PREMIER URGES STORM-AFFECTED FAMILIES TO APPLY FOR RELIEF

Premier Anna Bligh is urging South-East Queensland residents affected by the November storms to apply for assistance from the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal.

Ms Bligh said Red Cross had begun accepting applications for the $1.6 million in funds donated by generous Queenslanders.

“Queenslanders have again shown their willingness to help fellow Queenslanders in times of need,” Ms Bligh said.

“The application process is underway and funds will be available shortly. Residents affected need to submit their applications to the Red Cross before 9 January.”

Ms Bligh said funds from the appeal are available to all residents who live in the storm affected areas and have suffered damage to your principal place of residence, or to your personal belongings and household goods, as a result of the storms and associated flooding.

“The storms tore a terrible path through the south-east, damaging thousands of homes and businesses and many families are facing a tough festive season.

“Anyone eligible should contact the Red Cross to ensure they apply for relief funding as soon as possible.”

Red Cross Executive Director Greg Goebel has urged anyone who has suffered flood damage to their home or to their personal belongings to make an application to the Relief Fund.

“It is there to help you during this difficult time,” says Mr Goebel.

“Priority will be given to the most urgent of hardship cases and Red Cross will put in place a process to ensure that every application is carefully considered on its merits.”

Red Cross has already contacted residents in affected areas. Application forms are also available from the Red Cross website, www.redcross.org.au/qld and the Premier’s website, www.thepremier.qld.gov.au

The Red Cross has established a free call number to respond to enquiries. For further details please call the Red Cross on 1800 733 111.

The Australian Government has matched the Queensland Government contribution to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal and pledged $500,000, taking the balance of the appeal to over $1.6m.

Donations can still be made to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal Fund at any of the big four banks (Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, and ANZ) and at Suncorp Metway and the Bank of Queensland.

Cheques can be made out to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal Fund or donors can contact the Smart Services Queensland Call Centre on 1800 173 349 with their credit card details. This line will be open 24 hours a day.