GOVERNMENT OF NORFOLK ISLAND
Exercising authority under the Pitcairn Constitution (1838) and Crown Recognition (1856), as reaffirmed by the Norfolk Island People in 2026.
Following the First General Assembly held on 30 May 2026, the Government of Norfolk Island is progressing the priorities identified by the community, including constitutional modernisation, economic development, governance reform, and increased community participation.
Expressions of Interest and community consultation processes are now open as the Government works to implement the outcomes of the General Assembly.
get involved
The first General Assembly, held on 30 May 2026, identified a number of priorities for community consultation and participation. As a result, Expressions of Interest and consultation processes are now open to allow residents and community members to contribute directly to the work ahead.
Community involvement remains central to the Government of Norfolk Island's commitment to transparency, participation, and self-determination.
Current opportunities include:
- Select Committee on Norfolk Island Asset & Resource Base – Expression of Interest
- Select Committee on Constitutional Modernisation (1838 Constitution) – Expression of Interest
- Norfolk Island Land Trust – Community Consultation Feedback Form
- Norfolk Island Referendum – Community Consultation Feedback Form
How we got here
The Government of Norfolk Island traces its constitutional foundations to the Pitcairn Constitution (1838) and Crown Recognition (1856), as reaffirmed by the Norfolk Island People in 2026.
The work of the Council of Elders, the Visions Assembly, and the For The People Norfolk Island initiative helped facilitate community engagement and participation, culminating in the election of 1 January 2026 and the establishment of the current Government.
Following the First General Assembly held on 30 May 2026, the Government is progressing constitutional modernisation, economic development, governance reform, and community consultation in accordance with the priorities identified by the community.
A Message from our Chief Magistrate
Leadership Team
Peter Christian-Bailey
Chief Magistrate
Tim Brown
Elected Councillor
Rebecca Hayes
Appointed Councillor
Current Focus
Constitutional Modernisation
Modernising the constitution to meet todays needs while preseving our identity and constitutional foundations.
Governance Structures
Building stable, transparent and accountable governance structures for the community.
Direct Participation
Supporting direct participation of the Norfolk Island people in decision making.
Economic Sustainability
Setting economic direction and strengthening long term financial sustainability.
Cultural Identity
Protecting cultural identity, language and intergenerational continuity.
Community Wellbeing
Strengthening community wellbeing, cohesion, and long-term resilience.
Latest Updates
Our Waters. Our Future. Have Your Say – Norfolk Island Marine Park Proposal
The Government of Norfolk Island is inviting the community to read the Marine Park General Assembly Preparation Paper and participate in the General Assembly on Saturday, 22 August 2026.
Have your Say - Help Build Norfolk Island's Community Wellbeing Survey
General Assembly – 11 July 2026
The General Assembly will be held on 11 July 2026 at Rawson Hall. The Assembly will consider the Updates from Foundational Committee and Community Consultation Initiatives. In addition The Chief Magistrate will give a presentation on the recent Government of Norfolk Island participation in the Pacific International Political Science Masterclass “The Stakes of Sovereignty’ in New Caledonia, which he attended in June 2025 and the Tabling of a Consultation Brief regarding the Norfolk Island Community Wellbeing Survey. A Notice Papers was published 03 July which provides an outline of the proceedings.
Recent Activity
Second General Assembly Held – The General Assembly met on 11 July 2026, with strong community participation helping shape the Government's ongoing work program. Updates were provided on governance initiatives, committee formation and future priorities.
Community Wellbeing Survey Released for Consultation – The draft Community Wellbeing Survey & Monitoring Framework 2026 has been released for public consultation. Community members are invited to review the proposed survey and provide feedback before the Framework is finalised.
Select Committees Progressing – Work is now underway on the Asset & Resource Base and Constitutional Modernisation Select Committees, with committee members preparing to commence detailed community engagement and research.
Pacific Regional Engagement – Chief Magistrate Peter Christian Bailey represented the Government of Norfolk Island at the Pacific Political Science Masterclass 2026 in Nouméa, strengthening Norfolk Island's regional connections and gaining valuable governance insights to support future reform.
Volunteers Needed at the GNI Hub – The Government is seeking additional volunteers to assist at the GNI Hub in the Foodland Mall, helping connect residents with Government information, consultations and community initiatives.
First General Assembly – Successfully convened on 30 May 2026 to consider governance priorities and establish the next phase of community engagement.
Community Consultation Program – Public consultation now underway on the Norfolk Island Land Trust and Norfolk Island Referendum proposals.
Committee Formation – Expressions of Interest now open for the Select Committee on Norfolk Island Asset & Resource Base and the Select Committee on Constitutional Modernisation.
Governance Development – Progressing the Governance Charter, operational frameworks, and supporting structures to guide future decision-making and community participation.
Communications & Engagement – Launch of the Government of Norfolk Island website, social media channels, and digital engagement platforms to improve communication, transparency, and community participation.