Councillor Corner: From Response To Resilience

By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson

Recovery is never just about rebuilding what was damaged, it is about learning and becoming stronger together. Each disaster event reminds us that our community is built on how we respond when times are tough and how we support one another.

As Chair of the Human and Social Recovery Sub Group, I see firsthand that the impact is not only structural, but also emotional and social. In times of uncertainty, communities need connection and practical support. This is where our community truly shows its strength.

I want to sincerely thank the many residents who stepped up to help neighbours, check in on friends, share resources and offer a hand where it was needed during Tropical Cyclone Koji. That willingness to look after one another speaks to the strength of our community and is something we should never take for granted.

I also want to acknowledge everyone who played a role in the response and recovery. The people working on the ground, coordinating behind the scenes, and supporting people in ways both visible and unseen. Thank you for your commitment and professionalism, your effort underpins our region’s ability to recover and move forward.

Natural disasters place a multidimensional burden on local councils, who operate at the frontline of recovery. The impacts are felt right across council operations. Budgets are stretched by repair costs and unplanned expenditure, essential services are disrupted and communities require ongoing support as recovery unfolds.

One of the most immediate challenges councils face is damage to local infrastructure. Roads, stormwater networks, community facilities and emergency access are often affected, limiting mobility and slowing recovery for residents and businesses alike. The Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s 2024-2025 Annual Report highlights the scale of this challenge, with 73 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas activated under the Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements and reconstruction costs exceeding $2.2 billion.

With disasters becoming more frequent and severe, we need to look past the urgent response and work on building resilience that lasts. This requires investing in sound planning, strong partnerships and holding a clear understanding of risk. Just as importantly, it means recognising that resilient infrastructure and resilient communities go hand in hand.

We will always be learning. And with each challenge, we have the opportunity to do better together.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next sessions will be held at Eungella and Finch Hatton on Tuesday, February 3.

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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