GOVERNMENT OF NORFOLK ISLAND
Exercising authority under the Pitcairn Constitution (1838) and Crown Recognition (1856) - as reaffirmed by the Norfolk Island People in 2026.
The General Assembly will meet on 30 May 2026 at Rawson Hall to consider for adoption:
- The Governance Charter (Foundational Document)
- The Terms of Reference for the Economic Development & Constitutional Modernisation Committees
introduction
The Government of Norfolk Island is a continuing constitutional institution grounded in the authority established under the Pitcairn Constitution (1838) and affirmed through Crown Recognition in 1856.
That authority has been carried forward by the Norfolk Island People and was reaffirmed and reconstituted on 1 January 2026.
The Government operates on enduring constitutional foundations and in accordance with the principles of popular sovereignty, constitutional continuity, lawful transition, and through direct participation of the people.
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
Radio Interview 25th May 2026
An interview with Peter Christian-Bailey Rebecca Hayes and Tet Grube
Radio Interview 18th May 2026
An interview with Rebecca Hayes and Tet Grube
Governance Charter – Public Review
The Governance Charter is available for public review.
Recent Activity
Communication Systems - Establishment of official channels and public information systems.
Administrative Development - Commencing operations and building functional capacity for administrative tasks.
Governance Frameworks - Developing foundational structures in consultation with peer review advisors and experts
Charter Progression - Advancing the draft Governance Charter toward public exhibition and future adoption.