Budget Estimates: Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro lines up for NT Budget grilling

The CLP Government’s first Budget will go under the microscope over the next fortnight when Estimates begin today.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro and Treasurer Bill Yan. The CLP will deliver the NT Budget 2025-26 on May 13, promising a record spend on law and order. Picture: Fia Walsh.

The CLP Government’s first Budget will go under the microscope over the next fortnight when Estimates begin.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro is also Minister for Police; Fire and Emergency Services; Defence NT; and Territory Coordinator is one the first to face questions.

Ms Finocchiaro said she welcomes Estimates as opportunity to highlight government action on crime, economy and lifestyle.

She said the upcoming two-week Estimates process is an important opportunity to reinforce her Government’s focus on crime, economic growth, and improving Territorians’ quality of life.

“The Estimates process ensures transparency for Territorians and gives my government a platform to clearly outline the action we are taking to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our unique lifestyle,” she said.

It’s expected the CLP Government will use the first week of Estimates to focus heavily on law and order, with further details to be released as part of its broader crime reduction package.

“We’ve made it clear that restoring community safety is our number one priority, and Estimates will provide another opportunity to explain exactly how we’re delivering on that commitment.”

The Chief Minister is also expected to highlight her government’s economic strategy, including tax reforms, infrastructure reprioritisation and support for business growth, as well as recent investments in health, education and liveability.

“Our focus is clear: action, certainty and security for all Territorians,” she said.

Nightcliff MLA Kat McNamara . Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Nightcliff Greens member Kat McNamara said she was eager to get answers on why the Government believes that in a time of climate catastrophe they are exempt from considering the environment and climate change in their decision making.

“The CLP Government’s lack of transparency and increasing trend of eroding democratic processes means that now more than ever, we need to scrutinise their operations,” she said.

“The Chief Minister owes Territorians many answers, I am particularly eager to hear why she has shut down calls for an independent inquiry into the death of Kumanjayi White and why there is no transparency around the actions of the Territory Coordinator?”

“Each parliament sitting we hear lies from the Minister for Mining about the gas industry paying for our school and hospitals. I am looking forward to the truth being on the record, that this exploitative industry doesn’t benefit Territorians.

“We are facing a domestic family and sexual violence epidemic and desperately need strong investments in evidence based supports and prevention. I have many questions for the Minister as to how they will genuinely tackle this issue, despite defunding the domestic violence advisory forum.”

“There is currently a 10 year wait before Territorians are able to access public housing and yet somehow the CLP Government thinks now is the time to cut funding from the Housing budget.”

Selina Uibo and Dheran Young in the Northern Territory Parliament. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Opposition Leader Selena Uibo said the Finocchiaro Government has a track record of avoiding transparency and dodging accountability.

“Over the next two weeks, we demand straight answers on a wide range of serious issues,” she said.

“Crime is either getting worse or not improving. The Chief Minister promised Territorians she would fix it - she’s failed, and we’ll be asking why?

“It defies belief that despite receiving an extra $1 billion in Commonwealth revenue, the CLP Government is still racking up debt, cutting infrastructure and services, and offering no plan for the economy. This Budget is all spin and no delivery - and Territorians deserve better.”