More support now available for farmers and small business in FNQ

Further assistance is now available for Far North Queenslanders impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

The Australian and Queensland Governments have made Disaster Assistance and Essential Working Capital Loans available to affected primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

The assistance, provided through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), will help with the repair and recovery of essential equipment, and for loss of income.

Disaster Assistance Loans provide up to $250,000 for primary producers and small businesses and $100,000 for not-for-profits to repair or replace damaged assets like plant and equipment, to repair premises, or to replace stock and maintain liquidity.

Essential Working Capital Loans provide up to $100,000 for producers, small businesses and not-for-profits to allow operations to continue, including paying wages, rents or rates, purchasing items such as fuel, fodder and water, or for the transportation of livestock and produce.

Primary producers in some of the hardest hit areas can access freight subsidies of up to $5,000 to alleviate the costs of moving stock and operating materials.

A tenth local council is also now receiving DRFA support in response to ex-TC Jasper. 

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has been activated for funding towards counter disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential public assets like roads and bridges.

More information on Disaster Assistance Loans and Essential Working Capital Loans is available from the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority on 1800 623 946 or via www.qrida.qld.gov.au.

For freight subsidies contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23 or visit www.daf.qld.gov.au.