The Finocchiaro CLP Government have introduced new legislation in Parliament yesterday to swiftly implement the recommendations of the Blow inquiry. here
The Attorney-General and Police Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 gives effect to the recommendations of Justice Alan Blow's independent review into senior police appointments. The review identified opportunities to improve accountability and governance in the appointment process for senior members of the Northern Territory Police Force.
Under the reforms, clear and transparent procedures will be established for the selection and appointment of senior police officers. These measures will ensure that decisions are made based on merit, integrity, and public confidence in the leadership of the NT Police Force.
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the changes to the Police Administration Act are necessary to ensure clear understanding of appointment processes.
"We have accepted Justice Blow's recommendations in full. These reforms are about building trust, ensuring fairness, and delivering a modern, accountable policing system that serves the community with integrity," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
The amendments include:
Clause 12 - updates the definition of merit to specifically refer to appointments of members under Part II, Division 3.Clause 13 - inserts a new section 6A establishing principles for the appointment of Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners under Part II, Division 2.New section 6A - clarifies that merit is the primary consideration for appointment, based on a person's capacity to perform the duties of the office, as outlined in subsection (2).Clause 14 - amends section 15A to clarify that it relates to the appointment or promotion of members under Part II, Division 3.
This is about moving forward for the NT Police Force, and with the appointment of Commissioner Dole, we now have a leader who understands our communities, the challenges, and the opportunities ahead.
Police Commissioner Martin Dole APM has been implementing the six recommendations, all fully accepted by the Government, to strengthen public confidence in the recruitment process for senior police officers.
"We have the best police force in Australia. We back our officers every shift, every day, and we want them to continue serving and protecting Territorians. The latest crime statistics show their hard work is delivering results, with a 7.4% reduction in victims across the Territory from January to August this year, compared with the same period last year," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
