A prominent steel-producing city has unanimously decided to extend its dry zone in an effort to reduce alcohol-related issues and antisocial behaviour.
Whyalla City Council approved the expanded dry zone after a community vote showed strong support for addressing alcohol-related concerns.
Prior to the decision, Mayor Phill Stone sought public feedback, calling it “one of the most significant changes for the community.”
“The one aspect we can directly control is the area designated as a dry zone, which is why we’re pursuing a citywide ban following strong public backing,” he said.
However, Mr Stone acknowledged that the dry zone alone won’t fully resolve alcohol-related antisocial issues.
“A coordinated, multi-agency approach will be essential to tackle the root causes and deliver lasting improvements,” he added.
This, he said, would involve addressing housing concerns, increasing police presence, providing support for at-risk individuals, and implementing other strategies.
In its meeting notes, the council confirmed it would apply to the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for approval to implement the dry zone across the city.
There will be a few months’ delay between submitting the application and the dry zone coming into effect.
Leading up to the May 19 decision, Mayor Stone received more than 2,500 community responses.
“This was not a decision we took lightly, as we understand the significant impact it will have on the community,” he said.
Whyalla made national headlines in late February when the South Australian government placed Whyalla Steelworks into administration.
The steelworks, which employs over 1,000 people and produces more than 1.2 million tonnes of steel annually, had been losing about $1.5 million daily prior to its collapse.
