ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr signed an agreement on Friday (December 9) with NSW Premier Mike Baird committing to strengthen collaboration between NSW and the ACT. 

Barr says the two governments signed a three year memorandum of understanding (MoU) which establishes joint work on cross-border service delivery, freight and domestic and international tourism opportunities.

“It’s crucial that the ACT Government continues to work closely with our NSW counterparts to drive economic development on the Canberra region, deliver services as a regional centre and provide benefits to Canberrans who travel across the border,” says Barr. 

“Under the MoU, the Premier and I commit to make changes in policy, planning and service delivery where required and to consult with communities, business and industry groups, political and government stakeholders and regional organisations to provide better opportunities for collaboration.”

This is the second MoU on regional collaboration between NSW and the ACT, with the first agreement signed in 2011.

Bar says we are co-hosting workshops to build investment and export capability and capacity across the region to capitalise on the new direct international flights. VisitCanberra is also working with Destination NSW to develop the tourism product for an international market.

“We are making better connections between our emergency authorities so that both communities can be better served during times of disaster,” says Barr.

“ACT and NSW will share data and information that will help both jurisdictions better plan for our health and education services, as well as the roll out of disability services across the region.

“The ACT has now had input into the NSW Planning and Environment’s latest draft regional growth plan for the South East Tablelands. Together we are developing the ACT and Region Catchment Strategy to improve our shared waterways and we are cooperating on efforts to prevent illegal dumping.”

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