Grants launched to help western Queensland small businesses bounce back from flooding disaster

Flood affected small business operators across outback Queensland can now access new financial assistance up to $15,000 to support their recovery efforts. 

Small Business Recovery Assistance Grants have been activated in response to the Western Queensland Surface Trough disaster event that wrecked havoc throughout the region from late March.

Since then many local businesses have battled major trading disruptions, road closures, and revenue losses, affecting their ability to operate and serve their communities.

This has also put rural jobs at risk, leaving a heavy weight on families and townships.

To be eligible for the grants, small businesses have had to experience revenue loss of 60 per cent or more for at least two consecutive weeks, or been unable to trade during the disaster.

Grants can be used to cover crucial recovery-related expenses like payroll, rent payments or marketing.

The funding will enable impacted small businesses to sustain operations and employment while getting back on their feet.

Grants are being extended across the local government areas of Barcoo, Boulia, Bulloo, Diamantina, Longreach, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Winton.

These Small Business Recovery Assistance Grants are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

This initiative forms part of a broader package of support under the DRFA for flood hit western Queensland small businesses, which also includes Disaster Recovery Grants up to $50,000 and loans up to $250,000.

Small businesses are the beating heart of regional and remote communities, and these funding measures will safeguard the future of outback operators while they navigate their path to recovery.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply visit qrida.qld.gov.au and choose For Business from the Disaster Recovery dropdown tab.