Economic recovery after Debbie swings into action

Published Friday, 31 March, 2017 at 01:54 PM

JOINT STATEMENT

Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines
The Honourable Dr Anthony Lynham

Key government agencies, peak business and industry groups have come together to discuss the economic recovery following ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the economic recovery group of state and local government, and peak bodes including AiG and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry had mobilised to get the economy back to full production.

“We want Mayors and industry representatives to identify issues in specific locations needing immediate action, starting with re-establishing essential services like water, power and communications as well as transport routes,” the Premier said.

The group includes representatives of various government departments; Local Government Association of Queensland; North Queensland mayors; AgForce; Queensland Farmers Federation; Queensland Resources Council; Insurance Council of Australia; Australian Bankers Association; Australian Industry Group; Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland, Queensland Tourism Industry Council; North Queensland Bulk Ports; National Retail Association; Telstra and Queensland Sugar Limited.

State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said on the ground, Department of State Development staff will be at community recovery centres and in communities hit hardest this weekend where possible, talking to local businesses and gathering information on impact and what’s needed.

“Action will be at two levels – prioritising what’s required locally, but also using the data to ensure the joint Commonwealth-State disaster arrangements maximise assistance for business and industry,” he said.

“Local business operators seeking advice about assistance that’s available or information about getting their business back up and running should contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349. 

“The group provides strategic advice to the Queensland Government and key stakeholders on the economic impacts of the event and the proposed response so enterprises and industry can recommence operations as soon as possible.”

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