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Changes to Norfolk Island continued laws

Recently I provided advice to the community about several proposed changes to Norfolk Island legislation.

The Governor-General, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), made the Norfolk Island Continued Laws Amendment (2017 Measures No 1) Ordinance 2017 on 18 May 2017which will bring these changes into effect.

On 1 August this year, an amendment to the Firearms and Prohibited Weapons Act 1997 (NI) will commence prohibiting the possession and use of firearm silencers on Norfolk Island without a permit. Members of the community who own a firearm silencer should contact the Norfolk Island Police Force as soon as possible for advice on seeking a permit for the firearm silencer or on how to dispose of it.

On 1 July this year, a small increase in the fee unit, which sets prices for a range of Norfolk Island Regional Council services, from $25.05 to $28.40 will commence.

Other minor amendments to the Child Welfare Act 2009 (NI), Domestic Violence Act 1995 (NI) and the Juries Act 1960 (NI) will commence on 24 May 2017 (the day after registration).

The Ordinance has been registered on the Federal Register of Legislation and is available at legislation.gov.au.

Eric Hutchinson
23 May 2017