David Batt (Hinkler, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

The people of Bundaberg have once again banded together, following the third major flood since December 2010. I rise today committed to advocating for flood mitigation that is effective and can be delivered sooner rather than later. Money has already been allocated from state and federal governments in the order of $170 million. We must get moving forward, initially safeguard the Bundaberg community from major floods of the size we just experienced and, if possible, have protection for floods like the event of December 2010. Let's implement the mitigation options that give us immunity in most major floods. In the initial stages, it can be installing floodgates on saltwater and distillery creeks to protect homes and businesses on the south bank, as well as building minor earthwork and floodgates on the north and south side. This will give greater protection on both sides of the river, north and south. This will keep both bridges open longer, keep residents connected and limit congestion and inconvenience by keeping more roads open.

Since the flood peak, I've been in regular and productive meetings with the federal minister for emergency management, Kristy McBain, who visited Bundaberg last week; shadow minister for emergency management, David Littleproud; and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli. I've welcomed several Queensland ministers to town, including Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie, as well as taking Insurance Council of Australia CEO Andrew Hall for a tour of affected areas. I've been working alongside Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn and local and district disaster management groups. I'm ensuring all levels of government do their fair share and understand the evolving needs of our affected residents and businesses.

Prior to entering federal politics, I was Bundaberg Regional Council's disaster management and resilience coordinator, and before that, as a councillor, I was deputy chair of the local disaster management group and local recovery coordinator after our 2013 record flood. It's pleasing to see our local planning and development throughout this period has improved the quality and efficiency of response.

While the mighty Burnett River rose to levels just under the 2010 flood, this disaster has changed lives forever. More than 200 homes and businesses were inundated, and every single one of those will need support in the days, weeks and months ahead. The people of our region are tough, and our community spirit has been shining brightly. However, that resilience doesn't mean we should be left alone. My role is to keep the pressure on governments and see that effective infrastructure is delivered before the next flood event. Thank you to all who have stood up and supported friends and strangers in their time of need, including the Alive Church, led by Joey and Adam, and the swathe of 'Mud Army' volunteers they coordinated. To our emergency services staff and volunteers, who have been working around the clock to keep people safe and informed: thank you.

Now, together, let's get Bundy back on track. When it comes to flood mitigation, we need action. However it looks, let's deliver it fast.

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