New Cross Border Commissioner

29/01/2024

Headshot of Brett Davis - a man with glasses and facial hair.

Brett Davis has been appointed as Victoria’s next Cross Border Commissioner and says he’s looking forward to advocating for locals living and working across the state’s border communities.

Mr Davis will take up the role in February, continuing the critical work of resolving local issues and developing common approaches with neighbouring states.

He will replace commissioner Luke Wilson who is stepping down after 5 years in the role.

Mr Davis has most recently been CEO of Moyne Shire Council and was previously the Executive Director Regional Victoria for the Victorian Planning Authority.

He has more than 30 years’ experience in both the public and private sectors across Australia. His experience spans across town planning, local government, and industry – with a particular focus on rural and regional Victoria.

‘I am excited about the opportunity that this role presents and keen to build on Luke’s work,’ said Mr Davis.

‘I am passionate about rural and regional areas, economic development, and look forward to working with our Border communities, having worked with many of them in previous roles.’

The Victorian Government established the Cross Border Commissioner in 2018 to identify and advocate for matters affecting communities that straddle state jurisdictions, helping make them even better places to live and work.

The government has paid tribute to Luke Wilson for his service.

Mr Wilson helped design the pandemic border bubble during Victoria’s temporary border closures in 2020 and 2021 and worked with impacted families and workers.

He also helped Victoria’s border communities to access relief and recovery arrangements following the devastating fires in the Upper Murray and East Gippsland in 2019 and 2020.

His other achievements include advocacy for numerous reforms including V/Line regional fare caps, improved inclusion of border applicants in grant programs such as Free Nursing and Free Teaching scholarships, and better information on road rule changes for P and L plate drivers when they cross borders.