Bushfire assistance extended in impacted regions

Immediate financial assistance has been made available to those worst-hit by the bushfires in targeted areas of the Scenic Rim council area and farmers in targeted areas of Livingstone Shire.

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 were available on top of DRFA assistance, which had already been made available.

“This is $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more,” Minister Littleproud said.

“The Personal Hardship Assistance grants give dignity to those worst-hit by helping them with their immediate needs.

“We will stand shoulder to shoulder with these communities until they’re back on their feet by making sure they have the support they need.

“Further assistance will be made available when we get a better idea of the fire damage.”

Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford said concessional loans would provide long-term assistance to primary producers in Central Queensland that have been directly impacted by the fires.

“In Livingstone Shire, concessional loans of up to $250,000 are available to help primary producers repair or replace fire damaged buildings, plant and equipment or livestock, and up to $100,000 to help primary producers continue operations who have suffered a significant loss of income,” Minister Crawford said.

“Freight Subsidies will also be available to Primary Producers of up to $5000 to help with the transportation of stock, feed, machinery, fuel, and water, as well as building and fencing materials.

 “These farmers were already facing a long dry summer, and the activation of the DRFA will ensure fire-impacted primary producers have the support they need to rebuild and restock when they are ready.”

For information on Personal Hardship Assistance and to check your eligibility, contact the Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349 or visit www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies.

For information on Disaster Assistance (Primary Producers) Loans, Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans Scheme for Primary Producers, and Freight Subsidies contact Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority on 1800 623 946 or visit http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au

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.  

Media contacts:

Minister Littleproud: Robert Herrick 0432 324 576

Minister Crawford: Ben Brew 0468 839 551