LGBTIQA+ South Australia has a troubled relationship with law enforcement and the criminal justice system, having been the subject of criminalisation, harassment, targeted raids and arrests.
As a result, many LGBTIQA+ South Australians have a distrust of law enforcement.
We're working to improve the experiences of LGBTIQA+ South Australians when interacting with law enforcemen, police and the criminal justice system.
SAPOL Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer program
To support the fair and equitable delivery of policing services to the LGBTIQ community, SA Police maintains an established network of Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officers.
Yet we've heard repeated concerns from our communities about the lack of LGBTIQA+ inclusive support when engaging with police and law enforcement.
Despite the good intentions of SA Police's Gay and Lesbian Liason Officer (GLLO) Network, we know the program is not well known amongst LGBTIQA+ communities or local police themselves.
Several community members have asked to speak to a Gay and Lesbian Liason Officer, only for the officer on duty to be unaware of the program and unsure how to assist.
Review of the GLLO Program
In July 2023 SA Police commenced a review into the Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer program, along with the training provided to ensure staff are equipped with a better understanding of issues and/or barriers faced by members of the LGBTIQA+ community.
SAPOL gathered community input via public engagement on YourSAy, along with meeting SARAA representatives directly.
We are yet to hear about the outcome of the review, or any actions taken as a result. We'll continue to seek an update from SAPOL and will report back when we know more.
Correctional Services
The marginalisation, harassment and mistreatment experienced by LGBTIQA+ people in society are compounded within the correctional system, including community corrections, prisons and rehabilitation settings.
We want to ensure that appropriate policies and practices are in place for the management of LGBTIQA+ people in contact with the correctional system.
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