SAPOL Outlines Roadmap to Strengthen Regional Policing

The project, conducted by independent consulting firm BDO, involved extensive engagement with regional police personnel across South Australia. More than 50 police stations were visited, with employees provided opportunities to share their experiences and perspectives directly with reviewers.

The project complements work already underway within SAPOL to improve regional service delivery and support for employees working in country locations.

Commissioner Grant Stevens said the review confirmed many of the strengths of regional policing while identifying opportunities to further support officers and staff serving regional communities.

"Regional policing presents unique challenges and responsibilities. The project has provided valuable independent insights and has helped confirm areas where we can make meaningful improvements for our people and the communities they serve," Commissioner Stevens said.

SAPOL has developed a roadmap outlining immediate, short-term and longer-term initiatives to address key themes identified through the project.

A number of actions are already underway, including measures to reduce administrative burden, enhance workforce support, and improve access to training and development opportunities.

Key initiatives being progressed include:

• Increased human resource support for regional commands through additional specialist staff.
• A review of audit and compliance requirements to reduce unnecessary administrative workload.
• Improved access to training and professional development opportunities in regional locations.
• Greater consideration of region-specific workforce and operational needs.
• Continued investment in technology and connectivity for regional policing environments.
• Enhanced recognition of proactive community engagement and preventative policing activities undertaken by regional officers.

“SAPOL remains committed to ensuring regional communities receive policing services tailored to local needs,” Commissioner Stevens said.

"Each region faces different challenges and opportunities, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

"Our focus is on identifying practical improvements that support frontline policing, enhance community safety and provide our regional employees with the tools and support they need to perform their roles effectively.

"Regional police officers perform an essential role in communities across South Australia.

"This roadmap demonstrates our commitment to listening to our people, acting on their feedback and continuing to strengthen regional policing into the future."

SAPOL has also reaffirmed its commitment to increasing policing resources across regional South Australia as additional sworn officers become available through ongoing recruitment initiatives.

The organisation will continue to work with employees, local communities and government stakeholders as it progresses the recommendations and priorities identified through the project.