NT Chief Minister Defends Administrator Appointment Despite ‘Offensive’ Social Media Posts

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro highlighted David Connolly’s long involvement in NT’s primary industries and said it would contribute to the territory’s growth.

David Connolly is sworn-in as the Northern Territory's 24th administrator at Parliament House in Darwin, Northern Territory, on February 27, 2026. AAP Image/Rebecca Parker

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has stood by the appointment of David Connolly as Northern Territory administrator, while a protest outside Parliament House led to the arrest of an Aboriginal elder.

Connolly was sworn in on Feb. 27 as the Territory’s 24th administrator—a role similar to a state governor—in a ceremony attended by Australian Governor General Sam Mostyn. Proceedings inside continued without disruption.