People experiencing hardship in the Somerset region because of the recent bush fires can now access Personal Hardship Assistance grants of $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 per family.
The additional disaster assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-Queensland Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the grants would apply to targeted areas of the Somerset local government area.
“These grants will give those worst-hit by the fires dignity and help them back on their feet,” Minister Littleproud said.
“This is cash in the hand to cover the immediate needs of families and individuals, such as food, clothing and shelter.
“Assistance is also available for people in hardship so they can safely turn the power and other utilities back on after the fires.
“We will keep supporting fire hit communities and make further assistance available as needed.”
Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford said Somerset had experienced significant damage to houses and other structures along a number of roads.
“Impacted residents in targeted areas of the Somerset local government area will have access to the grants,” Minister Crawford said.
“The activation of the DRFA will ensure all fire-impacted communities have the support they need during these challenging times.”
