Mornington Peninsula Shire has introduced a new requirement for residents to register online in advance before attending Council meetings — a move that has drawn criticism amid growing community unrest.
In a notice shared via social media on Tuesday, the Shire said the change was aimed at ensuring “a safe and well-organised experience for all attendees.” From now on, community members must:
- Register individually via the Shire’s website
- Provide a valid email address
- Present photo ID upon entry
The online registration portal is now active at mornpen.vic.gov.au/councilmeetingregistration.
However, the change has not been well received by all residents. Comments on the Shire’s social media post were disabled, but discussion quickly shifted to community forums, where residents expressed frustration and concern.
“I guess it’s their way of ensuring a ‘mob’ don’t turn up,” said Judy. “But how much security do they have if a big group arrive and ask to be let in when they haven’t pre-booked?”
Dan questioned the exclusion of older or less tech-savvy community members:
“So my dad doesn’t have an email address — he can no longer go to Council meetings? Seems they are deliberately cutting out a whole demographic.”
“Sounds a bit unlawful to be honest,” added another commenter, Rod.
The new policy follows a string of contentious Council meetings in recent months, where community tensions have boiled over. Numerous local groups have staged protests in response to what they say are broken promises and a lack of consultation — particularly over funding cuts, planning decisions, and arts and environmental programs.
Much of the criticism has been directed at Mayor Anthony Marsh, with several community members accusing him of shutting down public debate, silencing dissenting voices and comparing him to American President Donald Trump. Calls for greater transparency and accessibility have intensified, particularly in light of these latest changes.
Following the backlash, the MPSC removed their Facebook post and has not yet released a formal statement. At the time of publication, the only public communication on the matter remains the social media post and registration link.
STPL News has sought clarification from the Mayor Anthony Marsh during a public interaction where the Mayor responded to our article in a comment, replying to another user.
“Another quality, well-researched ‘story’ ?” he said.
STPL News used this opportunity to seek clarification from the Mayor:
“Anthony Marsh was this another one of your directives?” we asked.
“STPL News Belonging to which group of so-called ‘directives’?” Marsh responded
“Anthony Marsh was the decision to require residents to register in advance to attend Council meetings one of your directives?” we clarified.
Marsh did not respond to the last message or provide us an answer to our question.
