Elected representatives must be able to serve their communities without fear of violence or intimidation, the Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor said an address at last night's Council meeting.
Speaking on behalf of Councillors and staff, Mayor Stephen Batty condemned the attack on Federal Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines and extended well wishes for her recovery.
"First and foremost, our thoughts are with Dr Haines, along with her family, friends, colleagues and community members," he said.
"She has the well wishes of our Council and the Mornington Peninsula community as her recovery progresses.
"Our political system relies on our elected representatives feeling safe to carry out their role in serving their community. Violence has no place in our society, and political violence must be condemned.
"Respectful discourse is fundamental to active citizenship, but disagreements and differing views must never descend into violence or intimidation."
Council joins those condemning the attack and calls for more measured and respectful participation in political and community processes.
