Land acquisitions

If your land is being acquired by the Northern Territory (NT) Government, you can receive compensation or appeal against the decision.

The NT Government through the Acquisition section of the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics has the legal right to acquire land that is needed for projects under the Lands Acquisition Act 1978.

The department also acts on behalf of other government agencies such as Health and Education.

These projects may include new roads, power and sewerage services, access to government facilities or for health and safety reasons.

How the government can acquire land

The NT Government will negotiate an agreement with you including compensation if they need to acquire your land.

If the land is needed immediately or an agreement can't be reached, then the compulsory provisions of the Act can be used.

How compensation is worked out

As the land owner, you're entitled to fair and just terms compensation for any acquisition of your land.

The amount you will be offered is determined by independent valuation.

If there is a big difference between the amount you want and what is offered, you may be asked to get a second opinion from an NT licensed valuer.

To find a valuer, go to the Australian Property Institute website.

You must provide a copy of the report to the Acquisition section.

Compensation can include a land swap.

If you are unhappy with compensation amount

If the acquisition of your land is going ahead but you disagree with the compensation amount, you can appeal to the NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT).

If you need help to put your case to the NTCAT, you can contact the Community Justice Centre by calling 1800 000 473 or emailing cjc@nt.gov.au.

The NTCAT will consider your claims and those of the agency and they will make a decision on the compensation amount to be paid.

How to appeal

You have the right to question NT Government moves to acquire your land.

You can refer the issue to the NTCAT.

The NTCAT will then make a recommendation to the relevant minister to either carry out or stop the land acquisition.

Contact

For more information, contact your nearest Crown Land Estate office.