South Australia Police (SAPOL) has expressed satisfaction with the overall behaviour of revellers who welcomed the arrival of 2026 across the state. Popular celebration spots included Adelaide's CBD, Glenelg, Semaphore, Brighton, and other coastal areas.
Numerous events were held throughout South Australia, drawing thousands into the city to ring in the New Year. Among the highlights, more than 38,000 attendees gathered at Adelaide Oval for the Big Bash Cricket, while large crowds filled the CBD to enjoy the festivities.
Ahead of the celebrations, SAPOL made it clear that anti-social and disruptive behaviour would not be tolerated. A strong and visible police presence was deployed in areas known for high foot traffic during New Year's Eve.
Assistant Commissioner John De Candia noted, "It was heartening to see so many people taking the opportunity to reconnect with friends and family or simply enjoy a quiet evening with loved ones."
"The majority of attendees were respectful and well-behaved, though unfortunately a small number chose to act irresponsibly," he said.
"I want to acknowledge the dedication of our officers and emergency service personnel who worked through the night to keep our communities safe. Their commitment during this busy time is deeply appreciated."
Police recorded 72 arrests, 10 reports, and issued 225 expiation notices for offences such as drug possession, alcohol consumption in dry zones, and disorderly conduct. Compared to last year when there were 72 arrests, 11 reports, and 119 expiation notices for similar offences.
Significant incidents that required a police response include:
A teenage girl was stabbed during an altercation at the Salisbury interchange around 7pm on 31 December. Police quickly tracked down her alleged attackers within minutes at the Mawson Lakes interchange and arrested two 15-year-old girls and a 14-year-old girl. All three were refused bail and will face the Youth Court. Fortunately, the victim's injuries are not life-threatening.
At 7.30pm on 31 December, a 10-year-old boy was struck by an e-bike being ridden by a 15-year-old boy during the street celebrations at Normanville. The incident sparked an altercation between people at the event. The child was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Anyone involved or who witnessed this is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quote reference 549.
Three people were arrested after two police officers were allegedly assaulted while trying to break up a fight on Hardys Road, Underdale about 11pm on 31 December. Additional patrols attended to assist the officers who sustained minor physical injuries. A 54-year-old man from Underdale, a 28-year-old woman from Cheltenham and a 17-year-old girl from Underdale were arrested at the scene. The man and girl were charged with assault prescribed emergency worker and hinder police and will face court in February while the woman was given an adult caution.
Police are investigating an assault at Semaphore Jetty about 11.40pm on 31 December when a teenage girl was grabbed and kissed by an unknown male. The girl was not physically injured during the incident. Police ask anyone who witnessed this incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, reference 739.
In addition, officers conducted over 3808 drug and alcohol tests, resulting in 18 positive alcohol readings and 11 positive drug detections. Compared to last year's figures, 26 drink driving offences and 8 drug detections.
About 8.45pm on 31 December, a 37-year-old Mount Gambier man was stopped in Ferrers Street, Mount Gambier and recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.339 – nearly seven times the legal limit. He was reported for drink driving and issued with a 12-month instant loss of licence. His car was impounded for 28 days and he will be summonsed to appear in court.
Just before 1.30am on 1 January, a 47-year-old Angle Vale man was stopped by police on the Sturt Highway, Willaston. He recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.228. He was reported for drink driving and issued with a 12-month instant loss of licence. His car was impounded for 28 days and he will be summonsed to appear in court.
