Media Release
Decentralisation of MDBA delivering for Goondiwindi
- MDBA moving 20 permanent jobs to the southern region of Queensland
- A greater regional presence will give the MDBA a better understanding of river management challenges and emerging threats
- 103 MDBA jobs will be based in regions - around one third of its total staff
Goondiwindi has secured 20 permanent Government jobs, as the Federal Coalition pushes ahead with decentralisation of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.
Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said he was proud to see a significant share of positions go to the town.
"I fought hard for this because it'll make a big difference to Goondiwindi," Minister Littleproud said.
"The people who manage the river system should live on the river. Moving government services closer to those they're there to serve is only common sense.
"I've also seen the impact the drought has had on people in this region for the past 8 years.
"This opens new and meaningful job opportunities for locals that will potentially bring 20 new families to Goondiwindi.
"There's also going to be a small flow over of jobs into St George and Dirranbandi.
"The multiplier effect of this move will benefit everyone in the Goondiwindi economy. These new employees will spend money in the local economy supporting small business and all those who work in them.
"The roles to be decentralised will vary from Senior Executive roles to Compliance officers.
"Country people deserve government jobs as much as city people do and they're just as capable.
"It also provides professional work that could see some of our kids return after uni.
"Authority staff here will want to do the best for their community, their neighbours and their mates.
"We're spreading more than 100 jobs across the Murray Darling Basin.
'"In years to come people will highlight the MDBA as a great example of decentralisation.
"There will be a staged transition to make sure the process smooth and both staff and stakeholders are consulted.
"The federal government has faith and confidence in regional Australia to deliver the same level of professionalism to government services as city Australians and that's why we will continue to support a decentralisation agenda."
