We talk to the 2024 South Australia Police Officer of the Year about his ground-breaking work to combat domestic violence in the State’s South East.
Naracoorte-based Senior Constable Chris Mailley – who works in SAPOL’s Family Violence Investigation Section – was recognised with the award for his commitment to assisting vulnerable community members, as well as the enthusiasm and compassion he brings to his roles as SAPOL Officer and community leader.
S/C Mailley says his work with domestic violence (DV) victim-survivors has three key aspects: “Investigation, intervention and predominately victim management,” he says. “We find ourselves dealing with very vulnerable people. This can be because of physical or sexual abuse, coercive control, child abuse or elder abuse: the reasons can be complex”.
A fresh approach to tackling DV
“I came up with the concept of having a community-focused approach when dealing with victims of domestic violence,” S/C Mailley says. This led to the launch of the Upper South East Domestic Abuse Program, which gives people the means to escape from life-threatening domestic situations.
“The program raises its money from within the community through donations and fundraising events,” S/C Mailley says. This grassroots approach has allowed the program to provide crucial support to both SAPOL and domestic and family violence support services.
And S/C Mailley says he’s “not done yet”. “I’m hoping to see the Upper South East achieve the best domestic violence support in the state.”
From UK excitement to SA innovation
S/C Mailley’s police career started a long way from rural SA. Originally from Birmingham in the UK, he had a thrilling career overseas, working in various high-intensity policing roles including the riot squad, tactical teams, and covert operations.
In 2009, S/C Mailley and his family made the bold move to South Australia, settling in the country town of Naracoorte. “I recall we all had a cheeky smile at each other as we flew in and saw Glenelg beach and from there on, our new life commenced,” S/C Mailley says.
The family quickly fell in love with the laid-back lifestyle and tight-knit community of Naracoorte. The decision to stay was an easy one, with S/C Mailley finding purpose in his police work and his wife Amanda establishing herself as a respected midwife and nurse in the area.
Beyond the badge
S/C Mailley’s passion for community engagement extends far beyond his policing duties. He’s been involved in setting up initiatives for vulnerable young people, including constructing a BMX track and running drug awareness forums.
S/C Mailley is also involved with the Naracoorte Lions Club, works with the local high school, and even manages to run his own farm and powder coating business.
His commitment to his adopted home runs so deep that he says he doesn’t see his award as Officer of the Year as his. Instead, he says “this belongs to the community: businesses, service groups, individuals, colleagues, and management team – there’s just too many involved and that shows how much support there’s been for the DV program and other initiatives we’ve set up,” S/C Mailley says.
“It also shows we are always trying new ideas to resolve problems here in the Limestone Coast.”
State Government actions to combat domestic violence
S/C Mailley’s award comes at a time when the South Australian Government has been taking significant steps to address domestic and family violence:
Royal Commission launched
The Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence began its work in July. Led by former Australian Democrats leader Natasha Stott Despoja, the Commission is examining prevention, early intervention, response, recovery and healing.
An online tool for victim-survivors to be heard
The Royal Commission’s Share With Us online tool is now live, giving South Australians the chance to share their experiences directly and anonymously. If you’ve interacted with the domestic, family or sexual violence sector, the Commission wants to hear from you. Your input will help shape future recommendations and highlight gaps in the system. The tool is safe, secure and open until 10 December. You can fill out a survey, write a response, or even upload an audio message.
Stricter bail conditions
Defendants granted bail on a charge of breaching a DV-related intervention order by either threatening or committing a violent act are now subject to mandatory strict conditions of home detention and electronic monitoring – similar provisions to defendants accused of serious or organised crime offences.
Paid leave for victim-survivors
The State Government has passed legislation providing 15 days of paid leave for public service workers who experience domestic and family violence, easing the financial burden and allowing them time to focus on safety and recovery.
Coercive Control legislation
Landmark reforms to criminalise coercive control have been introduced to State Parliament. This legislation aims to outlaw controlling behaviours within intimate partner relationships that restrict victims’ freedoms and autonomy
Strengthened stalking laws
Comprehensive reforms to South Australia’s stalking laws were introduced to State Parliament in September 2024. These changes clarify cyberstalking offences, cover stalking via various communication methods and lower the threshold for criminal offending.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, reach out to the Domestic Violence Crisis Line (24 hours) at 1800 800 098 or 1800RESPECT (24 hours) at 1800 737 732.
