Police encourage good times and safe choices at Schoolies 2025

The 2025 Encounter Youth Schoolies Festival is expected to attract around 4,000 school leavers to the Victor Harbor region for a three-day celebration featuring activities, music and a fleet of free shuttle buses for ticketholders.

Operation Schoolies Commander Superintendent Joanne Howard said police will be present with emergency service partners to create a safe environment for school leavers and the local community.

“Every year, excessive drinking remains one of the main concerns during Schoolies,” Superintendent Howard said.

“Although the Encounter Youth Schoolies Festival is an alcohol-free zone, we remind those of legal drinking age to do so responsibly.

“Officers from SA Police’s Road Safety Section will be visiting caravan parks in the region daily to offer voluntary breath testing.

“Look out for one another. If you’ve been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel, as there are plenty of transport options available both within and between local towns.

“Remember, using or possessing illicit drugs is against the law, and anyone caught with them will face serious consequences.

The Schoolies festival, held within Warland Reserve, will be a Declared Public Event. Police officers will be authorised to carry out metal detector searches on any person within the festival and anyone attempting to enter or leave. This includes any property in the person’s possession.

“Our goal is to help everyone enjoy the event safely. Please reach out to us if you need assistance or simply come and say hello.”

For information on provisional licence conditions, visit www.mylicence.sa.gov.au.

Motorists in the Victor Harbor region are advised there will be road closures throughout the region between 21-23 November. Check for road closures at SAPOL - Road closures for details.

Media conference - 19 November 2025