The Territories Legislation Amendment Bill 2020 (the Bill) was introduced into the Parliament on 7 October 2020.
The Bill will amend a range of Commonwealth legislation to improve the legislative frameworks in Norfolk Island, Christmas Island, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the Jervis Bay Territory.
It will apply laws relating to companies, bankruptcy, broadcasting and education services for overseas students to Norfolk Island.
The changes will be particularly beneficial for companies on Norfolk Island by providing easier access to suppliers and finance providers. Red tape will be reduced with less registration and reporting requirements.
The Bill will also amend the Norfolk Island Act to allow the Australian Government to enter into arrangements with a state or territory government to provide state-type services in Norfolk Island. This will provide flexibility, in case it is needed in the future.
Other minor amendments will ensure the appropriate operation of Commonwealth legislation already extended to Norfolk Island.
A fact sheet with more details about the changes can be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication's website at www.regional.gov.au/territories/norfolk_island/legislation-updates.aspx
After the Bill is passed and has received Royal Assent transition periods for some of the regulatory changes will commence to give people time to prepare for the changes. The relevant regulatory bodies will provide further information and support to those affected.
If you have any questions, please email NI_Legislation@infrastructure.gov.au
Eric Hutchinson
Administrator of Norfolk Island
9 October 2020