The Prime Minister has arrived on the Gold Coast to announce a major funding boost to the storm-ravaged region.
A $20 million Clean-Up Program has been unveiled to assist the southeast region in clearing debris following the devastating Christmas Day storm.
Additional disaster relief grants have also been activated, with $75,000 available for impacted primary producers, and up to $50,000 for small businesses.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the additional support is vital.
“Our Government is here for Queensland in this critical time of need. We are committed to helping Queensland communities recover from the devastating impacts of extreme weather events,”
“This support will deliver the expertise and the resources to keep the job going and ensure recovery efforts are seen through,
“We know it’s been a terrible start to the year for many Queenslanders, but we will continue to work with the Miles Government to make sure the South East rebounds stronger than before.”
The Prime Minister unveiled the funds on Tuesday morning following a meeting with emergency service workers and the ADF.
He was joined by Premier Steven Miles, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate as well as other state and Federal leaders.
Premier Steven Miles says recovery efforts have been strenuous, and there is still a long way to go.
“he resilience shown by impacted communities has been remarkable, but we know targeted disaster assistance is required to keep recovery moving at speed,” Premier Miles said.
“Queenslanders are bred tough, but when we’re faced with testing times we need to band together and support each other, doing whatever it takes to help,
“I want to acknowledge the incredible will of our frontline services, councils and residents, and this exceptional circumstances package we’re announcing today will help them continue doing the vital work our state needs right now.”
Residents in need of disaster support can call the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
Clean-up Program – $20 million
- Available to impacted councils and state agencies in response to both the south-east Queensland storms and ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
- Funding for extraordinary clean-up activities and damage assessments of community and recreational assets, parks, waterways and beaches, and national parks.
Local Resilience and Recovery Grants – $3 million
- Confirmed Commonwealth-State funding (announced on Thursday) will deliver $1 million to each of the three councils hardest hit by the SEQ storms: Gold Coast, Logan and Scenic Rim.
- Grants to undertake locally-led recovery initiatives, build greater community resilience, and reduce the impacts of future severe weather events.
Assistance Grants for small business:
- Grants of up to $50,000 are available for directly-impacted small businesses to hire or purchase equipment and materials, clean up, remove debris, replace or repair damaged infrastructure and stock, and other costs associated with the recovery process.
Assistance Grants for farmers and primary producers:
- Primary producers who have suffered direct damage can apply for grants of up to $75,000.
- Grants will assist with short-term recovery needs including pasture rehabilitation, fodder, replacing livestock, and repairs to infrastructure and equipment.
Assistance Grants for non-profit organisations:
- Grants of up to $50,000 are available for directly-impacted non-profit organisations to hire or purchase equipment and materials, clean up, remove debris, repair or replace damaged infrastructure or goods and other costs associated with the recovery process.
