Territorians will soon see more high-visibility policing in public places, with the Northern Territory Police Force's first recruit squad of Public Safety Officers (PPSOs) set to begin training next month.
The new squad of 24 recruits will commence an 18-week program at the NT Police College on 23 February 2026, before deploying to the streets in the coming months. This intake is the first of three squads planned for 2026.
Once operational, the new officers will focus on preventing and responding to antisocial behaviour across key hotspots, including public housing precincts, buses, shopping centres, bottle shops, major events and other public places.
Today's announcement follows the latest crime statistics showing a 9.2% reduction in victims of crime from January to November 2025 compared to the previous year, resulting in more than 2,200 less victims of crime.
Across the Territory:
Assaults down 5%House break-ins down 30%Commercial break-ins down 30%Motor vehicle theft down 17%
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the CLP Government is backing police and focused on reducing crime.
"We promised Territorians we would reduce crime and in less than one year we delivered a 9.2% reduction in the number of victims as a result of the strong actions we have taken to deliver on that promise"
"New police public safety officers will specifically target antisocial behaviour in public places and get on top of issues on buses and public housing," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"This is a strategic reform to police, public housing safety and transit safety to deliver on our commitment to reduce crime.
"The near 10% reduction in victims reinforces we must stay the course."
"By supporting our police and tackling the root causes of crime the Territory can rebuild its economy and restore our unique lifestyle now and for our kids into the future."
PPSOs will be clearly identifiable with their own NT Police Force uniforms and marked vehicles and will complete 18 weeks training in the Police College.
PPSOs will carry the same accoutrements as constables but their duties will be restricted to their role in public places, public transport and public housing.
Commissioner Martin Dole APM said the PPSO stream strengthens how police deploy resources on the frontline.
"It means we can put the right capability in the right place at the right time, while keeping specialised officers focused on serious offending and complex investigations," he said.
"High-visibility policing both deters opportunistic offending and reassures the community, and Territorians will see that presence where it's needed most."
