Disaster assistance extended to flood affected residents in Etheridge

Residents in Etheridge Shire impacted by severe flooding can now access financial support through the joint Australian and Queensland Government funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

This support is in response to the flash flooding that swept through the township of Einasleigh in late January, inundating homes and businesses and leaving residents with a massive clean-up operation.

Emergency payments of $180 per person, up to $900 for families of five or more, are available to help cover essential costs like food, clothing and medicine. 

Additional targeted support includes Structural Assistance Grants of up to $80,000 for uninsured and income-tested owner-occupiers requiring repairs to make damaged homes safe and habitable.

Support is also available for temporary emergency accommodation and Essential Household Contents Grants, providing up to $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for families to replace essential items that have been destroyed, such as whitegoods and bedding. 

For uninsured residents, Essential Services Hardship Assistance and Safety and Reconnection Grants can help with the restoration of power, water, gas or sewerage services.

In addition, primary producers in Etheridge Shire and the Central Highlands can now access DRFA Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $250,000 to assist with flood recovery and continue operations. 

DRFA Freight subsidies of up to $5,000 are also available through the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.

For more information on Personal Hardship Assistance Program grants, eligibility and applications, residents can visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au or contact the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349. 

Information on disaster loans is available at www.qrida.qld.gov.au, while farmers can apply for freight subsidies by calling 13 25 23.