Government urges residents to apply for storm assistance

Acting Premier Paul Lucas has urged Brisbane residents affected by the November storms to apply for assistance from the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal before applications close this Friday.

“The storms left a massive mark on the city,” Mr Lucas said.

“Too often there are people who might be doing it a bit tough but are reluctant to speak up. But if you’ve suffered loss I urge you to apply for a grant.”

Mr Lucas said the Red Cross had now received 209 applications for assistance.

It is anticipating an increase before the Appeal closes, following a mail-out of over 800 application forms.

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

Individuals are able to apply for a grant of up to $3000

The balance of the Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal is currently $1.7m.

Member for Ashgrove Kate Jones, Member for Ferny Grove Geoff Wilson and Member for Everton Rod Welford also urged locals to apply for funds.

Application forms are available from the Red Cross on 1800 733 111 or their website, www.redcross.org.au/qld and the Premier’s website, www.thepremier.qld.gov.au

The Australian Government has matched the Queensland Government contribution to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal and pledged $500,000.

Donations can still be made to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal Fund at any Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, ANZ, 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 on 1800 173 349 with their credit card details.

Media inquiries: Robert Hoge 0419 757 868