Voices of SA: 80+ South Australians demand change for their communities ahead of Saturday’s state election
From the suburbs to the regions these are the voices of 80+ South Australians demanding change for their communities as the state goes to the polls today.
State Election
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While priorities might change across South Australia when it comes to the state government, there is one thing that always stays the same.
People want what is best for them and their community.
From towns battling for their fair share of water along the Murray to residents on the Eyre Peninsula worried about whether they will have any water at all, SA is a diverse place.
Whether it’s the need for rail in the Hills and ensuring the Gawler line is firing, or something as specific as reinstating a controversial spear fishing ban, South Australians will have their say – at the polls on Saturday.
More than 80 everyday South Australians have spoken up on the key election issues impacting their communities want to see from the next state government.
Chris Cowley – City of Burnside
Suburbs: Burnside | Electorates: Bragg, Hartley, Heysen, Morialta, Dunstan, Unley
Priorities: According to chief executive Chris Cowley, the most important issues for Burnside Council residents are increasing the local bike network, getting funding to grow open space, sport and recreation land, growing tree canopy coverage and amending the current state planning system.
Mr Cowley said a new planning system was a “significant priority” and called for a focus on how council’s can have more of a say on heritage property management and construction more than four-storeys high.
Richelle Martin and Bronte Nixon – Skate.east
Suburb: Burnside | Electorate: Bragg
Priorities: According to proponents for a Burnside wheel park, Richelle Martin and Bronte Nixon, ensuring a designated space for “healthy, outdoor sporting and recreational activities” and diversifying facilities in the eastern suburbs, equitable representation at local government level, championing and facilitating change at the local government level are key for the next state government.
“We see a lot of time being wasted at the local council level in Burnside; with endless community surveys, notices and rescission motions; and they benefit no one except the individual councillor who is often misinformed or incapable of making a fair decision that takes the wider community into account,” Ms Nixon said.
“Until voting in local government elections is made mandatory, we will never get a good representative selection of qualified and experienced candidates.”
Paul Manfrin – Disability advocate
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: An advocate for better public transport for Mount Gambier, Paul Manfrin has shared his experience using the buses with guide dog Bree.
Alongside expanded, more inclusive and accessible services, Mr Manfrin said employment for people with disabilities and education with a focus on staff and student wellbeing in the aftermath of Covid-19 disruptions were key to SA’s future.
“The capacity for people living with disability to contribute to mainstream employment has been ignored for years,” Mr Manfrin said.
“The state government could assist in bridging the gap between employers and people living with a disability and removing the discrimination that exists in some cases, limiting the opportunities for people living with a disability to improve their lives.
“There also needs to be better communication and collaboration with Mount Gambier residents. We live in this region and we understand the issue better, so we need to act not as consultants, but as equal collaborators with the state government.”
Brenton Cox – Adelaide Airport
Suburb: Adelaide Airport | Electorate: Statewide
Priority: Rebuild SA’s international flight networks.
Airport managing director Brenton Cox said the result of the pandemic meant Adelaide and South Australia needed to show international airlines the state is still an “attractive destination”, particularly in what has become a “fiercely competitive aviation market”.
He said this had been achieved in the past while working with state governments, including attracting Emirates and China Southern.
“We are confident those relationships can continue post the election as we again team up to put Adelaide front of mind when talking with current and prospective international carriers,” Mr Cox said.
Shane Fuller – Athletics SA
Suburb: Statewide | Electorate: Statewide
Priority: Continued investment in athletics facilities.
Chief executive Shane Fuller said the continued investment, in accordance with the state’s infrastructure plan, would help fulfil other priorities including a car park, service road and traffic management improvement, function room and grandstand upgrade and increased seating capacity was important for Athletics SA.
He said another priority was for the government to increase investment in a synthetic athletics facility in the southern suburbs.
Kathy Nagle – Western Hospital
Suburb: Henley Beach | Electorate: Colton
Priorities: Parity of payment for operative procedures conducted on privately insured South Australians, introducing state-based legislation to better reflect national health legislation, making health insurers accountable for deals with bigger corporates, funding hospitals based upon compliance to National Quality and Safety Standards and incentivise funding based upon patient experience and minimal injury while hospitalised are the priorities for Western Hospital chief executive Kathy Nagle.
“The Minister for Health and Wellbeing is for all healthcare facilities, not just public facilities, so it would be great to get some recognition. Health is costly but when providers are being paid less than the national average, there needs to be reform,” Ms Nagle said.
“The health system needs all of the private and public beds.”
Anne Moloney – Regional Development Australia Barossa, Gawler, Light, Adelaide Plains
Regions: Barossa, Gawler, Light, Adelaide Plains | Electorates: Frome, Schubert, Light, Stuart
Priorities: Regional Development Australia Barossa, Gawler, Light, Adelaide Plains chief executive Anne Moloney said infrastructure, health and business and tourism needed to be addressed by the next state government.
“Water infrastructure is going to be critical, to be able to process recycled water. And public infrastructure always encourages private investment,” she said.
“With the Barossa Hospital, we need it to be in a strategic position in the north. We need it to be able to provide a service to regional residents, but also attract doctors and specialists from the city.
“(And) the Great Australian Wine Trail, from Clare to Aldinga, will create incredible tourism opportunities nationally and internationally.”
Hayley Neumann – Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: Chamber of Commerce president Hayley Neumann called on the future government to recognise Mount Gambier for what it contributes to the SA economy.
“We need our state government to invest heavily in Mount Gambier,” she said.
“We hope the next budget shows a substantial improvement for funding in our region compared to the last one.”
Ms Neumann said incentives for business investment including payroll tax cut or abolishment would position the region as a competitive alternative to nearby Victoria.
She also advocated for training facilities outside of Adelaide to cut business costs and promote growth and increased housing and health services to attract job seekers long term.
Charles Mountain – RAA
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Metropolitan road upgrades including from the City to Adelaide Hills, a Marion Road upgrade and northern suburbs east-west links and regional road upgrades including Victor Harbor Road, Main Road at McLaren Vale and additional overtaking lanes on busy thoroughfares including Alexandrina Road, Riddoch Highway and Copper Coast Highway are priorities for RAA safety and infrastructure senior manager Charles Mountain.
