Northern Territory Chief Minister Adam Giles

Make NT Statehood A Barbecue Stopper On Australia Day

Victor P Taffa

As Territorians unwind with some steak on the barbie and a few cold ones, they should have a yarn about Statehood for the Northern Territory, according to Chief Minister Adam Giles.

“Australia Day is about celebrating everything that is great about this country, including giving everyone a fair go.” Chief Minister Giles said.

“But Territorians aren’t being given a fair go by Canberra as long as we remain a mere Territory of the Commonwealth.”

 

“Unlike other jurisdictions, any law passed by our democratically elected Legislative Assembly can be overridden by Canberra and we have fewer rights than the States when it comes to a national referendum.” Chief Minister Giles said.

“That is why the Government is aiming for NT Statehood on the 40th anniversary of self-government on 1 July 2018.”

“I have secured the support of the Federal Government and State Premiers for this to happen and now it is up to the people of the Northern Territory.”

Chief Minister Giles said the Country Liberals had learned from the unsuccessful 1998 referendum on Statehood.

“We need to take all Territorians with us on this journey including the Leader of the Opposition.” Chief Minister Giles said.

“This isn’t about giving the NT Government more power, it is about empowering Territorians.”

“Ask your friends and family if they think it is right that we are treated as a second class jurisdiction by Canberra.” Chief Minister Giles said.

“If we do become a State what shall we call ourselves?  Do we stick with Northern Territory or is there a better name like the State of North Australia?”

“Please contact me or your local MP Country Liberal, Labor Party or Independent to tell him or her what you think.” Chief Minister Giles said.

The Chief Minister said Statehood would not cause significant Government policy changes, including Indigenous land rights.