Queensland’s flood-affected primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations will now have more time to apply for extraordinary disaster assistance, in response to the monsoonal floods that inundated the north-west in early 2023.
Applications will stay open until 29 December, the last Friday of the year, and eligibility for this assistance covers the Local Government Areas of Boulia, Burke, Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Doomadgee, Mornington and Mount Isa.
The assistance is jointly funded by the Albanese and Palaszczuk Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and includes:
- Financial assistance of up to $75,000 for primary producers, and up to $50,000 for small businesses and not-for-profits under the Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants program; and
- Assistance under the $5.75 million Coordinated Livestock Support and Disposal Package.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt recognised that flood-hit communities in the north-west have been facing supply chain issues.
“We know that recovery takes time, and we want to ensure people have that time to access the supports they need,” Minister Watt said.
“The grants for primary producers, small business and not-for-profits assist with the costs of re-instatement, including hiring or purchasing equipment and materials, as well as clean-up, debris removal, fencing replacement and other costs associated with the recovery process.
“We’ve also agreed to extend application closing dates for assistance through the Coordinated Livestock Support and Disposal Package.
“The package funds a range of livestock welfare activities including transportation, aerial mustering and fence repairs, as well as supply costs for fuel, water and fodder.
“I urge eligible farmers, business owners and not-for-profit organisations impacted by this year’s monsoonal floods to take advantage of this extension and get your application in before 29 December.”
Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Regional Queensland Mark Furner said no Queenslanders will be left behind in their flood recovery, no matter where they live in this state.
“If you need help with your application, please call our officers from the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) on 1800 623 946,” Minister Furner said.
Senator for Queensland, Nita Green said that this is just what the communities impacted by the flooding event need.
“I really implore those effected by this year’s flooding event to take this extension as an opportunity to apply for a grant before applications close.
“Our Government knows that flood recovery isn’t easy, but these grants really can go a long way in helping farmers and small business in that recovery process.”
More informationon disaster assistance for north-west primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits is available at www.qrida.qld.gov.au.
For a full summary of disaster support currently available to Queenslanders visit www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.