The responses of society to the Queensland and Victorian floods was extremely positive, particularly in Queensland.
As for the response of the Australian public, more than 55, 000 registered volunteers were out on the streets of Queensland helping with the aftermath of the events. Along with these registered volunteers, thousands more who were unregistered were out on the streets helping with the mass cleanup.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard toured the areas that had been affected, and the next day a donation was made to the flood relief appeal by Queen Elizabeth II along with her son Prince Charles. Prince Charles' eldest son, Prince William, toured the flood affected areas in both Queensland and Victoria in March 2011.
Operation Queensland Flood Assist was the Australian Defence Force's contribution to the flood relief efforts. This was the largest deployment of the Australian Defence Force for a natural hazard since Cyclone Tracy. The Australian Defence Force also assisted in the cleanup of Victoria.
In Victoria, the Premier announced a $7 million relief package, which included a $5 million cleanup fund as well as a $1 million public appeal fund that was raised by the Red Cross. The federal Government also pledged $4 million in relief funds.
Various sporting events also collected floods that went towards the Queensland Flood Appeal. The first Twenty20 cricket match that was played between Australia and England donated part of their match fees, as well as collecting donations from the audience. The day before the 2011 Australia Open, the Rally for Relief was held and several well-known players took part including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Lleyton Hewitt. It was attended by 15, 00 people and raised $750, 000. The 2011 Legends of Origin match that took place also raised funds to help the flood relief.
These responses of society demonstrate just how much a devastating event can band many together. There have been countless number disastrous natural hazards not only in Australia but throughout the world. The people of Queensland and Victoria are lucky to have had such a huge show of support from the citizens of Australia, and people around the world.
