A police-led safety campaign aimed at visitors to South Australia was unveiled today.
Developed in the wake of two serious incidents which involved overseas visitors, the campaign features information about ridesharing, farm work, travelling in the outback, safe partying and other key information such as the need to swim between the flags at patrolled beaches.
Today, Assistant Commissioner Peter Harvey, said police wanted people to stay safe while travelling and recognised that communication and research methods have changed for modern travellers.
“Where once people spoke with travel agents and used guide books, now they are getting advice via social media and websites,” he noted.
“We want to make sure we are present in these spaces and conversations to help visitors stay safe when travelling in South Australia.
“The use of humour in our posters, and pocket cards, is intended to highlight just a few simple tips, while our rollout on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram is aimed at creating ‘shareable’ content.
“This is not about scaring people, but about recognising that people no longer ‘thumb a lift’ on the roadside, but rather they find a share ride in the digital space.”
SA Police Minister Corey Wingard offered his strong support to the initiative noting it provides more information for the public; particular tourists and other visitors, in how to be safe and travel safely throughout South Australia.
“South Australia is simply just an amazing place for people to come and enjoy the countless outstanding tourist locations, events and venues on offer,” he said.
“Not everyone has a huge budget when travelling and some tourists will look to ridesharing websites to get around to various locations.
“This initiative provides a range of easy to understand tips on ridesharing, safe partying, travelling in the remote areas of the state, gaining farm work and other useful information.
He said this initiative is about visitors being able to enhance their trip by being able to access reliable and factual information about travelling safely in South Australia.
“This is really about encouraging people to think about their personal safety and that of their travelling companions. It is also about having situational awareness and thoroughly enjoying their stay in South Australia”.
Assistant Commissioner Harvey added that the campaign, which has the support of the Commissioner for Victims’ Rights was not aimed just at backpackers, but a wide range of people who choose to visit South Australia.
The Commissioner for Victims’ Rights, Bronwyn Killmier, said she was pleased to work with the South Australia Police to develop the new material.
“We want people to enjoy and experience our great state,” Ms Killmier said. “But visitors to our State still need to be mindful of their safety.
“If people are sticking a virtual ‘ thumb in the air’ to hitch a ride, or travelling to South Australia for work or a visit, this material will offer a few tips on how to stay safe while enjoying everything our State has to offer. “
Assistant Commissioner Harvey said it was also important for visitors to know how to contact the South Australia Police.
“We want them to be familiar with the number – 131 444 – to call for police assistance, while planning a safe trip so they don’t need to use that number,” he said.
