Aboriginal police officers in the NT underpaid and racially abused, a new class action alleges

A landmark class action has been filed in the Federal Court against the Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF), alleging that Aboriginal Community Police Officers (ACPOs) have faced systemic racial discrimination, racial vilification, and unequal pay for nearly three decades. Represented by Gordon Legal, the plaintiffs claim that ACPOs were provided with fewer career advancement opportunities and lower entitlements compared to non-Aboriginal constables, despite performing similar duties.

Former AFL player Shawn Lewfatt, a participant in the action, described a culture where racism is embedded within the force, noting that even well-intentioned officers often fail to call out discriminatory behavior. The legal action follows increased scrutiny of the NTPF following the 2019 shooting of Kumanjayi Walker and subsequent inquests that highlighted issues of systemic racism within the organization.

While the NTPF has taken steps toward reform, including appointing an executive director of cultural reform, the class action seeks to address long-standing grievances that internal complaint processes failed to resolve. The first hearing for the case is scheduled for 19 August.

(Source：SBS Australia)