Aboriginal community police officers sue NT authorities over alleged racial abuse and discrimination
Summary
Aboriginal community police officers in the Northern Territory are suing the NT government and police force. They claim they faced racism, abuse, and were paid less than non-Indigenous officers for similar work over nearly 30 years.Key Facts
- The class action involves Aboriginal community police officers working in the NT from 1998 to 2025.
- The lead plaintiff, Shawn Lewfatt, says he experienced racist slurs and discrimination at work.
- Officers reported hearing racist language and violent comments from non-Indigenous police colleagues.
- The officers claim they were regularly given tasks like constables but received lower pay.
- The lawsuit alleges systemic racial discrimination and abuse, not just isolated incidents.
- About 60 Aboriginal community officers work across the NT at any time, suggesting many could be affected.
- The legal action follows a human rights complaint that was closed earlier this year.
- The NT police and government acknowledged the legal action but declined further comment.
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