Hinkler MP responds to criticism on lack of levee funding in federal budget

Mr Pitt said it was “unrealistic” to think one project could take up to 85 per cent of available funding. Read his response here.

Hinkler MP Keith Pitt has responded to criticism from local and state representatives after no funding was allocated from the Bundaberg East Flood Levee in the federal budget. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Hinkler MP Keith Pitt has responded to criticism from local and state government representatives after no funding was allocated for the Bundaberg East Flood Levee in this week’s federal budget.

Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey called for the “petty politics” to stop while Bundaberg MP Tom Smith pointed the finger at the federal government saying they “failed to come to the table” and Burnett MP Stephen Bennett said he was “disappointed” but blamed the State Government.

Mr Pitt said he appreciated that flood mitigation was an emotive issue for Bundaberg residents following the floods of 2010-11 and 2013.

He said the Federal Government had established a $50 million grant round to assist communities across the country to prepare for extreme weather events and flooding.

“Sadly, the Queensland State Labor Government only put forward one proposal for flood mitigation for Bundaberg, at a cost of $42.5 million from the $50 million funding program,” he said.

“It’s unrealistic to expect that one project would take up 85 per cent of the available funding. As announced this week, 22 projects have been funded under the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program.

“The option the Queensland State Labor Government chose to apply for did not assist the 6000 people in North Bundaberg who would be trapped in the event of another flood.

“I’ve met with numerous constituents and listened broadly to the community. I believe the priority should be an evacuation route for the residents of North Bundaberg and I am actively looking to secure funding for this option.”

While some were disappointed with no funding for the levee, others said they were relieved funding had not yet been committed.

You can read more opinions on the issue here.