Environmental group calls for Territory Day fireworks to be banned for public sale
Every year thousands of Territorians set off fireworks in their own backyard to mark Territory Day, now an environmental group says the practice should be banned. Have your say here.
Northern Territory
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The NT’s famous cracker night is again facing calls for its cancellation, with an environmental group renewing a push for firework purchases on Territory Day to be banned to the public.
But Chief Minister Natasha Fyles was quick to reassure Territorians this year’s celebrations at least were safe, with no plans afoot to make any changes to the rules around fireworks.
Letters for the Environment Central Australia (LECA) is asking the NT government to ban the sale of fireworks to the public and only allow official fireworks in Territory Day celebrations.
Territory Day is the only day Territorians are allowed to purchase and use fireworks, with punters lining up before sales start at 9am.
Fireworks are then allowed to be set off between 6pm and 11pm.
As part of its DoGooder campaign, the group says the practise causes “a massive upheaval and damage to wildlife and domestic animals, increased house, grass/scrub and bushfires, and pollution of the air, sea, soil and public areas”.
“Further, some Territorians continue to set off fireworks outside these times in the days, weeks and months afterwards, upsetting animals, some having just settled after the Territory Day chaos,” it says.
“As we gain a better understanding and acknowledge the negative effects fireworks can have on the environment and wildlife, we have the responsibility to evolve our celebratory rituals and do better.”
The group cites data from NT Police, Fire and Emergency services which states there were more than 231 grassfires and 13 structure fires reported on Territory Day in 2022, alongside studies on the impacts of fireworks on wildlife.
Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said Territory day was about celebration, “and fireworks mark this.”
“We want all Territorians to enjoy and celebrate Territory Day in a safe and respectful way – this year is no different,” she said.
“This is why the Territory Government provides Territory Day events across the entire Territory and every region.
“Every year we ask people to enjoy themselves, while always following the latest advice and ensuring their safety and the safety of others.”
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