North and Far North Queensland are set to become more resilient to severe weather, with the Albanese Government investing $84.8 million in 77 projects aimed at reducing disaster risk across transport networks, communities, and the environment.
The funding, part of the North Queensland Resilience Program, will support 18 local government areas, including Townsville, Douglas, Mornington, Mount Isa, and Whitsunday.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured North Queenslanders that the government stands with them.
“These are tough times, but North Queenslanders are tougher. My Government is making sure we’re providing whatever resources are required, right now and into the future, as these communities recover.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister emphasised that the investment would help some of Queensland’s most disaster-prone communities better withstand extreme weather.
“Councils will be undertaking critical works to equip their communities with the assets and resources they need to withstand severe weather events,” she said.
“These projects include major infrastructure upgrades, emergency shelters, community generators, and the sealing of roads frequently washed away.”
The recent floods, McAllister noted, highlight the importance of investing in disaster resilience.
“By prioritising resilience, we can safeguard lives, property, and our environment while ensuring shorter recovery times and a stronger local economy.”
Senator for Queensland Nita Green welcomed the investment, calling it a vital boost for the region. “North Queensland has been hit hard by natural disasters, and this funding will flow into resilience projects from Whitsundays to Douglas, Boulia to Burke,” she said.
“Disaster resilience can mean upgraded roads and airstrips, better drainage, or forward-focused initiatives like flood studies and risk reduction plans. Together, this investment builds a stronger, safer Queensland.”
The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments are also providing over $100 million in extraordinary grants for flood-affected primary producers, small businesses, and non-profit organisations. These include:
- $72.7 million for flood-affected primary producers
- $25 million for small businesses and non-profits
- $2.4 million in Rural Landholder Grants for those with at least 10 hectares of flood-affected land
- $1 million in Emergency Fodder Support for primary producers
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli echoed this sentiment, saying the priority is getting affected areas back on their feet as quickly as possible.
“We’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those affected by disaster to ensure they can recover quickly and come back stronger than ever.”
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins highlighted the importance of financial support for farmers and small businesses. “These grants will help reduce clean-up and recovery costs for North Queensland’s primary producers and small businesses,” she said.
“Farmers and small businesses are the heart of local communities, and this funding is critical.”
Emergency Management Minister Jenny McAllister reinforced the government’s commitment to long-term recovery. “Farmers, businesses, and non-profits are central to the North Queensland community, and we know heavy rainfall and severe flooding have made operations difficult,” she said.
“Recovery can take time. Our government is here for the long haul.”
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