The Territory is well-prepared to deal with the coronavirus. We’re ahead of the game, and that’s where we intend to stay.
As part of a wider range of strategies, a decision has been made to fast-track the current police recruit squad.
This will see the squad of 59 constables graduate six weeks early (17 April 2020) – putting more resources on the ground sooner.
The squad will be deployed to Alice Springs (30), Katherine (19) and Tennant Creek (10) – providing the much needed boost to policing in our regional areas, as well as being ready in case they are required for other frontline duties.
The Territory Government is also announcing that an additional Accelerated Recruitment Program (ARP) of 30 police will commence mid-year. The program will see the recruitment of experienced police officers from interstate into the Northern Territory Police Force.
They will undertake 8 weeks of intensive training before being deployed into the community.
These officers will be a welcomed addition to our community helping police detect and deter crime and anti-social behaviour.
As noted by Chief Minister Michael Gunner:
“I will do whatever it takes to protect Territorians from the impacts of the coronavirus.
“We are facing unprecedented times – and it is vital that our hardworking police have all the support and resources they need to help protect our community.
“The fast tracking of this squad will see an additional 59 constables deployed across the Territory, bolstering the support in our regional areas.
“The constables form part of The Territory Labor Government’s promise to deliver an additional 120 police in the Territory.”
As noted by Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Nicole Manison:
“Our police do an incredible job keeping our community safe.
“By fast tracking this squad, we are ensuring they have the addition resources to undertake whatever task when needed.
“Our recruits have had the best training by our team at the Police College and they are ready to serve the Territory.”
