Aformer Mount Gambier resident has been appointed as SA’s new Cross Border Commissioner.
The State Government announced late last week that Kelly-Anne Saffin will fill the role, bringing extensive experience in regional development and advocacy to the role.
The role was established as part of the State Government’s election commitment to provide more support for South Australia’s regions, strengthen regional communities, and make them more attractive places to live, work and visit.
Ms Saffin is currently the chief executive of Regional Development Australia, Adelaide and spent a decade heading Regional Development Australia Yorke and Mid North.
Her professional background also includes other regional development roles in the Limestone Coast, Mid North and Eyre Peninsula.
The Cross Border Commissioner will assist, identify opportunities and facilitate collaboration with her cross-border counterparts to enhance regional and economic development.
The Commissioner will also work with other jurisdictions to enhance cooperation between bordering state and territory governments.
Ms Saffin, who will be based in Mount Gambier and begin her new role in October, said she was looking forward to the new role.
“I am delighted to be appointed Cross Border Commissioner and return with my family to the Limestone Coast,” she said.
“The opportunity to bring a renewed focus on the significant economic contribution of the 140,000 residents who live in our cross-borders communities is one I’m particularly excited to embrace.”
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the need for a Cross Border Commissioner became stark during the depths of ever- changing and differing COVID-19 restrictions.
“However, differing policies, regulation and practices can create complications at any time for businesses that regularly operate cross border,” he said.
“It is important the unique needs of our regional border communities are heard and addressed, and Ms Saffin is well equipped to support that goal.”
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven congratulated Ms Saffin on her appointment.
“Her extensive regional experience across the state will be invaluable in addressing some of the challenges local border communities encounter and I look forward to working with her,” she said.
