4 February 2025
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) has today released results from its latest member survey regarding the 2025 Consent Agreement—an agreement that will be a decisive factor in the ability of the Northern Territory to retain its police force or risk losing officers to other jurisdictions.
With police shortages at an all-time high across Australia, other jurisdictions have responded by offering the highest pay increases ever, with some nearing 40%, to attract and retain officers. These unprecedented offers highlight the growing competition for experienced police.
Meanwhile, the Northern Territory Police Force continues to grapple with chronic fatigue, severe understaffing, and inadequate working and housing conditions—issues that are driving officers away in record numbers.
As the NTPA President Nathan Finn enters into the negotiation phase of the 2025 Consent Agreement he has issued a stark warning to the Northern Territory Government.
“We are at a crisis point. The NT Police Force is haemorrhaging officers at an unsustainable rate. This situation will only deteriorate further as interstate police forces ramp up their recruitment drives with highly incentivising pay and conditions.
“The Northern Territory is by far the most challenging and complex jurisdiction to police and it is frustrating that see our wages continue to lag those of our southern counterparts.
“Our officers are overworked, underpaid, and stretched beyond reasonable limits. Chronic understaffing has led to excessive workloads and an alarming amount of unpaid overtime. If the NT Government does not act immediately, we will see an exodus of skilled officers, further compromising community safety.”
Key Survey Findings:
• 95% of respondents believe there are simply not enough officers to manage workloads effectively.
• 81% of respondents have worked unpaid overtime every fortnight, with some exceeding 20 additional unpaid hours.
• 32% of respondents have been assaulted while on duty in the past 12 months.
• 68% of respondents have considered leaving the NT Police Force within the last year - citing salary disparities with other jurisdictions, excessive workloads, and a lack of support from the Police Executive as key factors driving their decisions to leave.
The survey also highlights the continued reluctance of officers to take up remote postings due to the poor quality of housing and a lack of incentives to work in these challenging environments.
President Finn has called on Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro to uphold her election promises to the Territory’s police force.
“Lia Finocchiaro has repeatedly stated that the NT Police Force is a key pillar in reducing crime and that under her leadership, officers would receive better working conditions.
“As we enter the negotiation phase this is her opportunity to make good on those promises.
“Our officers put their lives on the line every day to protect Territorians. It’s time for the Northern Territory Government to show the same level of commitment by delivering fair pay, improved conditions, and immediate action to address chronic understaffing.”
The NTPA stands firm in its commitment to securing a Consent Agreement that ensures NT police officers receive the respect, remuneration, and resources they deserve.
ENDS
Please direct all media enquiries to NTPA Communications Officer, +61 (0) 499 017 654 or media@ntpa.com.au
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) is the industrial voice of all members of the Northern Territory Police Force. Read more via www.ntpa.com.au or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NTPoliceAssociation
