• The Spinifex Court List is a specialist court list operating within the Magistrates Court of South Australia sitting at Port Augusta.
  • The Spinifex Court list aims to improve the efficiency of the court process, understanding of court outcomes and to reduce recidivism through the coordination of support for Defendants to return to remote communities.
  • The Spinifex Court list is supported by government agencies, support organisations and community service providers who provide participants with access to appropriate services and supports.

A Defendant may be eligible to participate in the Spinifex Court list if they:

  • Are facing criminal charges that can be finalised in the Magistrates Court;
  • Are of Aboriginal descent;
  • Usually reside in a remote community on the APY Lands, Ceduna or Yalata; and
  • Are currently remanded in the Port Augusta Prison or are willing to be transferred to the Port Augusta Prison to be eligible for the Spinifex Court list.

Participation in Spinifex is voluntary and subject to assessment and acceptance by the Court.

Referrals to the Spinifex Court list may occur:

  • at any Court hearing on the initiative of the presiding Magistrate,
  • at the request of the Defendant or their legal representative; or
  • at the request of Prosecution.

Participants may benefit from:

  • in-person services including;
    • defence counsel
    • interpreter
    • Department for Correctional Services; and
    • ADAC;
  • coordinated support from participating agencies and service providers.

Participants may receive support from a range of agencies and organisations, including:

  • Department for Correctional Services (DCS)

Participants may be supported in-person by DCS to complete court documents and understand their obligations.

  • Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Council (ADAC)

ADAC may assist participants to identify and access available entitlements and support services.

  • The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army may assist participants to access available support services and the Return to Country Support Program.

For further information about Spinifex:

  • speak with your legal representative;
  • contact the Magistrates Court of South Australia; or
  • visit the Courts Administration Authority website – www.courts.sa.gov.au