“The condition of our road network continues to be a major issue for motorists, particularly in our regional areas where it is critical to the safe and efficient movement of general freight, resources, agribusiness, tourism, and access for those who live and work in regional parts of the state,” Mr Mountain said.
“RAA is calling on the election winner to establish a four-year road maintenance fund with a minimum value of $600 million, to improve road safety and address the backlog of road maintenance across South Australia’s road network.”
Matthew Moate – Kapunda Business Alliance
Suburb: Kapunda | Electorate: Stuart
Priorities: Kapunda Business Alliance chairman Matthew Moate considered business and tourism as the highest priorities for the next state government.
“It would be great to see more businesses activated in Kapunda, especially as there are already so many vibrant businesses around,” he said.
“We have also had great success with our Kapunda Makers Market, which draws in 800 people each month.
“The heavy vehicle bypass is going to assist in tourism for the town, but we also have to be conscious of the roads that are going to be able to bring people in here.”
Michael Pitt – Mount Gambier retiree
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: 72-year-old retiree Michael Pitt wanted to see the lack of sustainable growth in the Mount and a growing drug problem in the area addressed by the next state government.
He said the government needed to do more to ensure Mount Gambier did not become a “retiree town” and had a future for the younger generation.
“The region is blessed with primary production such as fishing, wineries, sheep cattle but to sustain growth we need secondary industry,” he said.
He also said something needed to be done to “tackle the drug problem” and “confront it”.
Lucas Jones – Tea Tree Gully Council
Suburb: Tea Tree Gully | Electorates: Florey, Newland, Playford, Torrens, Wright, King
Priorities: Tea Tree Gully Council Deputy Mayor Lucas Jones believed health, in particular the Modbury Hospital as well as transport, Park n Ride public safety improvements, cost of living, planning and community wastewater management were the most important issues for people in his council area.
Mr Jones said the council wanted to see investment in the hospital so it could provide cancer patients with access to chemotherapy and other treatments.
He said a recent Labor promise to offer free public transport for seniors would “go down well” in the community and something he hoped was supported regardless of the election result.
Ian Horne – Australian Hotels Association (SA)
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Rebuilding the state’s tourism and visitor capacity with a focus on business events, establishing an inquiry into SA’s Covid response and a focus on population growth, are priorities for AHA SA chief executive Ian Horne.
Mr Horne said the next state government should make SA “the cheapest and easiest place to do business in Australia”.
“South Australia needs growth so that SA companies can also grow their business allowing increased investment in SA and therefore more South Australians being employed,” he said.
“Make it impossible for national or interstate companies to ignore the cost/benefits of establishing in South Australia. The cheapest and easiest ambition obviously benefits homegrown enterprise as well.”
Olivia Dohnt – Mount Gambier resident
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: Olivia Dohnt, a 20-year-old Mount Gambier resident, said her main area of concern was the lack of mental health services in the area.
Having accessed some of the services herself she said both the costs of some of those services and the lack of choices was frustrating.
“More variety of centres, more free (services are needed),” she said.
“I’ve found some of the services here treat you as a number not as a person.”
Ben Fee – Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland
Towns: Murraylands and Riverland | Electorate: Chaffey
Priorities: According to Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland chief executive Ben Fee, the Murraylands and Riverlands need to see an increased workforce and accommodation.
“We have great businesses doing wonderful things, without enough social capital to drive them and sufficient accommodation to house additional workforce,” Mr Fee said.
“These are long-term issues, stemming from one core issue – we need governments that listen to communities and act diligently and consistently to address what is heard.”
David Brown – BB Architects heritage consultant
Suburbs: Adelaide, Payneham, Norwood, St Peters | Electorate: Dunstan
Priorities: It is vital to refine the Planning and Design Code policies and provide clearer guidance about new historic areas and representative buildings, BB Architects’ David Brown said.
Mr Brown said localised and specific policy needed to be introduced to cater for different areas and differing heritage, historic areas and representative buildings.
“With the change over from the Local Council Development Plans to the Planning and Design Code in March 2021 there was a significant loss of detailed local planning policy that was not picked up in the ‘one size fits all’ approach seen in the code,” he said.
“Labour have said that they will review the Planning and Design Code, so there could be a positive outcome. But taking on board feedback from Local Councils and incorporating it into the code is the only way this will happen.”
Bill O’Brien – Light Regional Council
Town: Kapunda | Electorate: Stuart, Light, Schubert, Frome
Priorities: Light Regional Council Mayor Bill O’Brien, whose council boundaries intersect multiple electorates, said the biggest priority was making sure local government could co-operate with their state counterparts.
“I think it’s vital to have a sense of partisanship – we as a council are working with many different members regardless of who wins,” he said.
“We have a lot to be grateful for up here, and it’s vital to have that co-operation not only with the federal government but also the state government.”
Rebecca Ross – JusticeNet
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Chief executive Rebecca Ross said adequate funding for the community justice sector, but also investing in “understanding why people are needing legally aided assistance” and early intervention programs were integral for South Australia.
“So rarely can the issues of people needing aided legal services be solved purely in the justice arena,” Ms Ross said.
“It can be a challenging area to work in when the same faces are returning for help time and time again because the factors of their lives that leave them disadvantaged or vulnerable have not been addressed.
“Access to justice should not be a privilege only afforded to those who have the time and money to navigate the system.”
Craig Scott – Goodwood Saints Football Club
Suburb: Millswood | Electorate: Badcoe
Priority: More suitable facilities for the club’s 834 players, 21 teams and 110 Auskick participants – that’s all Goodwood Saints president Craig Scott wants out of the state election.
“Our biggest issue is (needing) a second oval as we anticipate over the next five years we will have a third senior women’s side, a super rules team and potentially another four to five junior girls’ teams,” Mr Scott said.
“I’ve spoken to many politicians and local government representatives and they all agree it is a problem, but not one has any solution.”
Cody Davies – Town of Gawler
Town: Gawler | Electorate: Light
Priorities: Gawler councillor Cody Davies said the next state government needed to be focused on transport, health and employment.
