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 Forsyth, Christian Khan, Paula Fielding, Paul Isherwood, Dre Ngatokorua, Jake Collins, Mark Myers, Mike Fordham (facilitator).
Front row, left to right: Harry Dare, Virginia Lloyd, Linda Dare, Abby Walker, Jacqueline Costanzo.
Absent: Craig Hendry, Alex Reid, James Armitage, 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
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.”
Mark Myers
“I represent the broader Community of Port Augusta. I bring over 30 years’ experience within the area of restorative justice. I am passionate about assisting and supporting our community and the ongoing development of our youth and future leaders.
We have a great opportunity to redefine our future by providing the tools, structure and educational pathways to ensure positive outcomes and expectations for all community members. I look forward to healthy honest discussions to build a strong foundation for our children and the broader community.”
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.”
Current initiatives developed from the plan
A range of 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 Wellbeing Hub is on track to open in Term 1 of 2026. It will provide tailored support for young people aged 10 and above who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging from education. The model is being co-designed to ensure it reflects local needs and delivers holistic, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed support.
Led by the Department for Education, the Education Wellbeing Hub is on track to open in Term 1 of 2026. It will provide tailored support for young people aged 10 and above who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging from education. The model is being co-designed to ensure it reflects local needs and delivers holistic, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed support.
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 expected to launch in February 2026.
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 expected to launch in February 2026.
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 will be specifically designed with youth, Elders, schools, services and families.
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 will be specifically designed with youth, Elders, schools, services and families.
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.
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.
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 Safe transport for young people, including referral pathways.
The Salvation Army Safe transport for young people, including referral pathways.
A centre for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and activities, including transport.
A centre for young people to engage in out of school hours programs and activities, including transport.
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.
Youth Outreach service delivery and funding opportunity
The Alliance is pleased to announce a funding opportunity for the delivery of the Youth Outreach service, supporting young people in Port Augusta and Davenport Community.
The Youth Outreach service aims to promote community safety, reduce high-risk behaviours among young people, and provide opportunities for positive engagement outside of school and business hours for young people aged 10-18.
For further information, please refer to Youth Outreach - service delivery & funding opportunity (PDF 2.0 MB), which outlines eligibility requirements, application instructions and includes the application form.
Applications close 5 pm Friday 13 March 2026.
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 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 (Tuesday to Thursday)
Email Emily.butler2@sa.gov.au