FURTHER DISASTER ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT NORTH QUEENSLAND COMMUNITIES

Disaster assistance has been made available to assist the recovery of additional communities and primary producers in North Queensland impacted by Tropical Cyclone Niran.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Federal Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said the DRFA assistance will provide financial support in the form of freight subsidies and concessional loans to aid the recovery of impacted primary producers in Cassowary Coast, Cairns, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands.

"We have all seen images in the media of the destruction brought to the banana plantations in these regions and it is imperative that we respond to the situation," Minister Littleproud said.

“Primary producers can now access concessional loans of up $250,000 to repair or replace damaged buildings or plant and equipment affected by the cyclone and essential working capital loans of up to $100,000.

“In addition, freight subsidies of $5000 are available to assist with the costs of moving crops, livestock, fodder and water, as well as other farm equipment.

“The funding will provide financial support so that these hard-working communities can recover from the effects of Tropical Cyclone Niran more quickly.

“The Australian Government will continue to work closely with the Queensland Government to ensure that the affected communities have all the support they need during this difficult time.”

Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said DRFA assistance had also been extended to the local government area of Burdekin Shire Council to help with clean-up operations in the community.

“The destructive winds and flash flooding brought by Tropical Cyclone Niran left a trail of destruction that requires an extensive clean-up effort in the Burdekin,” Minister Ryan said.

“Today’s announcement will give Burdekin Shire Council the peace of mind knowing the eligible costs associated with the clean-up will be covered by the DRFA.

“The Queensland Government has officers on the ground continuing to assess the damage and we’ll work with the Commonwealth to extend DRFA assistance as necessary.”

Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s website at www.qra.qld.gov.au.

For more information on assistance available to primary producers visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or free call 1800 623 946.

Media Contacts:  

Minister Littleproud: Douglas Ferguson, 0455 448 985
Minister Ryan: Daniel Carvosso, 0467 059 814