- Published:
- Wednesday 26 September 2018
The Andrews Labor Government has announced Victoria’s first ever Cross Border Commissioner in a win for locals living and working across the state’s borders.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford today announced the appointment of Luke Wilson to the critical new role, which will be responsible for promoting the interests of Victorian border communities, resolving issues, and developing common approaches with neighbouring states.
Mr Wilson has had a long career in both the public and private sectors, with experience in areas including agriculture, forestry and energy.
He currently holds a senior position in the Victorian Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), and will commence in the new role next month.
The Cross Border Commissioner will be based in Wodonga and divide his time between a number of Victorian Government offices along our borders to ensure all communities engaged direct.
The Mallee Regional Partnership championed the establishment of the Cross Border Commissioner, with the Labor Government committing $760,000 in the Victorian Budget 2018/19 to establish the position.
The Cross Border Commissioner will work closely with Government Department offices in; Mildura, Echuca and Wodonga, and visiting communities and businesses right along Victoria’s borders from Mallacoota to Portland.
For more information, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/about-rdv/cross-border-commission.
Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“We’ve listened to our border communities, to people living in cities, towns and smaller communities along our borders, who have told us about the need for a Commissioner – someone who could advocate for those living and working in border areas to make your lives easier.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“The invisible line that separates one state from the other is too often a barrier. The Cross-Border Commissioner will help solve problems and strengthen ties between people that live, work and operate in our border communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
“This is a unique opportunity to work side-by-side with border communities to make living and working in our border communities even better. We’ve listened to our Regional Partnerships and we’re getting on with it.”
Quote attributable to Victoria’s Cross Border Commissioner Luke Wilson
“Over the coming months, I will be meeting with many individuals and organisations, and am really looking forward to hearing from you, and then getting things fixed. This is an exciting opportunity to address a real need.”