Media Release
11 March 2016
The Norfolk Island Preparatory Election Ordinance 2016 was made yesterday by His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
This Ordinance takes effect from today, 11 March 2016, and applies the New South Wales local government electoral laws, with modifications to cater to Norfolk Island's circumstances. These laws provide a tested and effective framework for the conduct of local elections.
A new electoral roll will be established for the Regional Council election and eligible persons will need to enrol to vote to elect the people who will take decisions to progress local matters important to the community into the future.
To be eligible to vote, you need to be an Australian citizen, or an eligible British subject who was on the Commonwealth Electoral Roll prior to 26 January 1984. You must also be a resident on Norfolk Island, or own or occupy land on the Island.
Information on how and where to enrol, together with material to assist electors and potential candidates to understand the election process, will be provided soon.
The Executive Director of Norfolk Island is appointing independent assistance to manage the election and conduct a community education campaign to ensure eligible Norfolk Island residents and potential candidates understand their obligations as well as the enrolment and voting process.
Training will also be provided to assist those who are interested in standing for the local election.
The Norfolk Island Administrator Ordinance 2016 was also made yesterday, to establish the position of Administrator of Norfolk Island post 1 July 2016.
The Hon Gary Hardgrave