By Lucy Waldron
Queensland Police Officer and Union President Ian Leavers has been appointed as the first Cross-Border Commissioner, a role designed to improve the experience and viability of communities along Queensland’s borders with New South Wales, South Australia, and the Northern Territory.
The newly created position aims to address the unique challenges faced by the more than 750,000 people living in the 12 local government areas along these borders.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said this had long been advocated for by both local governments along the border and by community representatives in our border towns.
“We have already identified many issues faced by those working or operating businesses across the border, and we’re looking forward to engaging with the Commissioner to drive improvements in as many of these areas as we can,” Cr Hamilton said.
“Giving employees the flexibility to transport their skills, or ensuring that essential services can be provided on both sides of the border, will make a real difference to people in the Southern Downs.”
Mr Leavers, a serving police officer and current president of the Queensland Police Union and the Police Federation of Australia, will commence a three-year term on Monday 26 August.
The Commissioner will develop relationships with local governments, regional bodies, state agencies, industry associations, and community groups, and provide advice to stakeholders and government, through the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water.
The new cross-border commissioner said throughout his policing career and current role, he has seen first-hand the unique challenges that border communities present.
“I look forward to working collaboratively with all jurisdictions that share a border with Queensland and am determined to make a difference to the lives of the thousands of people who call these regions home,” Mr Leavers said.
The complexities of living and working in multiple jurisdictions include different approaches to regulation and essential service delivery, which can be difficult to navigate for communities and add to the cost and ease of doing business in border areas.
A priority focus for the Commissioner will be building disaster management capacity and resilience for Queensland cross-border communities on the Queensland-New South Wales border.
The Queensland Premier Steven Miles said a cross-border Commissioner will be a voice for these communities and will champion resilience and economic opportunities.
“This position is something those living along the border have been calling for and I’m pleased to appoint Ian Leavers to the role,” Mr Miles said.
“His experience on the frontline, and his collaboration with emergency services, local, state and federal governments make him an ideal candidate.
“I trust that Mr Leavers will help to break down barriers on the border and support our unique townships now and into the future.”
