The major research project to investigate ways to minimise flooding in the NSW Northern Rivers region is another step closer.

The $11.2 million Northern Rivers Resilience Initiative being led by the National Recovery and Resilience Agency in partnership with national science agency CSIRO, will focus on understanding the impact of climate, catchment and hydrological drivers on flooding. 

Ministerial approval has now been given for the NRRA to enter a contract with CSIRO to progress the study. Unfortunately, the Morrison Government failed to sign this contract prior to the Federal election, which has delayed progress on this important project.

From the study, priority options for reducing flood risk across all seven Local Government Areas in the Northern Rivers region will be identified for Government consideration.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Murray Watt said the Albanese Government was determined to reduce the risks associated with natural disasters and help communities to be more resilient against future disasters.

“I’ve seen first-hand how devastating the floods in the Northern Rivers region have been for communities. From discussions I’ve had with Mayors, local members and residents, I know it will be a very long recovery,” he said.

“While the Albanese Government continues to support recovery efforts on the ground we are also looking at what can be done to ensure these communities are in a stronger position against future disasters.

“Our government intends to make sure Australia is better prepared for future disasters and this study is a key part of that.”

The $150 million investment recognises that the Northern Rivers region is highly vulnerable to disaster from severe weather, particularly flooding, and experienced significant damage this year.

The first step of this project is to conduct a six-month stakeholder engagement program, and review and assess flood mitigation options across seven flood-affected Local Government Areas in the Northern Rivers region.

The second step of the project will provide landscape mapping for all catchments in the region - Richmond River, Brunswick River, Clarence River and Tweed River. Detailed flood modelling and scenario analyses will also be conducted for the Richmond River catchment.

In advance of the contract being signed, the NRRA has met with key stakeholders, and the CSIRO has been gathering existing data about the floods and local Council flood mitigation plans, as well as planning and organising for field work.

Federal Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said the project would help the community escape the ongoing cycle of disaster and recovery and move towards a more resilient future.

“It's important to join up the community knowledge with broader scientific research," Minister Husic said.

“CSIRO's world-class science will support the community's road to recovery and resilience building. The research will equip decision-makers with additional knowledge to help create a brighter future for the region.”