Norfolk Island is administered in accordance with the Norfolk Island Act 1979, which conferred a measure of self-government on Norfolk Island as a territory under the authority of the Commonwealth. Wide powers are exercised by a nine-member Legislative Assembly, elected for a three year term. Generally, Commonwealth laws do not apply to Norfolk Island unless expressed to do so (DTRS 2000a). However, Commonwealth environmental legislation (such as the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) applies to areas of Commonwealth land on the Island and to all marine waters (i.e., the EEZ, up to 200 nm around the Island). A Norfolk Island Conservator is appointed (within Environment Australia) to manage environmental issues arising in relation to these areas.

The Norfolk Island government also has its own environmental legislation, including the Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Garden Act 1984 and the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975, and jointly manages, with the Commonwealth, some reserves on Commonwealth land. However, there are no declared protected areas in marine waters. An area 39 nm by 50 nm immediately surrounding the Island is known as the Norfolk Island Fishery or “box” where the Norfolk Island community enjoys exclusive rights to fish. The Norfolk Island Fisheries Consultative Committee (NIFCC) is responsible for advising the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) on the management of commercial fishing around Norfolk Island. The NIFCC is chaired by AFMA and included representatives from the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly, the Norfolk Island Fishing Club, the Administrator’s Office and the Administration of Norfolk Island.