Grants launched to help small businesses bounce back from western Queensland floods

Small businesses across western Queensland significantly impacted by the floods earlier this year can now access new financial assistance to support their recovery efforts. 

The recently announced Small Business Recovery Assistance Grant will provide up to $15,000 for eligible businesses to help them on their road to recovery.

The Western Queensland Surface Trough from March to May 2025 caused widespread damage across the region, resulting in losses that extended beyond structural damage to business premises. 

Many businesses faced major trading disruptions, road closures, and revenue losses that affected their ability to operate and serve their communities.

To address these issues, small businesses in nine disaster affected local government areas: Barcoo, Boulia, Bulloo, Diamantina, Longreach, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Winton that experienced a revenue loss of 60 per cent or more for at least two consecutive weeks or were forced to cease trading during the disaster are now eligible for the grants of up to $15,000. 

Many business owners in these regions faced significant challenges in the aftermath of the floods, including the loss of vital income streams, interruptions to supply chains, and difficulty covering essential expenses like wages and rent. 

The Small Business Recovery Assistance Grant, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), offers practical and financial support to address these challenges. 

Eligible businesses can use the funding to cover important recovery-related expenses, such as payroll, rent payments, or marketing initiatives, enabling them to rebuild stronger and secure their future operations.

This initiative forms part of a broader package of support under the DRFA, which also includes Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants up to $50,000 and Disaster Assistance Loans up to $250,000. 

Together, these measures will ensure flood affected businesses in western Queensland have flexible and tailored options to navigate their path to recovery.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit business.qld.gov.au.