Concerned environmentalists and residents gathered along Coronation Drive and Regatta Wharf in Milton to mark the third anniversary of the 2022 floods and show solidarity in demanding positive climate action. The February 27 rally highlighted ongoing concerns about extreme weather resilience and Australia’s high carbon emissions.
2022 Floods: One of Australia’s Worst Natural Disasters
The 2022 Eastern Australia floods were among the most devastating in history. It affected multiple regions, including Brisbane, the Wide Bay–Burnett, Northern Rivers, and Sydney. Heavy rainfall caused the Brisbane River to peak at 3.8 metres. It inundated over 20,000 homes across South East Queensland. The disaster led to 27 deaths. Property damage exceeded $2.5 billion in Queensland alone.
Milton was significantly impacted, with Coronation Drive and surrounding areas submerged. Public transport services were halted. Major highways were shut, and thousands of residents faced power outages. Three years later, concerns remain over Brisbane’s preparedness for future extreme weather events.
Residents Criticise Lack of Climate Action
Participants at the Milton rally pointed out that despite the scale of devastation in 2022, a comprehensive plan has not been introduced to cut emissions or improve climate resilience. Australia remains one of the world’s highest per capita carbon emitters. The fossil fuel exports produce three times the country’s domestic emissions.
What Locals Are Demanding
Milton protesters called for clear commitments from all political parties to:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through stricter regulations on polluters.
- Invest in renewable energy and green industries to transition away from fossil fuels.
- Improve infrastructure resilience to minimise future flood damage.
- Hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact.
How the Community Can Get Involved
- Advocates encourage Queenslanders to take action by:
- Emailing election candidates to demand stronger climate policies.
- Displaying ‘Climate Action Now’ signs to raise awareness.
- Volunteering with local climate organisations to spread the message.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Urgent Policy Change
While recovery efforts have helped rebuild Brisbane’s flood-affected areas, experts warn that climate-related disasters will become more frequent and severe without immediate action. The Milton rally is a reminder that Queenslanders are not willing to wait another three years for progress.
Published 27-Feb-2025
