A comprehensive review of Ministerial conflict of interest rules and controls has been completed to improve transparency and accountability in the Territory.
The Review, led by Ms. Kathleen Robinson PSM, outlines 12 recommendations - including more mandatory training and more often reporting requirements - to strengthen the Ministerial conflict of interest system.
A key recommendation from the Review is the development of a digital system as an internal governance tool for Ministers that will establish a Register of Ministerial Interests and assist Ministers with managing their interests and conflicts. The digital system will provide increased reporting to the Chief Minister, enhancing compliance and accountability.
The Lawler Labor Government has accepted all 12 recommendations. The recommendations aim to improve corporate governance policy, practices, procedures and recording to support a high standard of Ministerial integrity.
The NT Government has commenced implementing the recommendations of the Review.
The Review process involved consultation with Ministers, senior government officials, oversight bodies and interstate governments to develop practical and effective recommendations, focused on good governance promoting the integrity and transparency of Ministerial conduct in the Northern Territory.
The digital system will be ready to use by 27 August 2024.
To view the Review visit here.
Quotes attributed to Chief Minister Eva Lawler:
"Improving transparency is important so Territorians can have more trust in the political process and decision-making - that's why I established a review into the way conflicts of interests are reported and managed."
"These 12 recommendations will help ensure better transparency and governance in the Territory for years to come by providing more information that is more easily available for Territorians."
"The process to implement these 12 recommendations has already started and I want this work done as quickly as possible."
Northern Territory Government
