Dr Hugh Heggie PSM announced as 23rd Administrator of the Northern Territory

A public servant who helped steer the Territory through the pandemic has been announced as the 23rd Administrator of the NT. Here’s what he hopes to achieve.

The Territory government has announced its 23rd Administrator.

Former chief health officer Dr Hugh Heggie PSM will step into the role on January 31.

He succeeds Vicki O’Halloran AO, who has held the public office since 2017.

Dr Heggie is expected to keep the position for a three-year term.

He is a familiar face to most Territorians having steered the NT through the pandemic.

Dr Heggie also controversially drew attention when he took a six-month paid sabbatical from the role earlier this year.

However, the doctor helped ensure the Territory’s case numbers were significantly lower than the rest of Australia during the first two and a half years of the pandemic.

Dr Hugh Heggie served as the NT chief health officer throughout most of the pandemic. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Governor-General David Hurley, on advice from the Australian and Northern Territory governments, appointed Dr Heggie to the NT’s most powerful position.

The role involves administering key statutory, civic and ceremonial responsibilities.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said she looked forward to working with Dr Heggie on achieving tangible outcomes.

“Dr Heggie came to the Northern Territory over 20 years ago and has spent time in both Central Australia and the Top End,” Ms Fyles said.

“He first moved to Utopia so he certainly understand the breadth and depth of the Northern Territory.

“Dr Heggie has a strong understanding of our regions and First Nation communities (and) is a passionate member of our community.”

The 23rd Administrator of the Northern Territory Dr Hugh Heggie PSM, with his partner Ruth Jones. Picture: Annabel Bowles

Dr Heggie said he was honoured to take on the role.

“I would like to see the Northern Territory grow our population importantly, grow in all the ways that other states do,” he said.

“I do want to acknowledge we have a very diverse community and we need to actually, in this role and other roles, come to know (that community).

“I would like to see us grow in our visibility with other jurisdictions in Australia.”

Over her five years in the position, outgoing Administrator Ms O’Halloran has presented 300 Australian Honours and Awards to Territorians, hosted and attended 2500 events and welcomed more than 20,000 visitors to Government House.

Northern Territory Administrator Vicki O'Halloran will depart the role on January 30, 2023. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Ms O’Halloran said the experience had been an “immense privilege”.

“I am wholeheartedly grateful to so many Territorians for sharing their stories, insights, compassion and wisdom with me during my term,” she said.

“It is abundantly clear to me that we have endless talent and ambition across the NT, and with our many engaged and energetic young people I am excited for the next chapter for the Northern Territory.

“I congratulate Dr Heggie on his appointment, and wish him well and every success as he prepares to take on this very special and unique role.”

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