The Finocchiaro CLP Government is moving to repeal or amend sections of Labor’s Electrical Safety Regulations 2024 that impose unnecessary red tape and cost burdens on Territory homeowners, landlords, and industry.

Part 8 of the Regulations, introduced by the former Labor Government, imposes new compliance requirements on people selling or renting their homes, including mandatory safety switch disclosures and rectification notices.

These provisions were scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026 and 1 July 2028 but were introduced without proper consultation. They have since drawn widespread concern from property managers, conveyancers, electricians, and everyday Territorians.

Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the CLP Government will not allow these impractical provisions to proceed in their current form.

“This is yet another example of Labor bringing in rules that sound good on paper but don’t make anyone safer in practice,” said Ms Boothby.

“These changes mean more cost, more red tape, and more hassle, with no clear safety benefit. It’s red tape for red tape’s sake.”

The CLP Government has received calls from Territorians to act now before it is due to commence next year. Concerns include added costs to sellers and renters, increased administrative burden, and potential pressure on the electrical industry.

“As Attorney-General, I have directed the department to commence work to ensure these provisions are addressed properly and Territorians have certainty moving forward,” said Ms Boothby.

“We promised Territorians a year of action, certainty and security, and let me be absolutely clear - the CLP Government will sort this out.”

The Government is now actively considering the most appropriate path forward, including:

• Repealing Part 8 entirely; or
• Delaying its application for as long as necessary to deliver a more practical, workable solution.

“Territorians deserve laws that genuinely protect them, not overreach that adds confusion, cost, and complexity,” said Ms Boothby.

“We were elected to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our lifestyle. That includes standing up for common sense to provide certainty, cutting red tape, and backing homeowners and industry to get on with the job.”

Further updates will be provided following consultation.

Source: Northern Territory Government