Katherine is expected to see a large influx of people from remote and regional areas currently closed to limit the spread of COVID-19 into Indigenous populations.

Bio-security areas have been in place since March 26, requiring even residents in those areas to complete a 14-day supervised quarantine period to enter the communities.

Community members are expected to seize the opportunity to travel and visit family after more than two months stuck at home.

Northern Commander Janelle Tonkin says police are optimistic about their capabilities but a surge in population is likely to lead to a rise in crime around Katherine.

"We're optimistic because we have the structures in place and we have seen significant reductions in crime over the past few years," she said.

"The smaller population in Katherine and also the limited access to drugs and alcohol during COVID-19 have contributed to a reduction in crime.

"We believe this a golden opportunity to reset the new normal, and we're speaking with a range of organisations to put a plan in place.

"There will be an increased police presence with hyper-visible drug and alcohol testing operations and residents will notice a higher police presence in town as well.

"But we're also being realistic because a rise in Katherine's population does create more opportunity for crime to take place," Commander Tonkin said.

Katherine Division Superintendent Daniel Shean said police will also be collaborating closely with organisations involved with housing and diversionary programs.

He said this is a continuation of the work which has been done over the last year to cut crime rates in town.

"COVID-19 isn't the panacea for crime in Katherine and we've been making headway before that as well," he said.

"Secondary supply of alcohol will be another focus, everyone needs to nominate where they'll consume their alcohol when they buy it so officers will be out making sure people are following those rules.

"We do expect there will be overcrowding issues - housing know who is supposed to be in each house and do have the authority to remove people from situations if they shouldn't be there."

Superintendent Shean also sought to impress upon people the importance of keeping their belongings secure.

"It's important to keep getting the message out for people to lock it or lose it," he said.

"That isn't a matter of victim-blaming, but the best way to can reduce crimes is to limit the opportunities available for people to commit them,' Superintendent Shean said.

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