SWQROC welcomes further investment to drive flood recovery
The South West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (SWQROC) welcomes the significant commitment of a further $191 million announced by the Queensland and Australian Governments earlier today to support Western Queensland’s ongoing flood recovery.
SWQROC Chair and Balonne Shire Council Mayor, Cr Samantha O’Toole said this critical funding demonstrates strong bi-partisan leadership and care for our communities following the March 2025 flood event.
“We’re glad to hear that both levels of Government are here for the long haul – because that is what it will take to get these communities truly back on their feet. The challenge will be ensuring that these recovery packages have clear timelines and targeted delivery outcomes across our priorities—roads, regional services, tourism, mental‑health support, and business recovery.
We’re ready to work closely with recovery agencies to turn this announcement into action on the ground.”
Cr John (Tractor) Ferguson, Mayor of Bulloo Shire Council said the region’s regional road network has been underfunded for decades and in many areas, the floods have completely washed away what development has occurred.
“Our road networks are the lifeblood of remote communities and whilst this funding is a welcome step forward it will be imperative that the recovery package is informed by local priorities and directed to where betterment is needed most. Involving councils and the Regional Roads and Transport Groups in the decision making process will be important to achieving this aim”.
Cr Ben Hall, Mayor of Quilpie Shire Council said whilst physical reconstruction is important, long-term psychological support is essential to help individuals and communities recover fully.
“The March flood is the most devastating this region has ever experienced – and as I’ve said on many occasions, families are not just rebuilding homes, they’re rebuilding lives.
The mental health impact has been profound so to see a dedicated focus on mental health recovery in today’s announcement is very welcome and much needed”.
Cr O’Toole said the collaboration between all levels of Government and community sectors has been heartening to see - we owe it to our communities to fix the physical and emotional damage from such significant disaster events.
“We thank both the Australian and Queensland State Governments for their support and look forward to discussing further aspects of today’s announcement with both Minister McBain and Minister Leahy when they attend the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils Assembly 9-20 August”.
MINISTERIAL MEDIA STATEMENT: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/103135
About SWQROC
SWQROC is a collaborative alliance of six councils—Balonne, Bulloo, Maranoa, Murweh, Paroo and Quilpie - working to strengthen regional planning, infrastructure, service delivery and economic development across South West Queensland.