STATE Opposition leader Peter Malinauskas has announced a mammoth election promise today – stating the party will appoint a cross border commissioner to be based in Mount Gambier if elected.
Mr Malinauskas said Labor would provide $2m over four years to create the long-advocated for position which would streamline processes for border communities and reduce red tape for residents and businesses.
The commissioner would advocate for South Australian residents while also establishing a close working relationship with the Victorian cross border commissioner.
According to the opposition leader, Mount Gambier was in a unique position – being the state’s second largest city which is close to both Melbourne and Adelaide.
“This is a policy that just makes sense,” Mr Malinauskas said.
“Border communities live so close to each other and they are often crossing the border for medical appointments, business, work, or to visit relatives.
“Both New South Wales and Victoria have a Cross Border Commissioner, who work closely with local, state and federal levels of government to identify, analyse and resolve issues.”
Shadow Minister for regional development and Port MacDonnell resident Clare Scriven said she had been contacted multiple times over the course of the pandemic from residents, businesses and workers who had “nowhere to turn” during ongoing border closures.
“I welcome this announcement, it will have an incredibly positive impact on our communities and allow for common sense to prevail during border negotiations,” Ms Scriven said.
The commissioner will aim to achieve equitable outcomes between border and non-border communities, across a range of border-related issues from timber transportation to COVID-19 restrictions.
The announcement comes as the State Shadow Cabinet visits Mount Gambier for a town meeting, held tonight at City Hall.
