Media Release by Walgett Shire Council

Published on 30 January 2025

Walgett Shire Council acknowledges the concerns raised by the community regarding a social media post shared by a Council staff member on Sunday, 26 January 2025. Council understands the hurt, offence and trauma this post has caused, particularly within the Aboriginal community.

The staff member involved removed the post immediately when asked and has expressed deep remorse for their actions. They extend an apology to the community and to their coworkers for the impact the post has had.

Council does not condone or endorse the post in any way, and we want to be clear that it does not reflect the values of our organisation.

Council were already in the process of implementing cultural awareness training for all staff, but in light of this incident, we have prioritised this program. All Council staff will undertake mandatory cultural competency training. Those directly involved in this matter will receive additional one-on-one mentoring and counselling.

Council has sought advice from relevant authorities, including Local Government NSW, legal experts, and workplace advisors, to ensure this matter is handled appropriately. We have also engaged with Aboriginal community leaders and organisations to understand the best way forward.

While we appreciate the community’s desire for transparency, we are bound by both Council’s workplace privacy policies and NSW legislation that protects employee information, including in disciplinary matters. This is not about avoiding accountability and transparency but ensuring we act in accordance with legal obligations while addressing the issue responsibly.

Walgett Shire Council has been working hard to build stronger relationships with the Aboriginal community and we remain committed to improving cultural awareness within our organisation and ensuring all staff uphold the highest standards of respect and inclusivity.

We know words aren’t enough - actions matter. Walgett Shire Council is determined to ensure our values of respect, integrity and ethical conduct are reflected in everything we do.

Megan Dixon
General Manager
Walgett Shire Council

If you would like to contact Council please use Council’s Online Customer Action Request Portal  https://walgett.wufoo.com/forms/z18alkdo1lmi4tw/ or email admin@walgett.nsw.gov.au