Grants and support for residents in Lockyer Valley and Southern Downs LGAs impacted by May floods

Residents in the Lockyer Valley and Southern Downs local government areas (LGA) who have been impacted by flooding over the past couple of days can now access financial assistance and support services.

Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said this included Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, of up to $180 per person and $900 for a family of five or more, to support residents experiencing financial hardship as a result of this flooding.

“We know that some people and families in these regions have only just recovered from the February floods and now they have been impacted again,” Ms Enoch said.

“Only weeks later we’ve seen many properties and businesses across the south-east inundated by floodwaters and people isolated from their homes.

“This is a heartbreaking situation, but we know Queenslanders are resilient and have a strong sense of community spirit.

“Our financial assistance is a safety net for people and families who are experiencing hardship and there are also a range of services available through our non-government partners, including emotional and psychosocial supports, to help people through their recovery.”

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

Emergency Hardship Assistance grants help cover the costs of essential items, such as food, medication and clothing, for people who have been directly impacted by this disaster.

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.

Minister Enoch said the Queensland Government’s Ready Reserves were on standby to lead community recovery efforts in these areas once flood water subsides and it is safe to travel.

“These dedicated community recovery workers will be mobilised into affected communities as soon as possible to help individuals and families access the financial assistance and support services that they need to assist with their recovery,” she said.

“We are also continuing to monitor the current flood situation in other communities across the south-east and are working with local authorities as damage and impacts become clearer.

“Unfortunately, this weather situation is not over yet and we know many communities have been impacted.

“We are ready to step up and assist where we are needed, and we expect further activations over the next couple of days as the rain clears and flood waters subside.”

To apply for grants and find more information:

• Visit www.qld.gov.au/SEQFloodRecoveryMay2022 to check your eligibility, find out what documents you need, and apply online; or
• Phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

Additionally, anyone impacted by the flood event can apply for housing assistance, including homeowners and private renters, by visiting www.qld.gov.au or calling 13QGOV (13 74 68).

ENDS

Media contact: Bill Walker 0437 859 987