The CLP Government’s promise to make the Territory safer is now in force with its new laws, which were passed in Parliament, now given assent by His Honour the Administrator.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the swift assent of the laws meant the Territory’s police and judiciary could now use their powers to deal with offenders, more in line with community expectations.
The CLP Government’s new laws, which are now in force, are:
Declan’s Law for stronger bail laws, and more police powers to detect knife crime.Lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 10 (meaning youths are 10 to 17-year-olds).New ram raid offence.New posting and boasting offence.
The new nuisance public drinking offence, and mandatory sentencing for assaulting workers laws, are expected to be given assent in the coming days.
“We said the first sittings of Parliament would be a turning point for the Territory, and our new laws which Territorians overwhelmingly voted for in the August election, are now in force,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.
“We make no apologies for our swift and decisive action to make the Territory safer after the previous Labor government created a crime crisis, which demanded a crisis response.
“People who do the wrong thing will face consequences, and stronger laws will act as a deterrent. If you don’t do the wrong thing, you have nothing to worry about.”
The changes to stronger bail laws will be implemented by January to allow adequate time for necessary operational changes in the justice system, and Corrections.
The Acts of Parliament which have now been given assent are:
Bail Legislation Amendment Act 2024 (Act No. 16 of 2024)Police Administration Amendment Act 2024 (Act No. 17 of 2024)Criminal Code Amendment Act 2024 (Act No. 18 of 2024)
Learn more about the new laws at reducecrime.nt.gov.au
