Reflect, enjoy, play safe this Territory Day: Your list of dos and don’ts
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has urged Territorians to take time on Territory Day to reflect on everything the NT represents - from resilience and pride to endless opportunity.
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Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has urged Territorians to take time on Territory Day to reflect on everything the NT represents - from resilience and pride to endless opportunity.
“More than anywhere else in Australia, the Northern Territory is a place of opportunity, where people from all walks of life can carve out their future,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
“The Territory will come alive tonight with celebrations across more than 19 communities - from Groote Eylandt to Ngukurr - capped off by the iconic Mindil Beach fireworks, proudly protected by the CLP Government as part of its commitment to preserving Territory traditions and restoring our unique way of life.
“Territory Day is unlike anything else in the country. It’s a celebration of who we are, where we’ve come from, and what we stand for.
“As a second generation born-and-bred Territorian, this year feels especially special, celebrating Territory Day with the great honour of serving as Chief Minister to the place that has given me every opportunity in life. My children have grown up here, and I hope their children will too.
“Whether you’re enjoying fireworks, joining a community event or simply reflecting on what it means to be a Territorian - please celebrate safely.”
The Territory Day fireworks at Mindil Beach are scheduled for about 8pm.
Territory Day in Alice Springs will be celebrated with a fireworks display at Anzac Oval starting at 7pm.
Approved fireworks times and disposal
Fireworks can only be bought, used, and kept during approved times.
Sale: 9am to 9pm, Tuesday 1 July 2025.
Use: 6pm to 11pm, Tuesday 1 July 2025.
Possession: Legally, people can only possess fireworks from 9am Tuesday 1 July 2025 to noon, Wednesday 2 July 2025.
NT Police can issue on-the-spot fines if people use fireworks in a way that could damage property or injure a person or animal.
Banned use: The sale, possession or use of fireworks outside of the approved period is illegal and you can be fined $1890 for each offence.
Be aware personal fireworks are not permitted at Territory Day community events, for example the Darwin Waterfront and Mindil Beach are restricted areas and the use of personal fireworks is banned.
Approved use: Fireworks can be used in public spaces and on your private property. However, people who live in a unit complex should check with their body corporate for any restrictions within their complex.
People are encouraged to only buy as many fireworks as they can safely use on Territory Day.
Unused fireworks: People with unused fireworks can contact NT Worksafe on 1800 019 115 to organise handing in fireworks for safe disposal. Fireworks can also be handed into a police station front counter.
Important Safety reminders
Fireworks are fun, but they can be dangerous if not handled properly. If you’re lighting fireworks this Territory Day, follow these key safety tips:
•Clear dry grass or mulch from the area.
•Never light fireworks under trees or near buildings.
•Supervise children—under 12s should not handle fireworks.
•Follow the safety instructions on the label.
•Light only one firework at a time, step back immediately.
•Only buy fireworks from licenced retailers. Find the list at worksafe.nt.gov.au/fireworks-retailers
•Keep spectators at least 10 metres away from where fireworks are being lit and never point or throw fireworks at another person.
•Avoid wearing synthetic, flammable clothing around fireworks.
Light only one firework at a time, stabilise them to ensure they do not fall over and wet down all debris after use.
•Don’t drop fireworks into a bin or leave them unattended.
Never hold more than one sparkler at a time as the heat produced is amplified by each sparkler. Always hold a sparkler at arm’s length.
•Never pick up or relight a dud firework – wait 20 minutes, pour water on it and dispose of it properly.
•Keep a hose and a few buckets of water and/or sand close by.
•Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix – fireworks should not be used by people who are intoxicated.
•Keep pets indoors and safe. See below additional information on how to keep your pets safe.
•Remember: Be responsible
•Do not use fireworks at Mindil Beach – it is a declared fireworks exclusion zone.
•Use fireworks safely and read safety tips at worksafe.nt.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/f
fireworks.
•Fireworks can deteriorate over time and become dangerous - if you have unused fireworks, call NT WorkSafe on 1800 019 115 to dispose of them safely.
•Visitors from interstate must not take fireworks back across borders – it’s against the law.
Pet owner advice: Fireworks and pets often don’t mix. Dogs and other animals may be frightened, confused and stressed by the loud sounds. Owners are responsible for the welfare, health and safety of their pets.
Ensure pets are microchipped and registered with your local council and have a plan in place if you’re leaving pets at home alone on Territory Day. A simple tip is to consider putting your pet in a travel crate in a quiet area, with curtains closed, airconditioning on, and soothing music playing to calm and reassure them.
For information about Territory Day events and FAQs visit territoryday.nt.gov.au/.
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