Casey Council has confirmed that it has no current plans to close off its meetings from the public, despite ongoing disruptive behaviour and civil unrest experienced by it and other councils recently.
Monash Council has cancelled this month’s drag storytime event, citing repeated threats of violence against councillors, staff and the performer.
Recently, Casey Council also cancelled drag workshops on advice from Victoria Police after alleged threats and intimidation.
Casey corporate governance manager Holly De Kretser said there were no plans to remove its public gallery.
“Whilst there has been an increase in public attendance at recent council meetings, this has not given rise to security concerns,” she said.
Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said it was “unacceptable” that Monash Council was forced to cancel their event.
“While public debate is fundamental to democracy, there is never room in this state for hate speech, intimidation, or violence,” she said.
“We will continue to protect councils’ right to program events which celebrate LGBTIQ+ Victorians, increase visibility and uphold our diverse communities’ rights, identities and dignity.
“To our diverse LGBTIQ+ communities and to every drag performer in the state – you are accepted, supported and loved.”
Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) president Cr David Clark said they would support any council in closing their meetings to the public if they felt the need to do so to ensure the safety of their community and employees.
“Anyone from any community can participate in decision making at their local council,” he said.
“It’s what makes local government such a unique and integral part of our democratic system.”
