An updated version of the Australian Rainfall and Run-off guide will give engineers more accurate information on flood-prone regions, the Federal Government says.

Engineers Australia will work with government agency Geoscience Australia on the update under a $5 million agreement signed last week. It is the first time the guide has been reviewed in 25 years.

Resources Minister Martin Ferguson says the guide provides important information on planning communities, emergency responses and designing major infrastructure projects.

“Since the guide was last updated in 1987, new approaches to catchment and flood modelling have been developed and a significant volume of new data about rainfall and run-off patterns has been collected,” Mr Ferguson said.

“The new guide will enable engineers to develop more accurate and detailed flood studies and will enable them to consider the potential impact of climate-induced changes to rainfall and river flow patterns.”

The move comes after insurers, the European Space Agency and Zurich-based catastrophe claims provider Perils AG joined forces to produce satellite flood maps on a global scale.

The updated guide is part of the Federal Government’s $12 million, four-year response to the Natural Disaster Insurance Review, aiming to increase the quality, consistency and accessibility of risk information following the devastating floods last year.

Insurers have modified their policies after a backlash from the community over coverage exemptions, with Allianz the latest to roll out flood cover for its commercial-package clients last month.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia, 78.1% of homes in Australia are now covered for flood, up from only 3% in 2006.