Faster, fairer justice

The Territory Government has introduced new laws and trials to reduce crime and improve community safety. This includes:

• new sentencing laws and penalties for domestic violence perpetrators, extending the mandatory minimum non-parole period for domestic violence-related murders to 25 years
• new legislation aimed at modernising criminal procedures to progress cases faster through court proceedings, reducing court delays and protecting victims from being re‑traumatised with repeat court appearances
• 12-month oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray trial to allow eligible Territorians to purchase OC spray from declared firearm retailers. The trial is monitored by the Northern Territory Police Force and a community reference group to assess community safety impacts and inform future decisions
• extending police-issued banned drinker orders from 7 to 28 days for alcohol‑related antisocial behaviour, under the Banned Drinker Register review amendment. This change provides police with stronger enforcement tools to address alcohol‑fuelled violence, protect community safety and support individuals to engage with assistance services.