More than $7.6 million to restore North and Far North Queensland coastlines

​​Joint media release with the Hon Andrew Powell MP

• Four Councils will share $7.6 million in funding to help them recover from the impacts of the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low.
• The funding will support 12 projects aimed at restoring and strengthening coastal areas.
• This investment is part of the jointly funded $73 million Environmental Recovery Package under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Coastal regions in North and Far North Queensland impacted by the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low are set to benefit from more than $7.6 million in funding under the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program.

Four northern councils will share in the funding for 12 projects that will restore beaches and coastal areas from Cardwell to Injinoo on the tip of Cape York that were severely impacted by the 2025 weather event.

The program will deliver vital restoration and resilience-building works to protect the region’s natural coastal defences and support long-term recovery.

The Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program is jointly funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the DRFA, as part of the $73 million Environmental Recovery Package (Stage 2).

For more information on the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program and the successful projects, visit
Queensland Government Environment.​

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain

“Our coastlines are vital to the identity and livelihoods of these communities, and this funding will help ensure they are restored to their natural beauty and strength.

“By working together, all levels of government are delivering long-term recovery solutions that not only repair the damage but also protect these areas from future severe weather events.

“These projects will also support local jobs and help preserve the natural environment that is so important to the people of North and Far North Queensland.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell

“Queensland’s coastline is a source of pride for local communities and one of our state’s biggest visitor drawcards, supporting small businesses and attracting visitors to some of North Queensland’s most spectacular destinations.

“These projects will help restore the beaches and coastal areas that communities are proud of and that visitors travel thousands of kilometres to experience.

“From Cardwell to Cape York, this investment is about ensuring Queensland’s coastal destinations continue to be places where people can live, work, holiday and connect with the natural environment.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith MP

“When severe weather events hit our shores, the coastline is the first to bear the brunt of that – we all saw the shocking footage of Holloways Beach with the sand washed away and exposed tree roots.

“Coastal erosion can be a threat not just to the beautification of our beaches but can compromise roads and infrastructure. Navigating tidal overflow can be hazardous and expensive.

“By planting vegetation, rebuilding walls, and backfilling eroded sand, this scheme will provide buffering to our coastal areas when the next storm comes.

“The DRFA is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, as we stand shoulder-to-shoulder protecting Queenslanders from natural disasters.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia Senator Nita Green

“The Albanese Government understands the importance of restoring and strengthening communities and coastlines after natural disasters.

“This funding will go a long way in helping these communities recover from the 2025 Tropical Low, while ensuring that these communities are better prepared in the future.

“We’re helping regional Queensland communities become more resilient now and for generations to come.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Assistant Minister for Tourism Bree James

“Queensland’s beaches and coastlines are one of our biggest tourism drawcards, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world to experience the best of our state.

“As the home of the holiday, it’s important we protect and restore the natural places that support local tourism businesses and regional economies.

“This investment will help ensure visitors can continue to enjoy the world-class coastal experiences that make Queensland such a sought-after destination.”