Regional staff to help Burnett businesses

The Newman Government has mobilised regional staff to work directly with the business communities in flood affected areas to help get them back up and running. 

Deputy Premier and the Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the immediate efforts were now centred on the clean-up, but getting businesses back on their feet quickly was important to local economies. 

“To assist these affected businesses I have instructed my department’s network of regional offices to concentrate their efforts on helping the flooded regions, Mr Seeney said. 

“Staff have been re-deployed from normal duties outside the flood zones to help businesses in the Burnett region. 

“Initially they will be available in Gayndah and Mundubbera and then in Monto and Biloela. 

“The teams will work directly with business to access information about available assistance. 

“The State Government will also work closely with local government and will renew its efforts to ensure access to available industry support is clear and available. 

“Staff will have hard copy material and where necessary, departmental officers will assist businesses with developing action plans.” 

Mr Seeney said hundreds of businesses have been affected by the floods. 

He said the Newman Government was acutely aware that restoration of utilities and infrastructure was among the biggest barriers to immediate recovery efforts. 

Mr Seeney said the Government would look to smooth out potential bottlenecks in relation to infrastructure needs. 

The local contact points for the efforts in Gayndah and Mundubbera are John Bird contactable on mobile 0419 723 443 and Peter Dougherty on 0407 652 942

[ENDS] 4 February 2013

Media Contact: John Wiseman – 0409 791 281 or Kate Haddan – 0418 373 516