South-west flood mitigation efforts receive $15 million boost

Disaster resilience in south-west Queensland is set for a significant upgrade with the Australian and Queensland Governments committing $15.47 million to deliver critical flood protection projects in the region.

Funding will support flood mitigation options for vulnerable townships, a review of local flood monitoring assets, and the upgrade of six floodways in Quilpie Shire, together helping communities better manage future flood risks.

A $10 million flood risk management program for the Bulloo, Lower Thomson River and Cooper Creek catchments will include targeted flood studies and fund initiatives like the design of a new flood levee to protect Thargomindah.

The south-west will benefit from a comprehensive review of the region’s flood warning system, with $5 million earmarked to identify the best locations for flood monitoring assets and new flood gauges.

These initiatives will be coordinated by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, who will work with relevant councils on the necessary flood studies, risk management plans, stakeholder engagement, and other knowledge capture.

Additionally, Quilpie Shire Council will receive $470,000 to replace six concrete floodways along Adavale Black Road and Humeburn Road, two critical routes relied on by emergency services, primary producers and local schools. 

All projects are being delivered as part of the $450 million Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Program (QRRRP), a five-year Queensland Government commitment to improve the state’s resilience to natural disasters.

The QRRRP is funded through efficiencies realised under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

South-west Queensland was ground zero for the catastrophic 2025 floods that saw Thargomindah’s flood levee rupture, leading to widespread inundation.

These projects will combine to provide a holistic approach to flood risk management in the region, and will mean less damage, faster recovery and stronger protection for communities.

Round 1 of the QRRRP backs 16 projects across the state totalling $140 million.

For more information visit www.qra.qld.gov.au.