We respectfully ask Darebin City Council to reconsider the continued display of the Palestinian flag at Preston Town Hall and to return the building to a neutral civic position.

Town halls are public buildings that should represent the entire community. When a council building displays the flag of an overseas conflict for a prolonged period, it can feel political and divisive to some residents, particularly during times of heightened tension and violence.

This request is not a rejection of compassion for innocent civilians anywhere. Care and empathy do not require a local council to symbolically align with one side of a complex international conflict. Neutrality is often the most inclusive and respectful approach.

As an alternative and unifying gesture, we ask Council to consider lowering the Australian flag to half-mast for a short, appropriate period to acknowledge and honour victims of recent acts of violence.

This recognises loss without taking a partisan position.

We therefore ask that Darebin City Council:

1) Remove the Palestinian flag from continued display at Preston Town Hall
2) Reaffirm that council buildings represent all residents equally
3) Mark periods of mourning, where appropriate, through neutral civic actions such as half-mast flags

This petition is made respectfully and in good faith, with the aim of community cohesion and fairness.

Thank you for your consideration.