Australia Drops A$800 Million on Flood‑Proofing the Northern Rivers
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a sweeping plan to help homeowners in New South Wales’ flood‑prone Northern Rivers recover from their third wash‑out this year. The government will pour A$800 million (about S$728 million) into buying back damaged homes, lifting and re‑roofing houses, and buying land in safer spots.
What the Plan Looks Like
- Buy‑back programme – Roughly 2 000 homes in the most at‑risk villages will be purchased back by the government. The sale will give families fresh start options and allow the government to relocate people out of danger zones.
- Retrofit incentives – Up to A$100 000 will be offered to each homeowner who raises their house or installs flood‑resistant panels. Think of it as a “home‑upgrade” with a coastal‑proof makeover.
- Land purchase – A dedicated A$100 million will be earmarked for buying flood‑safe land that can be developed for future communities, keeping folks out of the water‑marshy past.
Why It Matters
“This year’s climate has been crazier than the last decade’s summer heatwave,” Albanese told a crowded press conference. “We can’t keep doing the same old dance with the rain. We’re talking real, practical solutions now.”
He also said he’d collaborate with New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet to tighten flood‑plain building codes across the state. “More intense weather is part of the new normal,” Albanese added. “We’re working hand‑in‑hand with the NSW government to protect people’s homes and livelihoods.”
Who’s Eligible?
The application will focus on:
- Flood risk level of the property
- Detailed property assessment
- Safety concerns for residents
State officials will identify the threatened homes and coordinate the levy of the money. The plan aims to halt future damage before it hits the table.
Bottom Line
Australia’s latest flood plan is a bold move: “We need to do better on planning, not just Re‑do the same thing with the same result,” Albanese said. 800 million dollars is the price of buying back safety, securing homes, and protecting a generation’s future.
