Ingham Substation Flood Mitigation On The Horizon

The devastating flooding event that impacted our region in February 2025 caused widespread damage, leaving homes and businesses reeling in its aftermath. One of the most serious consequences was the inundation and shutdown of the Ingham substation, which plunged the entire district into darkness and disrupted telecommunications at a time when we needed them most.

This significant power outage during a natural disaster made an already difficult situation even more challenging. The loss of electricity not only impacted homes and businesses but also vital communication and emergency response capabilities. In times of crisis, maintaining power should not be a luxury, it is a necessity. During a flooding event, our electrical distribution asset should be more resilient.

I recently submitted a Question on Notice to the Energy Minister, seeking clarity on what steps are being taken to flood-mitigate the Ingham substation. Specifically, I asked whether funding had been allocated, what planning was underway, and when we could expect to see tangible outcomes delivered.

In response, the Energy Minister has advised that Ergon Energy Corporation Limited (Ergon) has submitted a funding application to the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund for flood mitigation works for the Ingham Substation.

More notably, Energy Queensland has also advised that provisions have been made in the 2025-26 Budget for Ergon’s expected share of the works, with Ergon expressing confidence that critical works will be completed before the 2025-26 summer period.

This is a timeframe that reflects the urgency and importance of ensuring that Hinchinbrook Shire isn’t left in the dark again during our next flooding event. I am hopeful that we will see construction at the Ingham substation commence soon, which is a favourable outcome for the whole community.

These works are not just infrastructure upgrades, they are a necessary investment in Hinchinbrook’s safety, resilience and ability to respond in times of crisis.

I would like to extend appreciation to those who have advocated and thank you to the relevant Ministers, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Ergon Energy and Energy Queensland for committing to deliver this flood resilience project.

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