JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT: Bushfire assistance activated for Flinders and Etheridge

Bushfire assistance activated for Flinders and Etheridge

Disaster assistance is now available for Flinders and Etheridge Shire Councils to boost response and recovery efforts following bushfires in the region.

Following the fires that impacted the townships and surrounds of Torrens Creek and Forsayth, financial support for councils has been activated through the jointly funded Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

This funding will allow the councils to recoup costs associated with emergency works to temporarily restore essential public assets to an operable level and counter disaster operations, including firefighting activities and incident management.

It will also support the reconstruction of essential public assets, allowing councils to carry out any necessary emergency repairs and to rebuild from the fires.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the Australian and Queensland Governments are committed to supporting communities in this time of need.

“This assistance will ensure that the Flinders and Etheridge Councils can respond to the fire threat in their communities and recover sooner.” Minister McAllister said.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time and I want to acknowledge the brave work of first responders and community members.”

“Queenslanders are tough and communities like these are our country’s beating heart. We will continue working closely with the State Government to support residents.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the government would continue monitoring the bushfire situation and take action where required.

“Flinders and Etheridge Councils are doing a remarkable job keeping their communities safe,” Ms Leahy said.

“Their leadership and local knowledge has allowed our frontline services to take the best course of action to bring these bushfires under control.

“The DRFA assistance activated through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) is a crucial step forward for the recovery of these communities.

“The safety of Queenslanders always comes first.”

For more information on DRFA assistance measures visit www.disasterassist.gov.au or www.qra.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contacts:
Minister McAllister: Isabella Wang 0403 114 350
Minister Leahy: Amanda Templeton 0417 657 437