Council initiates project to boost resilience through nature
Livingstone Shire Council is pleased to announce the launch of the 'Nature Based Resilience Project', an initiative funded through the Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Fund (QRRRF).
Jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland Governments, the QRRRF aims to empower communities in managing and mitigating the risks posed by natural disasters.
Under the banner of this forward-thinking project, Livingstone Shire Council has secured $499,000 in funding, propelling us towards bolstering our community's ability to respond to and recover from natural hazards while fostering the sustainable management of our invaluable natural ecosystems.
A dedicated Nature Based Resilience Project Officer has been appointed to steer the project towards its completion by 30 June 2025. The initiative will involve creating a Nature Based Resilience Framework, establishing two dynamic demonstration sites, and implementing a robust cycle of maintenance, monitoring, and evaluation.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt supported the locally-driven initiative.
“The Albanese and Palaszczuk Governments are committed to helping local governments deliver projects in their communities that help to reduce disaster risks and get regions better prepared for future disasters,” Minister Watt said.
“We’re proud to support the Nature Based Resilience Project, which takes a strategic and considered approach towards using nature-based solutions to better prepare for disasters, and bounce back from them quicker.”
Keppel MP Brittany Lauga said the QRRRF provides Central Queensland governments the opportunity to further strengthen their communities against the threat of severe weather.
“History has shown us an upfront investment in stronger infrastructure and supporting communities to become more resilient pays dividends,” Ms Lauga said.
“This new strategic appointment by Livingstone Shire Council will enhance the gains they’ve already made with their Coastal Hazards Resilience and Risk Reduction Officer, another position also funded through QRRRF.
“We can’t stop natural disasters from happening, but we can ensure we’re prepared.”
Mayor Andy Ireland, Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, highlighted the Council's dedication to cultivating a stronger, safer, and more resilient region.
"This endeavour signifies a positive stride towards a future defined by safety and sustainability for every resident,” Mayor Ireland said.
“As part of the project, two nature-based resilience demonstration sites will be created to serve as models for effectively responding to natural hazards such as coastal events, bushfires, or floods.
“These sites will not only equip Council and our community with invaluable insights into the use of nature-based solutions to combat diverse natural hazards but also contribute to the preservation of our local biodiversity."
Councillor Andrea Friend, Portfolio Holder for Water, Waste Management and the Environment, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative.
"Our investment in this project enables us to develop a Nature Based Resilience Framework tailored to Livingstone Shire's unique environment,” Cr Friend said.
“Moreover, this initiative harmoniously aligns with our ongoing pursuit of ECO Destination Certification by solidifying our dedication to sustainable practices."
Stakeholder and community engagement will be at the heart of the project's success, with interactive workshops, forums, informative materials, and open days planned to foster a collective commitment to the cause.
These collaborative efforts will not only generate invaluable insights into the potential of nature-based solutions as effective responses to a range of natural hazards, but also simultaneously address societal challenges such as climate change, food and water security, disaster risk reduction, and human well-being, while nurturing our local biodiversity.
Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to actively partake in this journey.
The five-year (2019-24) National Partnership Agreement on Disaster Risk Reduction between the Australian and Queensland Governments aims to reduce disaster risk and limit the impact of disasters associated with natural hazards on Australian communities and economies.
To explore the full list of successful QRRRF projects for 2022-23 and previous rounds, please visit the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s website.