PALASZCZUK GOVERNMENT ACTIVATES NATURAL DISASTER RECOVERY AND RELIEF ARRANGEMENTS FOR CENTRAL QUEENSLAND

Published Sunday, 22 February, 2015 at 11:47 AM

Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Financial assistance is available for people needing urgent help after Tropical Cyclone Marcia following the activation of Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) in conjunction with the Commonwealth Government.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Government had moved quickly to ensure financial help was made available to those who needed it most and immediate advice could be accessed by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349

“The Commonwealth Government has approved financial assistance for personal hardship, reconnection of essential services and for the restoration of essential public assets and infrastructure,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“As I’ve been out and about in communities affected by Cyclone Marcia, I’ve seen first-hand the devastation that’s been caused and its absolutely heartbreaking impact on locals.

“A lot of people are facing an uphill battle to get up and running again.

“This NDRRA activation means people who are doing it tough in Central Queensland can access the help they need as they move into a recovery phase.

“It’s important that we transition very quickly into the recovery phase where it is safe to do so.

“That’s why I spoke with the Prime Minister earlier this week and I’m glad we can now make this assistance available.”

Ms Palaszczuk said help was available under the NDRRA for individuals and families who live in the Banana Shire, Livingstone Shire and Rockhampton Regional Council areas.

“Queenslanders always band together, but we know that not everyone will have family and friends nearby to help them during these tough times,” she said.

“For those that don’t, immediate personal hardship assistance of up to $180 for individuals and $900 for families of five or more will be made available to those who have been stranded or are otherwise unable to return to their homes.

“We want to make sure those who need assistance to access basic supplies such as food, clothing and medication get it straight away.”
Ms Palaszczuk said there was also a number of grants available for people who were uninsured or unable to claim contents insurance.

“Income tested grants for families are available for the replacement of essential household contents such as furniture, as well as grants for urgent repairs to ensure their homes are secure and habitable.”

Ms Palaszczuk said income tested payments were also available for safety inspections and repair work.

“Again, for those uninsured or unable to make insurance claims for safety repairs, payments of up to $200 are available to put towards an inspection of essential services such as electricity, gas and water before they are reconnected,” she said.

“Up to $4,200 is also available to put towards any repair work that may need to be done before reconnection.”

Ms Palaszczuk said it was a long road ahead for many Queenslanders, but the government would be with them every step of the way.

“So many Queenslanders have been through a traumatic experience over the last few days and I want to assure people from right across the affected area that the government stands ready to assist you as you get back on your feet,” she said.

For assistance or more information on the eligibility requirements for payments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements, people can call the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

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