Mount Magnet Shire councillor Ian Black suspended after no apology for defamatory notice

Mount Magnet Shire deputy president Ian Black has been suspended by Western Australia's highest administrative authority after he refused to apologise for posting a defamatory notice about two council staff members on a public noticeboard.

The State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) issued the suspension on Friday, 10 October 2025. The notice, which contained false and damaging statements about the staff members, was displayed publicly at the shire offices. The SAT's decision highlights the serious consequences of making unverified claims about public officials.

This case underscores the importance of accountability for local government representatives. The suspension serves as a reminder that elected officials must maintain professional standards when communicating, particularly on official platforms. The defamatory nature of the notice, combined with Mr. Black's refusal to retract the statements, led to this disciplinary action.

The suspension of Deputy President Black may set a significant precedent for how similar cases are handled in Western Australia's local government sector. The SAT's ruling is expected to encourage greater responsibility and ethical conduct among elected officials across the state.

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