Disaster grants and clean-up fund to drive western Queensland flood recovery

Recovery grants for primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits, and a council community relief fund are the latest assistance measures extended to western Queensland communities devastated by recent floods.

The $69.75 million funding package is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Grants of up to $75,000 for eligible primary producers and $25,000 for eligible small businesses and not-for-profits are now available to boost recovery in the wake of the devastating floods across western Queensland.

Support can be used for recovery activities that will bring a return to operation, everything from cleaning, repairs and asset replacement to restocking, resupply and replanting.

Councils can access a $12 million Community Relief Fund to help with debris removal, washouts, livestock disposal, and other immediate recovery needs.

All assistance measures have been activated in nine local government areas including Barcoo, Boulia, Bulloo, Diamantina, Longreach, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Winton.

Disaster Recovery Grants will help drive recovery for the region’s agricultural and small business sectors which are the lifeblood of the rural and regional economy.

Floodwaters have had a disastrous effect, inundating an area twice the size of Victoria, washing away thousands of kilometres of fences, and killing more than 150,000 head of livestock.

Other support through the DRFA in response to the Western Queensland floods includes low interest loans for farmers and small businesses, freight subsidies for primary producers, emergency payments for residents, and response and recovery funding for councils.

Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) is supporting communities as they move into recovery, with a particular focus on supporting those who have had their homes inundated, and the region's primary producers who have had their livelihoods so badly impacted. 

Flood impacted primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits can check their eligibility and apply for Disaster Recovery Grants through QRIDA via www.qrida.qld.gov.au or 1800 623 946.