26/08/2026
Last week I issued a media statement calling on the State Government to take urgent action on crime and community safety in Port Augusta. It is disappointing that I had to revert to this public notice, as it’s certainly not my style. I’ve always believed in strong relationships and the three tiers of government approaches which has local government recognised as the community voice in partnerships. It is my view that this is not what’s occurring around social challenge and we need that changed.
Crime and antisocial behaviour have been issues for our community for many years. What has become increasingly clear is just how frustrated we all are, and quite rightly so. Elected Members and I have received constant calls for help and the stories are heartbreaking. No one is going to convince me that we are not going backwards around social challenge, which is so disappointing, considering near every other aspect of our beautiful city is flourishing.
Our community feels unheard, I feel unheard, and it’s just not good enough. This is why we have called for increased resources, stronger action on crime and antisocial behaviour, the reinstatement (and broadening) of the Declared Public Precinct, continued support for the Safer Places Project, and greater clarity about sustainable approaches moving forward.
Since the statement was released, I have participated in a few radio interviews and continued discussions with various stakeholders. It is encouraging that there has been some movement in a number of areas, but there’s still much more work to do.
Council is grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received from our community around this unfortunate harsh approach. Your messages supporting our position continues to show that this matters deeply to you all. We all agree that Port Augusta deserves to feel safe, supported and heard because our people and our businesses are suffering.
Speaking of businesses, on a more positive note, I am looking forward to celebrating our local business community at the upcoming Port Augusta Business Awards. With nominations now closed, this is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work, dedication and contribution of the businesses and individuals who help make Port Augusta such a great place to live, work and do business. Our local businesses support jobs, families, and organisations, and contribute so much to the character of our city. I look forward to celebrating the nominees and acknowledging their achievements.
The Augusta Markets, run by Business Port Augusta and having a strong emphasis on supporting community businesses, is also coming up on Saturday, 28 November. This is where we see Commercial Road coming alive for one day as this incredibly vibrant street market event, celebrating our local makers, growers, artists, and businesses. There’ll be handmade goods, art, homewares, food, kids’ activities, and plenty more. Like many of you, I can’t wait! So, if you would like to have a stall, get in touch with Business Port Augusta to register your interest.
In getting ready for the markets, we are planning a CBD Spring Clean-Up along Commercial Road and surrounding areas on Monday 16 November, so please save the date if you want to get involved. This initiative is through our Building Safer Spaces Program, and we are looking forward to working with local businesses around this refresh. Keep an eye on Council’s page for further details, with flyers also being delivered to CBD businesses. What a wonderful way to freshen up our CBD ahead of the Augusta Markets and our annual Christmas Pageant.
Finally for this week, I would like to congratulate the Port Augusta Racing Club for their outstanding 2026 Winter Season which has now come to an end. Each year the club and facilities go from strength to strength, and this continues to promote our beautiful city throughout Australia. Thank you to everyone who supports this in any way!
