In a recent announcement by Eva Lawler, the chief minister of Australia’s Northern Territory (NT), the curfew for individuals under the age of 18 in Alice Springs has been extended until April 16. The curfew, initially imposed on March 27 in response to escalating violent incidents, prohibits anyone under 18 from being out in the CBD between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Lawler emphasized the necessity of the curfew as a measure to address unrest and crime in the town, stating that the community has felt significantly safer since its implementation. Additional police officers were deployed to Alice Springs to enforce the curfew, resulting in a noticeable decrease in crime around the CBD, according to NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy.
The extension of the curfew comes at the conclusion of the school holiday period in the NT on April 15. Lawler highlighted the collaboration between police, education, family services, and health providers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the progress made with the curfew. Despite concerns, Lawler believes that the community’s safety is the top priority.
Lawler expressed optimism about the future cooperation between various departments post-curfew, aiming to address the root causes of youth unrest and crime. She concluded that maintaining the momentum established by the curfew is crucial for ensuring the safety of residents in Alice Springs.
