The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan has been designed with local community to help create a safer, stronger and more connected region. The Plan sets out clear actions, timeframes, and funding considerations.
The plan actions focus on:
- community caring
- community safety
- building partnerships to achieve positive outcomes.
To help put the plan into action, the Commonwealth and South Australian Governments committed $12 million in July 2024, across a 3-year period, to support positive change in the region.
Read the Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
The Alliance driving the plan
The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Alliance was set up in late 2024 to help carry out the plan with support from the Department of Human Services and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
This dedicated leadership group includes local representatives from Traditional Owner groups, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, youth, service providers, businesses, and government.
Together, they:
- choose priority actions that align with new funding
- set up a way to track and measure outcomes
- champion culturally appropriate and sustainable service responses.
Alliance Members
Back row, left to right: Tara Blaikie, Christian Khan, Paula Fielding, Paul Isherwood, Dre Ngatokorua, Jake Collins, Mike Fordham (facilitator).
Front row, left to right: Harry Dare, Virginia Lloyd, Linda Dare, Abby Walker, Jacqueline Costanzo.
Absent: Alex Reid, Josh Heinze, Shonelle Reid, Elijah Partridge, Anna Caponi, Markeeta Stuart, Rob Singleton.
Meet the Alliance members
Linda Dare
“I am committed to representing our community and ensuring that the programs supported by government funding are completed and will benefit the youth of Port Augusta.”
Harry Dare
“I represent the Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation and as an Elder I bring a wealth of cultural knowledge and wisdom. I intend to use this knowledge to support informed decision making and unity in the community.”
Dre Ngatokorua
“I remain deeply committed to my community by supporting local voices, leading cultural initiatives, and helping deliver meaningful events that bring our people together.”
Shonelle Reid
“I am committed to bringing lived experience, local voices and cultural connections. I am passionate about making a difference for young people in our community.”
Christian Khan
"I represent the youth for the Alliance. I bring the voices and ideas of our young community, and I would love to see Port Augusta — and everyone connected to this town — achieve great things."
Elijah Partridge
"I am a youth representative and I want to help my community thrive for the next generation."
Anna Caponi
“I am committed to being part of the Port Augusta and Davenport Alliance to contribute to the betterment of our community by supporting meaningful change and empowering our local people. I want to help shift perceptions and create lasting impact through collaboration and culturally informed leadership.”
Markeeta Stuart
“I’m dedicated to making a better community for all.”
Paula Fielding
“I believe that with my skills/knowledge and abilities, I am hoping to support/advise in making our communities a safe environment for our children and young people.”
Rob Singleton
“I represent Port Augusta and the regional community and bring a lifetime of experience and knowledge of what healthy and thriving communities look like.
I commit to representing our fantastic community and aim to make an invaluable contribution towards helping Port Augusta be the best version of itself.”
Jake Collins
“I represent support services within Port Augusta through my role as Homelessness Program Manager at The Salvation Army. I have experience from government and non-government employment and have been supporting people for 13 years in the housing and homelessness sector.”
Abby Walker
“I represent the service provider sector on the Alliance. My current role is with Headspace and I bring over 12 years of mental health experience and working with young people. As a local person I'm passionate about improving outcomes for young people and the community.”
Tara Blaikie
“I represent the service provider sector and bring 18 years of experience and knowledge of wellbeing and social work practice through my role with the Department for Child Protection. I aim to contribute my experience in being creative, thinking outside the square and supporting initiatives that will make a difference for our community.”
Paul Isherwood
“As Superintendent, I have the Officer in Charge of the Far North Local Service Area since October 2023. With my team, my objective is to make Port Augusta a safe and vibrant place to live, visit and do business. I have already introduced improvements through the establishment of the Declared Public Precinct in the Port Augusta CBD and Operation Summer Safe which deploys many police resources into the city and surrounds.”
Josh Heinze
“I represent SAPOL as the Operations Inspector for the Far North Local Service Area based in Port Augusta. I bring over 20 years of policing experience to this group. I aim to use my knowledge and experience to support the group making informed decisions to make Port Augusta and Davenport a safe and vibrant city for people to live, work and visit.”
Virginia Lloyd
“I represent the Business sector on the Alliance. I believe that the voice of business is crucial in shaping practical solutions for a safer, healthier community. As a long-time resident, I want to ensure that our local businesses are part of meaningful conversations that drive positive change in the way we live and work.”
