The future of Northern Territory’s Police Commissioner, Michael Murphy, is under scrutiny after he revealed himself as the unnamed bureaucrat implicated by the corruption watchdog in a “job for a mate” scandal. This admission has sparked demands for his resignation, with the Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) questioning Murphy’s integrity.
NTPA president Nathan Finn expressed the frustration and anger among members over the commissioner’s behaviour, highlighting that it reflects a failure of the Police Force’s leadership to uphold the standards they enforce on others. Finn remarked, “This is a slap in the face to the hardworking men and women on the ground who put their lives on the line every day.”
In his statement, Murphy acknowledged that he mishandled a conflict of interest involving a friendship and the appointment process related to a deputy commissioner, assistant commissioners, commanders, and superintendents. He admitted, “On reflection, I should have managed the friendship and the conflict of interest to a higher standard and, on at least one occasion, should have recused myself from the appointment process to ensure community confidence.”
The trust between the NTPA members and the commissioner is reportedly “destroyed,” with Finn stating that many question Murphy’s capacity to continue in his role. Consequently, the NTPA’s executive board has unanimously called for his resignation, indicating a significant breach of trust and violation of the Police Code of Conduct.
In light of the scandal, Murphy stated that he has begun to address the recommendations made by independent corruption delegate Patricia Kelly SC, which include establishing a clear written policy for police executive recruitments and developing training programs focused on conflict of interest management.
Murphy affirmed his commitment to prioritising these policy implementations to ensure clarity and adherence among future appointments. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has not yet publicly addressed the issue, although CLP cabinet member Robyn Cahill acknowledged the complexity of the situation, asserting that it is a matter for Murphy.
As the situation develops, the pressure on Murphy mounts, with calls for accountability echoing through the ranks of the Northern Territory Police. The fallout from this scandal raises critical questions about leadership standards within the force and community confidence in its governance.