“With transport, it’s not only in terms of the train line, but also I think it’s vital to have the Vehicle on Road Test (VORT) back in Gawler,” he said.
“And health is an issue across the state, but having only one ambulance in Gawler … it has led to some worrying wait times for patients.”
5049 Coastal Community Association
Suburb: Seacliff | Electorate: Black
Priorities: According to a 5049 Coastal Community Association spokesperson, it was time to review the Planning and Design Code, repeal the decision to allow spearfishing at Marino and adjacent coastal areas and rebuild the Marino Community Hall.
The group wants to see “people put back into planning” when it comes to approval for developments and believes allowing spearfishing has brought with it a “major safety concern”.
Dawn Jones – Coober Pedy Animals’ Second Chance
Town: Coober Pedy | Electorate: Giles
Priorities: Long-time Coober Pedy resident and respected community member Dawn Jones said she believed the priorities needing addressing for the area were housing, animal welfare, tourism and community sports.
She said the area was in the midst of a “housing crisis” where rentals were unavailable forcing potential new residents to look elsewhere.
The problem was exacerbated by a lack of tourism and community sports funding leaving those that did come to the area with nothing to stay for.
“Community sports are dying in this town – and that’s what keeps the kids here and keeps them off the streets,” she said.
Brett Larkin – Maritime Union of Australia SA branch
Suburbs: Port Adelaide and beyond | Electorate: Port Adelaide and beyond
Priorities: According to Maritime Union SA branch secretary Brett Larkin the election priorities for his members are secure work, the introduction of industrial manslaughter charges and being part of a safe and respectful workplace.
Mr Larkin also said the union condemned the current SA government for not opposing a nuclear waste dump in the state, particularly given opposition from the Barngarla traditional owners.
He wanted to see the next government “fix” WHS laws and the workers’ compensation system, support Australian fuel security and provide more jobs for Australians in the maritime sector.
Michael Hewitson – City of Unley
Suburb: Unley | Electorate: Unley
Priorities: According to Mayor Michael Hewitson, the most important issues for Unley Council residents were developing the bike network, increasing open space, sport and recreational land, canopy coverage and introducing a new planning system.
Mr Hewitson said the council would work with whichever government was elected to see the issues addressed.
He said a new planning system should address heritage and streetscape protection and encourage new developments to maintain and grow trees.
Herbert Bersee – Mount Gambier worker
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: 69-year-old Herbert Bersee said the only issue he was concerned about was climate change and wanted to see swift action.
“It’s the most important issue, it’s the only issue,” he said.
“It’s obvious, we’re doomed as a species as a planet unless we do something about it.”
Mr Bersee said he wanted to see more investment into renewable energy and more done to promote the use of electric vehicles like improved EV infrastructure.
Bronwyn Klei – Netball SA
Suburb: Statewide | Electorate: Statewide
Priorities: Netball SA chief executive Bronwyn Klei said the most important issues the next state government needed to address were support for community sport and promoting sport equality between genders.
“The reality is that grassroots sporting clubs are not businesses, and are vital to community life for health, social interaction, volunteerism and creating vibrant communities,” she said.
“Governments need to work with sporting organisations to ensure that the sports can be delivered effectively and efficiently across the state.
“We also need to focus on equalisation in sport to make sure that women’s sport has the support, infrastructure and access that men’s sport enjoys. There is still a gap to bridge.”
Sarah Philpott – City of Mount Gambier
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: According to chief executive Sarah Philpott, public transport, housing, health services, emergency support, road infrastructure and workforce attraction and retention were among the key issues for Mount Gambier Council residents.
“We also hear about the importance of investment into business, tourism infrastructure and events are critical to support our economy,” she said.
The council called on the state government to make funding a South Australian Public Transport Authority restructure of the city’s “inadequate” bus service a priority.
“There is significant inequity in bus service funding between metropolitan and regional South Australia, with Adelaide receiving a $234 per capita spend, compared with only $11 per capita in regional areas,” Ms Philpott said.
“The current bus service does not meet the service provision benchmark for a town that has a population of 3,000 to 6,000 people, let alone a population of more than 27,000 people in Mount Gambier.”
Peter Knife – Eyre Peninsula Railway Preservation Society Inc
Town: Port Lincoln | Electorate: Flinders
Priorities: Eyre Peninsula Railway Preservation Society Inc president Peter Knife believes the single biggest issues on the Eyre Peninsula is the quality of haulage road routes.
Mr Knife said while he would “love” to see grain haulage back on the railway in the Eyre Peninsula, the choice had been made for it to be trucked and the decision was not going to be reversed. But now, with trucks dominating the industry, the roads they were using needed to be improved.
“There’s been lots of money promised for road upgrades on the Eyre Highway, but that’s not where grain traffic is,” he said.
“Very little of that money has filtered down where the truck traffic actually is. There needs to be a heavier investment – that is by far the number one priority.”
Jane Qualmann – Voluntary assisted dying advocate
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: For voluntary assisted dying campaigner and former nun Jane Qualmann health services and housing must be on the agenda for SA’s second largest city.
She hoped to see increased mental health staff, a purpose built facility for palliative and end of life care plus increased public housing to combat a lack of emergency and affordable rentals.
Ms Qualmann backed incumbent Troy Bell saying independents were a voice for the community no matter what party was in power.
“Troy has done a magnificent job in representing our community in the past,” she said.
“No matter what he is going through personally, I feel he is here for our electorate. He is passionate about improving our health system here in the Limestone Coast.”
Geoff Riddle – Hockey SA
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: More “appropriate” facilities to house hockey clubs are a “huge issue” for clubs in SA, according to Hockey SA chief executive Geoff Riddle.
Accordingly, that was the primary issue he wanted to see addressed as a result of the state election.
“We have quite a few clubs who don’t have home grounds and the ones who do are old, worn and very expensive to maintain. It seems the majority of funding for facilities gets put into the bigger sports which is disappointing,” he said.
“While we just received a $1.5m grant to fix our pitch, lights and seating, this is just maintenance cost. There hasn’t been any money spent to actually upgrade the stadium which is the home for Hockey in SA.”
