CYCLONE LARRY ASSISTANCE MOVES TO STAGE 2

Media comments that the Regional Business Development Scheme Cyclone Larry Special program has closed are false and misleading.

The scheme is moving to Stage 2.

The Department of State Development and Trade will continue to take applications for Stage 1 Cyclone Larry assistance until the end of October 2006.

Minister for State Development John Mickel said the Government believes that the original intent of Stage 1 has been achieved and businesses that required immediate assistance would have lodged applications for assistance by now.

After Cyclone Larry, the Queensland Government recognised that beyond the community recovery efforts, the economic health of the affected regions depended on businesses being assisted.

Mr Mickel said stage one provided up to $10,000 for the preparation of business recovery plans to identify short, medium or long-term business prospects, labour availability, ways to recommence exporting and other initiatives to help restore businesses to their pre-cyclone operating levels.

Over 250 applications for assistance under Stage 1 of the program have already been received.

Assistance of over $1.5 million has been approved, many more applications for Stage 1 are still to be assessed.

Applications for Stage 2 will need to meet the requirements of the scheme, and focus on highly strategic projects that will help towards revitalising the region's economy and providing jobs for workers and security for their families.

“Stage 2 will address eligible projects arising from Stage 1 business recovery plans, in addition, organisations such as local government authorities, regional development organisations, local regional tourism boards and associations are eligible for Stage 2 assistance,” Mr Mickel said.

Stage 2 of the assistance, applications will be accepted until 31 December 2006.

Media Contacts:Chris Brown 3224 7349 or Elouise Campion 3224 6784
23 October 2006