Economic recovery high priority

Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney will meet with Bundaberg business leaders this morning to focus on the region’s economic recovery. 

Mr Seeney today inspected flood damage in the city before meeting with the Bundaberg Business Recovery Group. 

He said his department’s focus was on what immediate action could be put in place to speed up business recovery. 

“The Newman Government is committed to assisting the regions and businesses to get back on their feet as quickly as possible,” Mr Seeney said. 

“That is why the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and other government departments have marshalled their regional officers to the flooded areas to lend a hand. 

“Departmental officers are on the ground to assist business in accessing information and disaster recovery grants.” 

Mr Seeney said about 50 businesses have visited the Bundaberg Business Recovery Centre over the last two days.  The centre has been established to to help local business to access information and support. 

“The Bundaberg Business Recovery Centre’s efforts have been welcomed by the locals,” Mr Seeney said. 

“My strong advice is, where possible, let’s look at using local trades and local suppliers. We need to keep local business ticking over.  

“The Bundaberg Regional Council will be holding a business recovery information session at the Moncrieff Theatre on Friday February 8 at 10 am where businesses will be able to access all business support agencies. 

“These include the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority, the Australian Taxation Office, the Australian Council of Insurance and the Bundaberg Regional Council.” 

After meeting with Bundaberg business leaders this morning, Mr Seeney will travel to Gayndah. 

He said his department had sent teams into the Burnett region to provide assistance to flood- affected businesses. 

“The agricultural industry, particularly citrus growers, has been hit hard and there is a critical need to get irrigation re-established as soon as possible,” Mr Seeney said. 

“The team has met with 45 businesses in the region and all were keen for the agricultural industry to restart as quickly as possible.” 

Mr Seeney said Mundubbera businesses also shared a common concern on the impact on its citrus industry and its flow-on effect to other businesses. 

Note - The Bundaberg Business Recovery Centre is located on the corner of Quay and Tantitha Streets, Bundaberg. 

[ENDS] 6 February 2013

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