Deadlines for recovery assistance approaching

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh has warned eligible primary producers, business owners and non-profit organisations about the approaching deadlines for disaster assistance.

Mr McVeigh said those who have suffered directly from the Queensland Floods (November 2010 - January 2011), Tropical Cyclone Yasi or the Western Queensland Tropical Low 2012, have until 31 October 2012 to apply for recovery assistance.

“Special Disaster Assistance grants up to $25,000 to pay for clean-up and restoration costs arising out of direct damage are available to aid community recovery,” Mr McVeigh said.

“Disaster recovery assistance administered under the joint Commonwealth / State Government Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRAA) has been available to flood and cyclone affected Queenslanders since January 2011.”

As at 12 October 2012, QRAA has approved grants totalling:

• More than $164 million to more than 11,500 applicants in response to the 2011 floods
• More than $58 million to at least 4,000 applicants in response to Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi
• More than $11 million in recovery grants to over 850 applicants in response to the 2012 south-west flooding.

The Minister said these grants provided funds for businesses to recover from disaster events and resume trading throughout the State.

“I urge all those primary producers, businesses and not for profit organisations who have suffered direct damage from these disaster events and who have not yet applied for assistance, to submit an application as soon as possible,” Mr McVeigh said.

“It is important for applicants to note that all claims, reparation work and the corresponding expenditure need to be submitted by the 31 October 2012 closing date.”

For further information on all natural disaster relief and recovery arrangement assistance available through QRAA, including eligibility criteria and closing dates please contact QRAA on Freecall 1800 623 946 or visit www.qraa.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 24 October 2102

Media: Louise Gillis – 0408 709 160