Prime Minister Anthony Albanese – who is currently in Townsville visiting flood-ravaged communities – has described the situation in North Queensland as “tough”. This comes as North Queensland battles dwindling supplies and widespread devastation amid heavy rain still hammering parts of the state.

Criminals have taken advantage of evacuation orders in areas of Far North Queensland rocked by the death of two people, leaving police “disgusted”.

As relentless rainfall caused floods across the north, residents were forced to either evacuate their homes or take necessary precautions if they chose to remain.  Townsville Superintendent Chris Lawson said high-visibility anti-looting patrols are being conducted across North Queensland, including Townsville and surrounding areas.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to visit Far North Queensland today with plans to visit the flood-affected communities.

Premiums are higher in the tropical north, and those who can afford cover have started lodging claims for flood damage.