Burdekin Shire Council and local small businesses are now eligible for disaster assistance following widespread flooding across North Queensland, as recovery support is rolled out across the region.
The council can access funding through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to support response and recovery activities, while local small businesses impacted by the floods can apply for disaster loans of up to $250,000. Eligible councils for these loans include Burdekin, Aurukun, Isaac, Mackay, Pormpuraaw and Whitsunday.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the support would ease the pressure on families and businesses facing the long recovery ahead.
“Clermont is a resilient community, but it hasn’t seen a weather event like this in over a century. They shouldn’t have to do it alone, and with this support, they won’t have to,” Mr Last said.
“This is about delivering practical help for those doing it tough after seeing their homes and livelihoods damaged by floodwaters.”
While direct Personal Hardship Assistance—emergency payments for food, clothing, medicine, and home repairs — is currently only available to residents in Clermont, McKinlay Shire, and parts of Mackay, Burdekin residents can still benefit from council-led programs and business loans.
Across North Queensland, the assistance includes:
Eligible Mackay localities include Broken River, Crediton, Dalrymple Heights and Eungella. Hardship assistance remains open to residents of Flinders, Richmond and Winton Shires.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said support would continue as communities deal with the ongoing impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough.
“During prolonged disaster events like this it’s critical we’re acting swiftly and constantly to get support where it’s required,” Minister McBain said.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy added that funding assistance would provide vital support in the weeks and months ahead.
“We know how important it is to help Queenslanders get back on their feet following disasters like this,” Minister Leahy said.
Applications for hardship assistance can be made at www.disaster.qld.gov.au or via the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349. Small businesses seeking disaster loans can visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or call 1800 623 946.
Businesses and Council are encouraged to apply for DRFA grants. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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