The Learnings and Complexities of Cross-Border Projects – Mungindi Water Security

Abstract

The Balonne Shire is bordered by the Goondiwindi Region, Western Downs, Maranoa Region, Paroo Shire, and to the south, the New South Wales (NSW) border. Located in both the Balonne Shire in Queensland (QLD) and Moree Plains Shire NSW, the Mungindi township is unique in Australia for being the only border town where the name is the same in both states. Mungindi QLD is also the only Queensland town to have an NSW postcode. Mungindi has experienced frequent and heavy water restrictions and there has been a real concern about long-term security, including the negative impact it has socially, environmentally and on the economic health of the community. Following an investigation into water security on the NSW side it was found that a cross-border initiative was required to address these concerns. Therefore, in November 2022 the Balonne Shire Council (BSC) secured funding from the NSW Cross-Border Commissioner’s Infrastructure Fund – COVID Recovery to construct a new bore in QLD and deliver water security to both sides of the border. This project has provided valuable learnings for the project delivery team and highlighted the challenges faced by many of the border shires and towns in Australia. Regulatory disparities, differing legislative requirements, and administrative complexities between QLD and NSW posed significant hurdles. Furthermore, community and political expectations influenced decision-making and project outcomes. This report examines the multifaceted challenges encountered in delivering projects in cross-border communities, using the Mungindi water security project as a case study. It explores the lessons learned and insights gained from navigating these complexities, aiming to provide valuable guidance for future endeavours in enhancing community resilience and sustainable development in border regions.