mayor.
This follows a study from late last year that found female councillors are more likely to have negative experiences in local government based on their gender.
Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo, Andrea Metcalf, calls the findings are not surprising.
“It’s timely to make this statement ahead of this week’s International Women’s Day celebrations, as it is often our female leaders on the receiving end of hurtful commentary,” Cooney says.
“From time to time, there are community issues that challenge us and not everyone will agree with, but there is absolutely no excuse for online abuse.
“People can feel extremely powerful when all that is in front of them is a keyboard and screen. What they have no knowledge of is the impact of their actions.
“It is the Councillors themselves who manage their email inboxes and social media accounts. They read every word.
“It is often said Local Government is the closest level of government to the people, so I admire anyone who puts up their hand to be a Councillor.”
Bendigo Councillors come from all walks of life and are united by a desire to make our community a better place – but in taking these roles on, they can become a target for unfair and uncalled-for trolling online.
As locals prepare to vote in this October’s Local Government elections, CEO Cooney says that the City of Greater Bendigo prioritises the wellbeing of Councillors and will support those who are willing to take on this essential leadership role.
Council’s customer service teams take more than 100,000 phone calls each year and supports a range of clubs, groups and organisations.
“The City of Greater Bendigo is a transparent and accountable organisation. Councillors and staff value the ‘local’ aspect of Local Government and the opportunity to serve our community,” CEO Cooney says.
“However, I am asking people to keep personal attacks out of their correspondence with Councillors and staff.
“Please think again before you press send or pick up the phone.”
