River improvement trusts are separate from councils and other governments. They protect and improve rivers. This work can include, remediation, disaster preparation or recovery, revegetation and more.
Each of the 11 trusts in Queensland set and steer their own activity for the benefit of the community and environment. Contact them directly for more information.
Read more about watercourse works associated with emergencies and disasters.
Trusts are statutory bodies constituted under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940. They can raise funds, enter land, occupy land, enter into contracts and carry out works.
The State Council of River Trusts Queensland (State Council) is an incorporated association acting as the trusts’ peak body.
Review of river improvement trusts
In 2024, the former Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, now the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (the department), completed a review of the functions and operations of the trusts. The department consulted with relevant stakeholders and reviewed published documents to investigate 4 key areas:
environmental outcomes achieved
delivery of trust activities
accountability and transparency to stakeholders
value of trust activities to the community.
The review found the trusts continue to deliver valuable outcomes for Queensland communities. It made 19 recommendations to address the key findings. These focus on:
reviewing policy and legislation
reducing administrative workload
streamlining processes and increasing productivity.
The department is implementing the recommendations in consultation with the trusts and the State Council.
More information can be obtained from the RIT’s directly or State Council River Improvement Trust.
State Council River Trusts Queensland Inc.
Contact person: Amanda Hockley, Executive Officer