Council backs call to reverse disaster funding changes

Published on 01 July 2026

Council is supporting calls from the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) to reverse proposed federal changes to disaster recovery funding, warning they will leave Queensland communities worse off.

The Federal Government’s proposed changes to disaster management and the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) would reduce funding support and place greater financial pressure on councils and communities recovering from natural disasters.

The concerns follow growing uncertainty around disaster response capability, including the liquidation of Disaster Relief Australia, which previously helped communities prepare for and recover from major events such as floods and cyclones.

Mayor Nev Ferrier said Queensland communities could not afford a reduction in support.

“Queensland councils are already on the frontline of disaster response and recovery, and these changes risk leaving our communities without the support they rely on,” Mayor Ferrier said.

“After repeated natural disasters across the state, we need a system that strengthens recovery efforts, not one that scales them back.”

Queensland is the most disaster-prone state in Australia, with recent years bringing widespread flooding and cyclones. In 2026 alone, the majority of local government areas across the state were disaster declared.

LGAQ has warned that the proposed changes will not only reduce funding but also create uncertainty around who will provide on-the-ground support during recovery efforts. 

Council is joining with local governments across Queensland to advocate for a fair, sustainable funding model that reflects the scale and frequency of natural disasters in the state.

“We are calling on the Federal Government to reconsider these changes and ensure Queensland communities are properly supported when disaster strikes,” Mayor Ferrier said.

For more information, visit the LGAQ website - Federal disaster funding crisis deepens