COMMUNITY leaders have thrown their support behind the Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell’s call to establish a South Australian cross-border commissioner, citing a range of benefits for the region.
The independent MP hosted business and political leaders at three sessions with New South Wales Cross-Border Commissioner James McTavish last week to discuss the benefits of establishment of a cross-border commissioner in the northern state.
In attendance was Mount Gambier Mayor Andrew Lee, who said the establishment of a position would bolster the existing relationship between City Council and interstate shires.
He said the council, along with neighbouring councils Grant and Wattle Range, were already working alongside western Victorian councils to deliver inter-jurisdictional outcomes.
Mr Lee said the establishment of a position within the State Government would provide an additional support mechanism for local government.
“Roads and transport is a big issue for us as we have a lot of log that gets sent to Portland,” Mr Lee said.
“I do believe the Glenelg Shire has received funds from the federal and state governments to improve the road.
“You can see the difference and I think this is one of the biggest outcomes.
“We are also trying to attract more people from the Great Ocean Road to come from Warnambool to Portland and the Grampians before coming here.
“This is another issue we can work on together.”
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast chair Peter Gandolfi said it was only “logical” South Australia established a similar position to New South Wales.
He said the Victorian Government’s move to establish a cross-border commissioner would have particular benefits to the region.
“It will be an avenue to unify approaches on various matters from health to economic initiatives,” he said.
“There are matters such as dealing with regulatory requirements that may differ from state to state and the establishment of a commissioner could assist in identifying how they could best be streamlined to grow and provide better services.
“It will also be a chance to increase collaboration between the states to benefit our local industries.”
Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce president Lynette Martin said differences between regulation and legislation between South Australia and Victoria had an impact on businesses operating across the border.
“It certainly could have benefits in streamlining services and removing red tape for businesses,” she said.
