Overview
- Three federal Labor politicians — Malarndirri McCarthy, Marion Scrymgour and Luke Gosling — called David Connolly’s past posts reprehensible and urged him to apologise.
- Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro says the nomination stands, noting NT and federal approval, and her government has no plans to reconsider.
- Northern Land Council chair Matthew Ryan labelled the posts appalling, said the relationship was broken and urged federal and vice‑regal intervention to block the appointment.
- NT Opposition Leader Selena Uibo asked for the appointment to be put on hold and reviewed to ensure the role’s standards of neutrality and inclusivity.
- Connolly said it was never his intention to cause offence and pledged to represent all Territorians, with his swearing‑in scheduled for February 2 and the governor‑general’s office noting it acts on government advice.