NT corruption watchdog in force by April

A Northern Territory anti-corruption watchdog will have dodgy politicians, public servants, judges and police in its sights when it kicks into gear next year.

The Labor government released draft legislation to create a $3 million Independent Commission Against Corruption on Wednesday, predicting the body to come into force before April 2018.

Attorney-General and Justice Minister Natasha Fyles says the ICAC will have extensive powers to apply for warrants and search premises, install surveillance devices and intercept telecommunications under covert operations.

Under the bill the ICAC can retrospectively investigate anyone spending public money, including local councils, the contract service providers of public sector organisations and bodies that receive government grants.

"Incompetence won't be an excuse," Ms Fyles said.

Whistleblower protections will be bolstered and the government will take a hardline against misconduct on both sides of politics, she said.

"This isn't designed as a political witch hunt, this isn't designed (to protect) former colleagues," Ms Fyles said.

A commissioner is yet to be appointed but will likely come from interstate.

Public consultations around the bill will be held across the Territory with online submissions closing on July 26.

The ICAC bill is expected to be introduced to parliament in August.