Arabic version: تجربة رذاذ الفلفل في الإقليم الشمالي تسجّل آلاف المشتريات

According to ABC News, 3,714 people have bought pepper spray in the Northern Territory since a personal-use trial began in September 2025. A community reference group report reviewing the trial’s first 12 months has been submitted to the chief minister’s department.

NT Police data shows 5,882 canisters have been sold and 69 have been seized since the trial started. Police reported nine uses of oleoresin capsicum, or OC, spray, including three that were not in self-defence. One of those cases resulted in charges for unlawful use of OC spray. The report also said eight people had been charged with making a false declaration or unlawfully possessing OC spray.

Residents aged over 18 can purchase OC spray from licensed firearms dealers if they declare they have no relevant criminal history, police orders or court orders. The trial had been scheduled to end in late August but has been extended until December 31. Superintendent Ian Kennon said police were “currently happy” with the trial and said more than 98 per cent of purchasers had complied with its conditions.

The reference group found no significant or widespread community concerns during the first year, but called for clear, accessible and consistent public information, particularly on storage and transport. It also noted that some people who had previously carried improvised self-defence items had moved to carrying OC spray. Apart from Western Australia, the Northern Territory is the only Australian jurisdiction where members of the public can legally buy and use pepper spray.

Warren Smith, a Darwin CBD outdoor and fishing retailer, said he had sold at least 1,000 canisters and that many customers were women seeking to feel safer while walking. Last month, OC spray was deployed by a Palmerston business worker following an alleged assault; police said that use remained under investigation.