Bim Lange – Barossa Council
Towns: Tanunda, Angaston, Nuriootpa | Electorate: Schubert
Priorities: “Housing is a huge issue here,” Barossa Mayor Bim Lange said.
“We will need to have a collaborative approach with the state government to find a solution.”
The housing issue also affected the economic growth of the Barossa, Mr Lange said, as even professionals were struggling to find accommodation in the area.
He said another issue critical to the Barossa, and the Eden Valley, was water, which would need millions committed from the state government.
Kevin Mulcahy – Shapeshifter Brewing Co
Suburb: Findon | Electorate: Cheltenham
Priorities: As a small-business owner, Findon’s Shapeshifter Brewing Co co-founder Kevin Mulcahy hoped the elected state government would prioritise helping small business rebound from Covid and offered better assistance when they look to expand by “taking back power from councils on development”.
“Creating the small bar scene has been brilliant for Adelaide. Adelaide Oval is world class. I won’t be guilted by Peter Malinauskas into believing a new entertainment centre is a bad idea. It is something we need, it will create many jobs and the flow on effect to businesses like ours is enormous. It is the next step this state needs to take,” he said.
“(And) if the next state government could take back some power from councils on development, that would not only help many businesses expand, but cut unnecessary costs and red tape so many businesses currently face. The end result would be creating more jobs and that should be a priority for any state government.”
Uncle Ken Jones – Boandik elder
City: Mount Gambier/Boandik | Electorate: Mount Gambier/Boandik
Priorities: For Boandik elder Uncle Ken Jones it was critical the future custodians had increased understanding of how to care for country.
He said the dual naming of places and significant stories on Boandik Country, increased empathy training for government employees and business and encouraging schools to include more Aboriginal studies were key to fostering meaningful discussion within the community.
Karen Redman – Town of Gawler
Town: Gawler | Electorate: Light
Priorities: According to Mayor Karen Redman the most important issues for Gawler Council residents were sporting facilities, health and recreation.
“We need a multimillion dollar investment in the infrastructure in the area, as our community is growing and we want to see the facilities match this growth. Politicians need to look where the need is, not just where the votes are,” she said.
“We (also) have a vested interest in seeing the Gawler Hospital funded by state or federal bodies. We need a new MRI machine, we need a dedicated obstetrician and/or gynaecologist on-site.
“(And) our aquatic centre was built in 1962, and is well overdue for an upgrade.”
Alison Alcock – Aquatic Centre Aldinga Bay Action Group
Suburb: Aldinga | Electorate: Mawson
Priorities: Aquatic Centre Aldinga Bay Action Group founder Alison Alcock wants to see an aquatic centre at Aldinga.
Election promises of $150,000 from each of Labor and the Liberals, she said, were great, but she wanted to see that first and foremost fulfilled.
Outside of the aquatic centre, Ms Alcock said priorities for her in the Aldinga area were addressing development laws to make them “sustainable” and finally finishing the “endless” roadworks in the southern suburb.
“We’ve had 20 years of roadworks. First it was waste water, then power lines … is there a future plan? Can we have both government use an outside source? That way it doesn’t get delayed again and again,” she said.
John Hill – SA Transport Action Group
Suburbs: Adelaide Hills | Electorates: Kavel, Heysen, Schubert, Hammond
Priorities: SA Transport Action Group chairman John Hill said the top three issues for the groups he represented were the need for better planning laws and co-ordination of planning and transport, a long-term plan for freight and passenger transport involving more rail and better support for regional communities.
“We desperately want to see some vision, long term focus and co-ordination of planning and transport,” he said.
“The state must move away from being Adelaide centric and its ribbon development focus.
“Most of our inland country towns were developed along the still existing under-utilised railway lines of the pre-car era. These towns need passenger rail to assist their growth and the retention of professionals essential to all communities.”
Marion Themeliotis – City of Onkaparinga
Suburb: Noarlunga | Electorate: Mawson, Heysen, Waite, Davenport, Reynell, Kaurna
Priorities: According to Mayor Marion Themeliotis the most important issues for Onkaparinga council residents were sustaining the natural environment, improving development and planning practices and strengthening the sense of community.
Ms Themeliotis said the council continued to advocate for the Renewal SA project at Aldinga to achieve at least a five-star green rating.
She said the council hoped for significant investment in road safety upgrades across the region, in particular by making McLaren Vale intersections safer.
Rod Cocks – Forestville Eagles Basketball Club
Suburb: Wayville | Electorate: Unley
Priorities: As the chief executive of a basketball club, Forestville Eagles boss Rod Cocks wanted to see more facilities for basketballer across the state.
Mr Cocks took issue with Labor’s opposition, and condemnation of it as a basketball stadium, to the Liberals’ plan to upgrade the convention centre.
“Basketball needs more courts. This nonsense about a $600m plus basketball stadium is not true. It’s a convention centre that may hold the occasional national basketball game,” he said.
“Basketball in SA is growing very fast and there are simply not enough courts across metro Adelaide.”
Ross Womersley – SA Council of Social Services
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: SACOSS chief executive Ross Womersley said the key message for the state government was that all South Australians should be able to cover life’s basics.
He believed the best way for that to happen was by addressing the rental affordability crisis, making sure everyone is afforded access to the digital world, and “fixing” the health system.
“SACOSS is urging our politicians to ensure that, whatever shiny election promises they have on their list, they make sure, above all, they cover the basics. It’s not hard, it’s not complicated. It’s just the right thing to do,” Mr Womersley said.
Matt Zadow – Nuriootpa Tennis Club
Towns: Nuriootpa | Electorate: Schubert
Priorities: Mental health, sport and ensuring regional areas received a level of support on par with metro areas needed to be addressed by the next state government, according to Nuriootpa Tennis Club president Matt Zadow.
“It would be good to have more funding for (sports) organisations,” he said.
Clint Marsh – City of Playford
Suburb: Angle Vale | Electorate: Taylor
Priorities: According to City of Playford councillor Clint Marsh, the northern suburbs area needed road infrastructure, greening the region and local sporting facilities addressed.
Mr Marsh said Playford Council had experienced growing pains as the state government and council “lagged” and “did not keep up” with population growth in the area.