Alex Reid
“I represent the Department of Human Services (DHS), and we work closely with the Port Augusta and Davenport communities to help build community safety and wellbeing in the region. Having spent many years in regional and remote South Australia earlier in my career, I know the strength of community-led change, and my priority is for DHS to be a supportive partner in helping the Alliance achieve the vision and aims of the Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.”
Craig Hendry
“I represent the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) in my role as the South Australian Regional Manager. NIAA’s involvement with the Alliance aligns with our mission to empower First Nations people through genuine partnerships and supporting the objectives of placed-based partnerships and shared decision making. My priority is to support community aspirations, and the implementation of the community led Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.”
Initiatives developed from the plan
Various initiatives are being implemented to support and improve the wellbeing of the local community in Port Augusta and Davenport:
Up to 30 young people are involved in co-designing a community mural with Aboriginal artist Scott Rathman from Rusted Tin. The project titled ‘This Place is Us – Our Voices, Our Story, Our Way’ focuses on culture, collaboration, relationships and community pride.
Up to 30 young people are involved in co-designing a community mural with Aboriginal artist Scott Rathman from Rusted Tin. The project titled ‘This Place is Us – Our Voices, Our Story, Our Way’ focuses on culture, collaboration, relationships and community pride.
Led by the Department for Education, the Education and Wellbeing Hub provides tailored support for young people aged 10 and above who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging from education. The model is co-designed to ensure it reflects local needs and delivers holistic, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed support. The Hub is now open and working with young people and their families to support them in their education journey.
Led by the Department for Education, the Education and Wellbeing Hub provides tailored support for young people aged 10 and above who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging from education. The model is co-designed to ensure it reflects local needs and delivers holistic, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed support. The Hub is now open and working with young people and their families to support them in their education journey.
A therapeutic court model developed with the community to address the underlying causes of youth offending that led to their involvement in the justice system. Young people are supported by a youth coach, court Elders / Respected Persons and Aboriginal youth justice officers.
The court is open and referrals are open.
About Mangrove Court (3.20 mins)
The Mangrove Court is a culturally safe court for Aboriginal young people and their families at Port Augusta. This Court involves Elders and Respected Persons and is a place that understands culture, family, and community. The Mangrove Court is different to a regular court. It can offer support and help you find a new way forward.
Your time in the Mangrove Court will be a journey. There are different steps along the way, and you don’t walk it alone. Let’s yarn about what this journey looks like, and what you can expect if you’re part of the Mangrove Court.
If you’re interested in the Mangrove Court, have a yarn with your lawyer, the Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer, or the Mangrove Coordinator. They can explain it more and help you figure out if the Mangrove Court is right for you.
To be part of the Mangrove Court, you’ll need to have a yarn with the Mangrove Coordinator and the Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer. This is called an assessment. You can bring anyone you want for support. You can yarn together about your mob, what’s going on for you, the offending, and what might help moving forward.
After the assessment, the Mangrove Coordinator will write a report for the Magistrate and the Elders and Respected Persons. The Magistrate will read it and set a time to decide if you can be part of the Mangrove Court. This is called an acceptance hearing. Your lawyer will be there, along with any support person you choose and the Elders and Respected Persons. The Mangrove Coordinator and Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer will also be there as friendly faces.
Once you’re accepted, you’ll start the Mangrove Court program. You’ll work with a Youth Coach who will yarn with you about your goals, what you want help with and also what the court says is important. They will help with day-to-day things, like going back to school, getting a job, sport, opening a bank account or getting on Centrelink. You’ll catch up with them twice a week while you’re on the program. The Mangrove Coordinator will stay in touch too, catching up with you in the community to check in and see how things are going. Both the Mangrove Coordinator and your youth coach are there to support you and your family on this journey.
While you’re on the program, you’ll be on bail and will come back to court about every 2 to 3 weeks for review meetings. It’s a chance to have a yarn about how things are going and what you need. The Magistrate and Court Elders and Respected Persons will listen to you.
On any journey there are ups and downs and the Mangrove Court will understand this.
The final step is sentencing, where your matters are finalised. The same people who’ve walked the journey with you will be there and know your progress. The Magistrate will think about your time as part of the Mangrove Court when deciding your outcome. You’ll receive a certificate for completing the program — something to take home and be proud of.
If this might be for you, speak to your lawyer, an Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer or an Elder or Respected Person about how you can be part of the Mangrove Court.
For more information, phone 8648 5137 or go to www.courts.sa.gov.au
A therapeutic court model developed with the community to address the underlying causes of youth offending that led to their involvement in the justice system. Young people are supported by a youth coach, court Elders / Respected Persons and Aboriginal youth justice officers.
The court is open and referrals are open.
