Personal hardship grants activated for The Pines and Condamine Farms bushfires

SENATOR THE HON MURRAY WATT

MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FORESTRY

MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

THE HON STEVEN MILES MP

QUEENSLAND DEPUTY PREMIER

MINISTER FOR STATE DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE,
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PLANNING

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Personal hardship grants activated for The Pines and Condamine Farms bushfires

Queenslanders impacted by recent bushfires southwest of Toowoomba can now apply for emergency financial support jointly funded through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The personal and household grants are available to fire-impacted residents of The Pines and Condamine Farms after bushfires in the Toowoomba Regional Council area on 19 November prompted an evacuation.

Personal Hardship Assistance provides $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more to cover the costs of essentials like food, clothing and medicine.

Uninsured residents can also access up to $5,000 per household in income tested support through the Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme to inspect and reconnect damaged services like electricity, gas and water.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt:

“The Albanese and Palaszczuk Governments are ensuring affected communities are supported during this disruptive and stressful time,” Minister Watt said.

“This support will help with urgent needs like food, clothing and regaining access to power and water.

“While we are experiencing a slight reprieve in dangerous fire weather, it doesn’t take much for a spark to flame into a bushfire. That’s why it’s so important Queenslanders stay up to date with the latest warnings and follow the advice of our emergency services.”

Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and minister responsible for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Steven Miles:

“This was a fast-moving blaze that needed a speedy response, and I want to thank our frontline officers and council for helping residents evacuate quickly,” Mr Miles said.

“With the fires now contained and our focus turning to recovery we ask anyone caught up in these blazes to call the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 to seek out the help they need.”

For more information on disaster assistance, eligibility and how to apply visit www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.

To learn more about DRFA support head to the Queensland Reconstruction Authority website.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Minister Watt: Tali Eley 0499 770 772

Deputy Premier: Amy Hunter 0423 651 484