JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT: Extension for TC Jasper primary producer grants

Extension for TC Jasper primary producer grants

• The closing date for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants has been extended for primary producers impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone (TC) Jasper.
• Primary producers now have until 30 June 2025 to apply for the assistance.
• The extension recognises the difficulties primary producers continue to face as they recover from TC Jasper.

Applications for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants for primary producers impacted by TC Jasper have been extended until 30 June 2025

The Extraordinary Recovery Grants program is funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments provided through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and was announced in December 2023 and made available in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

Eligible primary producers who suffered direct damage from TC Jasper and the associated rainfall and flooding can apply for grants up to $75,000 through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).

Grants can be used to assist with recovery needs including pasture rehabilitation, fodder, replacing livestock, and repairs to infrastructure and equipment.

Eligible primary producers in the Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Cook, Douglas, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands local government areas can apply for the grants.

Primary producers affected by TC Jasper can also apply for other support measures including the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme, Disaster Assistance Loans, and freight subsidies.

Queensland Senator Nita Green said extending the deadline to apply for the grants recognises the difficulties primary producers continue to face in recovering from the devastating impacts of TC Jasper.

“Recovery from disasters is never easy and primary producers face an enormous challenge rebounding from the effects of TC Jasper while still producing the food for our tables,” Senator Green said.

“Extending the deadline to apply for these grants underlines our commitment to supporting Far North Queensland’s amazing agriculture sector.”

Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the government would always be there for local farmers in their time of need.

“We value the hard work of our primary producers, who are the backbone of our state’s economy,” Minister Perrett said.

“As a producer myself, I know firsthand the effect of natural disasters on operations.

“I know how important these grants are to producers and I am proud to have secured this vital extension.”

Queensland Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said recovery from disasters is a long and hard road, but the Crisafulli Government will always work to help our farmers and communities through it.

“Extending the deadline to apply for Extraordinary Recovery Grants makes sense when primary producers are time poor and have had trouble getting back on their feet,” Minister Leahy said.

“I am delighted we have been able to help support our farmers through this difficult period.”

For more information on the grants and to apply visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Ministers Leahy and Perrett: Jordan Fabris 0418 198 814 

Minister McAllister: Alex West 0499 870 544