$4 million assists Mackay residents to recover from floods

The Queensland Government has distributed more than $4 million to assist Mackay region residents get their homes and lives in order after February’s devastating floods.

Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr has reminded residents that applications for assistance close on 13 June.

“I want to ensure that all eligible residents receive assistance for personal hardship or household damages caused by the floods,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

Department of Communities’ outreach workers have door-knocked affected suburbs to help assess residents’ needs and ensure they have access to relevant support services.

“Teams of fulltime disaster recovery staff, assisted by Red Cross volunteers, have been working day and night to make contact with some 5600 residents,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“As a result, the Department of Communities has distributed more than $4 million in funding for residents to buy food, clothing, medicines and essential household items to get their lives back on track.”

Applications for both means-tested essential household grants and structural assistance grants close on Friday 13 June.

“While our teams have extensively canvassed the region, some people might not have completed the necessary paperwork or be aware that applications close soon,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“Structural Assistance grants assist low income earners who are uninsured and who meet the income and assets test to repair their homes to a safe and habitable status.

“These claims are being progressively processed and approvals issued so repairs can go ahead.”

Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin said the Queensland Government’s community recovery funding not only assisted local families but also indirectly lifted the local economy.

“Local businesses were hit hard by loss of business when they closed to repair damages and replace stock,” Mr Mulherin said.

“Residents spent the assistance funds on local goods, services and household items with this spending reducing the impact on the local business community.”

Mr Mulherin said the Department of Communities continued to work with agencies such as Lifeline and Queensland Health to provide personal, psychological and community support to help with recovery efforts.

For applications or assistance, call 1800 440 074 toll free or visit the Mackay Flood Recovery Coordination Centre, formerly the RSL Club building, in Sydney Street.

Flood recovery staff will provide information and referral, personal support, counselling, psychological support, project management of repairs to dwellings and administration of financial assistance.

Media Contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280