Member for Barkly Steve Edgington has slammed the NT Labor Government after he and his boss were denied access to the Tennant Creek Police Station yesterday.

Mr Edgington and Leader of the Opposition Lia Finocchiaro released a joint statement yesterday calling the ban “ludicrous”, citing they were told they were denied access because the new Police Minister, Minister for Police Brent Potter, wanted to visit first.

Mr Edgington said the staggering increase of 281.6 per cent in house break-ins and a 196.52 per cent surge in property damage offences is a stark reminder of the challenges Tennantites have endured under the Fyles Labor Government.

“Yet, we stand united, determined to protect our homes and businesses,” he said.

“Together, we will continue to work tirelessly, bolstering safety measures and advocating for a safer, more secure future for all.”

Ms Finocchiaro said she was disheartened to see these politically motivated actions continue.

“In the current year, we’ve seen a total of 126 officers leave the force, whether through resignation, retirement, or dismissal, averaging at 12.6 monthly departures,” she said.

“While this does mark a slight improvement from the highest attrition rate observed in the previous financial year, it still remains far too high.

“With crime spiralling out of control throughout the Territory, the Tennant Creek community. in particular. is witnessing alarming levels of property crime.”

Mr Edington says the last time they were denied access was in 2022, when they were denied visits to the Tennant Creek Police Station on 25 May and the Borroloola Police Station on 30 and 31 May.  

This article appeared in  Tennant & District Times, 10 November 2023.