Media Release
18 June 2015
Yesterday, the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC proclaimed the commencement of interim arrangements under the Norfolk Island Legislation Amendment Act.
This marks the beginning of what is now a 378 day transition period, including to move to a Norfolk Island Regional Council from July 2016.
As we undertake reforms during this period there is a role for all Norfolk Island residents in contributing ideas and making this change work, while we continue to respect the broad cultural traditions which are important to many people.
The five members of the Advisory Council announced by the Hon Jamie Briggs MP have a specific role. Each is committed to being active in our community and proactive in their resolve to represent the range of views needed to get the future governance model right.
Their important task will rely on feedback and ideas from across the community.
Equally each of us should take the opportunity to get factual information on entitlements at the Australian Government Information Centre. Based on the positive feedback from last weeks “full house” of appointments at the Centre, many have a better understanding of these systems and prospective entitlement in light of their individual circumstances.
In coming weeks the results of strategy work already undertaken in the area of economic development, roads, telecommunications and health will guide the future, to motivate new private investment and drive shared prosperity.
I look forward to continuing to work with all community members to build a strong prosperous future for Norfolk Island over the year ahead.
The Hon Gary Hardgrave
Administrator
Territory of Norfolk Island