He said the state government needed to assist the council financially to address all three priorities.
Annette Penna – Gawler Central Sporting Club
Town: Gawler | Electorate: Light
Priorities: For Gawler Central Sporting Club treasurer Annette Penna crime, sport and health were the key election issues for Gawler.
“Living in Light, our population is increasing exponentially, and services just can’t keep up. There has been so much theft in the area, people having parcels, bikes, even plants stolen from their properties. We need a bigger police presence,” Ms Penna said.
“Our sports clubs are always looking for more funds through grants as trying to keep our facilities going is costly, and we’re always trying to make sure families can afford to have their kids play sport.
“(And health is) just an absolute schmozzle. There’s only one ambulance in Gawler, and not enough GPs. People have to wait weeks for appointments, and they may not be even able to see their doctor because they are isolating due to Covid.”
Paul Stevenson – RSPCA SA
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: RSPCA SA chief executive Paul Stevenson put forward a comprehensive list of priorities the organisation had presented to representative in the state it believed were primary issues.
Those were reviewing the Animal Welfare Act for the first time in 14 years, pet friendly rental accommodation, phasing out battery cage hens, strengthening cat and dog breeder legislation, strengthening cat management laws, improving feral and pest animal control, ending recreational duck hunting and compensating the RSPCA at a full cost recovery basis for law enforcement.
“(The Animal Welfare Act), last reviewed 14 years ago, now ranks sixth out of the eight Australian jurisdictions in its capacity to protect animals,” Mr Stevenson said.
“This is obviously a major concern for RSPCA SA and one we need the new government to address in the next term of parliament.”
Jill Scott – Scott Transport
Town: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: As a staunch Liberal backer, Jill Scott conceded Steven Marshall had made a “couple of hiccups” along the way, but was gearing up to vote for his party once more.
Priorities for her included a cash injection for passing lanes between Keith and Naracoorte and the delivery of palliative care in the Mount – something she said was of “great concern for our community”.
“After the toll gate has always been a stumbling block with either party spending money down our way,” she said.
Jan-Claire Wisdom – Adelaide Hills Council
Suburbs: Adelaide Hills Electorate: Heysen, Kavel, Schubert
Priorities: According to Adelaide Hills Council mayor Jan-Claire Wisdom, the primary issues for ratepayers were a focus on passenger and freight transport, health and the completion of the Amy Gillett Bikeway.
“The government must commit to the actions outlined in the Infrastructure SA Mount Barker Mass Transit Study and progress the Northern Freight Train Bypass,” Ms Wisdom said,
“They must commit to improving GP, ambulance and hospital services in the region and supporting community wellbeing and recovery through targeted funding to support the Community Resilience and Readiness Program.
“Our council will continue to partner and collaborate with the state government, regardless of which party forms government – to benefit our community and SA as a whole.”
David Elliott – Unley Bicycle Users Group
Suburb: Unley Electorate: Unley
Priorities: Unley Bicycle Users Group chairman David Elliott said cyclists of his area were desperate to see cycling funded by the state government to the tune of $20m annually.
“We believe that by boosting bicycle funding, the State and Councils across SA can deliver some really high quality and desperately needed infrastructure at a fraction of the cost of bigger roads and bigger intersections,” he said.
Alongside the cycling funding Mr Elliott tagged the completion of the Mike Turtur Bikeway and greenways, transport for the Hills, sustainable and safe transport options that reduce congestion and community involvement in infrastructure projects as key issues needing to be addressed by the next state government.
Sarah Scammell – Victim Support Service
Suburb: Statewide Electorate: Statewide
Priorities: According to general manager Sarah Scammell, the Victim Support Service wanted to see six areas addressed as a priority by whoever formed the next government.
She said the organisation there needed to be better access to trauma informed support for victim-survivors of crime and abuse, cohesive approaches to victim services to avoid re-traumatisation, better rural and regional access to support for victim-survivors, better victim trauma education, more services for those who experience elder abuse and more support for the VSS volunteer court companions program.
“We call on our government to address the disparity in access to culturally safe and appropriate information and services, to meet the needs of individuals and communities, designed through respectful and inclusive engagement,” Ms Scammell said.
Glenn Docherty – City of Playford
Suburb: Davoren Park Electorate: Taylor/Elizabeth/King
Priorities: According to Mayor Glenn Docherty the City of Playford’s priorities are investments in jobs for defence, health and the Elizabeth CBD.
The other major priorities include the duplication of Curtis Road and adapting the region’s infrastructure for an expected influx of 38,000 homes.
Mr Docherty indicated the priorities were largely needed to address an expanding region and population pinpointed as part of the state’s 30-year plan for Greater Adelaide.
He said addressing Curtis Road had become a priority following the construction of the North-South corridor which had seen the once local collector road into a major arterial road.
Barry Money – Real Estate Institute of South Australia
Suburbs: Statewide Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Chief executive Barry Money said the Real Estate Institute of South Australia hoped the next state government would target ways to increase rental housing supply, invest in jobs in the real estate industry and find ways to support prospective homeowners looking to buy their first home.
Mr Money said land tax aggregation was pushing investors away from increasing rental supply while the tax, combined with conveyancing duty and increasing house prices was inhibitive to getting on the first rung of the home ownership ladder for the next generation.
“While there has been some commentary around First Home Buyers, neither major party has succinctly expressed solutions to the three issues most important to REISA,” Mr Money said.
Samuel Taylor – Mount Gambier resident
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: Mount Gambier man Samuel Taylor, 28, said he wanted greater action taken to support local commerce, investment in small business and greater health spending.
“After Covid, there has been quite a few issues that everyone’s had to deal with,” he said.
“Mount Gambier is expanding, a lot of people are moving here away from the big cities – we need the infrastructure to cope.
“We need the government to care about local industries.”
Nathan Paine – South Australian Forests Products Association
Towns: Regional Electorates: Regional
Priorities: For SAFPA chief executive Nathan Paine the main priority was for whichever victorious party to “get more trees in the ground” with a looming fibre shortage.
“We need our political parties to sign up to a unity ticket of getting more trees in the ground to not just protect the 18,000 people directly and indirectly employed in the industry but also ensure future generations have access to cheap, affordable and green housing into the future” Mr Paine said.
