Update on legislative changes on Norfolk Island
The Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities provides regular updates to the community on the development and implementation of Australian Government programs and services.
Community Title on Norfolk Island
An Ordinance to enable Community Title in Norfolk Island has been finalised. The Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly originally passed the Community Title legislation in 2015. It is designed to give Norfolk Island residents a flexible alternative to subdivision while maintaining Norfolk Island's unique feel and features.
It will provide Norfolk Island residents with greater choice and flexibility in the way they use their land. It allows a single parcel of land to be divided between one or more owners, while at the same time protecting owners" rights to the common areas of a subdivision, such as a shared garden or driveway.
The Ordinance makes some minor changes to allow Community Title to begin on Norfolk Island. The effect on the community of these changes will be limited, based on the Australian Government's Legislation Consultation Framework for Norfolk Island.
The former Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly passed legislation in 2015 to establish community title on Norfolk Island, this decision was made as a result of an extensive community consultation process. The enacting of the Community Title Act 2015 (NI) completes this process.
The Ordinance will be registered on the Federal Register of Legislation and it is expected it will be available online from the week beginning Monday 5 March at legislation.gov.au.
Further information on community title on Norfolk Island please visit the Regional Council website—norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Public Health on Norfolk Island
An Ordinance to enact the Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) on Norfolk Island has been finalised. This will strengthen the management of public health on Norfolk Island, particularly in the areas of drinking water, swimming pools and spas, legionella control and skin penetration procedures, such as tattooing and piercing. This will enhance safety standards for both the community and visitors to Norfolk Island.
The Norfolk Island Regional Council will be responsible for oversight of public health and environmental monitoring under the legislation. Any business owner or community member seeking clarification on what these changes mean are encouraged to contact the Regional Council.
The effect on the community of these changes will be limited, based on the Australian Government's Legislation Consultation Framework for Norfolk Island.
As the Act will increase and standardise public health management across Norfolk Island, businesses supplying water, access to swimming pools or spas, or offering skin penetration procedures may experience some impact under the introduction of the Act. The Regional Council will be available to assist businesses in understanding any new requirements.
Further information on public health on Norfolk Island please visit the Regional Council website—norfolkisland.gov.nf.