The start of 2024 brought a reminder of nature’s fury to Queensland, with devastating weather events emphasising the critical need for flood-proofing homes. South-east Queensland, particularly hit hard by a severe thunderstorm on New Year’s Day, witnessed catastrophic consequences.
Notably, Upper Springbrook on the Gold Coast experienced an extraordinary 389mm of rainfall within just 24 hours, leading to significant flood damage and leaving over 100,000 residents without power.
These increasingly frequent extreme weather events, fueled by climate change, underscore the urgent necessity of implementing effective flood-proof measures in Australian homes. This is especially pertinent in regions like Queensland, known for their susceptibility to such natural disasters.
With the threat of floods ever-growing, ensuring the safety of your home against these natural disasters is more crucial than ever. This article explores practical and effective steps to make your home flood-resistant, providing essential insights for both newly constructed and existing properties.
Continue reading to learn about the vital strategies to protect your home from flood damage, leveraging the latest in flood-proof technology and materials.
1. Evaluate Your Flood Risk
Understanding Your Flood Zone
In flood-prone areas like Queensland, assessing your flood risk is crucial. This step involves analysing your locality’s flood history and floodplain data, helping you tailor flood-proofing measures effectively.
Read Soho’s guide on how to assess if your home is in a flood or high risk area.
Importance of Local Council Data
Consult your local council for detailed flood zone maps. These resources provide vital information on historical flood depths and patterns, enabling you to gauge your property’s vulnerability.
Additionally, state and territory governments, along with emergency services like the SES, offer access to flood-related information on their websites.
- Queensland
- Victoria
- New South Wales
- Australian Capital Territory
- Northern Territory
- South Australia
- Western Australia
2. Use Flood-Resistant Materials
Building With Resilience
Opt for flood-resistant materials when building a new home or renovating. Materials like core-filled blocks or water-resistant polycarbonate are better suited than traditional plasterboard, offering enhanced resistance to flood damage.
You can also find wall retaining wall supplies in Sydney or whichever city you live in – these can help you construct a retaining wall to keep large masses of earth from coming through.
It’s also helpful to understand the layout of your property and land. For instance, residing on a sloped area might necessitate the installation of additional drains along the incline, all of which should be interconnected to the legally designated point of discharge or the stormwater drainage system of your property.
Importance of Waterproof Cabinetry
In areas like kitchens, replace standard cabinets with waterproof options. This not only minimizes water damage but also prevents mold growth, ensuring longevity and safety.
3. Elevate Electrical Systems
Raising Power Points
Elevate sockets and appliances high on walls to above flood level protect against electrical damage during floods. This helps prevent water seepage into electrical outlets, a common issue in flood-affected homes.
Retrofitting for Safety
Consider retrofitting existing electrical systems, especially in flood-prone areas. This includes raising switchboards and wiring, significantly reducing flood risks.
4. Install Flood Protection Measures
Building Floodwalls
Erecting flood walls around your property can be an effective barrier against floodwaters. Incorporating watertight gates and berms in your landscape can significantly mitigate flood damage.
Sewage Water Backstop
Installing a backstop in your sewage system prevents backflow during heavy rainfall, protecting your home from sewage overflow, a critical aspect of flood-proofing.
5. Optimise Home Layout and Fixtures
Elevating Appliances
Raise essential appliances like washing machines to reduce the risk of water damage. Using elevated platforms not only secures appliances but also creates additional storage space.
Solid Core Doors
Replace hollow doors with solid core versions to minimize water penetration. This is a straightforward yet effective method to enhance your home’s flood resistance.
It also helps to have vents in the foundations to allow water to flow through rather than push it out. If you can create an area in your backyard or garden for the water to poo, it helps to prevent it from raising to higher levels.
Conclusion
Remember, while these steps can greatly reduce your home’s vulnerability to flooding, consulting professionals for tailored advice is always recommended. Stay prepared and protect your home against the unpredictable nature of floods.
FAQs on Flood-Proofing Your Home
Who is eligible for flood relief payment in Australia?
Eligibility for flood relief payments in Australia varies depending on the specific program and the disaster in question. However, some general criteria apply across most schemes. You can contact myGov or Services Australia for more information.
