The CLP Finocchiaro Government has further reinforced its commitment to driving legal reform, introducing the Defamation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 to Parliament today.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the Bill was a much-needed reform to Territory defamation law.
"This Bill will prevent our legal system from being overburdened by minor matters and protect Territorians from unnecessary legal battles over trivial disputes," said Ms Boothby.
"Labor failed to enact stage one of these important amendments. They have sat on them since 2020.
"These changes will increase legal efficiencies by encouraging speedy dispute resolution and ensuring only cases meeting a 'serious harm' threshold proceed to court.
"Introducing this Bill highlights yet another action Labor could have taken to alleviate the justice system but neglected to pursue.
"Our government is taking action to create an efficient and forward-thinking legal jurisdiction that protects the rights and interests of Territorians."
These reforms also strengthen protections for public discourse and freedom of expression, ensuring journalists can continue reporting on matters of significant public concern without the fear of a defamation case.
The Bill amends the Defamation Act 2006 and the Limitation Act 1981 in line with model laws developed at a national level.
In addition, the Bill includes an amendment to section 131A of the Local Court (Criminal Procedure) Act 1928, ensuring that the offence of 'unlawful publication of defamatory matter' (as outlined in section 204 of the Criminal Code) can be dealt with in the Local Court rather than requiring a Supreme Court trial.
This amendment, while separate from the model defamation reforms, enhances legal efficiency within the Territory's justice system.
The Bill has been referred to the Legislative Scrutiny Committee, which will produce a report in March 2025.
"By introducing the Bill, our government is applying nationally agreed, innovative reforms to the laws of defamation," said Ms Boothby.
"I am proud to support a Bill that protects freedom of speech, empowers journalists to hold public figures accountable, and enhances efficiencies in our legal system."
