There are growing concerns over a spike in crime at Adelaide’s Housing Trust properties, with new data revealing police are being called to one Novar Gardens complex almost every day.
Locals have long described the cluster of units as “crack heaven”, saying anti‑social behaviour has become part of daily life.
Former resident Claire Aldridge grew up in the area and says little has changed.
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“A lot of violence… a lot of police presence,” she told 7NEWS.
“Drug users and people in and out, engaging in risky or unsafe behaviours.”
Her mother still lives in their Marsh Ct home — but Claire no longer feels safe bringing her children to visit.
“It’s quite unfortunate because it interferes in that relationship my mum has,” she said.
The numbers back up the concern.
Two years ago the unit complex was the scene of an alleged arson attack.
The housing trust complex has been called dangerous by its residents Credit: 7NEWS In the first five months of this year, police were called 69 times, including 33 callouts in March alone, responding to repeated reports of trespass, theft, assault and property damage.
Shadow Housing Minister Josh Teague says the situation is part of a broader pattern.
“I fear this is an example of what is happening elsewhere as well,” he said.
The Trust is already under scrutiny after a grandmother claimed a man had been living in her roof for months — allegations she says were repeatedly dismissed.
“We need to see more compassion… more action… to keep people safe in their home,” Teague said.
The Opposition wants the government to enforce its Good Neighbour Policy and evict problem tenants.
But Housing Minister Nick Champion says it’s not that simple — the challenge is where to rehouse them.
A $110 million election commitment for supported accommodation is aimed at easing the pressure.
“It’s just about giving the Housing Trust alternatives to house people with complexities that aren’t suburban homes,” Champion said.