Answers to Questions

Whyalla Dry Zone Proposal

In reply to the Hon. H.M. GIROLAMO (Deputy Leader of the Opposition) ().4 March 2025).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State):

The Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs has advised:

1. An application to establish a city-wide dry area in Whyalla has not been made by the Whyalla city council to the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner at this time.

2. The Liquor and Gambling Commissioner has introduced a three-month trial restricting the sale of four-litre casks, five-litre casks and all fortified wine and port casks commencing on 14 April 2025.

The trial will see if the restrictions have an impact on antisocial behaviour and alcohol-related harm in Whyalla and surrounding areas.

Data from liquor licences and authorities will be reviewed to determine the next steps.'

The Minister for Human Services has advised:

Whyalla city council recently joined the Safety and Wellbeing Taskforce (the task force)—a multi-agency committee supporting the needs of remote Aboriginal people and the communities they are visiting. Task force members identify and discuss matters with a view to developing strategies and place-based responses that support mobility, safety and wellbeing.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is continuing to work with stakeholders, including task force agencies, through the Whyalla Services Leadership Group (WSLG) which includes representatives from:

The task force will continue to oversee responses in Whyalla.

DHS is working closely with Aboriginal tenancies in the area and supporting people who are visiting Whyalla to return to community.

The Minister for Police has advised:

1. SAPOL has met with council on several occasions in addition to monthly attendance at the Whyalla Services Leadership Group.

Council has been offered guidance regarding crime prevention through environmental design, as well as advice on contacting police when incidents occur; and further communicating this to members of the community to provide police the opportunity to attend incidents.

2. South Australia Police (SAPOL) and Consumer and Business Affairs have previously trialled liquor licensing restrictions. Further local liquor licensing accord meetings are scheduled where current licensing conditions will be discussed with all licensees in Whyalla. Whyalla city council representatives will also be present.

A police operation has recently commenced (until 17 April 2025) with a focus on reducing instances of antisocial behaviour in public places within Whyalla. This operation will see further SAPOL resources deployed into Whyalla to proactively monitor and effectively respond to intoxicated individuals engaged in antisocial behaviours.

SAPOL has also engaged with Department of Human Services and SA Housing Trust to assist in the repatriation of residents back to remote Indigenous communities.