Sydney Councillor Identifies Herself as Victim in Assault Case Against Indigenous Elder Mick Mundine

City of Sydney councillor Yvonne Weldon has publicly identified herself as the complainant in a child sexual assault case involving prominent Indigenous elder Mick Mundine.

Mundine, 79, was charged with two counts of sexual assault, including an offense against a child, stemming from an alleged incident that occurred over 40 years ago. NSW Police stated that detectives arrested a 79-year-old man in Redfern on Thursday, following an investigation by Strike Force Millersburg, established in December 2025.

Ms. Weldon, an independent councillor and the first Aboriginal woman elected to the local authority, released a statement on social media Friday, naming herself as the alleged victim. "I have carried this for 40 years. It is time to no longer carry it," she stated. "I came forward for the children who are here now and to break the culture of silence that allows abuse to continue."

She added, "To other survivors of abuse in its many forms, you are not alone. It is never too late to speak up and seek support." Ms. Weldon indicated she would not comment further on the matter while it is before the courts.

Mundine's lawyer, Fahim Arya, told the ABC that his client was shocked by his arrest and intends to fight the charges. Mundine was granted police bail and is scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court next week.

Mundine is the chief executive of the Aboriginal Housing Company, founded in 1973. The organization acquired properties in Redfern, a significant site for the local Aboriginal community. Mundine joined the company as a painter in the 1970s and rose to become its chief executive, playing a central role in efforts to preserve Aboriginal ownership of land and redevelop the neighborhood.

Resources for support are available: 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, 13YARN on 13 92 76, and Lifeline on 13 11 14.