Glenelg Dry Area extension – creating a safer, more welcoming public space
The City of Holdfast Bay created a safer space for the public by extending the Glenelg Dry Area.
The extension project was in response to growing concerns about alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in this area. The City of Holdfast Bay extended the existing Glenelg Dry Area to include the full length of Jetty Road – a popular tourism and retail precinct.
A ‘Dry Area’ prohibits drinking in public places
A Dry Area prohibits the possession or consumption of alcohol in open containers in public spaces, under the Liquor Licensing Act 1997. These areas aim to reduce street drinking and associated behaviours that impact community safety and amenity.
Why the Dry Area extension was needed
Jetty Road in Glenelg is a major destination for locals, families, and tourists. The previous Dry Area covered Moseley Square, Glenelg Foreshore, and Colley and Wigley Reserves. But antisocial behaviour linked to alcohol consumption continued along Jetty Road.
Council received strong feedback from residents and traders who supported extending the Dry Area. The community wanted to improve public safety, reduce disruptive behaviour, and create a more family-friendly environment. Concerns included shop theft, littering, public intoxication, and intimidating conduct near businesses and community spaces.
“It will make Jetty Road and surrounds safer, more family friendly. The elderly and children will feel safer; it will decrease antisocial behaviour and make the streets cleaner,” said one long-term resident.
Partnership with SA Police – Operation Jericho
The Dry Area extension came into effect on 31 October 2024. The extension has been supported by SA Police through the launch of Operation Jericho.
This initiative declared Glenelg a Public Precinct. It enabled targeted policing strategies to manage behaviour in and around licensed premises and the foreshore.
Key aspects of Operation Jericho
- Focus on behavioural offending linked to alcohol use.
- Enhanced police visibility and response capacity.
- Community safety as the core goal.
The precinct status supports police in deterring public drinking, maintaining order, and responding rapidly to incidents.
Community engagement
Visit extension of Glenelg Dry Area to learn more about the community engagement approach.
Implementation and review
A trial period of the declared precinct and Dry Area extension was held from 3 January to 7 April 2025.
A formal review has been scheduled to assess impact and effectiveness. Early feedback from traders, residents and visitors has been positive.
Key partnerships
The project was led by the City of Holdfast Bay, in partnership with:
- SA Police
- local traders and residents
- Jetty Road Mainstreet Committee
- Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner.
These partnerships allowed for broad community consultation, legislative support, and shared responsibility for implementation.
Outcomes and benefits
Main benefits of this project included:
- improved safety and amenity along Jetty Road
- a reduction in visible antisocial behaviour
- increased support from local businesses
- enhanced public confidence in the area as a safe, inclusive destination.
Learnings
This project demonstrated to the council that:
- strong community support and clear communication were vital to success
- collaborative partnerships enhanced implementation and enforcement
- ongoing monitoring ensures responsiveness to local needs.
Find out more
City of Holdfast Bay
Phone: (08) 8229 9999
Email: mail@holdfast.sa.gov.au