Country Profile: Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is a small, subtropical island located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia. It has a population of approximately 1,739 residents, primarily descendants of the Bounty mutineers. The island's economy relies heavily on tourism and light industry, with limited transportation infrastructure. Governed as an overseas territory of Australia, it has seen recent changes in governance, notably the reduction of its autonomy in the 2010s.

Geography

Norfolk Island spans an area of 36 square kilometers and is characterized by its volcanic terrain and mild subtropical climate. Its coastline is largely composed of steep cliffs, except for a small region on Sydney Bay where the capital, Kingston, is situated. The island's elevation reaches up to 319 meters at Mount Bates, and it is mostly covered by rolling plains.

32 km of coastline
12 nm territorial sea
0 sq km of irrigated land (2022)
25% of land used for agriculture (2023)
62.8% of land classified as other uses (2023)

People and Society

As of 2021, Norfolk Island's population is 1,739, with a diverse ethnic composition including Australian, English, and Pitcairn Islander backgrounds. English and Norfolk are the official languages, and a variety of religions are practiced, with a significant proportion identifying as Protestant. The population growth rate has remained virtually stagnant.

1,739 total population (2021)
46.8% identify as Protestant (2016)
40.3% speak Norfolk at home (2016)
Concentrated population around Kingston

Economy

Norfolk Island operates a high-income economy that is closely tied to Australian markets. Key sectors include tourism, agriculture, and light industry. The island has previously served as a tax haven and is now expanding into medical cannabis exports. Its import needs are primarily fulfilled by Australia, while exports largely consist of agricultural products.

31% of exports go to the USA (2023)
52% of imports come from Australia (2023)
0% arable land (2022)
25% of land is permanent pasture (2023)

Government

Norfolk Island is administered as an overseas territory of Australia, with governance structures established through local councils, albeit significantly modified in recent years. The territory has limited self-governance, and political powers have shifted to the Australian Government. The capital is Kingston, with a unicameral Regional Council that includes only independent members.

Governed under Australian law
5 members in the Regional Council
National holiday on 8 June (Bounty Day)
18 years for universal suffrage

Military and Security

The defense responsibilities for Norfolk Island are designated to the Australian Government. The island does not maintain its own military forces.

Energy

Information on energy infrastructure is limited; however, the island relies on a combination of renewable and non-renewable energy sources.

Environment

Norfolk faces environmental challenges, including inadequate waste management systems and the need to preserve its unique ecosystem. Most freshwater is collected through rainwater catchment, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices.

12.2% forest coverage (2023)
Vulnerable to tropical cyclones (May to July)

Transportation

Norfolk Island has a limited transportation infrastructure, featuring only one airport and a small port in Kingston. Air travel is crucial for connecting the island with the mainland.

1 airport (projected in 2025)
1 existing port
Primarily small vessels used for transport

Communications

The island maintains a modest communication network with local radio stations and access to Australian broadcast media through satellite. Internet usage is growing, with a significant portion of the population connected online.

46.1% internet usage among the population (2021)
1 local radio station available

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	1,739	Total population (2021)
Area	36 sq km	Total land area
Agricultural Land	25%	Percentage of agricultural land (2023)
Coastline	32 km	Total length of coastline
Unemployment	Not specified	Data not available
Currency	AUD	Australian Dollar
Exports	31%	Exports to the USA (2023)
Imports	52%	Imports from Australia (2023)
Highest Point	319 m	Elevation at Mount Bates
National Holiday	June 8	Commemoration of Bounty Day