Block the appointment of David Connolly as NT Administrator

Recent signers:
Jon Smith and 19 others have signed recently.

The issue

The recent appointment of David Connolly to the role of Northern Territory Administrator raises significant concerns about the direction and governance of the territory. The decision must be blocked on the indisputable grounds that he is racist. 

We cannot have a racist person in such a powerful and privileged role, it's a disaster for the already fractious position of the NT public service when it comes to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights. The NT has a truly awful reputation when it comes to closing the gap, Indigenous incarceration rates, human rights and cultural knowledge protection. All Australians must stand up and say no to this decision.

Northern Territory residents deserve leaders who embody integrity, transparency, and a commitment to the welfare of all communities. Unfortunately, the selection of David Connolly does not align with these values and merits a reconsideration by the Northern Territory Government.

David Connolly's track record speaks for itself. In seeking to distance himself from his numerous racist remarks he does the people of the Northern Territory a disservice. 

His appointment to such a critical and influential position leaves the NT Government at risk of marginalising its diverse population. The appointment shows deep disrespect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Chief Minister herself should be ashamed of her continued support of such an individual. 

She needs to understand that David Connolly's appointment is untenable and we call on her to apologise for this error in judgement.

Top End residents need an Administrator who is sensitive to the unique social, cultural, and environmental challenges facing the Northern Territory, and who can champion initiatives that support genuine community well-being and the rights of all territorians. 

By signing this petition, you are urging the Northern Territory Government to reconsider the appointment of David Connolly and to prioritize candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the needs of community members. Let us stand together to advocate for leadership that truly represents the interests of all Territorians.

Jessica Miller

https://nit.com.au/19-01-2026/22193/responsible-course-of-action-is-clear-calls-for-review-into-nt-administrator-appointment-after-concerning-social-media-posts

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-24/david-connolly-nt-administrator-appointment-cultural-rift-widens/106263574

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-20/nt-administrator-david-connolly-criticised-by-labor-politicians/106248300

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Recent signers:
Jon Smith and 19 others have signed recently.

The issue

The recent appointment of David Connolly to the role of Northern Territory Administrator raises significant concerns about the direction and governance of the territory. The decision must be blocked on the indisputable grounds that he is racist. 

We cannot have a racist person in such a powerful and privileged role, it's a disaster for the already fractious position of the NT public service when it comes to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights. The NT has a truly awful reputation when it comes to closing the gap, Indigenous incarceration rates, human rights and cultural knowledge protection. All Australians must stand up and say no to this decision.

Northern Territory residents deserve leaders who embody integrity, transparency, and a commitment to the welfare of all communities. Unfortunately, the selection of David Connolly does not align with these values and merits a reconsideration by the Northern Territory Government.

David Connolly's track record speaks for itself. In seeking to distance himself from his numerous racist remarks he does the people of the Northern Territory a disservice. 

His appointment to such a critical and influential position leaves the NT Government at risk of marginalising its diverse population. The appointment shows deep disrespect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Chief Minister herself should be ashamed of her continued support of such an individual. 

She needs to understand that David Connolly's appointment is untenable and we call on her to apologise for this error in judgement.

Top End residents need an Administrator who is sensitive to the unique social, cultural, and environmental challenges facing the Northern Territory, and who can champion initiatives that support genuine community well-being and the rights of all territorians. 

By signing this petition, you are urging the Northern Territory Government to reconsider the appointment of David Connolly and to prioritize candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the needs of community members. Let us stand together to advocate for leadership that truly represents the interests of all Territorians.

Jessica Miller

https://nit.com.au/19-01-2026/22193/responsible-course-of-action-is-clear-calls-for-review-into-nt-administrator-appointment-after-concerning-social-media-posts

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-24/david-connolly-nt-administrator-appointment-cultural-rift-widens/106263574

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-20/nt-administrator-david-connolly-criticised-by-labor-politicians/106248300

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The Decision Makers

Lia Finocchiaro
Lia Finocchiaro
Chief Minister NT
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Petition created on 24 January 2026