The Territory Labor Government will introduce legislation on urgency this week, to ensure the COVID-19 vaccine is rolled out safely and effectively across the Northern Territory.
The Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Amendment Bill 2021 will be introduced on urgency today and it will ensure the Territory remains the safest place in the country.
The immediate changes will allow all registered practitioners – who are qualified and trained to provide immunisations – to administer COVID-19 vaccines to Territorians without gazettal.
It will also ensure locations used to administer COVID-19 vaccines will not need to be authorised or gazetted.
These amendments will ensure the vaccine is rolled out in a timely and flexible manner to all Territorians, in line with the Federal Government's phased approach.
The first Parliamentary sittings for the year will also see the Territory Labor Government deliver its election commitment and introduce a "ringleader" offence in the Criminal Code Amendment Bill 2021.
The purpose of this bill is to create a new offence of recruiting a child to engage in criminal activity. It also targets offenders who commit crimes in groups.
The week will also see the introduction of the Police Administration Amendment Bill 2021. The amendment, which meets the recommendations of the Coroner, will allow officers to enter premises without a warrant, to prevent imminent harm to children.
Quotes from Leader of Government Business, Natasha Fyles:
"The rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine is right around the corner and we are ensuring the Territory is ready to administer Phase 1A and beyond.
"The vaccine is safe and effective, and free to Territorians – and getting vaccinated not only protects you, but the wider community as well.
"The Territory Labor Government is also bringing in new legislation to curb youth crime.
"We are targeting offenders who may rope younger Territorians in – which will be critical in breaking the cycle, and helping kids get back on track."
