Queensland Conservation Council is calling on the Queensland Government and Opposition to learn the lessons from the FNQ flood disasters, and take action to keep Queenslanders safe now and in the future. This includes bipartisan emission reduction targets, and climate resilient planning that properly assesses the impact of climate change.
Statement by Dave Copeman, Director, Queensland Conservation Council
“The devastating floods hitting Far North Queensland are heartbreaking. As emergency workers risk their lives getting people to safety, we owe it to them to learn the lessons so that we manage the risks when disasters strike next.
“The risks of extreme weather are going to increase. The warnings from weather scientists are clear: global temperature rises will cause more extreme weather events.
“We need stronger action on climate change to prevent the worst outcomes of out of control global heating. We welcome the 75% 2035 emissions reduction targets as strong leadership that will keep Queenslanders safe, but we need this commitment to be bipartisan. We are calling on Opposition leader David Crisafulli to pledge his support for this target.
“The Queensland Government and our councils need to make better planning decisions, to stop putting homes and families in harm's way. Too many of the homes and facilities in Cairns and surrounding areas are in low lying areas at risk of flooding. We can plan better, and stop building in flood prone areas.
While the true extent of this disaster is not yet clear, we know from experience that it will only exacerbate our housing crisis. As only a year ago we saw over 15,000 homes flooded in Brisbane alone.
“The Queensland Government is currently asking for responses to a community vision survey for a review of the FNQ regional plan. The updated plan is currently scheduled for release next year. Many of the residents who are flood affected are too busy or stressed right now to think about a Government survey, but they deserve a regional plan that makes resilience and climate adaptation as a top priority, not an afterthought.
Media Contact: Dave Copeman Mob: 0408841595 director@qldconservation.org.au
Contact details:
Dave Copeman Mob: 0408841595 director@qldconservation.org.au