Corey Wingard: Our state has no place for threats from extremists

The haunting images we have seen emerge from recent terrorist attacks show the threat to the safety of innocent people is real, says Corey Wingard.

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The haunting images we have seen emerge from recent terrorist attacks show the threat to the safety of innocent people is real.

While it would be irresponsible, and incorrect, to suggest there is any known threat to South Australians from such vile individuals at this time, it is important we do not bury our heads in the sand.

The Christchurch attacks show it is not just the major capital cities that are at risk. Extremists will attack wherever they think is vulnerable.

We have taken the steps to ensure South Australia is fully prepared if a vile ideology decides to violently threaten our way of life.

Police, Emergency Serices And Correctional Services Minister Corey Wingard

SA Police is providing specialised training to 60 officers who can be seconded into their crack counter-terrorism and security section teams if an attack occurs.

Police are also creating a rapid-response plan, thanks to Marshall Government funding which will, among other measures, enable unsworn civilians to work in police stations – allowing up to 48 sworn officers to go back on to the front line.

These 48 sworn officers will be used in a rapid-response capability as a middle tier between foot patrols and the STAR Group.

The Government’s counter-terrorism plan is also looking at:

UNDERTAKING an audit of all major public places and events

ADDITIONAL training for police officers, providing greater certainty for police in the use of lethal force

ADDITIONAL training for security guards

DEVELOPING a counter-terrorism communications plan

INCREASING the use of community constables to enhance engagement with at-risk communities.

Such initiatives are more than just a reactive measure.

The mere knowledge of formidable defences against an attack acts as a strong deterrent. Our authorities are working hard behind the scenes to ensure any rising threat is recognised and dealt with before it encroaches on public safety. The Corrections Department has also begun compiling a counter-radicalisation strategy that covers all prisoners but will also target inmates who may be vulnerable to teachings of violent extremism.

Prevention is always better than cure.

In the aftermath of the Christchurch attacks, we also saw the true character of people who live in this great state.

Outpourings of support for the victims from people of all ages, cultural backgrounds and political groups touched us all and strengthened our resolve against the alleged offender’s abhorrent motives for such crimes.

We, as a community, said there was no place in our state for extreme behaviour, especially behaviour that threatens violence to try to highlight its perceived cause.

The Government, in co-operation with the experts within police and other security and justice departments, will continue to remain focused on countering that threat wherever and whenever it may arise.

Corey Wingard is Police, Emergency Serices And Correctional Services Minister