Queensland is a global biodiversity hotspot—home to more than half of Australia’s native species. Some of these species are found nowhere else in the world.  

Yet, some of these precious plants and animals are at risk of extinction, with natural events such as cyclones, floods, drought, and fire contributing to their decline. Climate change is increasing the intensity and frequency of these threats.  

At the same time, Queensland’s agricultural output is expanding. More than 88% of Queensland’s land is used for primary production, intertwining how we manage agriculture with environmental stewardship. 

In 2023, the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust commissioned Australia’s NRM organisations to develop regional-scale emergency preparedness and response plans and establish proactive strategies to safeguard biodiversity and agricultural natural capital. 

The plans identify and map the most-at-risk natural assets and detail measures to reduce disaster impact. Focusing on protecting vulnerable ecosystems and native species, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and building economic resilience, the plans are underpinned by state-wide stakeholder engagement activities. 

Across mainland Queensland there are 11 regional NRM organisations working with partners on the ground, through more than 330 highly qualified staff operating out of 27 rural and regional offices, to help communities become more resilient to the effects of climate change and to farm more sustainably. 

By supporting communities to be prepared for disasters we will reduce the impact of these catastrophic events on species, ecosystems, agricultural natural capital assets, and local economies. 

Read Queensland’s Biodiversity and Agricultural Natural Capital Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans: nrmrq.org.au/natural-capital-emergency-plans.