Story perspectives

Backlash Erupts Over NT Administrator's Controversial Crime Comments

1/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

David Connolly, the new administrator of the Northern Territory, has received backlash for comments made in a 2024 speech, where he claimed First Nations individuals were mainly responsible for crime in the region.
Connolly criticized Labor's crime policies and connected crime to historical narratives, prompting scrutiny over his appointment by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
NT Labor leader Selena Uibo has called for a reconsideration of Connolly's appointment, while he has not publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his deleted social media posts.

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Story summary

David Connolly, the new administrator of the Northern Territory, has received backlash for comments made in a 2024 speech, where he claimed First Nations individuals were mainly responsible for crime in the region.
Connolly criticized Labor's crime policies and connected crime to historical narratives, prompting scrutiny over his appointment by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
NT Labor leader Selena Uibo has called for a reconsideration of Connolly's appointment, while he has not publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his deleted social media posts.