The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) is closely monitoring the ongoing flooding across parts of Queensland, expressing deep concern for the farmers, graziers, and rural communities facing the brunt of this natural disaster.
Significant rainfall has caused widespread flooding, leading to serious disruptions to farming operations, the loss of livestock and crops, and the destruction of infrastructure across multiple regions. The NFF is working with its state-based and commodity member organisations to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure support is delivered where it's most needed.
"We're in contact with the affected member organisations at a state and commodity level and will make representations as appropriate to the Federal Government to get assistance on the ground as it's required," NFF Chief Executive Troy Williams said.
The NFF emphasised the need for swift and targeted recovery efforts to support the immediate needs of farmers, including emergency fodder drops, veterinary support, and financial relief packages. Transport and supply chain disruptions are also being monitored, as they impact access to markets and critical supplies for rural businesses.
"This is a distressing time for many families on the land. Some are facing losses that will take years to recover from. It's essential we work together to ensure they're not left to face this crisis alone," Mr Williams said.
The NFF is also urging all levels of government to commit to long-term recovery planning that includes rebuilding resilient infrastructure and improving flood mitigation strategies in high-risk regions.
As conditions evolve, the NFF will continue to liaise with its member farming organisations to ensure a coordinated response by Government.
"We encourage affected producers to document damage and reach out to local support services as they become available."
Official information sources
Queensland Disaster Management website: https://www.disaster.qld.gov.au
Get Ready Queensland website: https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/disaster-types/flood/flood-prepare/take-steps-to-get-ready
Local Government disaster dashboards: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/resources-translations/local-government-disaster-dashboards
Department of Primary Industries: https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warnings: http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings/index.shtml
ABC Emergency broadcasters (local radio): (Check local ABC radio listings)
Remember to monitor social media accounts of emergency services (SES, Police, Fire Services) and local news outlets in both states. For life-threatening emergencies, call 000, and for SES assistance, call 132 500.