Robert Bria – Norwood Payneham & St Peters Council
Suburb: Norwood | Electorate: Dunstan
Priorities: According to Mayor Robert Bria, the main issues for the ratepayers of Norwood Payneham and St Peters are reforming the Planning and Design Code, funding for The Parade masterplan and upgrading local infrastructure and exploring an alternative major transport route for B-double trucks to avoid Portrush Road.
“The council would like demolition controls to be strengthened and for heritage listings of properties to be simplified and made easier,” Mr Bria said.
Heather Grace – Clare Golf Club
Town: Clare | Electorate: Frome
Priorities: According to Clare Golf Club president Heather Grace, road infrastructure was a key priority for the next state government to address in Clare, particularly the Horrocks Highway and Northern Expressway.
“In the regions, we want fair and equitable access to services, we have a voice out here,” she said.
“All we’re really asking for is that members continue to serve their electorates, and that red tape doesn’t get in the way of what they plan to deliver.”
Mark Wasley – Adelaide Plains Council
Towns: Two Wells, Mallala, Dublin | Electorate: Narungga
Priorities: Adelaide Plains Mayor Mark Wasley said public transport and water were the key issues in the region of his LGA.
He said a public transport issue had arisen due to the rapidly growing southern portion of his electorate needing a link to Adelaide’s northern suburbs and city centre.
He also said the region needed to progress the Northern Adelaide Irrigation System and work with SA Water to resolve the lack of take up by the private sector.
“Many growers and end users of the water are ready to go, but cannot afford the extremely high price demand and connection costs, and the poor water quality needs further treatment,” he said.
Demi Pnevmatikos – United Workers Union
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Union leaders have come out swinging against the current Liberal government throwing their support behind Labor.
Chief among their concerns is the privatisation of public services, tougher penalties for wage theft and fixing the current “health crisis” with public sector director Demi Pnevmatikos saying South Australians deserved “a fair go”.
“This is why United Workers Union members are fighting to change the government this election – to prevent privatisation, stamp out wage theft and fix the health crisis,“ she said.
“For the region, this will include upgrading Mount Gambier and Naracoorte Hospitals, an additional 24 paramedics and ambulance officers for the region and a seven-year funding agreement with Keith Hospital.“
“Covid-19 has acted as a catalyst for workers to organise and build a new vision for their future. South Australians know they deserve a fair go, access to quality health services and secure jobs.”
Mark Henley – Uniting Communities
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Community corrections need to be strengthened, housing affordability needs to be addressed and the cost of living needs to be reduced by the next state government, according to Uniting Communities spokesman Mark Henley.
Mr Henley said a stronger community could overcome loneliness for many, which would lead to better health outcomes while getting older women facing homelessness into housing and providing energy assistance for renters should be the first ports of call for the election winners.
Mr Henley said he would also like to see the next government commit to become carbon neutral by 2035.
Nathan Shanks – Town of Gawler
Town: Gawler | Electorate: Light
Priorities: For Town of Gawler councillor Nathan Shanks, infrastructure, planning and sport were key issues coming out of the state election.
“Too often councils get blamed for the lack of upkeep on state government roads, and we need these assets looked after, to ensure continuity in streetscape, amenity, and even property values,” he said.
“The new planning code has some holes, and Gawler has some heritage buildings in our town which are now unprotected. We need the code to be amended as soon as possible before we lose these buildings. (And) more grants are always needed – in Gawler we have a strong sporting community, and we have missed out on some grants in recent times that would have had huge benefits for the community.”
ac.care – Shane Maddocks
Towns: Regional | Electorates: Regional
Priorities: For the chief executive of regional homelessness service provider ac.care, Shane Maddocks, the next state government needed to provide greater investment in emergency accommodation, increase maintenance and expand social housing, lower property sale stamp duty and increase funding for drug, alcohol and mental health services.
“We urge voters to ensure housing affordability and availability is an important issue at the election and consider what the parties and candidates are proposing to address this unprecedented situation,” Mr Maddocks said.
Dave Burgess – Mid Murray Council
Towns: Blanchetown, Bowhill, Cambrai, Morgan, Sedan, Truro, Mannum, Kyneton | Electorates: Hammond, Chaffey
Priorities: Mid Murray Council Mayor Dave Burgess said education was the number one issue in his region, with local schools deserving of high grade facilities.
“We need to have better services in the regions, to have commitments locked in,” he said.
Education was closely followed by needing better access for his constituents to hospitals in Adelaide.
Shane Sody – Adelaide Park Lands Association
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: President Shane Sody said the park lands of Adelaide were under threat from election promises “spat out like you might spit out seeds from a watermelon”.
Mr Sody said the election priority for the association was ensuring those park lands were protected. He wanted to see a recent decision to rezone Helen Mayo Park reversed as a matter of urgency.
“The Adelaide Park Lands are being gradually eroded and there is no effective mechanism to halt or impose a limit on the extent of losses,” he said.
Leo Panzarino – Sports Association for Adelaide Schools
Suburbs: Metro SA | Electorates: Metro SA
Priorities: Sports Association for Adelaide Schools chief executive Leo Panzarino said the next state government needed to ensure no more sporting facilities used by Adelaide schools were lost.
“We keep losing ovals, cricket pitches, tennis courts, soccer fields, etc,” he said.
“They are being sold off for housing and not being replaced. We need more sports fields that aren’t controlled or locked up by sporting clubs, then we can get more kids playing.”
Joe Corbo – Gleeson College
Suburb: Golden Grove | Electorate: King, Wright
Priorities: Gleeson College principal Joe Corbo said capital funding, Year Seven transition funding and greater support for mental health initiatives were at the top of the list when it came to election issues for the Catholic school.
He said current funding for Catholic schools in SA was less than other states while a 2018 intention to move year seven to secondary settings had proven to come at a “significant cost” to catholic schools which they were now looking to recoup.
“We would (also) like the next state government to prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of all students across South Australia and provide increased funding for professional support which can be accessed by schools on a needs basis,” Mr Corbo said.
