Leaders unite to help NSW-QLD border towns

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro today announced an agreement between NSW and QLD to ensure more certainty and better financial outcomes for border towns when it comes to emergency responses, teacher accreditation and registration, transport issues, and economic development.

The NSW-QLD Statement of Principles and Priorities for Regional Collaboration 2016-19 follows on from the signing of a similar deal with the ACT.

“This is fantastic news for people living and working on both sides of the NSW-Queensland border,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Better coordination of government services through more effective collaboration across state lines means greater outcomes for communities.

“The agreement signals a clear intent by each government to provide more efficient service delivery and will assist in the resolution of long-standing border anomalies.”

The plan will also provide for better recognition of joint planning and response to emergencies, and the integration of cross-border bus services and point-to-point transport.

“Major border infrastructure projects and the harmonisation of heavy vehicle regulations will also be actively progressed,” Mr Barilaro added.

“A vital component of the agreement is the opportunity to better share information with interstate government agencies to ensure the protection of children and victims of domestic violence.

“My government colleagues in Lismore, Northern Tablelands, Barwon and Tweed have long championed the cause of cross-border communities, highlighting the difficulties and challenges of living and working near a border.”