QUEENSLAND WELCOMES DISASTER ASSISTANCE TO SUPPORT NORTHERN PRODUCERS

Critical disaster assistance will now flow to primary producers in North Queensland impacted by Tropical Cyclone Niran.

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

Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said the activation of the DRFA was vital to help kick-start the recovery of impacted primary producers in Cassowary Coast, Cairns, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands.

“This activation is critical to providing financial support so that impacted producers can begin to recover from the effects of the cyclone,” Minister Ryan said.

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

Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner said he was pleased to see support will flow to primary producers in the region.

"I spent Saturday afternoon talking to growers and seeing the damage in Innisfail first hand, and it is imperative that we respond to the situation," Mr Furner said.

“I welcome the support producers can now access in the form of concessional loans of up to $250,000 to repair or replace damaged buildings or equipment affected by Tropical Cyclone Niran.

“Subsidies to the value of $5000 are also available to assist with the freight costs of moving livestock, crops, fodder and water, as well as other farm equipment,” he said.

Information on disaster assistance can be found on 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 Ryan: Daniel Carvosso, 0467 059 814

Minister Furner: Ron Goodman, 0427 781 920