Disaster resilience in south-west Queensland is set to receive a major upgrade, with the Australian and Queensland Governments committing $15.47 million to fund critical flood protection projects in the region. The funding aims to strengthen flood mitigation for vulnerable townships, review local flood monitoring assets, and upgrade six floodways in Quilpie Shire, helping communities better manage future flood risks.
A $10 million flood risk management program will focus on the Bulloo, Lower Thomson River, and Cooper Creek catchments, supporting targeted flood studies and initiatives such as designing a new flood levee to protect Thargomindah. In addition, $5 million has been allocated for a comprehensive review of the region’s flood warning system, identifying optimal locations for flood monitoring assets and new flood gauges.
The Queensland Reconstruction Authority will coordinate these initiatives, working closely with local councils on flood studies, risk management plans, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge capture. Quilpie Shire Council will also receive $470,000 to replace six concrete floodways along Adavale Black Road and Humeburn Road, critical routes for emergency services, primary producers, and local schools.
These projects form part of the $450 million Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Program (QRRRP), a five-year commitment to enhance the state’s natural disaster resilience. The program is funded through efficiencies realised under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
South-west Queensland was severely affected by the 2025 floods, including the rupture of Thargomindah’s flood levee, which caused widespread inundation. The new measures aim to provide a holistic approach to flood risk management, resulting in reduced damage, faster recovery, and stronger protection for local communities. Round 1 of the QRRRP has already supported 16 projects across the state, totaling $140 million.
