NT to get new top cop by year's end

The Northern Territory government remains confident of appointing a new police commissioner before the end of the year.

The government on Friday extended the term for acting commissioner Michael Murphy whose tenure was set to expire on August 16.

Mr Murphy will now continue in the role until a permanent appointment is made.

The search for the Territory's new top cop was forced by the recent resignation of Reece Kershaw who has been appointed Australian Federal Police commissioner.

Police Minister Nicole Manison said the decision to extend Mr Murphy's role would provide stability and continuity during the recruitment process.

"That was a key consideration for me," she said on Friday.

Ms Manison said the government would make a permanent appointment before the end of the year.