NT Police Commissioner Apologizes for Historical Harms

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy has formally apologized to First Nations communities for historical injustices and harms caused by NT police over the past 154 years. Delivered at the Garma Festival, the apology acknowledged past wrongdoings, including the Coniston Massacre and the Stolen Generations, and promised to eliminate racism within the police force. Commissioners Katie Kiss and Giridharan Sivaraman welcomed the apology, highlighting the ongoing impact of these injustices. Murphy emphasized the need for accountability and vowed to address the over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system. The apology follows a coronial inquest into the 2019 death of Kumanjayi Walker, which uncovered evidence of systemic racism. The NT police will also implement a new anti-racism strategy led by Leanne Liddle, aiming to increase Indigenous representation and cultural competency within the force.