New Betterment funding powers Queensland's flood recovery

An almost $90 million investment in resilient infrastructure upgrades headlines a suite of long-term disaster recovery initiatives to drive Queensland’s return from the volatile 2025-26 disaster season.

Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, the new extraordinary support packages will upgrade road networks, protect primary production, and restore the natural environment.

They’ll also back community clean-up efforts and support small businesses and not-for-profits with essential disaster grants.

In total, $107 million in new funding has been allocated to Queensland flood recovery under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The $89.91 million Betterment Program will deliver vital upgrades to Flinders Highway, Mackay-Eungella Road, and other key bridges, crossings and floodways.

Other initiatives being announced include:

• $7.62 million Environmental Recovery Program to revitalise damaged natural areas, repair infrastructure and control pests, particularly in national parks.
• $5 million boost to the Coordinated Emergency Fodder Support Package for primary producers, addressing fodder distribution costs in the hardest-hit regions.
• $3.65 million Community Relief Fund expansion for clean-up and recovery efforts in Bundaberg, Whitsunday, Etheridge, Winton, Rockhampton, Mackay, and Livingstone, including waste disposal and the safe reconnection of essential services.

Additionally, the Disaster Recovery Grant cap for affected small businesses in 26 local government areas will be increased from $25,000 to $50,000, and the grants will be made available to not-for-profits in 20 LGAs as well.

Eligible small businesses in Carpentaria and Isaac indirectly impacted by the floods due to isolation, access disruption and supply chain constraints will also soon be able to apply for Recovery Assistance Grants up to $15,000, with almost $1 million allocated to the initiative.

These packages build on $66 million in recovery measures already funded through the DRFA in response to the flooding and severe weather that has held its presence on Queensland since Christmas.

The Queensland Reconstruction Authority will continue its work with relevant state agencies and councils to develop further targeted initiatives for communities and industries in need. 

For grant and loan information and applications, visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or contact 1800 623 946.

Applications for Small Business Recovery Assistance Grants will open soon via the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.