Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed over $100 million in funding aimed at assisting communities in Western Queensland that have been devastated by recent floods. This significant financial aid will include $105 million designated for new fencing to protect livestock from predatory feral pigs and dogs, in addition to $7 million for supplying fodder for cattle.
Albanese acknowledged the dire situation facing small towns in the region, some of which remain inaccessible due to the floodwaters. He expressed empathy for those displaced from their homes and highlighted ongoing collaboration with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli amidst this unprecedented flooding crisis. Notably, the floods have resulted in the loss of more than 140,000 head of livestock.
Despite a reduction in rainfall from significant to more modest levels, the effects of the flooding persist. Many creeks and rivers continue to swell, leading to immediate evacuations in towns like Adavale, where residents have been relocated to Quilpie. The Bureau of Meteorology has also reported that the weather will see a weak trough over central and northern Queensland, shifting northwards later in the weekend.
As the situation develops, floodwaters gradually drain towards Lake Eyre—Australia’s lowest natural point, which usually remains dry year-round—about 600 km south-west of Windorah. Authorities are diligently working to address the aftermath of the floods, but many communities will need to exercise patience before returning to their homes and farms.