Northern Territory Police Commissioner, Michael Murphy, has been stood down from the organisation’s top job following an NT ICAC probe, which found that he had engaged in “incompetent” conduct by recruiting a friend to a high-ranking position.
In a statement, Chief Minister, Lia Finocchiaro confirmed she had informed Commissioner Murphy that he had lost the confidence of the Government.
The ICAC report revealed that in early 2024, Commissioner Murphy had taken part in a panel which subsequently hired one of his close friends.
“It is clear the Police Commissioner Michael Murphy APM’s position is untenable,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.
“I gave Commissioner Murphy the opportunity to resign. The Police Commissioner was asked to go on leave effective immediately.”
The Chief Minister announced Martin Dole APM as the Territory’s Acting Police Commissioner.
“I have now begun the process to terminate the appointment of the Police Commissioner,” she said.
“This process requires natural justice to Michael Murphy, and involves Cabinet, Executive Council and advice to the Administrator on termination.”
The terms and conditions of Commissioner Murphy’s appointment in 2023 requires payment of six months remuneration upon termination.
“I make no apologies for working through this methodically in the interests of Territorians.”
“Reducing crime is our top priority and today’s action provides certainty for our hard-working police and the community,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.
