An independent review into Brisbane’s response to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has culminated in a key recommendation: the reactivation of the voluntary home buyback scheme. Cyclone Alfred, which made landfall at Moreton Bay on March 8, unleashed winds reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour and relentless rains, prompting urgent calls for improved preparedness and recovery measures.
Appointed to scrutinize the city’s handling of the weather event was former Queensland governor and Supreme Court Justice Paul de Jersey. This comprehensive assessment follows his previous review of Brisbane City Council’s (BCC) handling during the 2022 flooding disaster, which resulted in 37 targeted recommendations aimed at bolstering resilience and response.
Justice de Jersey expressed reassurance that many of his earlier recommendations had already been adopted by the council, demonstrating a proactive approach. “It’s encouraging to see that the council has taken onboard the lessons from the past and is responding appropriately,” he said. His review underscores the importance of continuous improvement in disaster management.
Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the city’s commitment to learning from every natural disaster. “Our goal is to continually refine our response to severe weather events,” Schrinner stated. He highlighted that following the 2022 floods, the council not only accepted but fully implemented all of de Jersey’s recommendations, resulting in tangible benefits during Cyclone Alfred’s aftermath.
The recommendation to resume the voluntary home buyback scheme aims to provide safer, more resilient housing options for residents vulnerable to extreme weather. As Brisbane prepares for future challenges, these insights and actions reinforce the city’s dedication to safeguarding its community through adaptive and forward-thinking strategies.
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