The new station has two holding cells, an exercise yard, interview room and two other units within

the compound.

Ms Rankine visited Yalata, 200kms west of Ceduna near the Great Australian Bight, late last year when, as Minister for Housing, she signed long term land leases in exchange for new housing and better services.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Paul Caica is also attending today’s ceremony.

“Since this Labor Government came to office, we’ve spent more than $13 million on infrastructure

in Yalata,” Ms Rankine said.

“This is on top of the $15 million spent on policing in the APY lands since 2002, resulting in 19

additional officers.

“This station is further testament to our commitment to the community. It is a tangible example of

not only safety and justice, but community as well.”

Under this Government, new police stations have also been opened at Amata, Mimili and Ernabella

(Pukatja), as well as Roxby Downs, Golden Grove, Aldinga, Gawler, Mount Barker, Victor Harbor,

Berri, Port Lincoln, Newton, Blakeview, Hallett Cove, Pooraka, Kalangadoo and Port Broughton

Prior to 1989, police services were provided to Yalata from Ceduna from Monday to Friday and

Penong on the weekends.

In 1989 a station staffed by one sworn officer and a Community Constable was established in the

community near the school.

However in 2007, the police station was destroyed by fire and police set up temporary

accommodation within the Yalata community, while negotiations with community elders and the

Yalata Community helped select a site for the new police station.

The new facility is located at the corner of Yalata Access Road and Oak Valley Bypass Road.