5 May 2026
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has committed a record $1.73 billion to law and order in its second budget to make communities safer and reduce crime.
Major investments include more police and corrections staff, upgraded infrastructure, and funding for support programs.
The Budget also builds on existing reforms, such as bail laws, expanded police powers, and faster court processes, to both respond to crime and tackle the root causes.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering a record $1.73 billion investment in law and order in its second Budget, backing safer streets, stronger communities and a more secure future for Territorians.
This major investment across police, courts and corrections builds on last year's record $1.54 billion commitment and shows this is a government that does what it says it will do.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said Territorians voted for action on crime, and her government was delivering exactly that.
"Territorians wanted a government that would listen, and act to restore community safety," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"This Budget delivers record investment in law and order, while we tackle the root causes of crime.
"We promised to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our unique Territory lifestyle, and we are getting on with the job.
"In our first year, the number of victims of crime fell by 10.2% and as a result, business confidence is returning, and the Territory economy is growing.
"That means more families feeling safer in their homes, more businesses opening their doors with confidence, and more people enjoying the Territory lifestyle we are so fiercely proud of."
As part of our year of growth, certainty and security, the 2026 Budget includes:
Over 150 new police officers and 100 new police public safety officers to strengthen frontline policing.150 new corrections officers to improve prison operations.$426 million for police stations, corrections facilities and critical infrastructure upgrades.$74 million for domestic violence prevention and victim support services.$10 million for implementation of the Police Review response, to strengthen frontline policing capability.$8.3 million for circuit breaker program.$4.9 million for 'Alternative to Custody' facilities in Alice Springs and Groote Eylandt.
Mrs Finocchiaro said the CLP Government had already delivered major reforms to strengthen law and order, including:
Declan's Law - the strongest bail laws in the country.Better powers for police to deter knife crime.OC spray for self-defence. Stronger sentencing laws and stronger penalties for domestic violence offenders.Increasing police-issued banned drinking orders from 7 days to 28 days for alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour.New laws to fast-track court matters, reduce delays and better protect victims.101 more police and 83 more correction officers.
"We know there is more work to do, and this budget cements our focus on law and order," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"Territorians can already see the difference under the Finocchiaro CLP Government.
"Whether you live in Darwin, Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, Tennant Creek or one of our remote communities, you deserve to feel safe where you live.
"You deserve to raise your family in peace, run your business with confidence, and enjoy the Territory lifestyle we all value.
"This Budget is for the everyday Territorians because it invests in safer streets, stronger families and a better future for every Territorian."
