The assault case involving federal MP Luke Gosling and Northern Territory Administrator David Connolly has been referred to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) amid concerns over a potential conflict of interest. The incident reportedly took place on July 18 at a community festival in Darwin, where Mr Gosling was accused of intentionally elbowing and bumping into Mr Connolly.

Mr Gosling has denied the allegations, with his lawyer suggesting that the case had become politicized after the MP was taken into custody by Northern Territory Police last week. The defense expressed apprehension over how the proceedings were being handled in the local jurisdiction.

Following the receipt of the police brief, the Northern Territory Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) decided the matter should be transferred to another jurisdiction to prevent any perception of bias. A spokesperson for the NT DPP confirmed that the case would be referred to the Commonwealth DPP, which is currently coordinating with the NT office to assume responsibility for the prosecution.

No further statements have been issued by the involved parties as the transfer process is underway. The move reflects the authorities’ effort to maintain impartiality in a case involving a sitting federal MP and a prominent territorial official.