Flood risk information portal launched
For investors concerned about how floods may affect their property, a website has recently opened with information to assist the community, planners and insurers to access important flood information about their local area.
The National Flood Risk Information Portal was launched by attorney-general and minister for emergency management Nicola Roxon, minister for resources and energy Martin Ferguson, and Geoscience Australia, who say the Portal will be a critical tool for disaster preparation.
"Easy access to flood risk information will give communities and planners a better understanding of their exposure to floods, as well as assist insurers in developing fair and reasonable policies," Ms Roxon said.
Minister Ferguson said the Portal is part of the $12 million, four-year National Flood Risk Information Project initiated by the Australian government in response to the Natural Disaster Insurance Review.
"The Portal will use satellite imagery to map floods and will be supported by national guidelines to assist holders of flood risk information to make their flood studies and maps available through the Portal," Minister Ferguson said.
"These guidelines, in conjunction with the recently announced agreement between Geoscience Australia and Engineers Australia to finalise the revision of the Australian Rainfall and Runoff Guide, will drive improvements in the consistency and quality of flood studies."
"This Portal will provide even more information for consumers and help them make more informed choices."
Geoscience Australia will host the Portal, which will be fully developed over four years, with updates in November each year prior to the summer season.
More information can be found at the National Flood Risk Information Portal.