The Northern Territory's newly-appointed Chief Minister, Natasha Fyles, says "we need to see action now" to reduce crime, adding that she's determined to listen to the community to drive change.
Ms Fyles was sworn into the top job on Friday following the shock resignation of her predecessor Michael Gunner.
In a wide-ranging sit-down interview with the ABC on Sunday, Ms Fyles was asked about her main priority as Chief Minister, her approach to crime, and the makeup of her cabinet.
In the past, the Gunner government has been criticised for not doing enough to deal with crime in the Territory.
During the interview, Ms Fyles was asked how she would tackle crime rates.
"I think the community wants to see a change, and I'm determined to listen to that and to drive that," she said.
"We have got those plans in place around generational change, but we need to see action now."
She said she had a strong working relationship with the police, however said listening to non-government organisations and the community was also important.
When asked about her stance on police carrying guns in remote communities, Ms Fyles said the government needed to work with police on the issue.
However, she said strong relationships between police and communities was also crucial.
"We've got a focus with Aboriginal police officers, Aboriginal liaison officers ... [they're] vitally important," Ms Fyles said.
Addressing social issues a top priority
Ms Fyles reaffirmed her government would remain a "steady and united team" following Mr Gunner's resignation.
"Of course there's change, but in saying that we want to absolutely make sure that businesses have the confidence to come into the Territory," she said.
Addressing social issues in the territory would be her top priority as Chief Minister, she said.
"So I'll certainly, and have already been doing work in this space, but that is what I'll be putting at the fore."
Ms Fyles was also asked if she was disappointed by former Chief Minister Michael Gunner's support of a Dan Murphy's liquor store in Darwin, despite Labor's introduction of sweeping alcohol reforms.
However, she said she wouldn't be going back over history and would be "looking forward."
"I think in terms of alcohol policy, we did some world-leading reform, but clearly more needs to be done and that will be my focus."
'Stability is the key'
With a new leader comes a new cabinet, which is scheduled to be sworn in later this week after parliamentary sittings.
Ms Fyles wouldn't confirm whether she would continue as Health Minister in the new cabinet but did appear to leave the door ajar.
"I think stability is the key, it's been an absolute privilege to be the health Minister," she said.
"We will elect a new Minister later in the week and from that, I'll make those decisions."
She also wouldn't say if Territorians could expect further cabinet reshuffles.
"The position that was vacant was Chief Minister ... as I said we'll focus on a new cabinet minister then get out there and provide that certainty to the community," she said.
