Queensland Mayors Protest in Melbourne Against Federal Disaster Funding Changes
Mayors from various Queensland regions, severely affected by floods and cyclones, gathered in a Melbourne park to voice their concerns over proposed changes to federal disaster funding. This protest coincided with a roundtable meeting of federal and state disaster ministers in the Victorian capital, aimed at discussing emergency management strategies. Six mayors traveled from Queensland to express their discontent over plans to cap federal disaster contributions, but they were unable to secure a meeting with the federal minister to discuss their concerns directly. Alison Smith, the chief executive of the Local Government Association of Queensland, emphasized the need for clarity regarding the implications of these funding changes. She highlighted that local governments across the state are worried about how potential reductions in federal support could affect their communities during future disaster recovery efforts. Given that Queensland is the most disaster-prone state in Australia, the urgency for information is palpable among local leaders. The proposed changes suggest capping the federal contribution to disaster recovery at 50%, a significant reduction from the current average of around 65%. This shift would have a particularly harsh impact on Queensland, which received $1.3 billion in disaster funding for the 2024-25 period, the highest allocation in the nation. Ramon Jayo, mayor of Hinchinbrook Shire, stressed the importance of adequate funding for his region, which has experienced multiple disasters in recent years. He expressed concern that the new funding structure would hinder their ability to respond effectively to future emergencies. Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain defended the proposed reforms, stating they stem from an Independent Review of Commonwealth Disaster Funding. She assured that the changes aim to simplify the process for councils and that no council should be worse off. However, local leaders like Tanya Milligan, mayor of Lockyer Valley, are seeking more transparency regarding state funding commitments, emphasizing that their communities prioritize practical outcomes over the source of funding. The ongoing dialogue between local governments and state officials remains crucial as Queensland navigates these challenging changes.
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