The Finocchiaro CLP Government has passed news laws in Parliament giving police stronger powers to enhance community safety.
The laws will allow police to enter private properties for Domestic Violence Order compliance checks and enter premises for breach or revocation of parole.
The Police Administration Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 has passed Parliament, as the CLP continues to deliver on our commitment to reduce crime.
It means police will now have express powers to:
Enter premises to arrest individuals in breach of parole (this includes persons whose parole has been revoked, ensuring that those who violate their conditions are swiftly and effectively taken into custody).Conduct alcohol and drug testing of individuals subject to Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) on private property - (police will be able to enter a property's yard or driveway to conduct compliance testing, reinforcing measures to protect victims and prevent further harm).
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the reforms were a necessary step to give police the powers the need to do proactive policing and stop crime before it happens.
"Community safety remains our highest priority. These new powers will provide police with greater clarity and authority to carry out their duties while respecting privacy and due process," said Mrs Finocchiaro.
"We back our police and want them to feel confident in their role of protecting the community, knowing they have the full support of the government."
Importantly, the new powers to enter private property for DVO compliance checks does not extend to entering a dwelling without consent, maintaining the balance between enforcement and individual rights.
In the past, police have faced challenges in effectively enforcing parole and DVOs due to legal ambiguities surrounding property entry.
"Labor failed to fix the problem," said Mrs Finocchiaro.
"Labor failed to give our police better powers, and this shamefully resulted in delays in intervention, leaving victims vulnerable and limiting police response capabilities.
"The new powers address these gaps, giving certainty to our police and security to the community and victims.
"This new law is part of our continuous work to deliver laws that meet community expectations and deliver safer streets.
"We will continue to take action to restore law and order and ensure a safer Northern Territory for all."
