The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) and its seven member councils have formed a new Climate Alliance and commenced a new Climate Resilience Project.
This initiative is aimed at delivering a comprehensive, localised strategic plan that addresses the unique risks faced by the RAPAD councils – Barcoo, Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Boulia, Diamantina, Longreach and Winton.
These are particularly related to energy consumption and renewable energy solutions.
The Alliance will support councils in climate mitigation and adaption strategies including emissions reduction, energy security and council financial sustainability.
A key part of the work will be helping councils understand how much energy they use, where their emissions come from, and how they can reduce usage or move towards renewable energy in ways that save money over time.
This new initiative builds on RAPAD’s strong history of councils working together on big regional challenges. Our communities already face some of the toughest conditions in Queensland, and by planning together and sharing knowledge, we can strengthen our ability to adapt.
The Climate Alliance held its first online meeting on 11 July 2025, bringing council representatives and project partners together to discuss the project and share local perspectives.
As part of the project, councils will also get access to:
- LGAQ’s Energy Detective tool to analyse energy use and identify cost and emissions savings.
- Workshops, staff training and knowledge-sharing opportunities on climate and energy strategies.
- Site visits and tailored advice on how to improve energy efficiency and make the most of renewable energy.
The RAPAD councils are:
- Barcaldine Regional Council
- Barcoo Shire Council
- Blackall-Tambo Regional Council
- Boulia Shire Council
- Diamantina Shire Council
- Longreach Regional Council
- Winton Shire Council
The project has been supported with a grant through a partnership between the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) and the Queensland Government to strengthen regional climate planning and resilience.
Central West Queensland has a long tradition of resilience. This alliance builds on that strength and ensures that, as a region, we’re prepared to meet the future with confidence and purpose.