Russell Johnstone – Barossa Council
Town: Barossa Valley | Electorate: Schubert
Priorities: Barossa Council Deputy Mayor Russell Johnstone prioritised the environment, arts, and transport.
Mr Johnstone was concerned the National Resources Management Board that serves the Barossa would not be able to be economically viable under the current levy system.
“I also believe that the Barossa should have a cultural centre, which is something the council has been focused on and is committed to, especially as it will give the youth out here opportunities,” he said.
Mr Johnstone said the council had a policy to have smooth sealed roads in the Barossa, and wanted to see the transport and infrastructure department commit to keeping country roads free of potholes and rough surfaces.
Michael White – South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: For SANDAS executive director Michael White, the most important issues for the next state government to address were funding alcohol and drug treatment to meet the needs of the community, changing drug regulation and introducing alcohol reform.
“All of these problems could be better tackled by committing to a health focused/led alcohol and other drug treatment system informed by evidence and community consultation,” Mr White said.
“(It) is especially important to address the harms to young people, Aboriginal communities and families and those who have recovered.
“Rather than politicise this as an issue we should also seek to reduce stigma, which is the largest barrier to accessing treatment.”
Clair Boan – City of Port Adelaide Enfield
Suburb: Port Adelaide | Electorate: Port Adelaide
Priorities: According to Mayor Claire Boan, the main issues the state government needs to address in her LGA are working with the council in its strategic partnership opportunities.
That included a sustainable business incentive scheme to grow the circular economy, upgrading Linear Park and five areas for “active open spaces”, creating a walking and cycling network, developing stormwater infrastructure and preserving wetlands and supporting the Semaphore foreshore upgrade.
Matt Foreman – Mount Gambier resident
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: Mount Gambier’s Matt Foreman, 44, said two big issues the next state government needed to look at were jobs and health.
“We want to make sure there’s plenty of jobs, and I’d like the health to be looked at – the hospital needs plenty of attention,” he said.
“It’s what most people are talking about.”
Lynne Neshoda – Foodbank Limestone Coast
City: Mount Gambier | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: As cost of living and food insecurity rise, Foodbank Limestone Coast is crying out for government investment in programs and transport solutions according to regional branch manager Lynne Neshoda.
“The Government needs to put support into school food relief programs because children are turning up to school hungry, families are struggling and the pressures on families are increasing,” she said.
“(We need better) regional transport – so people can access services including the Food Hub and mental health support.”
City of Salisbury
Suburb: Davoren Park | Electorate: Taylor
Priorities: A City of Salisbury spokesperson said the most important areas the council wanted the next state government to address were funding the revitalisation of the Salisbury centre, upgrading Kings Road, improving east-west transport and investing in the St Kilda sustainability centre project.
They said upgrading the Salisbury interchange to optimise the benefits of an eventual Adelaide-Gawler electrified rail line was vital while upgrading the Salisbury Interchange and was equally necessary for the line.
They said $135-175m would be needed to complete expected road infrastructure upgrades.
Liam Short – Salisbury Football Club
Suburb: Salisbury | Electorate: Ramsay
Priorities: As one northern suburbs club removed itself from the Adelaide amateur AFL competition, another came out and described the difficulties attracting players in the area as they chose between work and sport, Salisbury Football Club president Liam Short believed that very issue was one the next state government had to try and contribute to combatting.
“(They need to provide) greater funding assistance at grassroots level and programs at school to encourage school kids and school leavers to remain committed to sport,” he said.
Simon Maddocks – Primary Producers SA
Region: Limestone Coast | Electorates: Mount Gambier, Mackillop
Priorities: Chairman Simon Maddocks said the PPSA was ready to work with all sides of politics to ensure primary producers stay profitable, sustainable and support the regional communities that sustain their workforces.
He said reform to mining on agricultural land, water security, vocational education and training in schools, heavy vehicle transport, natural resource management and planning laws were key for grains, dairy, livestock, horticulture, wine grapes and forestry sectors.
“PPSA will be advocating for the next government to ensure legislative reforms governing pastoral and biosecurity laws are progressed in the next parliament,” Prof Maddocks said.
“We would also like to see targeted programs to support carbon farming, farm forestry, agtech, plant-based protein, wild dog management, agricultural research and development, cutting stamp duty and lowering the cost of getting food from paddock to plate.”
Lino Fusco – Sturt Lions Soccer Club
Suburb: West Beach | Electorate: Colton
Priorities: The next state government needs to continue funding to improve sports facilities and get more kids involved in sport, according to Sturt Lions head coach Lino Fusco.
Mr Fusco said the biggest issue sports clubs statewide faced was finding suitable training facilities.
“As a winter sport, football is particularly vulnerable to a lack of available facilities with lighting and shelter,” he said.
“There is an ongoing challenge to build more facilities at a time when available open space is shrinking whilst participation and population continues to rise. This is made even harder because the general response of local residents is often ‘great idea, but not in my backyard’ which stops or delays many projects.”
Brad Hocking – St Vincent de Paul Society SA
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: According to Vinnies state president Brad Hocking, the main issues needing addressing were housing and food insecurity, education, support for asylum seekers and concession equity.
“We understand that there is no easy fix, but nor can we ignore the litany of issues facing our community, which have only been exacerbated during the Covid-19 pandemic,’ Mr Hocking said.
“If we are to live up to our reputation of being the most liveable state, (fixing the issues) should apply to all postcodes and economic circumstances.”
Ann Ferguson – Mount Barker Council
Town: Mount Barker | Electorates: Kavel, Hammond
Priorities: Mount Barker Council Mayor Ann Ferguson said transport infrastructure, a new hospital and leadership were vital to the Mount Barker community.
“We need a government that will commit to fixing the mess that was made when Mount Barker was rezoned by the State Government in 2010,” Ms Ferguson said.
“We need a government that is prepared to bite the bullet on meeting the growth needs of the second largest SA urban locale.”
But Ms Ferguson said the community was “sick and tired of being ignored” by state governments and was fed up with being promised things that were never delivered.
