General News
24 April, 2025
LNP backs disaster centre
THE Douglas Shire Council has welcomed the LNP’s election commitment of $5 million to construct a disaster coordination, community recovery and resilience centre in Mossman.
Funding of a purpose-built facility will enhance disaster preparedness, recovery and resilience across the Douglas Shire and broader Far North Queensland region.
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said “the announcement is a direct result of advocacy by (the) council and is an investment in the future safety of our community”.
“The centre will be designed to serve as the Douglas Shire disaster coordination and response centre. It will provide essential community space dedicated to recovery, resilience education, training, and long-term disaster planning. The centre will be self-sufficient and able to function during disasters, demonstrating a significant shift in our capabilities and technology,” she said.
Operating year-round, it will be home to the council’s newly formed disaster management unit and allow access for other emergency services, volunteers, and community groups to undertake training and education.
The region – one of Australia’s most disaster-prone – is frequently impacted by cyclones, floods and extreme weather events including the most recent Tropical Cyclone Jasper (2023) and associated catastrophic flood event.
“We know too well the devastating impacts of disasters in our region and the long road to recovery – this facility will ensure our communities are better prepared, supported and connected when it matters most. It is truly a significant commitment that will benefit everyone for decades,” Cr Scomazzon said.
LNP emergency management spokeswoman Perin Davey and LNP candidate for Leichhardt Jeremy Neal met the shire council earlier this month today to announce a Dutton LNP government will contribute $5m to deliver this project.
“Despite its risk profile, the Douglas Shire does not have a fit-for-purpose emergency management and coordination centre,” Senator Davey said.
“It is testament to the commitment of the council that they have managed repeated disasters from their council offices, but that is not optimal. It is time the region had better infrastructure to support their capacity to manage, respond and recover from natural disasters.
“This funding will benefit, not only the Douglas Shire, but also neighbouring areas and remote communities in the region that often look to the council for help.”
Mr Neal said the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in 2023 were still raw in people’s minds and the experience highlighted the need for fit for purpose facilities.
“Having been involved in disaster response and recovery, I understand the importance of a quick recovery to ensure communities return to normal as soon as possible,” he said.
“During the Tropical Cyclone Jasper floods, the Local Disaster Management Group were using the generic board room at the local council chambers. We want to improve the response and recovery phases by having a designated centre to work from.
“I have been fighting for funding for this resilience centre and am proud to announce this commitment from the LNP today, which recognises the need for this facility.”
Douglas Shire Council is now urging the Labor Party to match the LNP’s commitment to this project.
Read More: Port Douglas
