Paige Tehan fondly recalls her time living in the Northern Territory, describing it as feeling like a perpetual vacation due to the laid-back atmosphere and sense of community she experienced. Despite her initial love for the Top End, Tehan decided to leave after three years primarily due to her partner's difficulties with the heat as a tradie, as well as growing concerns about the rising crime rates in the area, particularly in Darwin's satellite city of Palmerston.
During her time in the NT, Tehan faced a harrowing experience when someone attempted to steal her Dalmatian puppy while she was out for a walk, leading her to feel unsafe and ultimately contributing to her decision to leave the region. The issue of crime in the Northern Territory has become a significant factor in the decision-making process for residents considering relocation, with concerns for personal safety playing a pivotal role in shaping migration patterns.
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals a substantial net loss in interstate migration from the NT, with thousands of people leaving the territory in recent years. While crime may be a tipping point for some individuals considering a move, various factors such as work opportunities, family considerations, and the cost of living contribute to the decision-making process for residents like Tehan. Despite efforts by the NT government to attract more people to the region through incentives and job opportunities, challenges remain in achieving the territory's population growth targets by 2030.