Eric Russell Hutchinson (born 19 June 1965) is an Australian politician who was the administrator of Norfolk Island, in office from 2017 to 2023. He previously served a single term in the House of Representatives from 2013 to 2016, representing the Division of Lyons for the Liberal Party.
Eric Hutchinson | |
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Administrator of Norfolk Island | |
In office 1 April 2017 – 31 May 2023 | |
Monarchs | Elizabeth II Charles III |
Governors‑General | Sir Peter Cosgrove David Hurley |
Preceded by | Gary Hardgrave |
Succeeded by | George Plant |
Member of the Australian Parliament for Lyons | |
In office 7 September 2013 – 2 July 2016 | |
Preceded by | Dick Adams |
Succeeded by | Brian Mitchell |
Personal details | |
Born | Eric Russell Hutchinson 19 June 1965 Launceston, Tasmania |
Nationality | Australia |
Political party | Liberal |
Spouse | Amanda |
Children | 2 |
Occupation | Business manager |
Website | www |
Hutchinson was born in Launceston, Tasmania. He worked for various wool-exporting companies before entering politics.[1]
Hutchinson was elected to federal parliament at the 2013 election, when he won the Division of Lyons from incumbent Labor MP Dick Adams. He secured a 1.2-point margin from a swing of 13.5 points.[1] He did not live in his electorate but in neighbouring Bass.[2] He was defeated after one term by Labor's Brian Mitchell at the 2016 election.[3] After his defeat, he took up a role as an advisor to the President of the Senate, Stephen Parry.[citation needed]
On 1 April 2017, Hutchinson began a two-year term as Administrator of Norfolk Island,[4] which was extended by a further two years in February 2019.[5] In March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he declared a state of emergency on the island and imposed a 32-day travel ban.[6] He was again reappointed for a two-year term beginning on 1 April 2021.[7] On 11 May 2023, it was announced by the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories that Hutchinson would be succeeded by George Plant as Administrator.[8] Plant was sworn in on 26 May 2023 and began his term as Administrator on 1 June 2023.[8]