More assistance measures activated for damaging storms

The Queensland Government has activated assistance under the joint State-Commonwealth Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements for 30 local government areas following damaging storms this week.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said the Department of Emergency Services had assessed the public infrastructure damage from the storms from 28 to 30 October exceeded the $240,000 threshold.

The 30 local government areas where the NDRRA have been activated are:
Banana, Bauhinia, Beaudesert, Belyando, Biggenden, Boonah, Caboolture, Duaringa, Eidsvold, Emerald, Esk, Gayndah, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Jericho, Kilcoy, Kilkivan, Kolan, Logan, Maryborough, Monto, Mundubbera, Murgon, Nanango, Peak Downs, Perry, Pine Rivers, Redcliffe, Wondai and Woocoo.

"The joint State-Commonwealth Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) provide additional assistance for restoration of essential public assets, grant and loan assistance to sporting and community not-for-profit organisations, concessional loans for small businesses, and concessional loans and freight subsidies for primary producers," Mr Roberts said.

Minister for Communities Lindy Nelson-Carr said the Queensland Government has activated a state-wide hotline on 1800 157 338 to provide assistance and information to those who in storm-damaged areas.

"Teams of staff from the Department of Communities have already been deployed to the areas and they're working on the ground with our non-government partners such as Red Cross, Lifeline and St Vincent De Paul Society to ensure Queenslanders experiencing hardship can get help quickly," Ms Nelson-Carr said.

Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin said NDRRA would be available for eligible affected primary producers through the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority.

Finance can be obtained for requirements including:
* Replanting/restoration/re-establishment of affected areas
* Sustenance
* Essential property operations
* Payment of rent, rates
* Replacement of farm buildings
* Restocking.

"The maximum loan amount for carry-on requirements or restocking is $100,000 with a cumulative total not more than $150,000,'' Mr Mulherin said.

"Assistance is available by contacting QRAA on Freecall 1800 623 946 to speak to a representative who will be able to assist.''

Media contact:
·Kirby Anderson 07 3247 8194, 0418 197 350 (Minister Roberts)
·Alexia Deegan 07 3235 4280 (Minister Nelson-Carr)
·David Potter 07 3296530, 0409 305 662 (Minister Mulherin)