Almost three years ago Michael Gunner led Northern Territory Labor to its biggest ever election victory, sweeping to power by claiming 18 of 25 seats and reducing the once invincible Country Liberal Party to just two MPs.

But with Labor ranks in turmoil and accusations the Top End is in financial crisis, Mr Gunner's woes threaten to complicate Bill Shorten's path to The Lodge, because the Territory's two federal seats are now suddenly in play.