Commission of Inquiry into the 2010–2011 Queensland floods

The Commission of Inquiry into the Queensland floods was an Australian inquiry set up by Queensland Premier Anna Bligh to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly 2010–2011 Queensland floods. The independent Inquiry was headed by Justice Cate Holmes and was expected to cost A$15 million. Holmes examined the disaster, government preparedness and the emergency response.

The Inquiry was able to summon witnesses, demand documents and issue search warrants. A total of 345 witnesses were called.

The final report was initially due on the 17 January 2012. This was extended into February due to the quantity of material which has to be processed and analysed. The deadline for submissions was extended to 15 June to allow for submissions related to insurance companies to be included.

The Commission asked independent hydrological expert Mark Babister to investigate the operation of Wivenhoe Dam during the flood period. He found the operators had achieved nearly the best possible flood mitigation effort. The report states that 59% of the downstream flooding was caused by water releases from the dam.

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