Grant Fensom – Periwinkles Cafe, Lions Club, CFS
Town: Port MacDonnell | Electorate: Mount Gambier
Priorities: Community leader Grant Fensom, who owns Periwinkles Cafe at Port MacDonnell and is a member of the local Lions club and CFS, said regional services were at the heart of the state election.
“We’re always becoming more city centric when it comes to what’s available, there’s more to SA than just Adelaide Oval,” he said.
“There’s always money being spent with overpasses here, there and everywhere when it comes to city stuff, but I think there’s a lot that can be done regionally.”
Road and transport planning and maintenance needed to be addressed in the regions by the next state government, as did health, tourism and phone reception, according to Mr Fensom.
Kirsty Gillings – Clare Valley Business and Tourism Association
Town: Clare | Electorate: Frome
Priorities: Business and tourism, jobs and economic growth and health are the key issues facing the next state government according to Clare Valley Business and Tourism Association co-chair Kirsty Gillings.
“There needs to be more support for the tourism industry to recover from the impacts of COVID-19 … increased support for initiatives that create long-term sustainable jobs, particularly for our youth, to stay in our region and grow a strong regional economy … (and) the issue of ambulance ramping is critical,” she said.
Riverland Wine – Grape Growers
Region: Riverland | Electorate: Chaffey
Priorities: Two priorities for Riverland Wine-Grape Growers were key for the next state government, which came at a time when the region’s red wine bulk market was “paralysed”.
Those key priorities were delivering export support focusing on producers in the commercial market in addition to existing export market support and supporting grape growers to adapt production to changing international market trends and tastes in wine, wine products and tourism.
Nick Heath – South Clare Sports Club
Town: Clare| Electorate: Frome
Priorities: According to South Clare Sports Club president Nick Heath, infrastructure, education and health were the key issues in his region that needed to be addressed.
“From our roads to our sporting facilities, there is a lot of work to be done in getting our services up to a high standard,” he said.
“Our primary and secondary schools as well, I’m concerned that we miss out on the funding opportunities that metropolitan schools get (and) we absolutely need more full time nurses in the Clare Valley.”
Robbi Williams – JFA Purple Orange
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: Robbi Williams, the chief executive of Purple Orange, a social profit organisation advocating for people with disabilities, wanted to see the next state government address accessible housing, health services, advocacy services, accessible taxis, inclusive education, justice and implementation of disability access and inclusion plans.
“Every vote can influence change in our state, and it’s crucial that voters are well-informed about the things that matter to the disability community,” Mr Williams said.
“We call on whoever forms government after the election to make addressing these issues a top priority.”
Wayne Thomas – Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council
Town: Clare | Electorate: Frome
Priorities: Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council mayor Wayne Thomas said infrastructure, waste disposal and business and tourism should be at the top of the agenda when the next state government looks to Clare.
“The cost of providing infrastructure to manage stormwater within our townships is a huge burden on our ratepayers, and we would welcome some financial assistance,” he said.
“Many of our towns are built near river systems, and changes in our climate means it’s critical to keep our people safe from flooding.”
Shaun de Bruyn – Tourism Industry Council SA
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: TICSA chief executive Shaun de Bruyn said, with international borders having recently opened, the state’s primary priority needed to be securing tourist visitation.
Mr de Bruyn believed the best way for the next state government to address the issue was to increase the budget for marketing and restart grants for tourism businesses, and expand business capability development in the form of workshops and coaching.
“Many tourism businesses have used all their money simply to survive in the past two years, depleting cash reserves, going into debt, and selling off assets just to keep their doors open,” he said.
“Now that demand is starting to return, they have no way to restart, improve and expand their businesses.”
Neil Martinson – Renmark Paringa Council
Towns: Renmark, Yamba, Murtho, Cooltung, Paringa | Electorate: Chaffey
Priorities: According to Renmark Paringa Mayor Neil Martinson, the three issues the council wanted to see addressed were water security for permanent plantings and commodity prices.
“Riverland needs industries/manufacturing to increase jobs and population growth which don’t have a reliance on water,” he said.
Mr Martinson also fired a warning that the Riverland would be stung by a hung parliament full of independents.
South Australian Cricket Association
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: A SACA spokesperson said the organisation wanted to see investment in sporting infrastructure that prioritised multi-sport venues and inclusive participation as a key for the next state government.
Six-month investment programs into community infrastructure, targeted support programs and urban planning provisions within new community developments were other key areas the SACA wanted addressed.
Kris Hanna – City of Marion
Suburb: Sturt | Electorates: Elder, Gibson, Badcoe, Black, Morphett, Davenport
Priorities: According to Mayor Kris Hanna the critical issues for Marion Council residents were housing density, growing sporting facilities and maintaining a coherent approach to Covid restrictions.
“Next to transport routes and shopping centres (high housing density) may be ok but there is a strong community reaction against the impact of packing too many houses into quiet suburban streets,” Mr Hanna said.
He said some sports clubs in the area had turned players away through lack of facilities while consistency and common sense was crucial moving forward in regard to Covid rules and restrictions.
Nicole Chaplin – St John’s Youth Services
Suburbs: Statewide | Electorates: Statewide
Priorities: According to SJYS chief executive Nicole Chaplin, housing affordability, mental health and increasing the rate of income support are the most pressing issues needing to be addressed by the next state government.
“Australia is currently in the grip of a housing crisis … we are in the midst of a youth mental health emergency … (and) current rates of income support are simply not enough to cover the basics,” Ms Chaplin said.
“We back the call by SACOSS for the SA Government to make a significant investment in public and social housing (and) increased investment in youth mental health. We call on the SA Government to advocate for young South Australians at the Federal level, especially around income support payment rates.”
Tumby Bay District Council
Town: Tumby Bay | Electorate: Flinders
Priorities: According to the Tumby Bay District Council, the next state government should prioritise a jetty at Tumby Bay and in other regional areas, housing affordability and water security through a desalination plant once they are sworn in.
A spokesperson said housing availability was “dire” with “few houses for sale and even fewer for rent” making it “nearly impossible” to attract new people to the Eyre Peninsula, while others were leaving the area altogether through lack of housing.
They said other important issues to address were getting GPs and professionals to come and work on the Eyre Peninsula and finding a way to provide enough child care to families in the area.
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