Leigh Creek Police Station

The Hon. G.G. BROCK (Stuart) (14:42): My question is to the Minister for Police and Correctional Services. Can the minister update the community of Leigh Creek and surrounding locations as to the situation with the staffing of the Leigh Creek Police Station? With your leave, sir, and that of the house, may I explain?

Leave granted.

The Hon. G.G. BROCK: This police station is currently not staffed, and this is causing grave concerns not only with the local community but also about the ramifications there are if there is a vehicle accident or anything like that. Volunteer ambulance drivers have to attend to that, and I am advised that it is protocol for safety that they must have a police officer whenever they attend these incidents.

The Hon. D.R. CREGAN (Kavel—Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Special Minister of State) (14:43): I thank the member for this important question. He is a powerful advocate for his community. When I commenced in this role, he brought to my attention a number of matters. He has been persistent in ensuring that those matters have not fallen out of my focus or the focus of any department leaders.

To provide him with a very specific answer, Leigh Creek Police Station is normally staffed by two SAPOL members, including an officer in charge. It is currently staffed by a seconded member pending both vacancies being filled. In the interim, the area is supported by police from other cluster stations. South Australia Police are currently seeking applicants for both vacancies, and I would encourage the member to continue to be in contact with me in the way that he has been since I have assumed these responsibilities, as earlier indicated. I look forward to those conversations.