GOONDIWINDI Regional Council welcomes the appointment of Damien Walker – Queensland’s most senior public servant – as Interim Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner.

Mr Walker, who also serves as Director-General of the Queensland Department of Premier and Cabinet, brings significant senior-level experience and authority to the role, Council said.

Goondiwindi mayor Lawrence Springborg said the appointment builds on the strong foundations laid by the late Commissioner Ian Leavers, whose relationship-building and fact-finding tours across border regions helped elevate local concerns and priorities.

“Mr Leavers did critical groundwork by working with communities and establishing trust across the border regions and had already started to address a range of red tape challenges,” Cr Springborg said.

“Mr Walker is well placed to take the next step – translating those challenges into action and outcomes.”

Damien Walker has been appointed Interim Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner.

As Queensland’s most senior public servant, Mr Walker is uniquely positioned to work closely with New South Wales counterparts while also driving co-ordination and decision-making within the Queensland Government.

Cr Springborg also thanked the Crisafulli Government for continuing to prioritise the role of the Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner.

“This appointment demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to addressing the practical, day-to-day challenges faced by border residents and businesses,” he said.

Mr Walker brings valuable prior experience to the position. He previously acted in the South Australian Cross-Border Commissioner role, providing him with unique insights into cross-jurisdictional issues and solutions.

“From Council’s perspective, this appointment provides the leadership and momentum needed to deliver meaningful change on long-standing cross-border issues,” Cr Springborg said.

A recruitment process for a permanent Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner is expected to commence shortly.

Council looks forward to welcoming Mr Walker to the region in late January, where he will gain an on-the-ground understanding of local priorities.

“We welcome this proactive, results-driven approach and look forward to working closely with Mr Walker to deliver better outcomes for our border communities,” Cr Springborg said.