The Queensland Government says an additional $3 million will be provided to expand a program to defend the state’s communities from climate change, sea level rises, storm tides and coastal erosion.

The extra funding for the QCoast 2100 program, made through a partnership between state and local governments, will help 31 councils implement coastal hazard adaptation plans and begin critical on-ground works.

“This new funding will also help communities in Far North Queensland and Cape York develop strategies for their communities,” Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said.

“But we also need the Federal Government to step up and act quickly to help these communities in this fight against climate change.”

Ms Scanlon says another $500,000 provided through the Queensland Climate Resilient Councils grants program would help four islands to plan for and respond to challenges and opportunities arising from climate change.

Great Keppel, Palm, Masig and Magnetic islands have all begun exploring how they can reduce emissions and waste through community-led measures, while also creating jobs as part of the state’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.