Councils unite to tackle climate challenges
Fraser Coast Regional Council is leading a new project to help communities across the Wide Bay Burnett and Central Queensland regions better prepare for the impacts of climate change.
The Wide Bay Burnett and Central Queensland Climate Resilient Alliance will bring eight councils together to share knowledge, collaborate on practical climate responses and coordinate educational campaigns for challenges like floods, storms, heatwaves and other natural hazards.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the impacts of climate change don’t stop at council boundaries, which is why a regional approach is so important.
“By working together, we can support our communities, protect our natural environment, and make our region more resilient to the challenges ahead,” he said.
The councils involved in the alliance are:
- Fraser Coast Regional Council (lead)
- Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council
- Gympie Regional Council
- North Burnett Regional Council
- South Burnett Regional Council
- Livingstone Shire Council
- Rockhampton Regional Council
- Gladstone Regional Council
The alliance has received a $100,000 grant through a partnership between the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) and the Queensland Government to support regional climate planning and resilience work.
The project will support local action across four key areas:
- Environment – shared plans to manage climate risks and care for our natural areas
- Community – giving residents more opportunities to be involved and supported in preparing for future impacts
- Social connections – strengthening ties between councils, community groups and businesses
- Economy – helping to attract investment, support climate-smart infrastructure, and grow jobs in sustainable industries.
Cr Seymour said the alliance would also help councils access future grants and funding for local projects.
“The councils involved are committed to working together to create safer, stronger and more sustainable communities,” he said.
“This is about thinking ahead, acting locally, and building a better future for everyone.”
