The Northern Territory government is set to increase its safety measures by allowing the public use of pepper spray for self defence in a 12-month trial.
The 12-month trial will allow the public to carry low-percentage Oleoresin Capsicum spray, better known as pepper spray, for self defence reasons and under strict legal conditions.
The NT has faced law and order issues over recent times, raising concerns within the community over safety and crime.
The Finocchiaro CLP government has passed a number of reforms since winning last year’s election, including stricter bail laws and lowering the age of criminal responsibility.
“This initiative responds directly to community calls for more safety options and reflects the government’s commitment to restoring the Territory lifestyle,” Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said.
The spray is made with a nonlethal substance that an cause a painful and burning sensation, and temporarily impair vision, allowing the victims to escape, but it is not as powerful as sprays handled by police.
Pepper spray is currently classified as a “prohibited weapon” in the NT.
Ms Finocchiaro said the trial would give residents “more choice when it comes to personal safety”.
“We’re strengthening the frontline with more police, stronger laws and better prevention, but we also believe individuals should have lawful tools to protect themselves if needed,” she said.
Pepper spray will be available for purchase from licensed dealers across the NT from September 1, 2025, and will only be eligible under strict conditions
A person must be over 18 to purchase the pepper spray, show valid NT photo ID and have no relevant serious criminal history or domestic violence orders.
They must also be purchased in person from a licensed NT dealer.
The specifics of the trial will be determined alongside the NT Police, key stakeholders, industry bodies, licensees and the broader community.
A “community oversight reference group” will also be established to oversee how the trial is run.
She said she believed the trial would be well-received by the NT community, based on the reaction from a similar trial in Western Australia.
Western Australia is currently the only state or territory to allow people to carry the nonlethal spray, under strict conditions.
“We’ve seen Western Australia undertake a similar trial, and it’s provided valuable insights into how a controlled, lawful model can give people greater peace of mind without compromising public safety,” Ms Finocchiaro said.
“This is about equipping Territorians with more options, not less control.
“It’s a practical step that balances personal responsibility with community safety, and we’ll be watching the outcomes closely through reporting and evaluation.”
https://thewest.com.au/news/nt-government-to-allow-public-to-use-pepper-spray-in-self-defence-c-18998734
