Leader of the Opposition – Lia Finocchiaro
Shadow Attorney-General – Steve Edgington
Last year in May, failed Police Minister ‘number two’ Kate Worden, prevented the CLP from visiting Tennant Creek Police Station, despite the intention of making a goodwill visit.
Now, over a year and a half later, and three Police Ministers in, we find ourselves facing another instance of ludicrous bans on CLP visits to police stations.
Yes, we have been denied access again…three Police Ministers and as many bans.
We’ve been denied access because the new Police Minister wants to visit first…the same excuse the other two failed Ministers used.
Why is it that we must suffer the fate of this incompetent Government in having to wait for them to get their act together?
They say they have “plans”, “reviews”, “reports”… but the statistics show they are a failing Government…across the board.
The continuity of these restrictions raises questions about the Government’s approach, seemingly it’s more about self-interest rather than the welfare of the community – and it’s probably why 97.7% of Police don’t feel supported.
In response to the Government’s actions, Leader of the Opposition, Lia Finocchiaro said blocking the CLP from visiting police stations was a blatant disregard for transparency and open dialogue.
“It’s disheartening to see these politically motivated actions continue. Unlike Labor we are out every day listening to those on the ground, and hearing from our Police Force directly on what they are facing is incredibly important for the Territory. It also gives my CLP team a chance to thank Police for the work that they do to keep Territorians safe.” said Ms Finocchiaro.
“In the current year, we’ve seen a total of 126 officers leave the force, whether through resignation, retirement, or dismissal, averaging at 12.6 departures per month. While this does mark a slight improvement from the highest attrition rate observed in the previous financial year, it still remains far too high.”
With crime spiralling out of control throughout the Territory, the Tennant Creek community in particular is witnessing alarming levels of property crime.
Member for Barkly, and Shadow Attorney-General, Steve Edgington said, “The staggering increase of 281.6% in house break-ins and a 196.52% surge in property damage offences serve as a stark reminder of the challenges we’ve endured under the Fyles Labor Government. Yet, we stand united, determined to protect our homes and our businesses,” Mr Edgington said.
“Together, we will continue to work tirelessly, bolstering safety measures and advocating for a safer, more secure future for all.”
Ms Finocchiaro said, “The CLP are actively listening to the concerns of Territorians and putting forward legislation that will enhance our safety, including robust measures like strengthening bail, implementing minimum mandatory sentencing for those who assault workers, and granting police greater authority to deal with alcohol related crime.”
| Chronological list of declined NT Police Station visits since 2022 | |
| 10 November 2023 | Tennant Creek |
| 30 May 2023 | Borroloola |
| 31 May 2022 | Borroloola |
| 25 May 2022 | Tennant Creek |
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