19 evacuation centres open, flood appeal launched

As the flood emergency evolves the Red Cross is providing shelter and support to thousands of people in south-east Queensland and northern NSW.

"Record rainfall has created a huge demand for Red Cross support," Red Cross acting Director Australian Programs Garry Page said.

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"Our staff and volunteers have rallied to meet this demand, in some cases in spite of the fact they have faced flood damage and isolation involving their own homes and families.

"Funds raised from the floods appeal will help Red Cross to provide immediate and longer-term humanitarian support to people across flood-devastated communities."

To donate to the appeal, go to https://www.redcross.org.au/floodsappeal.

In Queensland about 18,000 homes have been flooded, dozens of roads have been cut, and more than 50,000 properties have lost power.

Red Cross teams are on the ground in Queensland evacuation centres on the Fraser Coast, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Lockyer Valley, Ipswich, Brisbane and Gold Coast local government areas.

Red Cross acting Queensland State Director Collin Sivalingum said about 50 Red Cross volunteers and staff were working across 13 evacuation centres in Queensland, providing support to people of all ages.