An update on the flood situation in Australia

Australia, like most parts of the world, is affected by extreme weather conditions from time to time. Recent heavy rainfalls in some parts of Australia, most notably in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, have caused river levels to rise and severe localized flooding.

The Australian Government is providing assistance to communities affected by the floods and will continue to work with the Queensland Government in providing support.

While visitors are urged to avoid the flood affected areas of Queensland and other states, Australia remains open for business and continues to welcome travelers.

The Australian continent is very large and whilst the floods are widespread, they are in fact restricted to a relatively small part of the country. The vast majority of the major international travel destinations in Australia, including Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Melbourne and Uluru are all completely unaffected.

Tourism Australia is providing daily updates and links to official Queensland Government information on its website www.australia.com.

With the exception of Rockhampton Airport, all Queensland airports are currently open.

For the latest flood news and updates Tourism Queensland recommends visiting the Queensland Government’s official Queensland floods webpage: http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/ or visit the Bureau of Meteorology http://www.bom.gov.au/ to check weather forecasts for your holiday destination.

People wishing to directly help flood victims can donate to the Queensland Government Flood Assistance Appeal at www.qld.gov.au/floods

Parts of northern New South Wales are currently affected by flooding which has led to the closure of some major roads and highways.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected.