New local governance for Norfolk Island

The Australian Government has decided on a new bespoke local governance model for Norfolk Island, delivering on its commitment to restore local democracy.  

A Norfolk Island Assembly will operate on four-year terms and comprise five elected members, including a full-time presiding officer.

It will be empowered to make local laws that support local service delivery.

There will be no changes to the application of Commonwealth laws to Norfolk Island, or the existing judicial framework and functions. 

The Queensland Government will continue to deliver health support services, education, apprenticeships, traineeships, and correctional services.

The new model will come into effect by the end of 2025 or sooner, with the Norfolk Island Regional Council to continue providing services until the Assembly is established.

To support this transition, the government will extend the Norfolk Island Regional Council’s period of administration under the leadership of a new administration team.

Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain has appointed Scott Mason as Lead Administrator, alongside Gary Mottau as the Financial Administrator – both commencing on 6 December 2024, following the conclusion of existing Administrator, Mike Colreavy’s term.

Mr Mason has 32 years in local government including as a chief executive officer and now a consultancy owner. 

Mr Mottau brings a wealth of financial and governance experience, and over four decades working with and in local government, including as a chief financial officer. 

The new model was informed by the recommendations of the Norfolk Island Governance Committee (NIGC), which followed extensive community consultation. 

The NIGC is now working on the detailed design of the revenue structure and integrity framework to support the Assembly, which will include ongoing community consultation.

Details on the election process will be outlined next year, with the Government also considering the proposed Preamble put forward by the NIGC.

The Assembly will be implemented through an ordinance under the Norfolk Island Act 1979, with planning for the draft legislation to support the new model also underway, with the opportunity for public comment in mid-2025.

For more information on the new model, go to: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/territories/norfolk-island/norfolk-island-governance-administration/norfolk-island-governance-committee

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

“Norfolk Islanders told us they wanted local representation and local decision-making restored, which is why we’re delivering on our commitment to implement a new bespoke model of local governance.  

“The Norfolk Island Assembly is something that’s been developed for the community, by the community, and I thank the elected NIGC representatives and locals for working with us to establish this model. 

“Not only will the Assembly restore local decision-making, it will play a key role in driving Norfolk’s financial sustainability and on-island capacity into the future.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bean, David Smith MP:

“I know the NIGC have worked hard with the community and Minister McBain to restore local governance on Norfolk Island – something long called for by locals.

“The Norfolk Island Assembly is the next step in building a better future for the community – a future where local voices and expertise are front and centre.

“This is a significant moment for Norfolk Island, and I look forward to engaging with the NIGC, NIRC, and the broader community as we work to implement this new model.”