About Mangrove Court (3.20 mins)
The Mangrove Court is a culturally safe court for Aboriginal young people and their families at Port Augusta. This Court involves Elders and Respected Persons and is a place that understands culture, family, and community. The Mangrove Court is different to a regular court. It can offer support and help you find a new way forward.
Your time in the Mangrove Court will be a journey. There are different steps along the way, and you don’t walk it alone. Let’s yarn about what this journey looks like, and what you can expect if you’re part of the Mangrove Court.
If you’re interested in the Mangrove Court, have a yarn with your lawyer, the Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer, or the Mangrove Coordinator. They can explain it more and help you figure out if the Mangrove Court is right for you.
To be part of the Mangrove Court, you’ll need to have a yarn with the Mangrove Coordinator and the Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer. This is called an assessment. You can bring anyone you want for support. You can yarn together about your mob, what’s going on for you, the offending, and what might help moving forward.
After the assessment, the Mangrove Coordinator will write a report for the Magistrate and the Elders and Respected Persons. The Magistrate will read it and set a time to decide if you can be part of the Mangrove Court. This is called an acceptance hearing. Your lawyer will be there, along with any support person you choose and the Elders and Respected Persons. The Mangrove Coordinator and Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer will also be there as friendly faces.
Once you’re accepted, you’ll start the Mangrove Court program. You’ll work with a Youth Coach who will yarn with you about your goals, what you want help with and also what the court says is important. They will help with day-to-day things, like going back to school, getting a job, sport, opening a bank account or getting on Centrelink. You’ll catch up with them twice a week while you’re on the program. The Mangrove Coordinator will stay in touch too, catching up with you in the community to check in and see how things are going. Both the Mangrove Coordinator and your youth coach are there to support you and your family on this journey.
While you’re on the program, you’ll be on bail and will come back to court about every 2 to 3 weeks for review meetings. It’s a chance to have a yarn about how things are going and what you need. The Magistrate and Court Elders and Respected Persons will listen to you.
On any journey there are ups and downs and the Mangrove Court will understand this.
The final step is sentencing, where your matters are finalised. The same people who’ve walked the journey with you will be there and know your progress. The Magistrate will think about your time as part of the Mangrove Court when deciding your outcome. You’ll receive a certificate for completing the program — something to take home and be proud of.
If this might be for you, speak to your lawyer, an Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer or an Elder or Respected Person about how you can be part of the Mangrove Court.
For more information, phone 8648 5137 or go to www.courts.sa.gov.au
Supporting young people aged 14 to 18 through adventure therapy including mentoring, outdoor experiences and cultural engagement. An approach tailored to the young people in the region has been specifically designed with youth, Elders, schools, services and families. The first exercise is planned for mid-May 2026. Operation Flinders are accepting referrals for young people to take part. To get involved, please contact Kayleen Patterson at Kayleen.patterson2@sa.gov.au.
Supporting young people aged 14 to 18 through adventure therapy including mentoring, outdoor experiences and cultural engagement. An approach tailored to the young people in the region has been specifically designed with youth, Elders, schools, services and families. The first exercise is planned for mid-May 2026. Operation Flinders are accepting referrals for young people to take part. To get involved, please contact Kayleen Patterson at Kayleen.patterson2@sa.gov.au.
The Beatz Bus program, delivered by Umeewarra Aboriginal Media, is a mobile music and education program for young people providing culturally relevant activities, creative opportunities, and mentoring. The Beatz Bus program is expected to commence in 2026.
The Beatz Bus program, delivered by Umeewarra Aboriginal Media, is a mobile music and education program for young people providing culturally relevant activities, creative opportunities, and mentoring. The Beatz Bus program is expected to commence in 2026.
A safe space for young people aged 12-17 to engage in recreational and skill building activities including activities of daily living and a coordinated referral point.
A safe space for young people aged 12-17 to engage in recreational and skill building activities including activities of daily living and a coordinated referral point.
Provides visitors who reside in remote locations, the ability to safely return to their home community. As part of the service, the Salvation Army provides a safe space for people to wait for the bus, dinner, transport to the pick-up point, and active follow-up of non-travellers.
Provides visitors who reside in remote locations, the ability to safely return to their home community. As part of the service, the Salvation Army provides a safe space for people to wait for the bus, dinner, transport to the pick-up point, and active follow-up of non-travellers.
A program for young people with the Davenport Community Council over the summer period from January - March 2026 offering activities, workshops, culture, art, collaboration and connection.
A program for young people with the Davenport Community Council over the summer period from January - March 2026 offering activities, workshops, culture, art, collaboration and connection.
