Disaster support packages worth more than $107 million have been announced, following last weeks flooding.
The jointly funded state and federal government support includes funding for the rejuvenation of natural areas across impacted regions, assistance for affected primary producers and more clean-up and recovery funding.
Further to these new packages, the Disaster Recovery Grant cap for eligible small businesses in 26 LGAs will double from $25,000 to $50,000 to assist with immediate clean-up and recovery activities.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain says it’s important to see these communities back to their best.
“Regional Queensland is a massive contributor to Australia and our nation’s economy, and we want to see these communities back to their best.
“Support measures announced today will repair and improve vital access links, protect businesses and jobs, boost recovery in communities, and restore huge nature areas.
“Disaster recovery is a long and challenging road, but the Albanese Government determined to stay the course to ensure a brighter future for all.
“The extensive amount of DRFA assistance we continue to provide will have a positive impact in communities, allowing Queenslanders to take important steps forward.
“These funds will firm up our long-term recovery and help remote and regional Queensland withstand the effects of future disasters.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy says the Crisafulli Government was standing side by side with flood effected communities.
“These floods will not wash away our resolve in delivering for Queensland.
“The impacts have been immense, but we’re matching that intensity with our recovery efforts.
“With every disaster we’re committed to coming out the other side stronger than before, and our substantial Betterment and recovery investments will make sure of this.
“Betterment is a true pillar of our government and a commitment we’ve made to all Queenslanders in every corner of our state.
“The projects to be delivered with this funding will be transformational for disaster affected communities, industries and businesses.”
Funded through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the new assistance measures include:
· $89.91 million Betterment Program to improve the disaster resilience of essential infrastructure in the north including the Flinders Highway, Mackay-Eungella Road, and key bridges, crossings and floodways.
· $7.62 million Environmental Recovery Program to support the rejuvenation of natural areas across impacted regions, repair damaged infrastructure and control pests, with a particular focus on national parks.
· $5 million uplift to the Coordinated Emergency Fodder Support Package to assist more flood affected primary producers in the hardest hit council areas with costs associated with livestock fodder distribution.
· $3.65 million Community Relief Fund expansion for clean-up and immediate recovery efforts in Bundaberg, Whitsunday, Etheridge, Winton, Rockhampton, Mackay and Livingstone, including disposal activities and the reconnection of essential services.
· $990,000 Small Business Recovery Assistance grants for $15,000 grants available to eligible small businesses in Carpentaria and Issac indirectly impacted by the floods due to isolation, access disruptions and supply chain constraints
