From 1 January 2021, law changes will improve registration processes for births and deaths and make it easier for Norfolk Islanders to register a change of name.

The amendments to the Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages Act 1963 (NI) update and create a simpler process for registration of changes of name and set out the requirements for the registration of a birth or death.

In line with the Australian Government's ongoing commitment to preserving Norfolk Island's rich heritage, Cosmos Archaeology has been commissioned to undertake an inspection of the HMS Sirius wreck site.

The remains of the HMS Sirius, flagship of the First Fleet, are of significant archeological potential for research into the early migration of Europeans to Australia. The remains of the Sirius and associated artefacts represent a “time capsule” of the late 18th century period.

I am pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) Advisory Committee.

The Australian Government is seeking expressions of interest from local businesses on Norfolk Island to undertake repairs to the Cemetery Bay retaining wall.

The retaining wall was constructed in 1998 with a timber post-and-plank configuration from locally sourced, milled and tanalised eucalypt timber.

Three of the five vertical posts spanning an approximately 12 metre section of the wall have rotated from their original position and require straightening.

The Norfolk Island community is invited to provide feedback on the initial design of the proposed Kingston Pier Channel construction project.

The project will increase the channel bed's depth and width to improve access and safety and ensure it meets required standards.

It will also support greater usage of the pier by commercial charter and fishing vessels and emergency responders.

The objective of the project is to improve safety in all tides and workable weather conditions, providing considerable benefits to pier users and the broader community.

Expressions of interest (EOI) are sought from people in the Norfolk Island community who would like to become a member of the Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) Advisory Committee.

The KAVHA Advisory Committee provides expert and community input to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development (the Department) to guide the management of KAVHA. This EOI process is for an additional community member position.

In early 2020, following a dry summer period and ongoing reduced water availability on Norfolk Island, officers of the Norfolk Island Regional Council requested consideration be given to improving fire control measures available under the Fire Control Act 2000 (NI).

The Australian Government has made legislative changes to support upcoming local government elections on Norfolk Island.

The changes have been made following community consultation in July and August 2019.

The Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) election is scheduled for September 2020.

Under the new laws, property developers and tobacco, liquor and gambling industries will not be permitted to make political donations.

Success fees for lobbying elected local government officials will also be banned.