The Albanese Government is taking another step to restore local democracy on Norfolk Island, in line with community aspirations, by establishing a Norfolk Island Assembly, not by ordinance, but under primary legislation.
Drawing on the important work done by the Norfolk Island Governance Committee (NIGC) and its community representatives, the new governance model will be implemented through primary legislative changes, reflecting the community's preferences.
The reinstatement of a preamble in an amended Norfolk Island Act 1979 will be part of these legislative changes.
While this approach will take longer, the government has listened to the community and acknowledges its clear view that the legislative pathway for the new model is more important than the timeframe.
The first stage will be the election of a five-member Norfolk Island Transition Assembly.
This democratically elected body will make recommendations over a two-year period to the Australian Government on the future statutory governance framework for Norfolk Island.
More details about the Transition Assembly, including community engagement opportunities, the election date, and nomination and voting processes will be available shortly.
The government strongly encourages community members to participate in the upcoming Transition Assembly election, and to actively contribute to the development of the governance model.
The government thanks the NIGC for its work and commitment over the past few years and the important role it will continue to play in the lead-up to the election.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain:
"Restoring local democracy on Norfolk Island is a commitment the Albanese Government takes seriously and today marks an important step forward.
"We have listened to the community's strong preference for primary legislation and are delivering a governance pathway that reflects that feedback while supporting Norfolk Island's long-term success.
"I want to thank the Norfolk Island Governance Committee, community representatives and Norfolk Islanders who have contributed their time, expertise and feedback throughout this process.
"Their engagement has helped shape this approach and will continue to be critical as we work together to restore local democracy on Norfolk Island.
"I look forward to the community's participation in the new election process, so Norfolk Island voices are heard clearly as we progress the establishment of the statutory assembly."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bean David Smith:
"This staged approach gives Norfolk Islanders an active role in designing their future governance arrangements while maintaining stability throughout the transition.
"We thank the NIGC for its significant contribution to date and I look forward to continued collaboration with the Norfolk Island comunity when I return to Island later this week."
