Facing Flood Devastation: Understanding the Denial in Taree’s Submerged Reality

In the recent federal election, two main divides stood out: urban vs. rural and young vs. old. Young city voters tend to lean progressive, while older rural voters often choose conservative candidates. This divide raises questions about who truly represents the interests of individuals in vulnerable areas, especially as they face increasing threats from climate-related disasters.

For instance, my brother lives in a rural area and is feeling the impact of changing weather patterns firsthand. Despite knowing that rising global temperatures lead to more extreme weather, he struggles to understand why leaders in his community cling to old energy policies. They seem committed to fossil fuels, ignoring the urgent need to adapt to climate change, even while his town faces more frequent floods.

He texted me recently, “In my lifetime, there have been 100-year floods in 1978, 2021, and 2025. Before that, it was 1956. Deniers might argue that two floods in four years don’t matter statistically, but we have to recognize the trend.”

Andrew Gissing, the CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia, points out that while we can’t say for sure how much climate change has influenced these floods, warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rain. He referred to a recent severe flood as a "one-in-500 year event."

It’s confusing for people like my brother to comprehend why some still deny climate change. Even if they somehow believe that human actions aren’t influencing the planet, shouldn’t risk management be a priority? Why not adopt measures to protect their livelihoods, just in case the scientists are correct?

This denial can seem even more baffling in rural areas. Take David Littleproud, leader of the Nationals party, whose members voted against crucial net-zero bills despite stating a goal for 2050. This contradiction raises questions: Do leaders feel helpless? Do they think Australia shouldn’t act unless larger countries do? Is their pride in hardiness overshadowing practical solutions? Or do they simply not represent the frontline communities affected by these disasters?

Natural disasters reveal how quickly people unite and adapt. Communities come together, demonstrating resilience, as seen in towns like Lyne. Yet this reliance on community might give politicians a pass to ignore science. They can claim to support local spirit while resisting necessary environmental measures.

As floodwaters recede, my brother sees the effects on local wildlife and neighbors. In one instance, a herd of cattle swept away by the flood ended up stranded on a beach. My brother’s partner was relieved to learn that their pets survived, but the community still mourns losses. Meanwhile, drought in other parts of the state is adding to the suffering.

In contrast, elected officials in the capital seem more concerned with debates about identity politics than the real struggles faced by rural communities.

In 2021, a survey showed that 74% of Australians recognize climate change as a significant threat to their way of life. Yet, political responses seem disconnected from this reality. It’s clear that many rural voters are calling for change, hoping to find representatives who will tackle these challenges head-on, ensuring a safer future for everyone.

For further insights on climate impacts in Australia, visit the Climate Council, which provides comprehensive resources and data on this pressing issue.

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