4 September 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is partnering with Neighbourhood Watch NT to ensure Territorians are supported with information and education as part of the OC Spray trial, which began on Monday.
Neighbourhood Watch NT, who received a $250,000 funding boost from the government, will incorporate OC Spray safety education into their established Personal Safety Sessions facilitated by Personal Protection Strategies who are the personal safety specialists in the NT.
This will include information on safe carriage and storage, as well as de-escalation strategies delivered through the personal safety sessions. The information will also be accessible on the Neighbourhood Watch NT Website.
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the partnership is about ensuring Territorians not only have access to a non-lethal, regulated personal safety option, but also the knowledge to use it responsibly.
"Neighbourhood Watch NT is trusted across the Territory, and their involvement ensures training and awareness sit at the heart of this trial," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"We want Territorians to feel safe and confident, and safety education delivered by Neighbourhood Watch and Personal Protection Strategies will give people the skills they need."
Neighbourhood Watch NT Chief Executive Officer Veronica Larson said proper safety education and awareness are central to the rollout.
"By making information readily available and working with Personal Protection Strategies to provide safety information around OC Spray, we're ensuring Territorians who choose to carry OC Spray can do so safely and responsibly," Ms Larson said.
The OC Spray trial has already seen strong early uptake, with more than 550 Territorians purchasing OC Spray in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs.
Fishing and Outdoor World Darwin sold out of its initial allocation within days. The average age of buyers is 47, showing demand is coming from older Territorians seeking an extra measure of security.
Mrs Finocchiaro said police oversight is a crucial element of the trial.
"Police are monitoring sales and have been quick to act where needed," she said.
Territorians are encouraged to have their say on the trial by completing the government's online survey. here
