The Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory flatly rejects David Connolly as the Northern Territory Administrator and urges the NT and Federal Governments to revoke his appointment.

Mr Connolly’s recent social media comments reveal views that undermine trust and respect across our diverse population.

APONT Chair Theresa Roe said, “The posts made by the incoming NT Administrator cannot be taken lightly. This office carries significant standing and public trust in the position is a basic requirement.”

“Such views have no place in the office of the NT Administrator. This behaviour only creates division in the Territory.”

Mr Connolly’s comments reinforce harmful narratives and demonstrate a lack of upstanding qualities required of such an appointment. Ignoring these issues is unacceptable.

Ms Roe said it is alarming that a future Administrator blames Aboriginal Territorians for crime spikes in 2024.

“These comments reveal a lack of understanding of the lived experiences of Aboriginal Territorians – a third of the NT population. They also indicate a lack respect for Aboriginal people and all Territorians who want to live in a cohesive community.

The NT Administrator holds considerable power and influence. It also demands the confidence and trust of Aboriginal people – trust that can only be earned through an honest understanding of power, history and privilege.

APONT is calling on the Chief Minister to reconsider Mr Connolly’s appointment and urges the Federal Government to act to ensure that the NT selects a more appropriate candidate.

“To continue with this appointment, despite clear evidence of problematic views on race and history, entrenches division between right across the Territory,” Ms Roe said.

“It reflects a continued failure to listen to Aboriginal voices and represents a missed opportunity to demonstrate leadership grounded in respect, understanding and unity.”

“The role of the Administrator of the Northern Territory must embody respect and political neutrality. Mr Connolly’s views are incompatible with that responsibility and his appointment should be dismissed,” Ms Roe said.

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Media Contact: Libby Collins
libby.collins@apont.org.au
0419 634 686

About APO NT:

The Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory is a formal alliance that represents Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory. The alliance was formed to provide a more effective response to key issues of joint interest and concern affecting Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory, including working in genuine partnership with governments to achieve better outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians. The alliance comprises the Aboriginal Medical Service Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT), North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA), Central Land Council (CLC), Northern Land Council (NLC), Tiwi Land Council (TLC), Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC), Aboriginal Housing NT (AHNT) and the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network (NT IBN).