6 December 2025
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro last night congratulated the final Northern Territory Police Force graduating squad of the year, joined by family and friends.
After 32 weeks of training, 28 recruits graduated, bringing this year's total to 201 Constables, 41 Auxiliaries and 18 Aboriginal Liaison Officers.
The ceremony in Marrara marked a strong year of recruitment for the NT Police Force.
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the government has backed this growth with action.
"As part of our year of action, certainty and security, we've introduced stronger laws, stronger support, and the strongest police pay agreement in two decades. And this commitment is reflected in the record $1.5 billion budget for community safety, including a record $608 million for police."
More than half of the new officers will be posted to Central Australia ahead of what is traditionally a period of heightened anti-social behaviour over the summer.
Others will bolster the policing presence in Katherine, Tennant Creek and Darwin.
This year has delivered significant reforms and investments in NT policing, including:
The strongest bail laws in AustraliaRemoval of detention as a last resort for youth offendersReinstated breach of bail as an offenceNew offences targeting online boasting of criminal behaviourExpanded police wanding powers to reduce knife crimeExpanding police powers of entry to search for parolees or domestic violence offendersStronger enforcement tools and providing courts with heavier penalties to keep Territorians safe on our roadsIntroduction of the Public Protection Support Officer rankAppointment of Police Commissioner Martin Dole APMImmediate action to extend Banned Drinker Order periods from 7 to 28 days.
The Chief Minister also thanked the new recruits and their families ahead of Christmas.
"Many of these recruits will spend the holiday period on duty, in some cases, their first Christmas away from loved ones. I want to sincerely thank them, and all emergency responders, for their service in keeping our community safe over the festive season.
