As Cyclone Alfred looms over Queensland and Northern New South Wales, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to assisting affected communities, mobilising all levels of government and the private sector to ensure a swift response.
“My government is solely focused on assisting communities in Queensland and Northern NSW impacted by Cyclone Alfred,” Albanese told ABC’s 7.30.
“At the worst of times, we see the best of the Australian character as we look after each other.”
With over four million Australians in the cyclone’s projected path, the Prime Minister emphasised that emergency measures had been put in place well in advance.
“We have seamlessly worked through this with three levels of government—Queensland, New South Wales, and the Commonwealth—alongside local authorities,” he said, urging residents to follow directives from emergency services and ADF personnel.
Albanese defended the government’s decision to deploy defence forces, stating that the situation warranted extraordinary measures. “When a tropical cyclone is set to hit land where millions live, that’s a serious situation,” he said.
“That’s why we’re doing everything possible, both civil and military.”
The Prime Minister outlined key support mechanisms already activated, including financial relief, emergency childcare provisions, and coordination with supermarkets, insurance firms, and telecommunications providers.
“We’re ensuring every possible measure is in place to assist people. This morning, I was at Services Australia headquarters, where we’re ready to mobilise hardship payments and other necessary financial assistance,” he said.
International aid has also been secured, with a 66-person disaster response team from New Zealand on its way.
“This is what families do for each other, and Australia and New Zealand are family.”
New Zealand is pleased to shortly be sending more than 60 Urban Search and Rescue personnel to Queensland to support our friends in the response to Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Our thoughts are with all those affected.
— Winston Peters (@NewZealandMFA) March 7, 2025
– WP@SenatorWong
When pressed about the role of insurance companies, the Prime Minister issued a firm warning. “I absolutely expect them to fulfil their social licence—to make payments to eligible people expeditiously,” he said.
“We will be holding them to account.”
Speaking to Nine News Brisbane, Albanese reassured residents that support would continue well beyond the cyclone’s immediate impact. “We have your back,” he said.
“Our focus is not on politics; it’s on ensuring Australians get through this difficult time.”
With Cyclone Alfred expected to make landfall within hours, Albanese urged communities to stay vigilant. “There are no state borders here, no political parties—just Australians working together to get through this,” he said.
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