Farzian Zainal

Farzian Zainal is an Australian politician who since June 2023 has served as the current Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories and the treasurer of the Indian Ocean Territories Regional Development Organisation. She is the first local-born Administrator. Born in Christmas Island, Zainal previously served as a councillor for the Shire of Christmas Island.

Background Zainal was born on Christmas Island to a Malay family and speaks the language. During the 1950s, her grandfather migrated from British Malaya to the island, joining a wave of Malayan workers in the phosphate industry. Zainal is a member of the fourth generation of her family to live on the island. She completed her education in Perth, Western Australia, like many other Christmas Islanders, since further education is not available on the island.

Councillor Zainal was a councillor for the Shire of Christmas Island, elected 19 October 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Zainal stated that the elderly population was concerned that younger islanders kept strictly to precautions to keep the island virus free. but resigned in May of that year to accept the role of Administrator.

Administrator In May 2023, she was sworn in as Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories, which encompasses both Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, for a term of 3 years commencing in June. This includes responsibility for the Indian Ocean Territories Community Fund.

Zainal was re-appointed as Administrator for a second 3 year term beginning 1 June 2026.