The peak body for local government in Queensland has welcomed the appointment of a Cross-Border Commissioner, saying it will make life easier for communities and businesses in border areas.

The government last week named former Queensland police union boss Ian Leavers as the state’s Cross-Border Commissioner, tasked with tackling cross border-crime, boosting disaster resilience, improving service delivery and cutting through red tape.

Mr Leavers will develop relationships with local governments, regional bodies, state agencies, industry associations and community groups, and provide advice to government via the regional development department.

A priority focus for the commissioner will be building disaster management capacity and resilience for Queensland cross-border communities, Premier Steven Miles said.

Mr Miles said living and working in multiple jurisdictions came with different approaches to regulation and essential service delivery, which could be difficult for cross-border communities and businesses.

“Our cross-border communities can often face unique and challenging issues,” he said.

“A cross-border commissioner will be a voice for these communities and will champion resilience and economic opportunities.

“I trust that Mr Leavers will help to break down barriers on the border and support our unique townships now and into the future.”

Mr Leavers, who has been General President and CEO of the Queensland Police Union since 2009, stepped down from the role over the weekend after his appointment was fast tracked by the Premier in response to a recent increase in crime around Goondawindi.

Lobbying by LGAQ

LGAQ says the establishment of a Cross-Border Commissioner came after advocacy by councils and mayors, including Goondiwindi Regional Council Mayor Lawrence Springborg.

“We will continue to advocate to help refine the model to make sure it delivers on its promise, to strengthen the legislation to ensure the role is centrally-based within the State Government and has the powers to deal with typical cross-border issues like health, crime and labour rules,” LGAQ chief executive officer Alison Smith said in a statement.

Mr leavers said through the course of his policing career he’s seen first hand the challenges faced by border-communities.

“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,” he said.

More-than 750,000 people live in the 12 local government areas along the borders that Queensland shares with New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Queensland now joins NSW, Victoria, and South Australia, which also have cross-border commissioners.