The Norfolk Island government is preparing a public petition against the planned termination of its self-governance which it intends to bring before the Australian Parliament in Canberra next week.
The self-governing Australian territory may soon have its administration dissolved based on a recommendation from the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories.
The Island's Chief Minister, Lisle Snell, says the change is not welcome on the island and will have no benefits for Australia.
"The people need the democratic right to be able to have a voice in how they are governed in the future at the moment they do through the Legislative Assembly, elected nine members. That will change to possibly a local council-type situation, so we will return to a colonial-type rule."
Chief Minister Snell says he is hoping to take the petition to Canberra next Tuesday.
Norfolk Island Coat of Arms Photo: None