NWQROC welcomes Federal Government decision to reverse 50:50 DRFA proposal
Media statement - 9 October 2026
The North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC) congratulates the Federal Government on its decision to reverse the proposed 50/50 funding split to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The group of 12 councils have welcomed a policy outcome that preserves disaster recovery support for regional communities, and supports those local governments that lead disaster response across their communities.
NWQROC Chair and Etheridge Shire Mayor Cr Barry Hughes said that the decision to retain the current disaster funding split, as well as maintaining Counter Disaster Operation payments to local governments, was important for North West Queensland where communities rely on predictable, well‑resourced response and recovery arrangements to restore essential services, repair infrastructure and support local businesses after extreme weather events.
“Maintaining strong DRFA settings helps ensure that tourism operators, agricultural producers and small businesses can recover quickly, keep staff employed and continue to support the regional economy,” Cr Hughes said.
“We thank the Government for listening to regional communities and for recognising the unique recovery needs of North West Queensland. Reversing the 50/50 funding split proposal protects the capacity of councils, businesses and farmers to rebuild after disasters and safeguards the livelihoods of people across our region.”
“Whilst we understand that the Federal Government continues to consider changes to the current disaster recovery funding arrangements – including amendments to activation thresholds and funding criteria, we remain committed to ensuring that any changes are fit-for-purpose for the region.”
NWQROC Deputy Chair and McKinlay Shire Council Mayor Cr Janene Fegan said the decision would provide much-needed confidence for communities preparing for another wet season while continuing to recover from this year’s flooding event.
“This decision by the Federal Government means that our councils and communities will continue to be supported by the funding arrangements we are far too familiar with.” Cr Fegan said.
“For remote towns, still rebuilding from the recent flooding event across North West Queensland, timely Federal Government assistance is the difference between a swift recovery and prolonged hardship.”
“We welcome the certainty this reversal provides for families, businesses and frontline council workers who deliver recovery on the ground, however we will continue to ensure that any further changes to the arrangements are pragmatic for our region.” she said.
The NWQROC looks forward to working with the Federal Government to strengthen disaster resilience, improve recovery planning and ensure funding arrangements reflect the realities of remote and regional recovery.
We remain ready to provide local insight and practical solutions to support faster, fairer recovery outcomes for our communities.
