Queensland’s most senior public servant, Damien Walker, has been appointed Acting Cross-Border Commissioner as the Queensland Government begins the process of recruiting a permanent office holder.
Mr Walker, who is Director-General of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, steps into the role following the work of the inaugural commissioner, the late Ian Leavers. The appointment is on an interim basis and is intended to provide continuity while the government undertakes a formal search.
The Cross-Border Commissioner role was created to address issues that affect communities and businesses operating near state lines, where differences in laws, policing arrangements and service delivery can create practical problems. These challenges have long been raised by councils, industry groups and residents in border regions, particularly around crime, transport, health access and regulation.
According to the government, Mr Walker will continue working with local communities, regional agencies, industry and other stakeholders to manage those pressures. The Crisafulli Government has framed the appointment within its broader law and order agenda, which includes tougher laws, increased police resources and a stronger focus on early intervention and rehabilitation. Supporters argue this approach brings clearer coordination across borders, while critics have previously cautioned that lasting progress depends on sustained cooperation between states rather than short-term appointments.
Acting Premier Jarrod Bleijie said Mr Walker’s background made him well suited to the task. He pointed to more than a decade of executive leadership across two state governments, including a period where Mr Walker served as interim Cross-Border Commissioner in South Australia. Mr Bleijie said the foundations laid by Mr Leavers had positioned the office to continue its work without interruption.
Mr Walker will hold the commissioner role alongside his existing responsibilities as Director-General, a dual arrangement the government says will help maintain momentum. Observers note that combining the roles may place additional demands on the state’s top bureaucrat, though it also offers direct access to central decision-making.
In a brief statement, Mr Walker said he would ensure current plans and processes stayed on track. He acknowledged the contribution of Ian Leavers and said collaboration with communities and governments would remain a priority for residents and businesses along Queensland’s borders.
The government has not indicated how long the recruitment process for the permanent role is expected to take.
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