Dutton Vows to Ramp Up Fight Against Crime in Northern Territory with Additional Measures Apart from Drone Deployments
Finocchiaro’s seven-point plan for Alice Springs had limited support from Albanese.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has expressed his backing for the Northern Territory’s crime crackdown, promising to support all seven of Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro’s key demands if the Coalition wins the next election.
Finocchiaro had appealed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to endorse her government’s comprehensive plan to address the rising crime rates in Alice Springs.
Dutton affirmed that a future Coalition government would “in principle” commit to the plan, believing it would result in reduced crime rates and a safer environment in Alice Springs.
He emphasized the willingness of the Coalition to work closely with the NT government to provide law enforcement with the necessary resources and support to ensure a crime-free community.
Finocchiaro’s 7-Point Plan
Finocchiaro’s plan includes connecting Centrelink payments to alcohol-free days to combat alcohol-related violence, reintroducing compulsory work or training programs with fortnightly reporting, mandating income management for parents of youth offenders receiving Centrelink, auditing federally funded programs, directing royalty payments to communities, and seeking broader exemptions for police drone activities from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
Albanese Government Approves Drones
While the Albanese government has lifted restrictions on NT police drone operations in response to Finocchiaro’s request, other aspects of her plan have not received support. The use of drones has already shown positive outcomes in crime prevention and offender deterrence.
Finocchiaro expressed gratitude to Albanese for this action and remains hopeful for further cooperation on the remaining items of her plan.
Dutton commended the NT government’s effective use of police drone technology in decreasing crime rates and enhancing officer safety.
He criticized Albanese for neglecting serious issues affecting Indigenous Australians in Alice Springs, particularly since the failed Voice referendum.
Government Hits Back at Dutton’s Proposals
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy defended the government’s approach, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between Canberra and the NT government.
McCarthy argued against Dutton’s proposals, emphasizing the complexity of adjusting Centrelink payments for alcohol-free days and the unrealized potential of existing federal support for law enforcement in the NT.
As the federal election approaches, addressing crime in Alice Springs and the broader NT region continues to be a key political issue.
