Whitsundays Mayor Voices Concern Over Disaster Funding Shake-Up

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has raised concerns about proposed changes to national disaster recovery funding, warning reduced support could impact the region's ability to recover from future natural disasters. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins has joined growing calls for the Federal Government to reconsider proposed changes to Australia's Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), warning the reforms could leave regional communities more vulnerable following natural disasters.

The proposed overhaul would reportedly reduce the Federal Government's contribution to disaster recovery costs from 75 per cent to a 50-50 funding split with state governments, while introducing standardised funding packages across the country.

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Mayor Collins said while there were aspects of the reforms he supported, including efforts to streamline funding processes and reduce red tape, any reduction in support for disaster-affected communities should be approached carefully.

"I don't often comment on Federal or state policy decisions, but the Federal Government's proposed changes to disaster recovery funding arrangements have the potential to be a significant blow to communities across regional Queensland, including the Whitsundays," he said.

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The Mayor pointed to the region's recent experience with Tropical Cyclone Koji, as well as previous flooding events and Cyclone Debbie, as examples of why disaster recovery funding remains critical.

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"Recovery doesn't happen overnight and in some cases continues for many years," he said.

Mayor Collins argued disaster recovery funding should be viewed as an investment rather than a cost, highlighting the significant economic contribution made by regional Queensland.

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"The Greater Whitsunday region is one of Australia's most productive regional economies, generating over $140,000 in GRP per person each year — almost double the national average," he said.

"When disaster strikes, recovery funding isn't charity. It is an investment in restoring the productive capacity of regions that help drive the Australian economy."

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has also criticised the proposed changes, expressing concern about the potential impact on regional communities and local governments.

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"The Federal Government's decision to overhaul disaster recovery funding sends a clear message they couldn't care less about North Queenslanders," Premier Crisafulli said.

"Nowhere in Australia is more disaster prone than here in the North, and we need and deserve support to recover from the inevitable natural disasters that will come our way."

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The Premier said the changes had raised concerns councils could face significant financial pressure when rebuilding following major events.

Mayor Collins said regional communities already contend with higher costs, ageing infrastructure and long distances, and urged the Federal Government to reconsider any reforms that could reduce support.

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"I respectfully ask the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Federal Government to carefully reconsider any changes that would reduce funding support for disaster-impacted communities and ensure regions like ours are not left uncertain and wondering to what level they will recover when the next major event occurs," he said.

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