The Territory Labor Government is creating safer communities by putting 120 more police on the beat and giving them the best resources possible. 

The Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Nicole Manison today toured the new state-of-the-art chemistry facility at the Police Forensic Science Branch which has officially opened at the Peter McAulay Centre.

The $2 million project was delivered by local construction company Nightcliff Builders, supporting 150 jobs, including 18 apprentices and six indigenous employees.

Since 2001, the forensic chemistry unit had grown from three staff members to twelve, and urgent expansion was needed.

Upgrading of the facility will now allow for more forensic testing to be conducted in Darwin, rather than being sent interstate – saving money, receiving results faster and expediting court proceedings.

The new facility will provide two accredited laboratories to cater for driver toxicology samples and testing for illicit drugs and miscellaneous chemicals. Previously these services were undertaken in the same laboratory.

Separation of these functions allows for increased efficiency, improved service delivery and the scope to develop new chemistry practices to better serve the Territory community.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Nicole Manison:

“The Territory Labor Government is putting more police on the beat and giving them the best resources possible.

“This new state-of-the-art unit provides police with a future-proof, fit for purpose facility to undertake improved chemistry service for the Territory community.

“This new facility is in addition to more CCTV, a brand new Palmerston Police Station, Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors and stronger powers to tackle alcohol-related crime and secondary supply. We will continue to invest in our police to create a safer Territory.”

Media Contact – Hannah Farmer - 0428 497 154