Port Augusta Mayor Brett Benbow is seriously concerned with the recent increase of antisocial behaviour happening across Port Augusta and is seeking better coordination of State and Commonwealth Services to deal with it.

Port Augusta City Council is urgently convening meetings with State and Commonwealth Government agencies to discuss how they can better coordinate services and address the growing increase of people at risk and antisocial behaviour.

“It is apparent that some visitors are binging on alcohol with more cash in their hands, some of which is an unintended consequence of measures put in place to control Covid-19. Council believes it is the responsibility of the Commonwealth and State Governments to step up the provision of Police and other services”. Mayor Benbow stated.

Mayor Benbow welcomes the increased focus of SAPOL in Port Augusta, but says more resources are required, stating that the recent reports of aggression towards the Police undertaking their difficult job should not be tolerated.

“Residents, businesses and visitors to Port Augusta should not have to put up the ongoing antisocial behaviour, nor should they have to dip into their own pockets to try and fix the outcomes of State and Commonwealth Government policies”. Mayor Benbow stated.

Mayor Benbow says Council has been liaising and working with local Aboriginal people who are also unhappy with the behaviours of some visitors to the City. Additional activities for children and families have been initiated but much more needs to be done.

Mayor Benbow is calling upon the Commonwealth and State Governments to take affirmative measure to address the issue.

“Council has always been a strong contributor to and played a role in advocating for services, but it’s time for the State and Commonwealth Governments to step up”. Mayor Benbow stated.

For assistance with any unsociable behaviour, please contact SAPOL for Police Assistance on 131 444, and receive a report number.

The Council operated programs can be contacted on 0428 810 448 during the following times:
Mobile Assistance Program (MAPS) 2pm to 12 Midnight Monday – Saturday and Sunday 4pm – 9pm.
Assertive Outreach Program (AOP) is available between 7am and 3pm.
Sobering Up Unit is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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

JOHN BANKS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
18/12/2020