In a first for Australia, Adelaide City Council and the South Australian State Government have entered into a Social Sustainability Partnership Agreement. Established in 2005, this agreement guides Council and State Government actions to develop an enjoyable social environment in Adelaide’s CBD. Signed by Adelaide Lord Mayor, Michael Harbison, and South Australian Premier, Mike Rann, it commits the partners through various Government departments to work in a collaborative approach in addressing key social issues.
Michael Harbison said the City of Adelaide attracts homeless and vulnerable people, students, visitors, business people, traders and residents.
“People often have competing needs and expectations,” he said. “This means Council has to look at more integrated approaches in planning and development to address social issues.”
Under the agreement, a Hot Spot Response Model was established. This ensures a coordinated action by Government agencies on persistent social issues occuring in the public realm.
“At times, people congregate in certain streets and squares and cause concern,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Some of these people may be vulnerable, homeless and have behavioural issues. Health and welfare services have found it difficult to respond to the demands of people in these larger groups. The Hot Spot Model ensures that Council and State Government bodies are working together to provide coordinated responses to these issues.”
Council and the State Government are now considering expanding the Hot Spot Model to incorporate Adelaide’s Park Lands.
A new Neighbourhood Liaison Project has also been introduced to improve relationships between homeless support agencies, homeless people and the broader community.
For further information contact Stuart Boyd, Adelaide’s Team Leader Community Development and Planning, on (08) 8203 7435.