The Salvation Army Youth Bus helps hundreds of local young people get to safe places after hours. The service is now funded to operate year-round until June 2027.
The Salvation Army Youth Bus helps hundreds of local young people get to safe places after hours. The service is now funded to operate year-round until June 2027.
An important local hub for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and recreational activities, including transport. It will continue operating from Tuesday through to Saturday, until June 2027.
An important local hub for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and recreational activities, including transport. It will continue operating from Tuesday through to Saturday, until June 2027.
Assertive outreach that engages young people in the areas they gather, and provides connection to the wider community.
Assertive outreach that engages young people in the areas they gather, and provides connection to the wider community.
Alliance meeting updates
The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Alliance meets once a month to discuss community safety, wellbeing and local priorities. Below is a summary of key updates from their meetings.
The Alliance work is well underway this year and the members have met for their April meeting.
The Alliance has been notified that community representative, Mark Myers, has decided to step down from his position to focus on his business. Mark has been a valuable member of the Alliance, with many positive contributions to the work of the Alliance over the last 12 months. This creates an opportunity for a new community member to join the Alliance and position will be advertised in the coming weeks. If you are interested or would like to know more, please email Emily Butler at DHS.
As you may be aware an expression of interest for the Youth Outreach Program was recently advertised. This month, the Alliance reviewed and assessed all the applications and is pleased to announce that KWY, in collaboration with Uniting Country SA, has been successful. In the coming months the Department of Human Services will transition the delivery of the Youth Outreach Program to KWY. The Alliance looks forward to working closely with KWY to design and implement a program that continues to support the young people of Port Augusta and Davenport Community.
This month the Alliance endorsed a new initiative called Restorative Journeys. The program designed by Kerrie Sellenwill, will build an explicit restorative practice initiative for the Port Augusta and Davenport Community. It will work towards developing a community of practice for community to have a shared approach for building strong, healthy relationships and repairing harm when harm occurs. There will be a dedicated full-time restorative practice practitioner who will work alongside the Alliance funded initiatives to provide strategies and support when working with vulnerable families. The initiative will also offer workshops, training and support to other initiatives, the broader community and organisations.
The Alliance has been working with local media to share information about its work for the Port Augusta and Davenport Community, helping to remain transparent and keep the community informed. A website is being developed, as well as flyers distributed and newspaper articles and radio interviews are in progress. If you have any questions about the work the Alliance, or feedback on the information shared, please email Emily Butler at DHS.
In light of the recent SA First Nations Voice to Parliament election, the Alliance would like to extend their congratulations to Rob Singleton, Ralph Coulthard, TJ Thomas, Jacinta McKenzie, Noeleen Lester, Charmaine Hull and Charlotte Coulthard-Dare on their appointment as members of the SA Voice for the Flinders and Upper North Region.
The Alliance will meet again in mid-May 2026.
The Alliance work is well underway this year and the members have met for their April meeting.
The Alliance has been notified that community representative, Mark Myers, has decided to step down from his position to focus on his business. Mark has been a valuable member of the Alliance, with many positive contributions to the work of the Alliance over the last 12 months. This creates an opportunity for a new community member to join the Alliance and position will be advertised in the coming weeks. If you are interested or would like to know more, please email Emily Butler at DHS.
As you may be aware an expression of interest for the Youth Outreach Program was recently advertised. This month, the Alliance reviewed and assessed all the applications and is pleased to announce that KWY, in collaboration with Uniting Country SA, has been successful. In the coming months the Department of Human Services will transition the delivery of the Youth Outreach Program to KWY. The Alliance looks forward to working closely with KWY to design and implement a program that continues to support the young people of Port Augusta and Davenport Community.
This month the Alliance endorsed a new initiative called Restorative Journeys. The program designed by Kerrie Sellenwill, will build an explicit restorative practice initiative for the Port Augusta and Davenport Community. It will work towards developing a community of practice for community to have a shared approach for building strong, healthy relationships and repairing harm when harm occurs. There will be a dedicated full-time restorative practice practitioner who will work alongside the Alliance funded initiatives to provide strategies and support when working with vulnerable families. The initiative will also offer workshops, training and support to other initiatives, the broader community and organisations.
The Alliance has been working with local media to share information about its work for the Port Augusta and Davenport Community, helping to remain transparent and keep the community informed. A website is being developed, as well as flyers distributed and newspaper articles and radio interviews are in progress. If you have any questions about the work the Alliance, or feedback on the information shared, please email Emily Butler at DHS.
