How Kumanjayi Walker’s death should change the NT Police

• The coroner found Zachary Rolfe racist and a beneficiary of institutional racism in the Northern Territory Police Force.
• She included Walpiri language and culture equally in the inquest, signaling a shift toward inclusion and respect.

The inquest into Kumanjayi Walker's death revealed that former Constable Zachary Rolfe was racist and benefited from an institution exhibiting hallmarks of systemic racism. Coroner Elizabeth Armitage found that while racism contributing directly to Walker's death couldn't be confirmed with certainty, it was impossible to exclude that influence.

Rolfe's behavior was enabled and unchecked by a police culture that not only tolerated but encouraged aggressive and racist conduct. His pride in using excessive force on Aboriginal men, including sharing body-worn camera footage as a boast, exemplified this toxic culture.

The Northern Territory Police Force faces a critical internal clash between progressive "bush cop" community policing and aggressive "town cop" machismo like Rolfe's, with the coroner advocating for reform towards respectful, relationship-based policing. The inquest recommended working with the Yuendumu community on policies like when police should carry firearms in remote areas.

These findings highlight the lethal consequences of police racism and institutional failure, emphasizing urgent need for reform to prevent further tragedy.

• Rolfe's racist attitudes likely influenced his actions the night Kumanjayi Walker died.
• Northern Territory Police Force had senior members colluding and enabling these behaviors.