The Northern Territory is going to the polls this weekend. The incumbent Labor government is under serious challenge from a rejuvenated Country Liberal Party (CLP) opposition, led by Lia Finocchiaro. This is an election mainly about crime and the state of the economy, and neither issue is good for Labor.
Six months ago, it seemed inevitable Labor would lose – badly. However, the ascension of Eva Lawler to chief minister has rejuvenated the Labor government. She has tackled the main issues directly – from “tough love” and 200 more police on crime, to a pro-development stance on the economy.
The latter issue has led to approvals for the East Arm Industrial Precinct, Beetaloo Basin fracking and a large defence housing project at Lee Point. The Greens and Labor’s left have been appalled.