In light of the recent SA First Nations Voice to Parliament election, the Alliance would like to extend their congratulations to Rob Singleton, Ralph Coulthard, TJ Thomas, Jacinta McKenzie, Noeleen Lester, Charmaine Hull and Charlotte Coulthard-Dare on their appointment as members of the SA Voice for the Flinders and Upper North Region.
The Alliance will meet again in mid-May 2026.
The Alliance has funded 12 different initiatives since its inception and much work has been underway, making significant impact for the community.
Key updates
- Community Mural: The mural design and story have been signed off and the location has been selected. An application has been submitted to Plan SA and is awaiting council review. It’s expected the mural will be created with young people in early May 2026.
- Operation Flinders: Mentors have now started formal training. All activities and treks have been finalised, including an overnight stay at Errappa. Operation Flinders are still accepting referrals for young people to take part. The first exercise is planned for 14 May 2026. To get involved, please contact Kayleen Patterson at Kayleen.patterson2@sa.gov.au.
- Mangrove Court: Mangrove Court officially launched in February 2026. A new Mangrove Court Coordinator is expected to start this month, and referrals will be open from late March 2026. The court is now set up with necessary equipment, and a local young person has created artwork for the space.
- Education & Wellbeing Hub: The Hub has been running for 8 weeks and is actively engaging young people as they begin their journey back into education. During this time, the Hub has invested in partnerships with local organisations to help young people transition back to school.
- Salvation Army Youth Bus: Over summer, the Youth Bus helped hundreds of young people get to safe places after hours. Transport numbers have significantly increased since March 2025 demonstrating the need for the service in community. In response, the Alliance agreed to fund the Salvation Army to continue the extended hours of the Youth Bus for another 12 months. This ensures the service will operate year-round rather than seasonally, until June 2027.
- Port Augusta Youth Centre: The Youth Centre is a long-standing hub for young people to spend time together and join in recreational activities after hours and during school holidays. Given the role the Youth Centre plays in community for young people, the Alliance has endorsed funding the Youth Centre to increase its hours to operate every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - in addition to Friday and Saturdays - for an additional 12 months until June 2027.
- Salvation Army Return to Country (RTC) Support program: The RTC support provided by the Salvation Army for people travelling from Port Augusta to their home community, has significant impacts for the individual and Port Augusta community. The Alliance has endorsed funding to continue the Salvation Army program for an additional 12 months.
- Youth Outreach: The Expression of Interest for the Youth Outreach program has closed, and the Alliance will begin assessing applications to transition the funding from DHS to a non-government organisation to deliver the program.
The Alliance will meet again in early April 2026.
The Alliance has funded 12 different initiatives since its inception and much work has been underway, making significant impact for the community.
Key updates
- Community Mural: The mural design and story have been signed off and the location has been selected. An application has been submitted to Plan SA and is awaiting council review. It’s expected the mural will be created with young people in early May 2026.
- Operation Flinders: Mentors have now started formal training. All activities and treks have been finalised, including an overnight stay at Errappa. Operation Flinders are still accepting referrals for young people to take part. The first exercise is planned for 14 May 2026. To get involved, please contact Kayleen Patterson at Kayleen.patterson2@sa.gov.au.
- Mangrove Court: Mangrove Court officially launched in February 2026. A new Mangrove Court Coordinator is expected to start this month, and referrals will be open from late March 2026. The court is now set up with necessary equipment, and a local young person has created artwork for the space.
- Education & Wellbeing Hub: The Hub has been running for 8 weeks and is actively engaging young people as they begin their journey back into education. During this time, the Hub has invested in partnerships with local organisations to help young people transition back to school.
- Salvation Army Youth Bus: Over summer, the Youth Bus helped hundreds of young people get to safe places after hours. Transport numbers have significantly increased since March 2025 demonstrating the need for the service in community. In response, the Alliance agreed to fund the Salvation Army to continue the extended hours of the Youth Bus for another 12 months. This ensures the service will operate year-round rather than seasonally, until June 2027.
- Port Augusta Youth Centre: The Youth Centre is a long-standing hub for young people to spend time together and join in recreational activities after hours and during school holidays. Given the role the Youth Centre plays in community for young people, the Alliance has endorsed funding the Youth Centre to increase its hours to operate every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - in addition to Friday and Saturdays - for an additional 12 months until June 2027.
- Salvation Army Return to Country (RTC) Support program: The RTC support provided by the Salvation Army for people travelling from Port Augusta to their home community, has significant impacts for the individual and Port Augusta community. The Alliance has endorsed funding to continue the Salvation Army program for an additional 12 months.
