At Monday night's meeting, Council carefully considered three options to address concerns of residents and community members about anti-social behaviour at the Ovingham Underpass/Karrarendi Yerta Kadla, near Ovingham Railway Station. These included:
- Declared Public Precinct (DPP)
- Dry Zone
- Short-term restrictions
The outcome
After hearing from and listening to residents, SAPOL, agencies, service providers and the City of Prospect, Council resolved to pursue both a Declared Public Precinct and a Dry Zone in parallel.
- Declared Public Precinct (DPP): We will apply to the Attorney-General following SAPOL’s recommendation. A DPP provides police with broader and flexible powers to address unsafe behaviour, not limited to alcohol, and can be reviewed and adapted over time. Importantly, a DPP can be in place within 6–8 weeks.
- Dry Zone: At the same time, Council will apply to the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for a Dry Zone, which requires community consultation. This provides SAPOL with clear powers to prohibit alcohol possession and offers a permanent enforcement tool.
There are no quick fixes as there are complex issues that require holistic solutions but by pursuing both a DPP and a Dry Zone it will allow us to:
- Respond quickly to current issues with a temporary and reviewable option (DPP).
- Put in place a longer-term measure (Dry Zone) if required.
- Balance public safety with compassion, equity, and cultural sensitivity.
- Ensure accountability and adaptability while protecting cultural and community equity.
We will continue to keep the community informed and updated as we move forward.
Proactive measures currently in place include:
- Increased proactive cleaning
- Additional and ongoing monitoring of nearby facilities
- Regular staff engagement with residents, businesses, and community members
- A dedicated working group in collaboration with the City of Prospect, government agencies (including SAPOL and DHS), community services, and cultural leaders
- Investigation into sustainable safety improvements
- Activation of the reserve with positive community use
- Ensuring appropriate support is available for people in need
Need assistance?
You can assist by contacting us on (08) 8408 1111 to report cleaning or hygiene issues.
We remain committed to working together towards practical, respectful, and lasting solutions for the community.