The Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP has praised the efforts of the LNP state government and local councils for forcing the federal Labor government to revoke its decision to slash disaster recovery funding to Queensland.
In June, federal Labor announced plans to split disaster recovery funding 50-50 with states and territories having previously contributed up to 75 per cent.
Mr Batt has told parliament it was a bad decision from the outset.
“Once again, Labor has been forced to back down,” Mr Batt said.
“We already have an active and volatile fire season, and communities across Hinkler are preparing for another summer of storms, flooding, and possible cyclones.
I stood alongside the Queensland LNP Government including our local state MPs, Stephen Bennett, David Lee and John Barounis, to demand this decision to cut disaster funding be overturned.
I also advocated in partnership with the Local Government Association of Queensland and our Mayors, Helen Blackburn and George Seymour.
Together, we made the voices of Hinkler heard. Common sense prevailed,” Mr Batt told Parliament.
In addition, Mr Batt used his speech to Parliament to congratulate the recipients of the Bundaberg Central Rotary Club’s 13th Annual Brian Prince Awards.
Held at the Bundaberg RSL on Saturday night, the awards recognised outstanding service in local emergency services.
The awards are hosted in honour of the late Brian Prince, a former Rotarian and paramedic who always put service above self.
“I congratulate every recipient and thank Rotary for recognising the people who give so much to our community,” Mr Batt said.
“To all of Hinkler’s emergency services personnel and volunteers – those who run towards danger and keep us safe – thank you.”
Brian Prince Emergency Service Awards | 2026:
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- ABC Media Award: Chief Inspector Grant Marcus
- QLD Ambulance Service: Officer Gary Stockwell
- QLD Police Service: Senior Constable Thomas Bell
- QLD Fire Department: Senior Firefighter Chris Sheather
- WB Hospital & Health Service: Jenny Hinds and Aaron Quay
- LifeFlight: Captain Tony Miller
- Volunteer of the Year: QAS Volunteer Brian Rose