Robyn Lambley calls for new deputy administrator in Alice Springs

The most senior government position in Alice Springs has been vacant for more than 18 months. Here’s why one MLA thinks the uncertainty is ‘concerning’ for the embattled town.

Araluen MLA Robyn Lambley has criticised the government’s lack of urgency on reappointing a deputy administrator in Central Australia. Picture: Floss Adams

An Alice Springs politician has questioned why the government has failed to fill the deputy administrator role in more than 18 months.

Dr Patricia Miller AO retired from the position in September 2021 after a tenure of almost two decades.

The role, which would act as deputy to Administrator Dr Hugh Heggie PSM, is traditionally based in Alice Springs.

Independent MLA Robyn Lambley has taken aim at the Labor government for not replacing Dr Miller and providing “strength, unity and stability” to the beleaguered town.

“The Deputy Administrator is the second most senior government position in the NT, sitting behind the Administrator,” she said.

“Having this representation at the highest level based in Central Australia has been vital.”

Deputy Administrator Pat Miller retired in September 2021 after almost 20 years in the role. Picture: Justin Brierty

Dr Miller, a native title holder in Alice Springs, attended more than 500 engagements during her tenure.

Ms Lambley said her “extraordinary background” in Aboriginal justice, health and welfare was of great value to the role.

“It beggars belief that Dr Miller’s legacy as the Central Australian Deputy Administrator of the NT has not been properly honoured and valued by a prompt replacement to the position,” she said.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said she would welcome a reappointment but was not drawn to a timeline.

“I have raised with the Administrator’s office around a deputy administrator,” she said.

“Obviously the Administrator (Dr Heggie) was just appointed earlier this year.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said she had talked to the Administrator’s office on the issue of reappointing a deputy. Picture: Liam Mendes / The Australian

“I think part of (the delay) is that we had that appointment.

“That did take a significant period of time – it actually took around 18 months.

“So we’d be very welcoming to appoint a Deputy Administrator.”

Ms Lambley said Central Australia was not a priority of the government.

“The silence on this subject is concerning,” she said.

“Does the NT Government intend to scrap the deputy administrator position?

“Or are they just not prioritising the appointment of the next deputy administrator?

“Either way, this situation is unacceptable and offensive, particularly to the people of Central Australia.”