Foreword

I am pleased to present the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories’report into local governance on Norfolk Island.

Our inquiry, guided by the terms of reference, sought to address critical issues facing Norfolk Island including a deficit of democracy, equitable revenue sources, and the delivery of local government services.

The Committee travelled to Norfolk Island in April to hear from the local community and received many submissions.

I extend my sincere gratitude to all the witnesses and individuals who generously contributed their time, expertise and valuable insights to the Committee. The collective effort and commitment of those who participated have been instrumental in shaping this comprehensive report. Our inquiry benefited from the perspectives shared by witnesses who provided firsthand experiences, expert opinions, and thoughtful analysis on the multifaceted challenges facing Norfolk Island.

The thoughtful and detailed submissions we received added depth to our understanding of the issues at hand.

This inquiry would not have been possible without the collaborative spirit and commitment to the betterment of Norfolk Island demonstrated by all those who participated. We are grateful for your invaluable input and the spirit in which you engaged in this inquiry.

Norfolk Island is a beautiful place. Its environment, unique history and culture and hospitable people left a lasting impression on us. Thank you to the people of Norfolk Island.

I also want to thank my fellow Committee members. Particularly I want to thank the Deputy Chair Mrs Marino, Mr Gosling, Senator McLachlan and Senator Pocock who travelled to Norfolk Island alongside myself and the secretariat. I greatly appreciate your enthusiastic engagement with this process.

This report demonstrates the good faith and bipartisanship through which all members of this Committee engaged in the process.

Finally, I would like to thank the brilliant staff of the secretariat, particularly Fran Denny, James Bunce and Josephine Moa for their dedicated and skilful work on this inquiry - it is appreciated immensely.

As we move forward, we hope that the recommendations outlined in our report will contribute positively to the future development of Norfolk Island's governance framework and helps to rebuild trust between the people of Norfolk Island and the Commonwealth of Australia.

Ms Alicia Payne MP
Chair