Mailley, Mr C.

Mr McBRIDE (MacKillop) (15:11): I rise today to highlight and recognise the vitally important work being done by Naracoorte's own Senior Constable Chris Mailley, who last month was awarded South Australian Citizen of the Year at a reception at Government House. This prestigious recognition followed his earlier accolades as Naracoorte's Citizen of the Year on Australia Day and Police Officer of the Year in September 2024. Senior Constable Mailley is a deserving recipient of these honours due to the profound impact he has had on keeping people safe and his tireless work in addressing domestic violence.

Senior Constable Chris Mailley began his role in the family violence investigation section just three years ago. Originally a UK police officer, he joined SAPOL in 2009, bringing with him 15 years of experience in high-pressure departments such as the riot squad, firearms, drug units and covert operations. Senior Constable Mailley and his family moved to South Australia in 2010, initially intending to stay temporarily in Naracoorte while waiting for a position in Mount Gambier. However, they soon fell in love with the area, with Senior Constable Mailley finding purpose in his police work and his wife, Amanda, becoming a respected midwife and nurse in the region. He became involved in various community initiatives, including constructing the BMX track, running drug awareness forums and supporting the local high school.

When Senior Constable Mailley began his role in family violence investigation, he quickly realised the lack of support for domestic violence victims in the Upper South-East. He took it upon himself to innovate and solve this problem, creating partnership models between the police and the community. His efforts led to the establishment of the Upper South-East Domestic Abuse Program, which provides emergency financial support for victims, including accommodation, transport and relocation assistance. One example of this program's success was when Senior Constable Mailley was able to secure interstate flight tickets for a domestic violence victim trying to escape a life-threatening situation. This was done in a mere 27 minutes and ultimately saved her life.

Senior Constable Mailley's program not only responds to immediate crises but also focuses on preventative measures. This includes a youth respectful relationships program aiming to change mindsets and attitudes in the next generation, ensuring they understand what behaviours are acceptable. This program has successfully tackled various complexities of domestic abuse, including same-gender relationships, child abuse and elder abuse.

One of the key strengths of the Upper South-East Domestic Abuse Program is its simplicity and efficiency. With little to no red tape, the program operates with the cooperation of an independent volunteer committee. It receives no government funding and instead relies on donations and fundraising, allowing it to offer immediate support to those at risk.

The program has attracted widespread support from businesses, sporting clubs and community groups, exemplifying how communities can tackle social issues together. Not only has this initiative addressed the immediate needs of domestic violence victims but it has also focused on changing the cultural mindset around domestic abuse. It has created a cohesive and united community, demonstrating the power of collaboration and community involvement in tackling such critical issues. This grassroots approach has allowed for a more tailored and rapid response to domestic violence, making it a model that could be replicated in other regional areas.

Senior Constable Mailley's passion for helping victims of domestic violence is reflected in his approach to the issue, which he defines as investigation, intervention and predominantly victim management. He acknowledges that dealing with vulnerable individuals who are affected by physical or sexual abuse, coercive control, child abuse or elder abuse requires both compassion and creative problem-solving. Senior Constable Mailley says the work is ongoing, and it is testament to his deep commitment to his adopted community. His aim is for the South-East region to be recognised as providing the best domestic violence support in the state.

In conclusion, while the Upper South-East Domestic Abuse Program is a beacon of innovation and community collaboration, it is important to recognise that government financial support plays a vital role in sustaining such activities. However, it is equally important that the government allows these community-driven programs the autonomy to operate without unnecessary bureaucratic constraints. By reducing red tape and empowering local leaders like Senior Constable Mailley, the government can ensure these vital programs continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of domestic violence victims. This balance of support and flexibility is crucial for creating lasting change in regional areas and beyond. Thank you, Senior Constable Chris Mailley.