NT Labor celebrating win, but there's still much trust to earn back
Yiwarr McGrath's victory in the remote Mulka by-election has given Northern Territory Labor something to celebrate — but the party is aware it still has an uphill battle ahead.
The Northern Territory Labor Party is celebrating a significant victory in a by-election, but there remains work to restore public trust. Yiwarr McGrath, a registered nurse and Yolŋu man, has won the Mulka by-election in remote north-east Arnhem Land. Growing up in poverty as an orphan child, McGrath promises to use his real-life experiences to influence policy for his people and the region.
NT Labor has reclaimed the Mulka seat, which was previously held by the party from 1980 to 2016. With McGrath's victory, the party now holds six seats in parliament. The win is seen as a boost for the Labor caucus and a demonstration of their commitment to serving the Territorians. However, the party's recent issues, such as the unceremonious dismissal of its deputy leader and a speeding ticket scandal, and the lack of substantial policy positions ahead of the 2028 election, will require the party to earn back trust from the electorate.
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