New legislation that improves the safety of our emergency services workers was passed through Parliament tonight.

The Criminal Code Amendment Bill means people who assault our Fire and Rescue, Emergency Services and St John Ambulance officers will now face the same penalties as those who assault our Police.

The Bill also includes an amendment to make the offence of “violent act causing death” colloquially known as the “one punch” law, an alternative verdict to both murder and manslaughter.

Quotes from Attorney-General, Natasha Fyles:

“The Territory Labor Government is building safer communities, passing new legislation to protect our hard-working emergency workers.

“Emergency services workers in the Territory do an extraordinary job in extremely difficult circumstances – helping Territorians when they are at their most vulnerable.

“We promised to strengthen protections for our emergency services workers and we are delivering that with this Bill.

“In 2018 alone, 35 St John Ambulance paramedics were assaulted by clients. This is not acceptable.

“Emergency services workers are saving the lives of Territorians and we need to ensure they are protected in return.”

Quotes from St John Ambulance NT CEO, Judith Barker:

“It is fantastic to know the Northern Territory Government has listened to our paramedics and the difficulties they face every day, and passed this legislation. The legislation will send a strong message that assaults on paramedics will not be tolerated.

“It is great for our staff to know they will now be supported by law, at the same level as police and other front line emergency workers who carry out life-saving work on a daily basis.”

Media Contact: Leanne Hudson 0427 687 079