Finocchiaro CLP Government appoints new members to the NT Liquor Commission, to be chaired by respected Territory barrister, Sally Gearin.
Appointments reinforce commitment to fair, proportionate and independent approach to liquor licensing decisions.
Government remains focused on reducing crime, rebuilding the economy, and restoring the Territory's unique lifestyle.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has appointed new members to the Northern Territory Liquor Commission, reinforcing a fair, proportionate and independent approach to liquor licensing decisions.
The appointments bring together experience across the legal profession, health sector and community, with respected Territory barrister Sally Gearin newly appointed as Chair.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the Commission plays a critical role as the independent decision-maker under the Liquor Act, determining licence applications, licence conditions and disciplinary matters referred to it.
"The Liquor Commission exists to apply the law fairly and independently," Minister Boothby said.
"It is responsible for making licensing and disciplinary decisions under the Liquor Act. Enforcement and day-to-day compliance remain the role of the Director of Liquor Licensing and police."
"Our focus as a government is clear, we are reducing crime by tackling root causes, including problem drinking, while ensuring responsible businesses are not unfairly penalised."
"The vast majority of licensees do the right thing. The role of the Commission is not to impose blanket punishments, but to make measured decisions where harm is occurring and to uphold standards when they are breached."
Minister Boothby said the new appointments provide certainty to liquor licensees.
"We are rebuilding the economy by making the Territory the best place to do business, and that includes providing certainty, consistency and proportionate decision-making for hospitality operators."
"At the same time, restoring our lifestyle means supporting safe and vibrant food, hospitality and nightlife options for families and visitors alike."
New appointments include:
• Sally Gearin (Chairperson)
• Michaela Malone
• Stephen Gelding
• Benjamin Giesecke
Continuing members include:
• Phillip Carson
• Elizabeth Stephenson
• Katrina Fong Lim
• Ebony Abbott McCormack
The appointments follow strong measures already introduced to curb demand and reduce alcohol-related harm, including the extension of Banned Drinker Orders from 7 days to 28 days, strengthened police powers to address nuisance drinking and anti-social behaviour, and targeted enforcement initiatives such as Operation Ludlow.
"Our work to reduce crime is delivering results, with over 2,700 fewer victims of crime, a 4% reduction in alcohol-related assaults, and a 10% reduction in offending across the Territory," Minister Boothby said.
"But we're not taking our foot off the pedal. Reducing crime, rebuilding the economy and restoring our lifestyle go hand in hand, which is why we're staying the course."
"Safe communities support strong businesses. Strong businesses create jobs. And thriving hospitality venues contribute to the vibrant Territory lifestyle which we are restoring."
