Editorial: Political leaders front and centre in disaster zones

The presence of political leaders is required in times of natural disaster, for a variety of reasons, writes the editor.

Prime Minster Anthony Albanese and Queensland Premier Steven Miles at Skyrail Cairns on Wednesday. Picture: Brian Cassey/NCA NewsWire

The summer deluge looks set to continue, and with it could come more challenges for the weary and storm-tossed residents of Queensland.

The southeast is expected to receive daily showers through the weekend into early next week, while the far north has a far more significant looming weather event to deal with.

A monsoon trough is expected to develop in the Gulf of Carpentaria today and develop into a tropical low which next week could bring more heavy rain to an area of the state still sodden by the fallout from Cyclone Jasper.

Yet the state endures as it always has, with people rallying around and helping one another from New South Wales border regions to Cape York.

And, it should be noted, our political leaders are fulfilling the roles expected of them in these trying times.

While millions of Australians are still enjoying a well-deserved summer break from work and study, both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Queensland Premier Steven Miles have been very much on the ground, visiting disaster-stricken communities and making direct contact with those afflicted as well as those engaged in the clean-up.

The presence of political leaders is required in circumstances such as these for a variety of reasons.

One is to reassure people that their plight is of national concern and the nation itself, through its leaders, is determined to show both concern and empathy for those afflicted.

Another is to give voice to the plans in place to deal with the disaster and provide communities with a calm reassurance that help is on hand and will be provided by competent and trained people.

Perhaps more importantly than their visibility on the ground, these two Labor leaders are clearly working in sync when it comes to pushing through commonwealth and state funding to affected regions.

Yesterday, as both leaders were once again in the far north, there was an announcement of exceptional circumstances assistance jointly funded by the state and the commonwealth through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

This money is by no means a token contribution to dealing with a disaster which has impacted thousands of lives.

Included in the arrangements is nearly $25m to be spent on grants for North Queensland tourism operators impacted by extreme weather.

A further $20m will go to the ongoing clean up both in the north and the southeast as debris continues to be removed from national parks, beaches and waterways.

Both federal Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, and state Opposition Leader, David Crisafulli, have also not been found wanting in the past few weeks.

Mr Dutton visited Cairns on Christmas Eve and publicly urged holiday-makers not to cancel trips.

Mr Crisafulli has not only been visiting flood-affected communities but has, quite literally, rolled up his sleeves and helped volunteers in the clean-up.

Both have shown a determination to use their positions to assist and encourage fellow Australians.

Cynics would point out there is always political mileage to be made in a crisis, and few would reject such an observation.

Yet these displays of compassion and empathy, while simultaneously engaging in the practical work of mapping pathways out of the destruction and disruption, is at the heart of political representation in any worthwhile democracy.

This nation is, quite rightly, quick to point the accusatory finger at any political leader who does not make themselves highly visible during a natural disaster.

When politicians do fulfil the role expected of them their contribution should be, if not applauded, at least respected and acknowledged.

REMINDER TO GUARD AGAINST COVID

Hundreds of Queenslanders are currently in hospital as a new Covid-19 wave continues to surge throughout the state.

Unlike previous outbreaks, which generally peak after six weeks, this wave – the combination of two sub-variants – is still going strong after nearly three months.

The high infection numbers – undoubtedly fuelled by gatherings over the holiday period – are a timely reminder that Covid-19 still poses a risk to many members of the community.

Chief health officer John Gerrard yesterday urged people to take precautions – such as staying home if unwell – to protect vulnerable patients.

As our hospital staff and first responders continue to work under tough conditions it remains important for all Queenslanders to do their bit to help and stay up-to-date with recommended vaccinations.

Responsibility for election comment is taken by Chris Jones, corner of Mayne Rd & Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Printed and published by NEWSQUEENSLAND (ACN 009 661 778). Contact details here