Queensland's mayors call on Canberra to drop disaster fund changes

Queensland's 77 mayors have signed a letter calling on Canberra to abandon its proposed changes to disaster recovery funding, saying it will force local communities to fork out the difference.

Queensland Disaster Recovery Minister Ann Leahy has written to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as the state government continues its push for the Commonwealth to ditch its proposed changes.

In June, the federal government announced changes to the Disaster Recovery Framework that would reduce its contribution from 64 per cent to a 50-50 split with states.

The letter, signed by all Queensland mayors and peak industry groups, says the changes would leave communities to fund the shortfall.

"Your proposed funding cuts will mean Queensland communities are forced to choose which assets not to rebuild, while facing higher insurance premiums, reduced community safety, and bankrupt councils," the letter states.

Ms Leahy says in the letter that Queensland already pays its "fair share" and it would support changes that make the system "simpler and faster".

"Per capita, Queensland residents pay over 50 per cent more for disaster response and recovery than New South Wales residents, and three to five times as much as residents of other states and territories," the letter states.

The letter has been signed by all Queensland mayors and peak industry groups including the Queensland Farmers' Federation, Q Shelter, Volunteering Queensland, RACQ and the Local Government Association of Queensland.

Ms Leahy and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli also used a press conference about the state's weather outlook and disaster preparedness on Tuesday to raise concerns over the proposal.

'Stoking fear'

A federal government spokesperson said it was making the changes because disasters are becoming more frequent and intense, and funding arrangements have not "evolved at the same pace".

"We're urging the Queensland government to engage with this process rather than stoking fear among councils and communities," the spokesperson said.

"Our discussions with councils have made it clear there are opportunities for improvements in the way not only the commonwealth, but the state approaches disaster recovery."

The spokesperson said the changes would make the process for claiming disaster funding simpler and faster for councils.

"They will mean councils can get the funding they need to support communities faster and with less red tape," they said.

Consultation on the new framework is ongoing, with federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain setting up a working group with representatives from councils across Australia.

The federal government says there will be no changes to funding arrangements or recovery supports for the upcoming season.

"Proposed changes from the reforms will not come into effect until further work with states, territories, local governments and communities to make sure new arrangements are practical and effective," a spokesperson said.

'Take it off the table'

Premier David Crisafulli said the state government was pushing the issue due to concern among community leaders, with the federal treasurer's mid-year update an opportunity to "take it off the table".

"Across the board local governments, and that's all mayors of all political persuasions are sending a message, " he said.

"It is a cry for help to Canberra and that is, take it off the table so they can prepare now and into the future."