Norfolk Island long-term shipping needs

We’re seeking the Norfolk Island community’s views on long-term, sustainable shipping requirements.

Why we want your input

Norfolk Island is experiencing an ongoing sea freight supply shortage. The continued availability of sea freight services to Norfolk Island is a key priority of the Australian Government.

The Norfolk Island community not only receives sea freight but is also responsible for handling sea freight on delivery to the island. The success of future long-term shipping initiatives and any Government support for sustainable solutions depends on them being informed by the needs, knowledge and experience of the community.

How you can voice your opinion

We are seeking written submissions from members of the Norfolk Island community on your needs for a long-term sustainable sea freight service. Your feedback may be guided by the questions under The Issue section but should not be limited to these.

Submissions can be uploaded or emailed to us no later than 8 November 2022.

What will be the outcome of this consultation?

Submissions will be reviewed by the Department and provided in summary to the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP, before the community shipping forum on Norfolk Island on 14 November 2022.

Submissions will help the Government better understand the broader community needs for a sustainable long-term sea freight service to Norfolk Island, and will inform long-term investments, with community needs as a guiding principle.

A summary of the issues raised by the Norfolk Island community, including this submission process and the community forum, will be published after the forum.

The Issue

  1. We want to understand what elements of a sea freight service are most important to you.

    Consider in your response:

    • reliability
    • cost
    • additional needs that could be included on the ships (eg, fridge or freezer capacity)
    • departure points
    • impacts of containerisation
    • and any other elements that you consider important.

    Think about these points from your personal point of view and from a business point of view (if relevant).

  2. If sea freight delivery services were to improve, what additional opportunities may open up for businesses (including exporting opportunities)?
  3. What are the impacts on your business or employment if cargo was delivered directly to a landing structure, rather than using lighterage?
  4. Which is your preferred location for a permanent port (Cascade Port, Kingston Port, Ball Bay, and possibly others) and why?
  5. Are there any sites where a port should not be built? If so, why?
  6. Do you have any other comments regarding port locations?
  7. What other elements (such as biosecurity and environmental impacts) are important to consider when planning long term shipping services and infrastructure?
  8. Would you like the Department to contact you to discuss these issues further?

Outcome

Towards a long-term shipping solution for Norfolk Island

Summary of community feedback from the Have Your Say and community forum consultation process.

Participate

11 Oct 2022 17:00 AEDT
08 Nov 2022 23:59 AEDT
Closed
This consultation is closed.