Northern Territory residents can carry pepper spray for safety

The Northern Territory government will launch a 12-month trial allowing approved residents to carry pepper spray for self-defense, aiming to enhance personal safety. The trial, starting in September, will permit the use of low-percentage Oleoresin Capsicum spray under strict legal conditions, following Western Australia's model. The government cites the need to provide residents with tools for self-protection. The opposition has criticized the move, calling it an admission of failure, while community groups express concerns about potential increases in violence. The trial will be overseen by a community reference group.