The NT Government has put up $200 million to recruit 200 additional police officers over the next four years. 

Chief Minister Eva Lawler has made the announcement in response to a comprehensive government-commissioned review of the police force, details of which are yet to be made public. 

Lawler says enhancing community safety is the government's major concern. However, she claims that the hiring decision is not an acknowledgment of insufficient current police staffing, but rather an adjustment for staff on extended leave due to various reasons.

The funding, earmarked for inclusion in the May 2024 NT budget, aims to address the shortfall resulting from approximately 120 police personnel being on long-term leave, primarily for physical or psychological reasons.

The announcement coincides with the imposition of a temporary youth curfew in Alice Springs, triggered by recent unrest, which many see as a sign of the urgent need for increased police presence.

NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy admits it would be a challenge to recruit 200 additional officers, given national staffing shortages and the demanding nature of police work in the NT. 

However, he says he is optimistic about attracting new recruits, and is particularly encouraging Indigenous Australians to consider a career in law enforcement. 

Currently, Indigenous officers make up just 13 per cent of the force, with Murphy setting an ambitious target of 30 per cent to better reflect the community's demographics.

Despite the government's confidence, the NT Police Association (NTPA) President, Nathan Finn, expressed concerns regarding the specifics of the recruitment plan and whether it adequately addresses the chronic understaffing issues plaguing the force. 

Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro also voiced scepticism about the feasibility of the recruitment target, citing the challenging work environment and the recent departure of over 120 officers.