- Youth Outreach: The Expression of Interest for the Youth Outreach program has closed, and the Alliance will begin assessing applications to transition the funding from DHS to a non-government organisation to deliver the program.
The Alliance will meet again in early April 2026.
The Alliance held its first meeting for 2026. Members remain committed to improving safety and wellbeing across the region.
Key updates
- This month saw the official launch of the Education and Wellbeing Hub, an initiative supported by the Alliance. The program supports young people who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging, from school. The Hub space has been refurbished and is ready to support young people aged 10 and over. Six staff members have been employed.
- Mangrove Court was also launched in February 2026, with the first hearings expected to be heard in Port Augusta in March 2026. An Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer has been employed in Port Augusta and recruitment continues for a Mangrove Court Coordinator.
- Alliance members met with the Productivity Commission to discuss their upcoming trip to Port Augusta to interview members and other key stakeholders, as part of the broader review of The National Agreement on Closing the Gap. The Productivity Commission would like to discuss how the Alliance shares decision making, works with community, and designs and deliver solutions that meet local needs and priorities.
- The Alliance continues to work with Clear Horizon to develop the Understanding, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (UMEL) plan for the Alliance and across the programs the Alliance funds. This will support organisations that receive funding from the Alliance to measure their impact the community and share learnings along the way. This helps the Alliance monitor their progress against their targets and priorities and will be a tool to help keep the community informed.
- Operation Flinders continues to deliver the pre-adventure program for young people in the region. Activities so far have promoted connection and physical conditioning, with expeditions occurring in May and June 2026. To become a mentor, or to refer a young person, contact Youth Response Coordinator Kayleen Patterson.
- The Alliance will meet again in early March 2025.
The Alliance held its first meeting for 2026. Members remain committed to improving safety and wellbeing across the region.
Key updates
- This month saw the official launch of the Education and Wellbeing Hub, an initiative supported by the Alliance. The program supports young people who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging, from school. The Hub space has been refurbished and is ready to support young people aged 10 and over. Six staff members have been employed.
- Mangrove Court was also launched in February 2026, with the first hearings expected to be heard in Port Augusta in March 2026. An Aboriginal Youth Justice Officer has been employed in Port Augusta and recruitment continues for a Mangrove Court Coordinator.
- Alliance members met with the Productivity Commission to discuss their upcoming trip to Port Augusta to interview members and other key stakeholders, as part of the broader review of The National Agreement on Closing the Gap. The Productivity Commission would like to discuss how the Alliance shares decision making, works with community, and designs and deliver solutions that meet local needs and priorities.
- The Alliance continues to work with Clear Horizon to develop the Understanding, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (UMEL) plan for the Alliance and across the programs the Alliance funds. This will support organisations that receive funding from the Alliance to measure their impact the community and share learnings along the way. This helps the Alliance monitor their progress against their targets and priorities and will be a tool to help keep the community informed.
- Operation Flinders continues to deliver the pre-adventure program for young people in the region. Activities so far have promoted connection and physical conditioning, with expeditions occurring in May and June 2026. To become a mentor, or to refer a young person, contact Youth Response Coordinator Kayleen Patterson.
- The Alliance will meet again in early March 2025.
The Alliance met on 12 occasions in 2025, with meetings consistently well attended, reflecting strong commitment and engagement from members. In total, the Alliance has now met 16 times since its formation in late 2024.
Key updates:
- The Alliance carefully considered a range of initiatives that align with the Plan. To date, the Alliance has supported 12 initiatives, each designed to contribute positively to safety and wellbeing in the community. While a number of initiatives are already operational, others are under development ahead of their commencement in 2026.
- In addition, the Alliance is advancing a range of strategic activities including developing a priority work plan to outline key priorities and objectives, partnering with Clear Horizon to develop an understanding, measurement, evaluation and learning (UMEL) plan, undertaking youth services scoping, and fostering collaboration with local groups, agencies and organisations.
- The Alliance will meet again early February 2026, and will continue to meet monthly to drive progress and collaboration.
Summary of the initiatives endorsed to date
Project Organisation Project description Status
Beatz Bus
Umeewarra Media
A mobile music education and diversion program for youth providing culturally relevant activities, creative opportunities and mentoring.
In development, operational in 2026.
Community Mural
SAPOL
Up to 30 young people are involved in co-designing a community mural with Aboriginal artist Scott Rathman. The project titled 'This place is us - our voices, our story, our way' focuses on culture, collaboration, relationships and community pride.
In development, expected completion early 2026.
