App helps Queensland councils get REDI for the next disaster

Against the backdrop of the harshest global economic conditions faced in a lifetime, an innovative mapping application has been built to help Queensland councils make more informed infrastructure investment decisions.

Developed by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA), the Repeat Events and Dollars Index (REDI) is an interactive web-based mapping tool that identifies the most likely and costly sites at risk from natural disaster.

Treasurer and Minister responsible for the QRA Cameron Dick said the application will give councils a clear picture of where money should be spent to strengthen resilience and maximise recovery.

“Infrastructure investment is a critical element of the COVID economic recovery plan our government is delivering, Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs,” Mr Dick said.

“The REDI web app will help councils target their infrastructure spending program to ensure maximum long-term benefit for their community, and this work will drive employment across our state.

“Whether Queensland is facing natural disasters like bushfires, cyclones and floods, or health disasters such as COVID-19, we need to make sure the infrastructure built protects our cities and towns.

“And right now, with the global economy in a dire state, investing in the right projects is paramount.”

Incorporating almost 10 years of geocoded damage data across approximately 600,000 locations, the REDI application recognises more than 20,000 assets in Queensland’s 77 local government areas.

This data is represented in the app via a heat map and will allow councils to identify infrastructure that’s particularly vulnerable to damage from disaster events.

“REDI is available free of charge to all Queensland councils and its development would not have been possible without a strong commitment from all councils,” Mr Dick said.

“One of the key objectives of our Queensland Strategy for Disaster Resilience is making sure Queenslanders understand their disaster risk, and the REDI application is a great way to achieve that.”

Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Chief Executive Officer Greg Hallam said REDI was a great example of the Queensland Government working collaboratively with local government to deliver benefits for all communities.

“The Queensland Reconstruction Authority would not have been able to develop REDI without the input of all 77 Queensland councils,” Mr Hallam said.

“That partnership has delivered an innovative tool that will ultimately ensure taxpayer money is spent in a way that best serves local communities.

“The REDI application is designed for ease of use and will help councils identify priority works and make informed decisions when it comes investing in stronger and more resilient infrastructure.

“I commend the QRA on its innovative solution and encourage all councils to use this technology.”

Mr Dick said the QRA will keep working with councils to add new damage data to continually improve the REDI web app.

“Our government remains steadfast in its commitment to the safety of Queensland communities,” he said.

“We want Queensland to stand as the most disaster-resilient state in Australia, and that’s only achievable because of smart initiatives like this app.”

The QRA conducted trials of REDI with McKinlay Shire Council, Rockhampton Regional Council, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Hinchinbrook Shire Council and Southern Downs Regional Council.

For check out the app visit qra.qld.gov.au/REDI

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561