Face-to-face government services return to Norfolk Island

Norfolk Islanders will be able to gain additional support for their Centrelink and Medicare queries from Services Australia staff visiting the island later this month.

Minister for Government Services, Bill Shorten said Services Australia had previously made regular visits to the island to help locals and support the Services Australia Agent, hosted by Norfolk Island Business Solutions.

“Those visits had to be suspended in 2020 due to pandemic restrictions, but Services Australia staff are returning and this month will be ready to help locals from 26 to 30 September,” Minister Shorten said.

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain, said locals can make face-to-face appointments with four Services Australia staff, including a social worker.

“When I was on Norfolk Island recently, community members specifically requested a Services Australia visit before the end of this year so they can speak to experts and can ask those more in depth questions,” Minister McBain said.

“Services Australia staff will be able to help locals understand payments and services, make claims, set up online services, and can provide social work support and referrals,”

Member for Bean, David Smith, welcomed the news that Services Australia staff will be back on Norfolk Island, further supporting the Australian Government’s commitment to ensuring Norfolk Islanders had access to government services.

“The government established a Services Australia Agent on the island and it helps around 140 customers every month,” Mr Smith said.

“The Agent helps islanders access Centrelink, Medicare and other government services. Customers can scan, print and upload documents and the Agent can offer advice on how to register for and access digital services with confidence.

“The Agent can also connect customers who have more complex enquiries directly with Services Australia staff using a dedicated phone line.”

Locals can book a time to see a Services Australia staff member by visiting the Agent service at Norfolk Island Business Solutions on Taylors Road, between 9.00am and 3:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

Face-to-face appointments with visiting Services Australia staff will be held at the NI Connect Office – Bounty Centre, on Taylors Road.