The Finocchiaro CLP Government is backing police and tackling dangerous drivers with the introduction of the Transport Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 in Parliament today.
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said the reforms give police stronger tools and courts heavier penalties to keep Territorians safe.
"We're putting police in a stronger position to crack down on unlicensed, drink and drug drivers, and make our roads safer for everyone," Mr Yan said.
Key changes include:
Stronger penalties for repeat offenders - Courts can now impose cumulative licence disqualifications for drink and drug drivers with multiple offences.On-the-spot fines for unlicensed driving - Police can issue immediate penalties to people driving without ever holding a licence and to learners driving without a supervisor.Faster removal of abandoned vehicles - Road authorities can now act in three days instead of seven, reducing road hazards and freeing up police resources.Safer public transport - Transit Officers gain greater powers to remove antisocial behaviour from public transport.
Minister Yan said the reforms were also part of a broader plan to make the public transport network safer.
"Today's legislative amendments sit alongside our Bus Safety Reform Strategy, which includes closing high-risk interchanges, expanding CCTV coverage, installing on-board duress alarms and direct radio links to Transit Officers, launching the new NT Bus Tracker App and continuing free travel to reduce cash-related risks for drivers."
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said dangerous driving on Territory roads must end.
"Last year, 60 lives were lost on Territory roads. So far this year, 24 people have died - down from 40 at the same time last year. We launched our road safety campaign with Police and MACC at Easter, and we're continuing to target dangerous driving to make our roads safer," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"The CLP is acting decisively to give police stronger powers, keep dangerous drivers off our roads, and restore community safety.
"During my night ride-alongs with police, particularly in Alice Springs, I've seen first-hand the dangerous behaviours that cost lives. This is about backing our frontline and putting community safety first.
"Dangerous drivers have no place on Territory roads. As part of our year of action, certainty and security, the CLP Government is taking action to make roads safer, because every life matters, and you should drive like yours is worth living."
The amendment bill was introduced today and is scheduled for debate and passage during the October 2025 sittings.
