The Northern Territory government has announced it will permanently legalise oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray for self-defence, with access extended to 16 and 17-year-olds, after a 12-month trial.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro told media this morning that the reforms would be passed by the end of the year, with several key expansions from the trial conditions.
The trial, which began in September last year, limited the weapon to adults and allowed purchase only from 11 approved NT firearms dealers. Buyers were required to complete a declaration form confirming they had no relevant criminal history or current police or court orders.
Ms Finocchiaro said the response to the trial had been "fantastic with a 99 per cent success rate", based on how many canisters were bought legally.
Under the new legislation, 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to buy OC spray provided they meet the conditions on the buyer declaration and purchase it with a guardian present and consenting. Ms Finocchiaro said parents wanted assurance that their children could defend themselves in a dangerous situation, noting that 16-year-olds already drive cars and many hold jobs.
She said the spray would not be allowed to be used at school, and that schools and teachers would have authority to confiscate it under the new laws.
The reforms also broaden who can lawfully use OC spray. Anyone working at a licensed premises will be able to use it in self-defence, not just security officers. Ms Finocchiaro said the government had heard "loud and clear from the hospitality sector who want more opportunity to defend themselves should the need arise."
Household use will also be expanded. Where a home has two or more people and one has purchased OC spray, other household members who meet the criteria will be allowed to use it in self-defence within the home's boundaries, even if they were not the purchaser. Ms Finocchiaro said this followed practical feedback from the community about the trial's restrictions.