If you believe you have been unfairly treated by the Northern Territory Police Force, or that a police officer has behaved inappropriately, you can complain to us or directly with the NT Police.
We are independent of the Northern Territory Police Force and we handle complaints in an impartial way. Our services to the public are free of charge. You don't have to give your name, although anonymous complaints are more difficult to deal with and you will not be advised of the investigation outcome.
The Office of the Ombudsman is unable to provide legal advice or act on your behalf. Nor can we offer legal advice to the Northern Territory Police or act on their behalf.
Complaints about Police should be made at the earliest opportunity as the Police Administration Act places time limits on actions and prosecutions commencing:
- Section 162(1) of the Police Administration Act requires any prosecution against a Northern Territory Police member to be commenced within 2 months of the act or omission complained of.
- Section 162(6) of the Police Administration Act requires any action regarding a breach of discipline by a Northern Territory Police member to be commenced within 6 months after the act or omission constituting the alleged breach of discipline was discovered, or such longer period as a magistrate allows.