Natasha Louise Griggs (born 24 January 1969) is an Australian public official and former politician. She was the federal member for the Division of Solomon in the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2016, representing Darwin and surrounding areas in the Northern Territory. In October 2017 she was appointed Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories, acting as the Australian government's representative on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
Early life and local government
Griggs moved to the Northern Territory as an adult and became active in community and municipal affairs in the Palmerston area. She served in local government, including a term as Mayor of Palmerston, where her focus included local services, infrastructure and community safety. Her experience in local government informed her later priorities in federal office, particularly the practical needs of regional and remote communities.
Federal parliament
In the 2010 federal election Griggs was elected to the House of Representatives as a member of the Country Liberal Party (CLP), which sits with the Coalition. During her six years in parliament she advocated for improved health services, education, transport links and support for defence personnel and veterans, reflecting the Territory's strategic and community profile. She took part in parliamentary committees and inquiries relevant to the Northern Territory and national matters. Griggs contested the 2016 federal election but was defeated, after which she returned to roles associated with public administration.
Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories
Appointed in October 2017, Griggs assumed the statutory role of Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories. The position involves representing the Australian government on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, liaising with local councils and communities, and coordinating federal services and programs tailored to the territories' needs. The Administrator acts as a bridge between the territories and mainland authorities on matters such as infrastructure, health, education and environmental management.
Public profile and priorities
Throughout her public career Griggs has been associated with advocacy for regional development, better services in remote areas, and attention to defence and veteran issues due to the Northern Territory's strategic role. Her career path from local government to federal politics and then to an administrative appointment illustrates a sustained focus on territorial governance and community representation.
Summary
- Federal member for Solomon (2010–2016).
- Former Mayor of Palmerston and local government official.
- Appointed Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories in October 2017, representing federal interests on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.