Northern Territory legalises pepper spray for self-defence

The Northern Territory government has permanently legalised the use of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, commonly known as pepper spray, for self-defence. Following a 12-month trial that reported a 99 per cent success rate, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro confirmed the decision to make the non-lethal deterrent available to residents aged 16 and above.

The policy expansion includes allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to purchase and carry the spray, provided they are accompanied and authorised by a parent or guardian. The Chief Minister defended the move against concerns regarding youth violence, noting that teenagers in this age bracket already hold responsibilities such as driving motor vehicles.

Under the new rules, the spray can be used by residents in their homes and by security guards, licensees, and crowd controllers while performing lawful duties at licensed premises. Finocchiaro stated that the spray provides a vital window of time for individuals to escape dangerous situations without resorting to hand-to-hand combat.