Another plan unveiled to tackle long-standing issues in Port Augusta
The state government has announced another plan to tackle issues regarding crime, violence and substance abuse in Port Augusta. The efforts have been praised by Indigenous leaders who say it is needed, but have criticised the lack of Indigenous consultation.
The state government plans to establish a task force to tackle crime and violence in Port Augusta, following the discontinuation of the City Safe Program in 2020. Representatives from multiple government departments, the local member and Port Augusta Council will discuss the task force's objectives during a closed-door meeting on Friday.
Aboriginal leaders, including Barngarla elder Aunty Linda Dare and Kuyani and Adnyamathanha elder Malcolm "Tiger" McKenzie, express frustration over a lack of Indigenous consultation and concerns about rising crime rates. While restrictions on alcohol in 2022 were welcomed, methamphetamine use has since become a more significant issue, fueling increased crime.
Indigenous youth advocates Eli Partridge and Christian Khan warn that rhetoric about crime and substance abuse can unfairly target young Aboriginal men. The task force aims to complement existing programs like Mangrove Court, which supports youth offenders, but both elders emphasize the need for measurable KPIs and community involvement to address the issue effectively.
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