UPDATE: Wodonga mayor Anna Speedie revealed on Saturday she had now downloaded the COVIDSafe app.
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In a social media post, Cr Speedie said she had changed her mind after speaking to trusted advisers in health and IT as well as local business owners.
"If there is any opportunity that might see some of the government restrictions easing that would actually allow them to reopen for their business, for their family, I would absolutely do it," she said.
She thanked everyone who had contacted her online.
"But I also say to those people who have been completely inappropriate and been quite abusive, just stop," she said.
EARLIER: Anna Speedie will not be downloading the COVIDSafe app, saying it is "one step too far".
The Wodonga mayor spoke to 2AY radio this week and said she was not a fan of the app.
"Maybe it's the rebel in me, I kind of feel like we're tracked enough already and I'm just not there," she said.
'It's just for me, one step too far."
She did not agree that the number of people who download the app should be a tipping point for when life can return to normal, saying "that's where it loses me".
The comments have prompted a reaction from Victorian Senator Jane Hume, who said they were misplaced.
"I hope Cr Speedie, as a community leader, will take a closer look and then change her mind," she said.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"Let's be clear, this is not a tracking app and the privacy regulations are world class.
"We understand people want to protect their privacy, but the COVIDSafe app does not track a user's location.
"By downloading the app, if you later test positive, people you've been in close contact with can be quickly notified before they show symptoms.
"That way, community infection is reduced."
Asked by The Border Mail on Friday if she wished to make any further comment, Cr Speedie said it was up to the individuals to decide whether they download the app.
"My team and I would be more than happy to assist Cr Speedie with any questions she has about the app and her privacy concerns," Senator Hume said.
"She's welcome to give my office a call at any time."
But Federal Border MPs Sussan Ley and Helen Haines both say they have downloaded it on their phones.
Another high-profile Border resident with security concerns is St Matthews Archdeacon Peter MacLeod-Miller, who said the government had a dubious record when it came to trust.
"The tracing app holds potential to compromise the freedoms of Australians long after COVID-19 has been dealt with," he said.
"Public health is of the greatest importance but the COVID-19 app is far from a safe bet."
Another high-profile Border resident with security concerns is St Matthews Archdeacon Peter MacLeod-Miller, who said the government had a dubious record when it came to trust.
"The tracing app holds potential to compromise the freedoms of Australians long after COVID-19 has been dealt with," he said.
"Public health is of the greatest importance but the COVID-19 app is far from a safe bet."
