Flood aid extends to 81 shires; assistance broadened for storm-affected shires

The State Government has activated assistance for Kilcoy Shire, north-west of Brisbane, as a result of damage from severe storms earlier this month.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said the Department of Emergency Services recommended that Kilcoy Shire be added to 10 other shires in the State’s south-east and west following storms from 3-7 February.

The joint State and Commonwealth-funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) were activated for the 10 shires on 8 February. These local government areas were Gold Coast, Logan, Brisbane, Boonah, Diamantina, Ipswich, Redland, Wambo, Tara and Boulia.

The assistance activated for these areas included personal hardship support, restoration of essential public assets, including roads, and counter disaster operations, such as clean-up of debris.

Mr Roberts said on the Department’s advice, he had extended the assistance measures for Kilcoy Shire and the 10 shires to include concessional loans for primary producers and small business.

In addition, the definition of end of the storm event was extended to 8 February.

"With the addition of Kilcoy Shire, flood assistance has been activated across 81 local government areas so far this year," Mr Roberts said.

"Personal hardship assistance in the form of grants of $160 per person and up to $740 per family for essentials such as food, dry clothes and accommodation were available.”

"Assistance is also available for building and contents repair and replacement. This assistance is means tested. Maximum assistance is $9800 for individuals and $13,200 for couples or families."

Personal hardship assistance to individuals and families, and assistance for non-profit organisations is administered by the Department of Communities. The Department of Communities can be contacted on 1800 440 074.

Concessional loans for producers and small businesses should contact QRAA (Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority) on 1800 623 946.

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350