Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced over $100 million in new funding to support flood-affected communities in Western Queensland.
Partnering with the Queensland Government, $7 million will be used to supply new fodder for livestock, while $105 million will go toward building new fencing to protect animals from feral pigs and dogs.
Albanese described the situation in western Queensland as “truly distressing,” noting that some smaller communities remain inaccessible due to the severe flooding.
“Our thoughts are with people who have been displaced from their homes,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to support recovery efforts.
The Prime Minister said he has been working closely with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli in response to the once-in-a-generation floods, which have devastated parts of the region.
So far, more than 140,000 head of livestock have been killed or gone missing. Though rainfall has lessened, many rivers and creeks continue to rise and pose threats.
The small town of Adavale was forced to evacuate to Quilpie after sudden flooding last week. Residents are still unable to return home as damage assessments and clean-up efforts continue.
The Bureau of Meteorology reports that a weak trough will persist in central and northern Queensland before gradually moving northward over the weekend.
Floodwaters are expected to slowly drain toward Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre), located about 600 kilometers southwest of Windorah—Australia’s lowest natural point, which is usually dry for most of the year.
