Political leaders across Queensland are celebrating after the Federal Government announced on Friday it would not go through with a proposed reduction in the amount of emergency funding it would allocate in the event of future disasters.

The Government had proposed changing the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements from a 75 per cent Federal, 25 per cent State Government mix to a 50/50 model, potentially cutting millions of dollars from the disaster-funding budget. 

But Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain released a joint statement on Friday “following extensive consultation”.

“The Commonwealth will retain the current cost‑sharing arrangements,” the statement reads.

“Because we know communities need certainty when disasters hit.”

Treasurer Chalmers: “We said we would consult widely and genuinely and we have. 

“When disaster strikes, we will be there with the funding to help people get back on their feet.”

Minister McBain: “I’ve been engaging with councils across the country about these reforms and thank them for their engagement.

“I want to ensure our reforms reflect the varying experiences of communities across Australia, and these changes to the reforms will ensure no community is left behind.”

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon and Cook MP David Kempton welcomed the move.

“This is a fantastic result not only for Queensland councils, but for councils and communities right across Australia,” Mayor Scomazzon said.