Education and Wellbeing Hub
Department for Education
A unique education approach for young people, who are disengaged or at risk of disengagement from their current education setting, through connection to culture, trauma informed practice and family engagement.
In development, operational Term 1 2026.
Youth in-reach (The Rec Room)
Department of Human Services
A safe space for young people aged 12-17 to engage in recreational and skill building activities including activities of daily living and a coordinated referral point. Includes multi-agency collaboration.
Current
Return to Country
The Salvation Army
Provides visitors who reside in remote locations, the ability to safely return to their home community. As part of the service The Salvation Army provide a safe space for people to wait for the bus, dinner, transport to the pick-up point, and active follow-up of non-travellers.
Current
Youth Aboriginal Community Court (Mangrove Court)
Courts Administration Authority
A specialist court for Aboriginal young people that aims to reduce or prevent offending by addressing the underlying issues that led to their involvement in the justice system. Young people are supported by a youth coach, court Elders / respected persons and Aboriginal youth justice officers.
In development, operational early 2026.
Youth Bus
The Salvation Army
Safe transport for young people, including referral pathways.
Current
Summer Fest
Davenport Community Council
A program for young people over the summer period from January – March 2026 offering
activities, workshops, culture, art, collaboration and connection.
In development, operational January 2026.
Youth Centre
Port Augusta Youth Centre
A centre for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and activities, including transport.
Current
Youth Outreach
Department of Human Services
Assertive outreach that engages young people in the areas they gather, and provides connection to the wider community.
Current
Project Officer
Department of Human Services
Support the planning, coordinating and delivering of programs supported by the Alliance.
Current
The Alliance met on 12 occasions in 2025, with meetings consistently well attended, reflecting strong commitment and engagement from members. In total, the Alliance has now met 16 times since its formation in late 2024.
Key updates:
- The Alliance carefully considered a range of initiatives that align with the Plan. To date, the Alliance has supported 12 initiatives, each designed to contribute positively to safety and wellbeing in the community. While a number of initiatives are already operational, others are under development ahead of their commencement in 2026.
- In addition, the Alliance is advancing a range of strategic activities including developing a priority work plan to outline key priorities and objectives, partnering with Clear Horizon to develop an understanding, measurement, evaluation and learning (UMEL) plan, undertaking youth services scoping, and fostering collaboration with local groups, agencies and organisations.
- The Alliance will meet again early February 2026, and will continue to meet monthly to drive progress and collaboration.
Summary of the initiatives endorsed to date
| Project | Organisation | Project description | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beatz Bus | Umeewarra Media | A mobile music education and diversion program for youth providing culturally relevant activities, creative opportunities and mentoring. | In development, operational in 2026. |
| Community Mural | SAPOL | Up to 30 young people are involved in co-designing a community mural with Aboriginal artist Scott Rathman. The project titled 'This place is us - our voices, our story, our way' focuses on culture, collaboration, relationships and community pride. | In development, expected completion early 2026. |
| Education and Wellbeing Hub | Department for Education | A unique education approach for young people, who are disengaged or at risk of disengagement from their current education setting, through connection to culture, trauma informed practice and family engagement. | In development, operational Term 1 2026. |
| Youth in-reach (The Rec Room) | Department of Human Services | A safe space for young people aged 12-17 to engage in recreational and skill building activities including activities of daily living and a coordinated referral point. Includes multi-agency collaboration. | Current |
| Return to Country | The Salvation Army | Provides visitors who reside in remote locations, the ability to safely return to their home community. As part of the service The Salvation Army provide a safe space for people to wait for the bus, dinner, transport to the pick-up point, and active follow-up of non-travellers. | Current |
| Youth Aboriginal Community Court (Mangrove Court) | Courts Administration Authority | A specialist court for Aboriginal young people that aims to reduce or prevent offending by addressing the underlying issues that led to their involvement in the justice system. Young people are supported by a youth coach, court Elders / respected persons and Aboriginal youth justice officers. | In development, operational early 2026. |
| Youth Bus | The Salvation Army | Safe transport for young people, including referral pathways. | Current |
| Summer Fest | Davenport Community Council | A program for young people over the summer period from January – March 2026 offering activities, workshops, culture, art, collaboration and connection. | In development, operational January 2026. |
| Youth Centre | Port Augusta Youth Centre | A centre for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and activities, including transport. | Current |
| Youth Outreach | Department of Human Services | Assertive outreach that engages young people in the areas they gather, and provides connection to the wider community. | Current |
| Project Officer | Department of Human Services | Support the planning, coordinating and delivering of programs supported by the Alliance. | Current |
The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan was co-designed with local community to help create a safer, stronger and more connected region.
