NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn has reportedly died in a Brisbane hospital, the department’s acting commissioner has said.

Mr McNairn had been commissioner since late 2018, but had taken leave from the position for many months while he reportedly battled health issues.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad and difficult time,” acting commissioner David Thompson wrote in an email to corrections staff on Tuesday evening.

“I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions Scott made during his time as commissioner here in the Territory.

“He was a passionate leader and committed to improving outcomes for all prisoners and offenders, and never hesitated to acknowledge that his staff were his biggest asset.”

The cause of death has not been revealed.

Flags were flying at half mast at NT corrections buildings to mark his death on Wednesday.

Mr McNairn had worked in corrections in Scotland and New Zealand over a 30-year career before being hired to run NT Corrections in October 2018.