CLP Pushes Reforms for Territorian Safety

NT Government

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its year of action, certainty and security, with a packed legislative agenda when Parliament resumes today.

Leader of Government Business Steve Edgington said the government is focused on restoring law and order, strengthening accountability and driving economic growth.

"This week, we're introducing tough new laws to keep Territorians safe, reforms to drive economic certainty, and changes to modernise our legislation and protect the community," Mr Edgington said.

Urgent legislation will overhaul the Youth Justice Act 2005 and Youth Justice Regulations 2006, delivering stronger measures to protect frontline staff and hold serious youth offenders to account.

"This is about restoring accountability to the youth justice system and reducing crime in our communities," Mr Edgington said.

The CLP Government will also finalise its response to the coronial findings into the deaths of Miss Yunupiŋu, Ngeygo Ragurrk, Kumarn Rubuntja, and Kumanjayi Haywood, reinforcing its commitment to tackling domestic and family violence in the Territory.

The Transport Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 introduces major reforms to improve road safety, including:

Tougher penalties for repeat drink and drug driversNew infringements for unlicenced drivingFaster removal of abandoned vehiclesExpanded Transit Officer powers Red tape cuts through more online MVR services and streamlined registration processes

The Defamation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 will overhaul outdated laws to protect victims of crime, reduce court backlogs and strengthen freedom of speech for journalists.

The Public Information Amendment Bill 2025 transfers oversight from the Auditor-General to the Ombudsman, ensuring transparency while allowing the Auditor-General to focus on its core responsibilities.

The Lands, Planning and Environment Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 will streamline approvals, strengthen regulation and unlock new investment opportunities to grow the economy.

The Animal Protection Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 introduces the strongest animal welfare laws in Territory history, with tougher penalties and protections for pets, livestock and wildlife.

"Territorians have seen shocking cases of animal cruelty in recent years - and offenders have walked away with a slap on the wrist. That ends now," Mr Edgington said.

"Territorians expect strong leadership - and that's exactly what this Government is delivering: safer communities, stronger laws and a clear plan for the future," Mr Edgington said.

Parliament sits Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week.

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