The Law Society Northern Territory (Society) is concerned that the amendments made last week by the Northern Territory Government to the Housing Act 1982 (NT) demonstrate a lack of respect for the rule of law.

The Society notes that the Housing Amendment Bill 2026 was introduced on 4 February 2026 and passed on 5 February 2026, on an urgent basis. The Society continues to be extremely concerned about the passing of legislation on an urgent basis without proper justification, noting that the Housing Amendment Bill 2026 is the tenth bill passed urgently in the current parliamentary term.

Society President Ms Bernadette Raumteen said: “Any decision of the government to limit the rights of Territorians must be carefully considered, proportionate and only passed when necessary, after due scrutiny and consultation.

By passing the Housing Amendment Bill 2026 on an urgent basis the government has not allowed for Territorians to be heard about a matter affecting their rights. The Society calls for the Northern Territory Government to exercise due care and respect for the rule of law and the fundamental rights of Territorians.”

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Contact person:
Ms Bernadette Raumteen