Media releases

First anniversary of Queensland service delivery to Norfolk Island The Australian and Queensland Governments have acknowledged the significant achievements made during the first year of service delivery to the Norfolk Island community under the partnership for state services.

Funding local priorities The Albanese Government is supporting local communities across Australia by providing $750 million through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Albanese Government to wipe HELP debt for remote doctors and nurse practitioners in Eden-Monaro The Albanese Labor Government has passed legislation which will wipe the HELP debt of doctors or nurse practitioners who live and work in rural and remote parts of Australia, including in Eden-Monaro.

National Awards to celebrate council achievements Entries are now open for the 2023 National Awards for Local Government, which will recognise outstanding innovation implemented by councils that has enhanced local communities.

National Capital Authority Chief Executive re-appointed Following five years of exemplary work in the role of Chief Executive of the National Capital Authority (NCA), Sally Barnes has been reappointed for a further three years.

Way forward on Norfolk Island’s local government model I know that community input is the key to unlocking the answers to many local issues.

Funding sends remote health clinic off to flying start The Albanese Labor Government will invest $1 million to support the development of a new purpose-built remote health clinic at William Creek in South Australia, in partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)

What we heard on Norfolk Island shipping and freight The Australian Government is committed to supporting sustainable and long-term shipping and freight services for the Norfolk Island community.

Brindabella Road upgrade Motorists who travel on the Brindabella Road will benefit from an additional Australian Government commitment of $20 million for safety upgrades.

More funding to strengthen remote, rural and regional communities Thirty-four projects will share in over $288,000 in federal funding through the second round of the Strengthening Rural Communities – Rebuilding Regional Communities (RRC) program.

$2.6 million to fund 17 new Black Spot projects in Tasmania Funding under the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program will substantially improve 17 dangerous crash sites on Tasmanian roads in 2022–23.

End of year message - Norfolk Island The approach of the end of 2022 is a valuable opportunity to reflect on the year that was, a chance for all of us to look to the future and 2023 with optimism and positivity.

End of year message - Indian Ocean Territories As the end of the year rapidly approaches, I wanted to share some reflections with you on my first six months as the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories.

ABC Heywire winners celebrate stories of life across regional and rural Australia Strength, perseverance, and optimism feature strongly in the stories from the 2023 ABC Heywire winners.

Dr Hugh Heggie PSM Appointed as Northern Territory Administrator The role of Administrator is an important public office supporting the Northern Territory – administering key statutory, civic and ceremonial responsibilities for the Territory.