Right now, North Queensland is experiencing catastrophic flooding, marking the second “once-in-a-century” flood in just six years. Towns like Ingham and areas surrounding Townsville are inundated, leading to mass evacuations, significant infrastructure damage, and tragic loss of life. The Herbert River is reaching levels unseen since 1967, overwhelming communities and causing widespread devastation.
The floods have already resulted in tragic fatalities, including an 82-year-old woman found in a cane paddock near Ingham and a 63-year-old woman who died during a rescue operation when an SES boat capsized. Thousands of homes are without power, and essential services like water and telecommunications are severely disrupted. Infrastructure, including the Ollera Creek Bridge on the Bruce Highway, has suffered extensive damage, isolating communities and complicating relief efforts.
Our hearts are with those affected by the floods in Northern Queensland. As climate change continues to drive more frequent and destructive disasters, Greenpeace is demanding accountability from those most responsible.
Climate Change is fuelling Extreme Weather
The increasing frequency and severity of floods, fires, and storms are directly linked to the continued burning of fossil fuels. As global temperatures rise, not only are we seeing the effects of prolonged periods of extreme heat, but the atmosphere also holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall and more severe storms and flooding.
Right now, everyday Australians are bearing the financial burden of these “unnatural” disasters, paying an estimated $13 billion annually for recovery and rebuilding efforts. This figure does not account for the emotional and psychological toll on affected communities. Meanwhile, major fossil fuel corporations continue to reap substantial profits, often paying minimal taxes and contributing little to the recovery efforts necessitated by the crises they have exacerbated.
It’s Time to Make Polluters Pay
Those who have contributed least to climate change pay the highest cost. We see that play out in Australia – and on a global scale.. .
And the same industries that fueled the climate crisis are now dodging responsibility while everyday people in Australia, across the Pacific Islands, and around the world are left to deal with the fallout—losing their homes, livelihoods, and even their lives.
If corporations paid fair taxes on their profits and pollution, we could support communities impacted by climate change while accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels.
That’s why we’re calling on the Australian Government to hold coal, oil, and gas corporations accountable for the damage they have caused. By implementing fair taxation on these polluters, we can fund climate resilience initiatives, support affected communities, and accelerate the shift to renewable energy.
Those affected by the floods in Queensland can seek support from the Queensland Government here.
