Time almost up to apply for cyclone and flooding assistance

Farmers, businesses and not-for-profit organisations affected by flooding following ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald earlier this year are reminded that the cut-off date to apply for Category C and D natural disaster assistance is this coming Friday 29 November. 

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh said the Newman Government had extended the eligibility period from the end of August to the end of November when it became clear people needed more time to get their applications in.

“Agriculture is one of the key pillars of Queensland’s economy and we remain committed to assisting our agri-businesses,” he said.

“As such we wanted to give producers and small businesses additional time to engage suitable contractors and finalise their applications. 

“There has been a significant take up of the Category C assistance program to date with $1.76 million clean-up and recovery grants assistance approved for not-for-profit organisations, $10.039 million for 846 small businesses and $49.419 million for more than 3,900 primary producers.

“In addition, 49 Category D grant and loan packages to businesses and primary producers have been approved valued at $15.75 million.

“Primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations should keep all receipts and invoices of expenditure on natural disaster recovery and contact QRAA on 1800 623 946 to discuss eligibility or visit www.qraa.qld.gov.au.

“I encourage those who are yet to lodge their applications with QRAA to do so before Friday.

Category C provides clean up and recovery grants for primary producers and small businesses of up to $25,000.  Category D provides access to concessional loans of up to $650,000, including a 25 percent grant component to a maximum of $50,000.  Repayments and interest on these loans do not start until the third year of the loan at an interest rate of 1.7 percent.

[ENDS] 24 November 2013

Media Contact: Louise Gillis 0408 709 160