Key Takeaways
- The City of Greater Bendigo has equipped its elected representatives with mobile "panic buttons" due to escalating threats of violence from the public.
- The personal duress alarms can be worn as a necklace or on the hip and notify a private alarm company when triggered.
- A recent survey found that four out of five Victorian councillors had experienced threatening or intimidating behaviour between 2020 and 2024.
- Councillors across Victoria have raised concerns about threats of violence, with some saying it would take death threats before authorities responded.
- The introduction of duress alarms is happening across the local government sector, with several councils distributing similar technology.
Introduction to the Issue
The City of Greater Bendigo, located north-west of Melbourne, has taken a significant step to ensure the safety of its elected representatives. The council has recently provided its eight councillors with mobile "panic buttons" amidst escalating threats of violence from the public. These personal duress alarms can be worn as a necklace or on the hip and are designed to notify a private alarm company when triggered. The company can then communicate with the individual through an internal speaker, and if nobody responds, they can escalate their response to emergency contacts and authorities.
The Need for Panic Buttons
The introduction of duress alarms is a response to the growing concern about threatening behaviour directed at local government staff and councillors. A recent survey by the Victorian Local Governance Association found that four out of five Victorian councillors had experienced threatening or intimidating behaviour between 2020 and 2024. This alarming statistic highlights the need for measures to be taken to protect those in public office. The City of Greater Bendigo Council Mayor, Thomas Prince, noted that the devices have been given to other staff in local government, indicating that this is a widespread issue that requires a proactive approach.
Councillors’ Experiences with Threats
Councillors across Victoria have raised concerns about threats of violence, with some saying it would take death threats before authorities responded. One councillor, Aaron Spong, shared his experience of being approached by a man who launched a vitriolic tirade and spat on him. This incident has left Cr Spong cautious and evaluating the feel of the community whenever he goes out. He believes that the mobile duress alarms are a good initiative, providing an added layer of security for councillors who are often at the forefront of community interactions.
The Response from Councils
The City of Greater Bendigo is not alone in its efforts to address the issue of threatening behaviour. Several peak bodies, agencies, and the alarm company have been contacted for comment, indicating that this is a widespread concern that requires a collective response. Cr Prince noted that the introduction of duress alarms is happening across the local government sector, with several councils distributing similar technology. While it is unclear how many councils have distributed similar technology, it is clear that this is a growing trend in response to the escalating threats of violence.
The Effectiveness of Panic Buttons
While the introduction of duress alarms is a positive step, there are concerns about their effectiveness in a threatening situation. Cr Prince noted that in a violent circumstance, the reality is that you’re probably going to call the police. However, the duress alarms can provide an added layer of security and rapid response in situations where councillors feel threatened or intimidated. As the use of these devices becomes more widespread, it will be essential to evaluate their effectiveness and make adjustments as needed to ensure the safety of those in public office.
Conclusion
The introduction of mobile "panic buttons" by the City of Greater Bendigo is a significant step in addressing the growing concern about threatening behaviour directed at local government staff and councillors. While there are concerns about their effectiveness, these devices can provide an added layer of security and rapid response in situations where councillors feel threatened or intimidated. As the local government sector continues to grapple with this issue, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of those in public office, ensuring that they can perform their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.
