Community recovery hubs opening in flood-affected areas

The Palaszczuk Government’s flood disaster recovery efforts are continuing to roll out, with community recovery hubs opening in affected areas today, helping to provide financial assistance and support services to eligible residents affected by recent severe weather and flooding.

Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch announced the first of the community recovery hubs were now open in Caboolture, Redcliffe and Gympie.

“We’re seeing devastating images from the disaster zones across South-East Queensland and it’s just heartbreaking to see the wide-spread destruction these floods have caused to people across our communities,” Ms Enoch said.

“We know there are challenging times ahead as people begin cleaning up and getting back on their feet and that’s why our community recovery operation is now in full swing.

“These are the first three of a number of community recovery hubs that will follow in the coming days as we identify areas of need and gain access to impacted communities.

The openings come against the backdrop of unpredictable and dangerous weather conditions over the next day or two that threaten to hamper recovery efforts.

“I urge everyone to heed the advice from authorities to limit your movements as these thunderstorms roll through in the next 24 to 48 hours," Ms Enoch said.

Minister for Police and Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said Hubs like these are vital in helping to restore and rebuild Communities.

“These hubs are a place where residents can talk to community recovery workers, receive referrals for community organisations and other government agencies and those who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants.

“This includes Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, of up to $180 per person and $900 for a family of five or more, to help cover the costs of essential items, such as food, medication and clothing, for people who have been directly impacted by this disaster,” he said.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services and Member for Redcliffe Yvette D’Ath praised the workers who are there assisting and supporting those impacted.

“These dedicated community recovery workers are on the ground helping affected individuals and families access the financial assistance and support services that they need to assist with their recovery.”

“Representatives from community organisations including Lifeline, Red Cross and Salvation Army are working tirelessly to help ease the burden on affected residents,” she said.

The community recovery hubs will open from 9am – 5pm, seven days a week at:

• • Caboolture: Learning and Business Centre, 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture
  • Redcliffe: Webb Hall, Redcliffe Showgrounds Scarborough Road, Redcliffe
  • Gympie: Gympie Civic Centre, 32 Mellis Street, Gympie.

Minister Enoch said affected residents could also apply for grants or find more information online or over the phone.

“People in affected areas who have power or phones can use these channels for assistance without having to queue at the hub and disrupt their recovery efforts,” she said.

“You can visit www.qld.gov.au/SEQRecoveryGrants to check your eligibility, find out what documents you need, and apply online.

“Alternatively, the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 can provide information and assist with grant applications.”

Financial assistance is available under jointly-funded Commonwealth/State-Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Other grants such the Essential Household Contents Grant, Structural Assistance Grant and Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant, which are income tested, are also available to eligible residents who are uninsured and have experienced certain loss or damage following this disaster.

For a full list of the activated areas across South-East Queensland visit www.qld.gov.au/SEQRecoveryGrants.

ENDS

Media contact: Bill Walker 0437 859 987