Liverpool Council says its revised media policy is designed to tackle an increase in abusive, negative and inaccurate social media posts about councillors and council staff.
Council CEO Jason Breton said the new policy governs conduct by councillors, council staff and the users of the council’s social media platforms.
“In many ways, our expectations are the same as most community group Facebook pages – treat everyone with respect, especially when debating different points of view,” he said.
“Unlike other councils that have different policies for different categories, Liverpool has combined them into one simple document, with the provisions largely based on the Office of Local Government’s model guidelines.”
Council points to abuse and misinformation on social media platforms, including Facebook, becoming a growing concern in Australia.
It cites a 2021 report by the Australian Communications and Media Authority which found that 76 percent of Australians had encountered misinformation online, with Facebook being the most cited platform.
Similarly, the eSafety Commissioner has reported a rise in online abuse, linking it to increased anxiety, depression, and trauma.
“The new media policy takes a best practice approach as outlined in the council code of conduct and clearly defines the roles, responsibilities, and standard of conduct expected from council officials when engaging with traditional media and social media,” Mr Breton said.
What does that mean in practice?
Censorship?
Maybe they should run this scandal riven Council better and the criticism would subside.
It’s really simple, If it can’t be said in a respectful manner, don’t say it, likewise if it’s not the truth don’t post it. There is no Parliamentary privilege in local Councils.