- Published:
- Friday 10 November 2023
Recruitment is now underway for Victoria’s next Cross Border Commissioner – a role which is responsible for promoting the interests of border residents, resolving issues and developing common approaches with neighbouring states.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney today opened expressions of interest for the role, with the State’s first-ever Commissioner Luke Wilson set to retire from the public service.
Throughout his time in the role Mr Wilson has worked with Government to implement key initiatives and reforms for border communities - from creating a team of Border Brokers during the pandemic, to halving rego for apprentices, expanding Victoria’s Free Nursing and Free Teaching scholarships, and the V/Line regional fare caps.
Mr Wilson was appointed in 2018 and has worked tirelessly with residents, businesses and community organisations to identify and advocate for matters affecting residents living on the border.
He helped design Victoria’s border bubble in 2020 and 2021, while supporting impacted community members with essential travel during this time.
Mr Wilson also helped residents in the Upper Murray and in East Gippsland access relief and recovery arrangements following the 2019 and 2020 bushfires.
One of his most recent achievements has been his advocacy for a new fuel station to be built at Murrayville, which gives locals better access to fuel.
The Office of the Cross Border Commissioner is part of the Allan Labor Government’s commitment to give regional Victorians a voice on policies that impact them.
Victoria’s next Cross Border Commissioner will continue Mr Wilson’s strong record of advocacy, promote the interests of border communities, resolve issues and develop common approaches with neighbouring states.
The role is open to candidates with significant experience in developing and implementing programs that provide benefits for businesses and communities. For more information, visit jobs.careers.vic.gov.au/jobs/VG-023543A.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
“Luke Wilson has done an outstanding job as our first-ever Cross Border Commissioner and I want to acknowledge the significant ways his work has benefited our border communities.”
“We are now looking for an outstanding candidate to continue this important work of engagement and advocacy so we can deliver a brighter future for border residents, operators and businesses.”
Quotes attributable to Cross Border Commissioner Luke Wilson
“Serving as Victoria’s inaugural Cross Border Commissioner has been a great privilege and a career highlight – I look forward to handing over the role to the next Commissioner and to seeing them continue this important work.”
“I’d like to thank our cross-border communities – your support has been critical to the success of this role.”