Premier

Case For New Cross Border Commissioner To Be Explored

30 June 2017

The Andrews Labor Government will develop a business case to establish a Cross Border Commissioner’s Office for Victoria, to help border communities better share information and services, and drive economic growth.

A Victorian Cross Border Commissioner’s Office was originally proposed by the Mallee Regional Partnership as a way to further the interests of businesses, organisations and individuals who live, work and operate in Victoria’s border communities.

The Labor Government will now commence work on a business case for the new office and assess the feasibility, costs and benefits associated with its establishment.

If given the green light, the new office will help all areas of Victoria that border New South Wales and South Australia.

The Commissioner will be charged with promoting the interests of Victorian border communities, resolving issues and developing common approaches with neighbouring states.

The office would focus on better coordinating service delivery, infrastructure and planning processes to make sure Victorian border communities are getting the investment, support and services they need.

New South Wales has had a Cross Border Commissioner since 2012 and Victoria will consult with the New South Wales Commissioner as part of the business case and feasibility assessment.

The announcement follows the second annual Mallee Regional Assembly, where representatives of the community, industry and government met face-to-face in Swan Hill to discuss and reassess priorities for the region.

These ideas and priorities will now be published online and Mallee Regional Partnership Chair Win Scott will brief the Rural and Regional Ministerial Committee on the outcomes of the meeting.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford

“Our border communities are wonderful places to live, work and raise a family – but navigating different regulations across different states has its challenges.”

“We’ve listened to the concerns of our border towns such as Swan Hill, and this work will ensure these communities are getting the services and support they need, now and into the future.”

“Through our Regional Partnerships, we’re speaking directly to communities in the Mallee and across Victoria.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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