Voters in Black by-election to get a new 24/7 pharmacy for Adelaide’s south, Labor announces

It’s the countdown to the November 16 by-election for Black previously held by Liberal David Speirs – and voters just learned the Labor government is giving them a 24/7 pharmacy.

Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced the next 24/7 pharmacy will be smack in the middle of the state electorate of Black, less than a fortnight out from the by-election caused by the resignation of former Liberal leader David Speirs.

Adelaide’s fourth around-the-clock pharmacy will be in the Hallett Cove, Sheidow Park and Trott Park area and the operator selected through a competitive tender process.

The announcement comes as residents in Black weigh up their options before voting on November 16, in a seat held by Mr Speirs since it was created in 2018 which now sits on a margin of 2.7 per cent.

Mr Speirs is due to appear at Christies Beach Magistrates Court the day before the by-election after police arrested him at Berri on September 26 and he was charged with two counts of supplying a controlled substance.

Labor candidate for Black Alex Dighton was part of the government announcement, saying the pharmacy will “offer so much convenience and reassurance to my community.”

Asked it if was “convenient” the next 24/7 pharmacy would be in Black, Mr Malinauskas praised Mr Dighton’s advocacy, noting “there are always options we are looking at.”

Premier Peter Malinauskas with Labor's candidate for Black, Alex Dighton. Picture: Kelly Barnes

Liberal candidate for seat of Black, Amanda Wilson. Picture: Brett Hartwig

Opposition cost of living spokeswoman Heidi Girolamo questioned the timing of the announcement.

“Households in Black are going to see through the spin on this announcement,” she said.

“We know access to GPs is one of the biggest issues facing that community, yet this government has made visiting a GP more expensive with its GP payroll tax grab.

“We understand access to pharmacies are helpful measures for families, however, it does not replace the care provided by a GP. That’s why if elected in 2026, a Tarzia Liberal Government will scrap the GP payroll tax.

“Residents in Black are concerned about the record ramping occurring under this government’s watch, all while the SA Health budget has been blown by almost one billion dollars alone last financial year.”

Mr Malinauskas noted almost 120,000 people have visited the three 24/7 pharmacies after-hours since they opened in February and March, at Salisbury Plain, Clovelly Park and Norwood.

He said work also is underway to allow people to go to a pharmacy instead of a GP for treatment of conditions including ear infections, wound management, gastro, acne, reflux and muscle and joint pain.

This follows changes allowing women to access medication for a urinary tract infection and resupply of the oral contraceptive pill through a local pharmacy.

“The need for 24/7 pharmacies in South Australia is clear with so many people taking advantage of this valuable after-hours healthcare service,” Mr Malinauskas said.

“People get sick at any time of day and night and having prompt access to medication and trusted health advice is vital.”