Extra assistance for victims of Tropical Cyclone Marcia

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad and Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman today announced additional assistance for people still suffering as a result of Tropical Cyclone Marcia.

The Palaszczuk Government is increasing the assistance available under the joint Queensland and Australian Governments’ Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA)

Ms Trad said the additional support is recognition that many people in impacted areas are still in need of immediate support.

“I’ve seen first-hand how tough people are finding it to make ends meet in many areas,” Ms Trad said.

“Tropical Cyclone Marcia has had a devastating impact on the electricity network with many communities still without power a week after the cyclone hit.

“This extra assistance, in the form of food vouchers, will allow those still struggling without power to buy food, water, nappies and other basic essentials.”

Up to $1000 per household will be available to people in the local government areas of Rockhampton, Livingstone, North Burnett, Banana and Gladstone (west of the Bruce Highway).

Ms Trad said this assistance is on top of the support already being provided through the NDRRA for individuals, families, primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations.

“Following previous natural disasters, including Cyclone Oswald and the 2010-11 floods, support was available to residents who had lost electricity, but otherwise had no damage,” Ms Trad said. 

“However, in 2014, the Newman Government changed the scheme so that the loss of electricity no longer qualified someone for assistance.

“When I visited Central Queensland last week, locals raised with me their concerns about the change, so we’ve listened and responded to ensure they have the support needed to get back on their feet.”

Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman said people can call the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 if they need immediate assistance.

“The Queensland Government’s recovery partner Australian Red Cross will assist in distributing the food vouchers from tomorrow (Monday) to people in need,” Ms Fentiman said.

“The Red Cross will have outreach teams visiting residents in the worst-hit areas and distributing the support where it’s needed.”

Further information is available on the Queensland Government’s website at www.qld.gov.au/community.

Media contact:                      Deputy Premier’s Office:        0424 671 781

                                             Minister Fentiman’s Office:   0404 475 088

Important details on today’s announcement:

• Food vouchers of $200 for each individual, up to a maximum of $1000 per household will be distributed from tomorrow (Monday).
• To be eligible the household needs to have been without power for 7 days or more and be suffering hardship.
• Household must be located in the local government areas of Rockhampton, Livingstone, North Burnett, Banana and Gladstone (west of the Bruce Highway).
• For more information or to access the voucher contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 or visit a local community recovery centre at the following locations:

Rockhampton:                             

Walter Reid Centre

Corner Derby and East Streets

Open: 7 days, 8.30am to 5pm

James Lawrence Pavilion

Rockhampton Showgrounds, Wandall

Open: 7 days, 9am to 5pm

Yeppoon:                                       

Yeppoon Town Hall

25 Normanby Street

Open: 7 days, 8.30am to 5pm

Biloela:                                          

Biloela Research Station

98/102 State Farm Road

Open: 7 days, 8.30am to 5pm