A new community partnership has been formed in the hope of creating a safer, stronger Port Augusta.

The Commonwealth and South Australian Governments have announced a $12 million investment over three years to support the next phase of the Port Augusta Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan. 

This initiative aims to improve coordination between state and federal community services and put local stakeholders at the forefront of decision-making.

A new Community Partnership will be formed to manage this investment, building workshops involving over 150 participants from Port Augusta and Davenport last year. 

These workshops included Aboriginal community members, service providers, local businesses, the Port Augusta Council, and various governmental agencies.

The new initiatives will be shaped by local leaders, youth, and government representatives, focusing on safety and wellbeing strategies across short, medium, and long-term horizons.

Key objectives include improving coordination across government-funded programs, mapping services, and identifying areas for potential new or extended funding. 

A Leadership Group will be established to finalise the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, prioritise actions, and monitor outcomes.

SA Minister for Human Services Nat Cook has described Port Augusta as an ideal location for trialling community-led decision-making due to its significance to Aboriginal communities and its strategic position for future investment in hydrogen, steel, and water projects.