MEDIA RELEASE - Independent Candidate Phil Scott Calls for Positive Cultural Reform in NT Parliament

Independent Candidate Phil Scott Calls for Positive Cultural Reform in NT Parliament Independent candidate for Nightcliff, Phil Scott, is calling for stronger accountability, transparency, and a more respectful workplace culture in the Northern Territory Parliament, following recent bullying allegations and public concern about parliamentary standards.

Mr Scott says recent events highlight the need for leadership that puts people first and focuses on building trust, fairness, and professionalism in public life.

The call comes after fresh allegations involving Country Liberal Party MLA Tanzil Rahman, and questions over the government’s response. Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has described the matter as a “sensitive HR” issue.

“When the leader of our Territory hides behind 'HR confidentiality' to protect her own backbenchers, she is endorsing a culture where staff are unsafe,” said Mr Scott.

“This is not just a sensitive matter, it is a failure of leadership.” Mr Scott also referenced the recent resignation of former Member for Nightcliff Kat McNamara, who stepped down citing ongoing health challenges after what colleagues described as hostile treatment in Parliament.

“We are seeing a pattern,” Phil Scott said. “On one hand, we have government members accused of verbally abusing staff with zero public accountability. On the other, we have a hard-working representative driven to resignation after facing what her peers describe as 'hateful' and 'appalling' conduct in the chamber. This is not the standard of behaviour Territorians expect from their leaders.”

Mr Scott says moments like this are an opportunity to improve political culture and set higher standards for future generations.

As part of his integrity platform, he is committed to:

• Independent oversight of bullying and harassment complaints
• Mandatory transparency around investigation outcomes
• A strong Code of Conduct with real consequences

“If you or I behaved this way in a private-sector job, we would be sacked,” Mr Scott said. “It’s time we stop treating the NT Parliament like a playground for bullies and start treating it like the workplace of the people. We need cleaner politics, safer communities, and a government that actually listens.”

Mr Scott says his campaign is focused on constructive change, standing up for local business and their workers, supporting respectful workplaces, and ensuring Parliament reflects the values of everyday Territorians.

“Independence means having the courage to speak up, the freedom to act in the public interest, and the responsibility to lead with integrity,” he said