On 20 November 1974, the nineteen members of the first Legislative Assembly met in the Chamber for the first sittings of a fully elected legislature in Northern Territory history.

An open day was held at Parliament House on Saturday 23 November 2024 to commemorate 50 years of fully elected representation in the Territory.

Hosted by the Hon Vicki O'Halloran AO CVO FAICD, the open day featured a Welcome to Country from Larrakia Elder Ms Yvonne Odegaard, a performance from dancers from the Tiwi Islands representing the family of Mr Hyacinth Tungutalum, and the singing of the National Anthem led by Ms Prayer Corby.

Former and current Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) gave speeches regarding their time and experience in office.
The guest speakers included:

• The Hon Roger Steele OAM, former Minister, MLA from 1974 to 1987
• Ms Dawn Lawrie AM JP, MLA from 1974 - 1983
• The Hon Stephen Hatton, former Chief Minister, MLA from 1983 to 2001
• The Hon Daryl Manzie AM, former Minister, MLA from 1983 to 2001
• Mr Mick Palmer, former Minister, MLA from 1983 to 2001
• The Hon Clare Martin AO, former Chief Minister, MLA from 1995 to 2008
• The Hon Robyn Lambley MLA, Speaker, MLA since 2010
• The Hon Lia Finocchiaro MLA, Chief Minister, MLA since 2012

The open day also included guided tours for members of the public, and displays set up across the foyer.

Speaker's Media Release - Celebrating half a century of the Legislative Assembly