We call on the South Australian Government to fund the connection of Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Cultural Centre to the mains sewer network.

Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a major cultural asset in Adelaide.

The centre was constructed at a cost of approximately $35 million. It is currently operating using a septic holding tank system rather than being connected to mains sewer.

Council documents confirm pump out costs are forecast at around $70,000 per year, with costs expected to rise as usage increases. As usage increases toward full capacity, wastewater volumes are likely to increase, which may lead to more frequent pump outs and higher ongoing costs. This is an ongoing operational expense funded by local ratepayers.

The estimated cost to connect the facility to mains sewer during construction was approximately $800,000. That connection was not undertaken.

Considering the State Government did not contribute to the construction of the centre, it is fair to ask them to support the sewer connection.

The State Government owns SA Water and has the capacity to support this infrastructure upgrade.

Connecting the centre to mains sewer would align with environmental best practice, remove operational limitations, reduce long term waste management costs, support future commercial kitchen use, and protect local ratepayers from escalating pump out expenses.

This is not about criticism. It is about long term sustainability. It is about ensuring this important cultural centre is supported with appropriate infrastructure for decades to come.

Sign this petition to support a long term solution.