Confusion in Canberra as rival groups claim independent leadership on Australia’s Norfolk Island

CANBERRA — On February 7, a group of Norfolk Island residents sent a letter to the Minister of Territories. Kristy McBain seeking “clarification and reassurance” about a bizarre situation in Australia’s external territory.

The group claimed a resident of Norfolk Island Lea Honeywood had participated in forums in the Pacific and presented herself as the leader of an island under Canberra’s control since 1914.

“This appears to be someone who is presenting themselves internationally as holding a quasi-judicial public office for Norfolk Island, although such an office is not recognized under Australian law,” the group wrote to McBain.

“We fear that this situation, if left unchecked, risks creating serious confusion.