This callous and indifferent attack was a wanton act. It is almost incomprehensible that it could happen. 

Sadly, we have a system in the NT – that looks through the eyes of the judiciary – at every cause and reason to excuse vile behaviour, especially abominable acts perpetrated by youth. 

Without a doubt, these three people who committed such an awful act—without shame and in full view of the public—will have publicly funded legal support that will earnestly beseech the judiciary to go lightly on the perpetrators. And it will surprise me hugely if anything other than minimal consequences are dealt to the three.

The Finnochario Government is treating the issues of crime against people and property in a way that could rebuild Territorians’ confidence. I hope the outcomes of this new approach are not reduced by judicial responses to wishful thinking.