NT public sector enterprise bargaining policy 2025-2028 secures pay increases

The government has confirmed the NT’s new public sector wage policy. Here’s what it means for public servants, pay, entitlements and conditions.

NT public servants have secured a three per cent pay rise each year to 2028. Picture: NCA Newswire / Gaye Gerard

Northern Territory public servants will receive an annual three per cent pay rise for three years, in a new bargaining agreement confirming no wage freeze for the public sector.

Key policy commitments included limiting any pay increases above three per cent to cases backed by “real, bankable productivity improvements” and work practice reforms.

Existing enterprise agreements will remain in place, protecting salaries and entitlements.

Public Service Minister Jo Hersey said no back-pay, sign-on bonuses, or similar payments would ensure a responsible approach to taxpayer funds.

Public Service Minister Jo Hersey.

“We are guaranteeing no wage freeze and locking in stable, fair wage growth for public sector employees,” Mrs Hersey said.

“Public sector workers are the backbone of our essential services. This policy ensures they receive fair, competitive pay rises while keeping our finances strong and sustainable.

“Our focus is keeping frontline services strong — police, healthcare workers, and teachers — while carefully managing growth in non-frontline areas to ensure resources go where they are needed most.

Generic stock image of Darwin City skyline. Picture: Fia Walsh

“The new wages policy strikes the right balance between fair pay for workers, workforce security, and responsible financial management.

“It ensures a strong and competitive public sector while maintaining the government’s economic development agenda.”

Mrs Hersey reaffirmed that no public service jobs would be cut.

The policy applies to all NT Public Sector (NTPS) employees covered by the Public Sector Employment and Management Act 1993 (PSEMA) and all NT Police Force members below the rank of Commander.

Meanwhile enterprise bargaining negotiations have already begun, with eight agreements up for renegotiation in 2025, covering key frontline workforces, including police, firefighters, correctional officers, Aboriginal health practitioners, medical officers, Jacana Energy workers, the general NTPS workforce, and Frances Bay Marine Facility workers.

Originally published as NT public sector enterprise bargaining policy 2025-2028 secures pay increases