Naracoorte Police Station

Mr McBRIDE (MacKillop) (14:52): My question is to the Minister for Police. Can the minister inform the house whether land has been purchased or earmarked for the new Naracoorte Police Station? With your leave, sir, and that of the house, I will explain.

Leave granted.

Mr McBRIDE: In the recent state budget, nearly $18 million has been committed for a new Naracoorte Police Station. I understand this will be the new station.

The Hon. D.R. CREGAN (Kavel—Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Special Minister of State) (14:53): I thank the member for this excellent question and for his consistent, significant and impactful advocacy to ensure that there are appropriate facilities for South Australia Police in his community and surrounding communities.

As the member is aware, the Naracoorte Police Station is an ageing legacy asset in the ownership of the minister. The original building on the site was the courthouse, which was extended to provide a new courtroom and waiting and witness facilities in 1954. The police station utilised the old section of the courthouse and there were additions to the facility in 1972 and 1996, as the member is aware. The asset has faced continued building and structural issues arising principally from the failure to adequately install a damp course in the original construction, and those difficulties could not be overcome through further investment over time.

Delivering a new Naracoorte Police Station of course is now a commitment of the government. In terms of the specific land for use for that future asset, I am advised that South Australia Police are presently exploring land options with Renewal SA as part of the first stage of the build for the new police station. I encourage and welcome ongoing contact from the member with respect to this significant investment in his community.