Queensland Flood Crisis
Queensland is facing some of its worst flooding on record, with water levels surpassing previous disasters in 2011 and 2022. Relentless rain has submerged towns, damaged homes, and displaced hundreds, with some communities still cut off and unreachable.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the situation a “once-in-a-generation” event, confirming over $100 million in recovery funding and a joint effort with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli. Both leaders emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation as emergency services work around the clock to deliver aid and evacuate residents.
“This is a marathon, not a sprint,” Crisafulli said, acknowledging the long road to recovery ahead. Helicopters have been deployed to access isolated areas, as emergency crews navigate damaged roads and flooded infrastructure.
With agricultural losses mounting and rural communities hit hardest, the flood’s impact is expected to leave a lasting mark on the regions recovery.
South Australia Dry Spell
Regions such as the Adelaide Plains, Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas, and the upper South-East have experienced the lowest rainfall on record since February 2024. This prolonged dry spell has led to the drying up of waterways, resulting in the death of fresh water fish and stressing tree species like wattles and eucalypts. On Kangaroo Island, endangered species such as the assassin spider face extinction due to habitat degradation from fire and drought. 
Farmers are grappling with dried-out dams and the high costs of transporting water for livestock. In areas like Kangaroo Island and the Barossa Valley, which typically receive reliable rainfall, the drought has been particularly devastating. Some farmers are resorting to feeding their bees sugar syrup due to a lack of nectar, while others face difficult decisions about selling underweight livestock.
In response to the crisis, the South Australian Government has expanded its drought relief efforts, announcing a $55 million assistance package in addition to the $18 million provided in November 2024. This brings the total drought assistance to $73 million. The support includes grants of up to $1,500 for farming families and rural small businesses to cover essentials like utility bills and school costs. Additional funds are allocated for on-farm infrastructure, mental health support, and community resilience programs.
Our thoughts are with all the families and farmers affected by these recent natural disasters. If there’s anything we can do to support you during this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at support@farmo.com.au - we’re here to help in any way we can.
