Disaster assistance for Western Downs bushfires

Communities in the Western Downs affected by ongoing bushfires in the region can now access disaster assistance to support recovery efforts through the joint Australian and Queensland government funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Devastating fires have destroyed property, forced residents from their homes, and burnt through thousands of hectares of land around Tara, Fairylands, Myall Park and Montrose, leaving many households without power.

A range of assistance is now available to support community recovery such as immediate personal hardship payments to cover the costs of essential items for individuals and families, as well as funding for operational response activities.

As always, our Fire & Rescue Service and Rural Fire Service personnel did a remarkable job of protecting communities and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority commends them for their efforts to date.

QRA is monitoring the situation as it unfolds and will continue to work closely with the Commonwealth should other communities need disaster assistance. 

For information on Personal Hardship Assistance, contact the Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349 or visit www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies.