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Support for South Australia's inland river communities

Wednesday, 16 July 2025

The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed to cost-share further targeted disaster assistance, including the construction of a temporary barge to support communities in South Australia’s north-east impacted by severe inland river flooding.

Following sustained and intense rainfall across Queensland, major flooding has occurred throughout the Thomson, Barcoo, and Cooper Creek catchments, with floodwaters now affecting remote regions of South Australia. The Cooper Creek peaked at Innamincka in early April, reaching one of the highest levels on record - surpassing the 1974 flood event.

The Birdsville Track is a critical transport route in the state’s outback for the movement of livestock and essential goods. Under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the Australian and South Australian Governments will cost share the construction and deployment of a barge while the Cooper Creek Crossing is inundated.

The barge will have modular pontoons to accommodate vehicles and enable transportation of livestock. It will also enable the transport of community supplies, maintain connectivity and maximise tourism opportunities for the region while flooded roads can be assessed and repaired.

Significant damage has also been reported to critical infrastructure, presenting exceptional challenges for both industry and community. A support package comprising measures that recognise the extreme remoteness of the impacted area will be implemented.

To support recovery efforts, the Australian and South Australian Governments have activated the following additional assistance under the DRFA:

  • Primary Producer Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 to eligible primary producers who have suffered direct damage from the flood event. This assistance will help cover the costs of clean-up, repairs, and rebuilding efforts for affected farming operations.
  • A $680,000 Community Recovery Fund to support locally-led recovery initiatives, including assistance for restoration and repair of community facilities, funding for a range of community activities and initiatives for affected small businesses.

These measures are part of a coordinated response to ensure affected communities receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.