The Plan focuses on community caring, community safety and community partnership. The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Alliance Group (the Alliance) was set up in late 2024 to help implement the Plan with support from the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
The Alliance includes local representatives from Traditional Owner groups, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, young people, South Australia Police (SAPOL), service providers, businesses, community and Commonwealth and state government.
To support the implementation of the Plan, the Commonwealth and South Australian governments committed $12 million in July 2024, across a 3-year period, to drive positive change in the region.
Key updates:
- The Alliance met three times in 2024, laying the foundations for collaborative decision-making, governance and priority setting.
- The Alliance agreed to a consensus-based decision-making model, with alternative options identified should consensus not be reached.
- The Terms of Reference were discussed across meetings and formally accepted in December 2024, providing a clear governance framework for the Alliance.
- Group membership was discussed, noting that Port Augusta City Council resolved to decline formal membership, while acknowledging and supporting the investment into the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
- During its establishment phase, the Alliance considered several initiatives aligned with key actions in the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
- The alliance began early discussion on:
- building local capacity and sustainability across community groups, agencies and organisations
- further prioritisation of actions within the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
- strengthening youth voice in decision-making
- These areas were identified for deeper consideration in 2025.
Summary of the initiatives endorsed in 2024
Project Organisation Project description Status
Alternative Education and Wellbeing Hub
Department of Education
An alternative education model supporting disengaged or at-risk children and young people through wellbeing and connection.
Supported in principle; working group established to progress the proposal.
Youth in-reach
Department of Human Services
A safe, semi-structured environment for young people aged 12–17 to engage in recreational activities and connect with education, training and employment services.
Endorsed as a six-month pilot to commence January 2025.
Youth Aboriginal Community Court
Courts Administration Authority
A specialist court model for Aboriginal young people focused on addressing underlying causes of offending.
Supported in principle; working group established to further develop the concept.
Project Officer
Department of Human Services
A Port Augusta-based role to provide project management, stakeholder engagement and procurement support for Alliance initiatives.
Endorsed for a 12-month period.
The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan was co-designed with local community to help create a safer, stronger and more connected region.
The Plan focuses on community caring, community safety and community partnership. The Port Augusta and Davenport Community Alliance Group (the Alliance) was set up in late 2024 to help implement the Plan with support from the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
The Alliance includes local representatives from Traditional Owner groups, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, young people, South Australia Police (SAPOL), service providers, businesses, community and Commonwealth and state government.
To support the implementation of the Plan, the Commonwealth and South Australian governments committed $12 million in July 2024, across a 3-year period, to drive positive change in the region.
Key updates:
- The Alliance met three times in 2024, laying the foundations for collaborative decision-making, governance and priority setting.
- The Alliance agreed to a consensus-based decision-making model, with alternative options identified should consensus not be reached.
- The Terms of Reference were discussed across meetings and formally accepted in December 2024, providing a clear governance framework for the Alliance.
- Group membership was discussed, noting that Port Augusta City Council resolved to decline formal membership, while acknowledging and supporting the investment into the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
- During its establishment phase, the Alliance considered several initiatives aligned with key actions in the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
- The alliance began early discussion on:
- building local capacity and sustainability across community groups, agencies and organisations
- further prioritisation of actions within the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
- strengthening youth voice in decision-making
- These areas were identified for deeper consideration in 2025.
Summary of the initiatives endorsed in 2024
| Project | Organisation | Project description | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative Education and Wellbeing Hub | Department of Education | An alternative education model supporting disengaged or at-risk children and young people through wellbeing and connection. | Supported in principle; working group established to progress the proposal. |
| Youth in-reach | Department of Human Services | A safe, semi-structured environment for young people aged 12–17 to engage in recreational activities and connect with education, training and employment services. | Endorsed as a six-month pilot to commence January 2025. |
| Youth Aboriginal Community Court | Courts Administration Authority | A specialist court model for Aboriginal young people focused on addressing underlying causes of offending. | Supported in principle; working group established to further develop the concept. |
| Project Officer | Department of Human Services | A Port Augusta-based role to provide project management, stakeholder engagement and procurement support for Alliance initiatives. | Endorsed for a 12-month period. |
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Contact us
If you would like to receive previous meeting updates or have any questions, please contact:
Ms Emily Butler
Executive Officer, Port Augusta and Davenport Community Alliance
Phone 0477 013 712 (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Email Emily.butler2@sa.gov.au