Useful settlement information
Government and important laws
The system of government in the Northern Territory is based on the Westminster, or English-style, system that operates in many democracies throughout the world.
The Northern Territory is a territory rather than a state. Although its system of government is similar to those of the states, it has some differences. The Northern Territory is moving towards becoming a state.
The laws in the Northern Territory are similar to those in other parts of Australia and other democracies, with a couple of notable exceptions.
The Australian Government’s Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act governs ownership of and access to about 50% of the Northern Territory’s land.
Under the Northern Territory Liquor Act, some areas are restricted or “dry” areas, meaning alcohol is not permitted.
All the Northern Territory’s laws can be viewed at its legislation database.
