Mutually agreed joint activities and programs will be the focus of a memorandum of understanding between Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Norfolk Island Regional Council.

Those activities could include infrastructure planning, natural resource management and community engagement processes.

The agreement would establish formal cooperation between the two organisations through the sharing of information and experience.

A report to the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council meeting on March 15 dealt with the memorandum of understanding.

Cr Lisa Intemann said the matter before the council meeting concerned an agreement with Norfolk Island Regional Council, just as the council had an arrangement with Lord Howe Island.

She said it enhanced the reputation of the council.

It is anticipated an agreement with Norfolk Island Regional Council would result in short-term visits with potential for joint purchasing arrangements and use of common forms and procedures.

If Norfolk Island Regional Council asks for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s assistance, the island council will cover our staff costs and vice versa.

The memorandum of understanding will span an initial two-year period.

A federal government department sought Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s involvement to offer support to the newly established regional council on Norfolk Island.

The council business paper said the request was seen as further evidence of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council being seen as a regional leader in local government.

The arrangement also presents professional development opportunities for council staff.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council general manager Craig Swift-McNair has delegated authority to enter into the memorandum of understanding with Norfolk Island Regional Council.

Norfolk Island is located in the South Pacific about 1000 kilometres off the east coast.