Northern Territory Commissioner of Police Michael Murphy today delivered a powerful apology speech, acknowledging past harms inflicted on Aboriginal people at the hands of NT police.

The speech, delivered on the lands of the Gumatj people at the 2024 Garma Festival, marks a significant moment in the relationship between the Northern Territory Police and Aboriginal Territorians.

The Commissioner expressed his intention to confront uncomfortable truths about the police service’s historical and ongoing impacts on Aboriginal communities, while committing to a future of reconciliation and justice.

"I am deeply sorry to all Aboriginal Territorians for the past harms and injustices caused by members of the Northern Territory Police, Mr Murphy said.

“Truth-telling is a key part of the reconciliation process, and I am committed to ensuring that the police service acknowledges and learns from its past mistakes.”

Key points from the Commissioner's speech today included:

• Historical Accountability: The Commissioner recounted significant historical events, such as the Coniston Massacre of 1928 and the 1933 disappearance of Tuckiar (Dhakiyarr) Wirrpanda, underscoring the long-standing mistrust and trauma experienced by Aboriginal communities due to police actions.
• Acknowledgement of Past Policies: The Commissioner addressed the devastating impacts of the Stolen Generations policy and the Northern Territory Emergency Response (the Intervention), acknowledging the role of the police in enforcing these policies and the resultant intergenerational trauma.
• Commitment to Change: Emphasising the need for a new relationship built on mutual respect and trust, the Commissioner outlined several key actions:
  • Implementing an anti-racism strategy within the Northern Territory Police.
  • Enhancing training on racism, history, and human rights for all police officers.
  • Setting a target of 30% Aboriginal representation across all police ranks.
  • Introducing Aboriginal language speakers in the Joint Emergency Communications Centre.
• Collaborative Efforts: The Commissioner called for partnerships with Aboriginal Territorians and community organisations to address systemic issues and improve community policing models. He also committed to working with the Aboriginal Justice Unit and the NT Anti-Discrimination Commission to eliminate discrimination and support Aboriginal leadership.

The Commissioner also announced a plan to deliver a separate apology to the people of Yuendumu at an appropriate time, further demonstrating his commitment to reconciliation.

Commissioner Murphy concluded his speech by reaffirming his dedication to driving meaningful, positive change within the NT Police. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised the necessity of these efforts for the benefit of all Territorians.

The Commissioner’s apology is displayed on the NT Police website here. 

*Media outlets can request a full transcript of todays speech through the PFES newsroom enquiry portal.