Cross-Border Task Force Delivers Better Local Services

The NSW and Queensland Premiers have today signed a Cross-Border Memorandum of Understanding tackling three of the top issues for the communities of Northern NSW and South-East Queensland.

Premier Morris Iemma and Premier Peter Beattie said the agreement delivered short and long-term plans to improve transport and health services in the region.

As a result of unprecedented cooperation between the Governments on both sides of the border, a new ‘dual ranks’ taxi plan would now be implemented to greatly improve services for local passengers.

It will allow passengers to choose their taxi depending on which state they’re travelling to, and operators from both sides of the border will be allowed to pick up passengers from these ranks.

“This is one of NSW fastest growing regions, and its circumstances are unique. That’s why we have to make sure we’re delivering services that families rely on, and in the most efficient and practical way,” Mr Iemma said.

“The border populations are booming, and it’s vital our two states work together to integrate twin towns, such as Coolangatta and Tweeds Heads.”

The Queensland Premier, Peter Beattie said “Our priority is to make it easier for families on both sides of the border to access the services they need – including public transport and health care.

“This is a practical example of how both Labor Governments are working hard to improve and expand local services,” Mr Beattie said.

The Iemma/Beattie Government’s taxi plan includes: 

• New Passenger Safety & Performance Standards – Operators must have accreditation from NSW and QLD to operate in both jurisdictions;
• Reciprocal Rights – Operators in NSW and Queensland will be subject to the same rules;
• Reciprocal Recognition – To simplify enforcement each State will recognise the other’s vehicle licensing and driver authorisations;
• Community and Industry Consultation - Detailed consultation will be undertaken with the local community and the taxi industry before these new arrangements are put in place; and
• Potential Expansion of Reciprocal Rights – Exploring further reforms to offer further improvements, including consistent fares and bookings.

Mr Iemma said the measures introduced under the cross-border agreement removed antiquated bureaucratic rules and gave passengers more choice.

“Cross-border regions can present difficulties for transport operators and passengers because of the different jurisdictions and the clash of rules across state borders,” Mr Iemma said.

“But passengers on both sides of the border deserve reliable services.

“Their travel needs don’t stop at the state border. They need to get home safely and reliably, and our new initiatives will help deliver that,” Mr Iemma said.

Locations already identified for new dual ranks include Coolangatta Airport (QLD) and Southern Cross University (NSW). They are expected to be operational by 30 June 2007.
The MOU signed by Premiers Iemma and Beattie also included further developments on the plan for a rail link from Northern NSW into South-East Queensland. Work would now continue to:

• Identify the route of a potential rail corridor through Northern NSW to link up with the proposed Queensland rail link down to Coolangatta;
• Start work to identify a location for a joint-state transport interchange; and
• Implement a “Bridging Strategy” in Northern NSW, using bus services to build customer demand for new transport options along the proposed corridor.

Premier Beattie said the signing was a demonstration of the closer collaboration on issues by the two states, starting with transport and health.

“Communities living near the border want practical results and today’s agreement is just the first step,” Mr Beattie said.

“The Gold Coast/Tweed region is one of the most beautiful and prosperous in our nation and we will continue to work together to ensure the services in the region meet the needs of families.”

Mr Beattie said the Cross Border Task Force was also conducting a joint planning study to help NSW Health and Queensland Health provide more co-ordinated health services into the future.

“Teams form both Health Services are focusing their investigation on the provision of services for people needing renal dialysis, radiation oncology, chemotherapy, women’s and children’s health, mental health, and community-based services.

“The study will report on current and projected populations in this area, and how they are currently being met.

“The report will also look ahead to what will be required in the cross-border region in 2016 and through to 2021,” Mr Beattie said.

Media Contact: Premier Beattie's Office 3224 4500