General Eligibility:
- Australian resident or meet specific residence rules: This typically includes holding Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or a special visa status.
- Ordinarily residing in an eligible Local Government Area (LGA): The affected area must be officially declared a disaster zone by the Australian Government.
- Suffered financial hardship as a direct result of the flood: This could include damage to your home, essential household items, loss of income, or other significant burdens.
Different Relief Programs:
- Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP):
- Be at least 16 years old (or younger if receiving another eligible payment).
- Experienced major damage to your principal residence, major assets, or serious injury due to the flood.
- Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA):
- Experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the flood (e.g., if your workplace is flooded).
- Meet Centrelink’s income and work test requirements.
- Disaster Relief Grant (NSW):
- Your primary residence was damaged by the flood and you don’t have insurance for the damage.
- You are a low-income earner with limited financial resources.
How Do I Claim the Centrelink Flood Payment of $1000?
The Centrelink Flood Payment of $1000 offers a one-time payment of up to $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child for those affected by a natural disaster. You can apply for this online or in-person. Read more about this in Soho’s guide.
What parts of Australia have the most floods?
Unfortunately, due to the diverse nature of Australia’s landscape and weather patterns, flood-prone areas are spread across the country. However, some regions experience flooding more frequently or intensely than others. Here’s a breakdown of some areas with a higher risk of flooding:
Queensland:
- Brisbane: The Brisbane River and its tributaries pose a significant threat, as seen in the devastating floods of February 2022. Low-lying suburbs like Rocklea and Oxley are particularly vulnerable.
- Townsville: Situated in North Queensland, Townsville experiences monsoonal rains that can cause flash flooding. The Ross River has a history of overflowing and inundating the city.
- Bundaberg: Located near the mouth of the Burnett River, Bundaberg faces coastal flooding risks from cyclones and storm surges, along with riverine flooding during heavy inland rainfall.
New South Wales:
- Richmond Valley: The Richmond River and its tributaries, particularly around Lismore and Ballina, are notorious for causing rapid and severe flooding.
- Mid North Coast: Areas like Kempsey and Taree along the Manning River and Port Macquarie on the Hastings River are susceptible to both riverine and coastal flooding.
- Central Coast: Low-lying suburbs around Gosford and Wyong are at risk from both Hawkesbury River floods and storm surges.
Victoria:
- Gippsland: The Latrobe and Thomson rivers can overflow their banks during heavy rains, impacting towns like Sale and Traralgon.
- Campaspe and Loddon Valleys: These agricultural regions experience flash flooding from smaller creeks and streams after intense rainfall.
- Melbourne: While not as common as in other states, Melbourne can experience flash flooding and localized inundation due to its stormwater drainage systems being overwhelmed by heavy downpours.
Other states and territories:
- South Australia: The lower reaches of the Murray River and areas around Adelaide like Gawler can be affected by riverine flooding.
- Northern Territory: Alice Springs can experience flash flooding during the wet season, while coastal areas like Darwin are at risk from cyclones and storm surges.
- Western Australia: The Kimberley region experiences monsoonal flooding, while Perth can be impacted by flash flooding from heavy rains.
- Tasmania: The Tamar River valley in the north and areas around Hobart can be affected by riverine flooding, while coastal regions are vulnerable to storm surges.
It’s important to remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and flooding can occur in any part of Australia under the right circumstances. It’s crucial to stay informed about weather warnings and have a flood preparedness plan in place if you live in a flood-prone area.
Additionally, here are some resources for checking flood risks in Australia:
- Bureau of Meteorology: http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings/
- Floodplain Management Authorities: Each state and territory has flood management authorities that provide information about flood risks in specific areas.
- Emergency Services: Local emergency services can provide up-to-date information and advice during floods.
Is it feasible to elevate an entire house?
Elevating a house is a recognised flood mitigation strategy, especially in areas with shallow flooding. However, it may not be practical for older or connected homes.
Can landscape design contribute to flood-proofing?
Yes, integrating flood-resistant landscape elements like berms can help divert stormwater away from your property.
How often should I reseal tiled areas?
Regular resealing is advised to maintain watertight integrity, especially in flood-prone areas.
