More relief for flood affected farmers with payment pause for leasehold primary producers

• Crisafulli Government delivers 12-month rent deferral for leasehold primary producers impacted by the monsoon trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.
• Support to be applied to eligible producers automatically, with payments deferred to March 2027.
• Deferral will provide much needed relief for primary producers across more than 1,100 leasehold tenures.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering more relief to those affected by the monsoon trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, deferring leasehold rents for primary producers recovering from the disaster.

A 12-month rent deferral will be applied to leaseholders in the Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Croydon, Flinders, McKinlay, Richmond and Winton Shire Councils, providing much needed support for producers across more than 1,100 leasehold tenures. Additional council areas will be added as declarations are extended following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the support was delivering critical breathing room for communities that have endured relentless severe weather.

“Central and North Queensland has been battered by a one-two punch, with monsoonal flooding over the new year followed by ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. The last thing families on the land need is a rental bill from the government,” Minister Last said.

“That’s why we’ve acted swiftly to defer rental payments for leasehold primary producers, without red-tape or paperwork. The deferral will be applied to eligible leaseholders automatically, with payment not required until March 2027.

“As a North Queenslander myself, I’m acutely aware of the importance of providing ongoing support and giving primary producers the breathing room they need so they can focus on recovery.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to supporting Central and North Queenslanders through the recovery phase, ensuring they have the financial assistance required to get back on their feet as quickly as possible.

“This support comes on top of the existing packages, including grants of up to $75,000 for affected primary producers to clean up and repair damage to their properties."

Eligible leaseholders will be notified of the deferral when their rental invoices are issued. Those experiencing hardship beyond the 12-month period will be able to apply for further assistance.

For further information, visit www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/state/rents/deferring

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: William Rollo 0434 650 650