Suicide Prevention

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS (15:17): I have a supplementary question. Will the minister indicate whether, during his visit to the South-East, he had the opportunity to learn more about the work of the SAPOL LSA in domestic violence and suicide prevention?

The Hon. P. MALINAUSKAS (Minister for Police, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Road Safety) (15:17): Again, I thank the honourable member for his question. I know he has a particular passion for suicide prevention and it is one that this government wholeheartedly welcomes.

Yes, I did take the time to spend some time within that LSA. I spent some time in the Mount Gambier Police Station and had the opportunity to speak to a whole range of people who work within SAPOL in that LSA. Whenever you go to a different station or a different LSA there will always be unique issues or different challenges represented. I think domestic violence is an issue that, unfortunately, permeates so many of our communities throughout the state but it is an issue locally there as it is everywhere. There is a range of other challenges that we discussed including the drug challenges that exist in many of our regions, particularly with the all-invasive drug ice that so many South Australians are concerned about.

Specifically, yes, there were issues discussed around domestic violence, not necessarily suicide prevention immediately. There was a range of issues discussed that I know are contributing factors to what we see occurring regarding suicide within the community. These are things that we need to remain vigilant about and are things that I know are top of mind for SAPOL. Obviously no work that we put into this area can be too much but, rest assured, this government remains utterly committed to the causes the honourable member asked about.