South Australian drivers can expect a noticeable increase in police presence on the roads, with the 2025–26 State Budget allocating $17.8 million to double the number of motorcycle officers.

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The initiative, announced by the Malinauskas Labor Government, will see 33 additional sworn police officers recruited and trained to perform motorcycle policing duties. Recruitment is set to begin shortly.

Increased Agility and Faster Emergency Response

Motorcycle officers provide law enforcement with significant advantages in mobility. Their compact size allows them to navigate heavy traffic quickly, making them ideal for urgent response scenarios such as car crashes or critical incidents.

These officers are also frequently tasked with providing escorts, managing traffic during events and protests, and supporting emergency services during natural disasters or other emergencies.

Expanded Coverage Across SA

The expanded motorcycle fleet will be deployed throughout metropolitan Adelaide and across regional South Australia. It complements SA Police's existing trail bike units, which are already in use for coastal patrols, rural area monitoring, and search and rescue operations.

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This broader distribution of police motorcycle units is aimed at improving response times and ensuring greater coverage of traffic enforcement throughout the state.

Supporting Safer Roads

The government’s goal is to enhance public safety and road regulation compliance through a more agile and visible police presence. Motorbike patrols are particularly effective in targeting high-risk driving behaviours, helping to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on South Australian roads.

Quote

"Our state is one of the safest places to live in the country. And we’re making the investments needed to keep it that way." – Peter Malinauskas

This investment follows recent state-wide efforts to improve road safety, and comes at a time when authorities are looking to strengthen enforcement and emergency response capabilities across South Australia.


Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available government data.


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