Action must be taken to reduce and manage flood risk, Floodplain Management Australia (FMA) President Ian Dinham says.

The group’s recent conference in Newcastle was the largest gathering in Australia of local and international flood experts, with 400 attendees.

Mr Dinham says the fact people came from every state and territory and other countries including New Zealand and the US “underlines the serious concerns held about the risks to life and property resulting from floods”.

“The conference identified that all Australian states and territories presently experience flooding and will experience future floods, with inherent risks to life, property and infrastructure, each associated with a social and economic loss,” he said.

“FMA will advocate through the application of science, policy, engagement and innovation for a planned minimisation in those risks and losses.

“Obviously, the best way to avoid the risk of flooding is to not build on floodplains. However, that is not always possible. But by better understanding the risks, and using the technology and expertise available today, the risks can be managed.”

The FMA has welcomed the release of a comprehensive flood risk guide by Justice Minister Michael Keenan.

The handbook provides guidance on studies to better understand flood risk and management options, which may involve mitigation, emergency management and land use planning.

The guide can be viewed here.