Forensic Science SA

The Hon. S.G. WADE (15:28): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking a question of the Attorney-General in relation to Forensic Science SA.

Leave granted.

The Hon. S.G. WADE: On 26 September 2022, the Director of Forensic Science SA, Professor Wilson-Wilde, reported that the service would find it difficult to continue in the current facility. The mortuary has exceeded capacity, the electrical board is full, the building does not meet work health and safety guidelines and there are significant security concerns. The surge capacity of the facility is limited, which means that the facility could not cope with a mass casualty event. My question to the Attorney-General is: does the Attorney plan to move Forensic Science SA into a more appropriate facility as a matter of urgency?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (15:29): I thank the honourable member for his question. As the director of Forensic Science went on to say, options are currently being investigated. I think it is 2027 that the lease at the Divett Place premises that Forensic Science currently occupies is up.

A final business case is currently underway that will develop options by looking at reviewing and updating the investment needed, including demand for Forensic Science services; looking at the joint service and operating model; undertaking site selection processes; developing design and associated costs for possible options; undertaking analysis of the options; financial and economic assessments; developing the delivery strategy for preferred options; and developing an implementation plan, including risk considerations for further options.

I thank the honourable member for his question. He will be pleased to know that work is underway that has progressed all the way to a final business case.