Jenny McAllister (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Emergency Management) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you, Senator Green, for your commitment to the people of North Queensland. Last week, I was able to witness firsthand the incredible efforts of our first responders as they helped the people of North Queensland who were impacted by severe rain and flooding—emergency service workers, energy and telco workers, council staff and volunteers. I want to also thank our ADF personnel. They stepped in, assisting by knocking on doors, but they have also done an extraordinary job supporting the recovery, including constructing a temporary bridge on the Bruce Highway at Ollera Creek and resupplying communities using helicopter assets.

Now, I was joined by Prime Minister Albanese, by the Queensland Premier, Mr Crisafulli, and by local mayors in the Queensland Disaster Management Committee, which is a terrific example of collaboration, of political leadership and of people coming together from every level to support our communities in crisis. I want to acknowledge those mayors. They have led their communities, often while managing challenges in their own homes and in their own workplaces.

The situation in North Queensland remains dynamic and challenging. This is not over. We are asking people to think very carefully about their own safety and the safety of their communities. Local conditions could change rapidly. Flood warnings are in place in catchments across the region. It is important that people stay informed of local conditions and follow the advice of authorities. As the situation develops, we will stand by Queensland communities. We will provide practical support in their recovery.

I want to make some remarks too about the national situation. In addition to what is happening in Queensland, we are monitoring a tropical low in Western Australia as well as a number of bushfires that are burning across parts of Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia. I thank all of those involved in recent weeks and months and all those who stand ready to support communities. (Time expired)