Bushfire assistance available in Toowoomba regional council area

People living in targeted areas of the Toowoomba Regional Council Area can now access disaster assistance payments of $180 per person and up to $900 for a family of five.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the payments would help those worst-hit with their immediate needs.

“This is for things such as food, clothing, accommodation and medicine,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Funding is also available to safely reconnect essential services like power and gas.

“This will help give the worst-hit people dignity while they get their lives back on track.

“Further assistance will be made available to people in the Toowoomba Region as it’s needed.”

Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford said grants of up to $5000 are also available to help reconnect essential services.

“We know families are doing their best to pick up the pieces and I hope this assistance goes some way to helping them get back on their feet,” Minister Crawford said.

“I urge anyone facing hardship because of the fires to check their eligibility for this payment.

“Impacted residents are encouraged to call the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 to access support.”

Further Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the Queensland Government’s Disaster Management website at www.disaster.qld.gov.au.  

ENDS

Media Contacts 
Minister Littleproud: Robert Herrick 0432 324 576
Minister Crawford: Ben Brew 0468 839 551