Disaster relief expanded to eight shires

The Queensland Government has activated disaster relief funding for a further five flooded local government areas in north west Queensland, a sign of the continuing impact of the weekend’s monsoonal rain.

Mount Isa, Carpentaria, Flinders, Boulia and Richmond shires will now be eligible for joint State and Commonwealth–funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

Yesterday NDRRA funding was activated for Burke, Cloncurry, and McKinlay shire councils.

Acting Emergency Services Minister Andrew Fraser said the total damage bill for the eight shires was approximately $12.5 million.

“The estimated damage is about $2 million each in Carpentaria, Flinders and Boulia, $1 million in Mount Isa, and $500,000 in Richmond,” he said.

“Further assessment in the McKinlay Shire has brought its total estimated damage to $3 million.

“Most of the damage is still confined to public infrastructure, predominantly roads,” he said.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan reminded residents that if they did suffer personal hardship as a result of the storms and associated flooding, they could apply to the Department of Communities for assistance, on 1800 173 349.

“Personal hardship grants of $165 per person and up to $765 per family may be available for directly impacted residents who have been unable to recover via their own means,” she said.

Media Contact:
Minister Fraser: 3224 6361
Emergency Services: 3247 8997