17,246 properties impacted across Brisbane
10,129 properties added to the flood map for the first time
2,000+ properties moved into higher flood risk categories
400 properties removed from the flood map
Suburbs affected include Albion, Windsor, Ashgrove, The Gap, Newstead, Teneriffe, Jindalee, Lota, Hemmant, Wynnum West and more
Changes take effect 19 September 2024
Applies only to creek and waterway flooding, not the Brisbane River or overland flow
Storm Water Consulting has already been using the new flood studies in modelling for 6 months
Brisbane City Council has announced a major flood mapping update that will affect more than 17,000 properties across the city. From 19 September 2025, over 10,000 homes will be added to the flood risk map for the first time, while more than 2,000 properties will be moved into higher risk categories. Around 400 lucky homeowners will see their properties removed from the map altogether.
This update is part of an ongoing program of flood studies across Brisbane. In recent years, the city has seen major mapping updates in places like Kedron Brook and Bulimba Creek, and this latest round focuses on Breakfast Creek, Jindalee, and Lota Creek catchments. Council says these changes give residents more transparency and more accurate data when making property and development decisions.
The mapping applies to creek and waterway flooding only — not the Brisbane River or overland flow. Suburbs expected to be affected include Albion, Windsor, Wilston, Newmarket, Ashgrove, The Gap, Alderley, Enoggera, Stafford, Grange, Newstead, Teneriffe, Bowen Hills, and Fortitude Valley. In the west, suburbs like Jindalee, Sinnamon Park, and Fig Tree Pocket are included, while to the east, areas such as Lota, Hemmant, and Wynnum West are part of the new overlays.
This broad spread highlights just how interconnected Brisbane’s creeks and waterways are. Many of these suburbs are highly desirable and close to the CBD, but their proximity to creeks makes them more vulnerable when severe storms hit. Even if your property has never been flooded before, the mapping may now show a potential risk.
For homeowners, the changes could have a direct impact on insurance premiums, property values, and even development approvals. Council has asked insurers not to increase premiums based solely on the new mapping, but it admits it has no power to enforce this. Property owners will be sent letters outlining how their property is affected, and the updated Brisbane Flood Awareness Map will go live in September.
At Storm Water Consulting, we’ve already been working with these new flood study updates in our modelling for the past six months, so we understand exactly how they may affect different properties across Brisbane.
It’s also worth noting that these flood studies used older climate models. Experts warn that federal guidelines now recommend increasing rainfall projections by 30–60% to account for climate change. This means more flood mapping changes are likely in the future, as new catchment studies are completed and as the science evolves.
In practical terms, this tells us that flood risk is a moving target. Severe weather events are predicted to occur more frequently, and Brisbane residents are well aware of how disruptive floods can be — especially after the 2011 and 2022 events. Updating the maps doesn’t eliminate the risk, but it does help homeowners make informed decisions and prepare more effectively.
So, what can you do if your property is affected by the new mapping?
Check your property: Use Council’s Flood Awareness Map and FloodWise Property Report to see exactly how your property is classified.
Talk to your insurer: Be proactive — understanding your flood risk can help you negotiate or compare coverage.
Plan for resilience: Small changes like raising electrical outlets, improving drainage, or landscaping to divert water can make a difference.
Seek professional advice: If you’re considering renovations or development, flood modelling and stormwater design advice can ensure your plans comply with council requirements.
The key takeaway is not to panic. Being on the flood map doesn’t always mean your property faces frequent or severe risk — in some cases, the likelihood may be extremely low. But awareness allows you to prepare, protect your property, and avoid costly surprises down the track.
At Storm Water Consulting, we’ve been aware of these flood study updates for some time and have already been incorporating them into our modelling for the past six months. If you’re feeling unsure about how the new Brisbane flood risk mapping might affect your home, we’re here to help. We can walk you through the updates, explain what it means for your property, and share practical steps for resilience. Get in touch with us — we’re always happy to chat and guide you through the changes.
