Australians travelling to Norfolk Island

Though previously treated as an international destination and covered under the International Travel Plan, from 1 July 2016 travel to Norfolk Island will only be covered under the Australian Travel Plan.

Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia, and from 1979 to 2015 was self-governed by the Norfolk Legislative Assembly. Significant reforms were legislated for Norfolk Island in 2015, bringing about an end to the model of self-governance. Under the Norfolk Island Legislation Amendment Act 2015, most Commonwealth laws will apply to Norfolk Island (unless specifically excluded) from 1 July 2016, and the Australian Government will become responsible for funding and delivering services to Norfolk Island.

In particular, Australian mainland health arrangements will extend to Norfolk Island, including Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and private health insurance.

Following the introduction of the reforms, the insurer will no longer be able to provide cover for the medical expenses or medical repatriation of Australian citizens and residents travelling to Norfolk Island. Medical expenses incurred by Australians visiting Norfolk Island may be recoverable from Medicare or private health insurance.

As a result, travel to Norfolk Island is now covered under the Australian Travel Plan. The International Travel Plan is no longer available to Australians travelling to Norfolk Island.