Former minister Hardgrave heads to Norfolk

Howard government minister Gary Hardgrave will be Norfolk Island's new administrator.

His two-year appointment starts on July 1, when he replaces Neil Pope.

Mr Hardgrave served in federal parliament from 1996 to 2007, and held ministerial portfolios including citizenship, multicultural affairs, and vocational and technical education.

In 2012 he was ejected from the Liberal National Party, a move he said came after the party objected to comments he made as a radio host.

Regional Development Minister Jamie Briggs said on Tuesday Mr Hardgrave would support the government's reform agenda for Norfolk Island.

The commonwealth has promised to help the island's government reduce its deficit as long as it improves transparency.