I recently sought feedback about proposed changes to the laws on Norfolk Island to protect children, women and all other residents against criminal violence and other illegal acts.

Following this feedback, changes have now been made to the Child Welfare Act 2009 (NI) and the Criminal Code 2007 (NI).

These changes form part of ongoing reforms to modernise Norfolk Island laws, to enhance the wellbeing of children and their families.

Media release

17 August 2017

A new mental health legislative framework is due for introduction to Norfolk Island by the end of 2017. The new framework will modernise the island's mental health legislation and reflects the shared interest of the Australian and NSW Governments in ensuring mental health patients receive appropriate care and treatment.

The amendments will also allow agreements to be in put in place with NSW for the treatment of Norfolk Island patients who are required to be treated in NSW.

Media release

12 July 2017

Training to upskill local service providers, tradespeople, business and individuals who would like to know more about applying for government contracts and how to develop strong proposals to government will be run later this month.

Media release

29 August 2017

The Australian Government has invited the NSW Environment Protection Authority (NSW EPA) to help examine management of radiation services on Norfolk Island. Application of parts of the Radiation Control Act 1990 (NSW) and associated regulation, is being considered to protect the community and the environment against the harmful effects of ionising radiation.

New laws are being introduced on Norfolk Island to underpin a greater range of education services at the Norfolk Island Central School.

The new laws will be based on New South Wales legislation, with some changes made by the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development (the Department) to reflect the circumstances of Norfolk Island.

The effect on the community of these changes will be limited, based on the Commonwealth Minister’s Legislation Consultation Framework.

Media release

05 May 2017

I am pleased to announce that two flights have been added to Air New Zealand's Norfolk Island schedule in August following an agreement reached between the Australian Government and Air New Zealand.

The two return flights will operate between Brisbane and Norfolk Island on 15 and 22 August. The flights have been added in consultation with the Norfolk Island community in response to increased visitor numbers. The dates on consecutive Tuesdays reflect the availability of aircraft.

Media release

17 August 2017

I am delighted to advise that KAVHA will host the annual meeting of the Australian Convict Sites Steering Committee (ACSSC) from 28 August—1 September 2017. The ACSSC is responsible for managing and protecting the heritage values of the Australian Convict Sites.

Media release

23 August 2017

On Friday 18 August, the Minister for Regional Development, Fiona Nash announced a range of reforms to the Regional Development Australia (RDA) program, which will now encompass the external territories, including Norfolk Island.

These changes will also see a new charter that is focused on boosting local jobs and innovation, attracting investment and stimulating economic growth.