Port Augusta CBD Declared a Public Precinct

In an effort to improve public safety, Port Augusta’s CBD will become the first Declared Public Precinct outside metropolitan Adelaide. This new measure will take effect on Friday, 18 October 2024, running for six months, and aims to enhance safety for residents and visitors by tackling anti-social behaviour, youth crime, and alcohol-related issues.

"This is a welcomed, measured approach that will provide SAPOL with additional tools to ensure safety and public order in our city. By working closely with the Port Augusta City Council and other agencies, SAPOL will be better equipped to address issues like crime, alcohol abuse, and youth-related anti-social behaviour. This collaboration is essential if we are to make meaningful changes." Mayor Linley Shine stated.

The Declared Public Precinct will operate daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, covering the area along Augusta Highway, Victoria Parade, and the Spencer Gulf shoreline.

A Declared Public Precinct enables the following powers provided by Section 66 of the Act to be exercised by police:

• Conduct metal detector searches for weapons.
• Perform drug detection operations.
• Order individuals or groups posing risks to public safety to leave the area.
• Ban offenders from re-entering the precinct.
• Remove children engaging in dangerous or disorderly behaviour.

"While the Declared Public Precinct is a good starting point, we recognise that it’s only part of the solution. We must do things differently in Port Augusta to get on top of crime and youth issues. This initiative gives SAPOL new abilities to search for weapons, detect drugs, and move on individuals who pose a threat to public safety. We need to use every available tool to keep people safe and prevent disorder."

"Our focus as a community must be on improving liveability, not just for those who live here but also for visitors. People need to feel safe in public spaces, and initiatives like this are critical in building a community where residents feel secure, and our streets are welcoming." Mayor Linley Shine stated.

Regular meetings between Council and SAPOL will track the progress of these initiatives.

"Council and SAPOL meet regularly to discuss these challenges, and I look forward to seeing reports in the coming months. It will be essential to track how these new initiatives are being used and whether they are making a difference in the community."

Mayor Shine reiterated the importance of community safety for everyone "Port Augusta deserves to be a place where everyone feels protected and supported. This community needs to feel and be safe, and I believe this initiative will help us move toward that goal."

For further information please contact Council’s Media and Communications Officer on (08) 8641 9100

MAYOR LINLEY SHINE
PORT AUGUSTA CITY COUNCIL
18/10/2024