8 October 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing to deliver in its year of action, certainty and security, today launching a new initiative placing Aboriginal Liaison Officers here (ALOs) in Territory schools.
The initiative delivers on an election commitment to expand school-based policing, increase school attendance, and keep students and teachers safe.
The school-based ALO program will deploy 40 ALOs over four years to work in selected government schools, providing culturally appropriate responses to school and community issues.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey, said she wanted to replicate the partnership between NT Police and the Territory's Aboriginal communities in NT Government Schools.
"Placing ALOs in Schools is another measure our CLP Government is taking in our year of action, certainty and security to increase school attendance rates," Mrs Hersey said.
"ALOs have provided valuable advice and guidance to NT Police, and we have identified schools to place ALO's in to support schools on issues that impact students' wellbeing and attendance.
"As we have said time and time again, we want better literacy and numeracy outcomes and improved school attendance rates."
The program will be implemented through a phased rollout with the first participating schools being Katherine High School and Macfarlane Primary School.
The Aboriginal Liaison Officers in Schools will see respected local aboriginal people employed to work directly in schools alongside students, teachers, families, communities and police.
Executive Director of Cultural Reform NT Police, Leanne Liddle, said the ALOs will bring local knowledge and cultural insight into schools.
"Our Aboriginal Liaison Officers are respected members of their communities.
"They will work side-by-side with students, families and teachers to provide culturally informed responses and role modelling.
"This program is about stronger connections, safer schools, and better outcomes for everyone."
