Disaster assistance is now available for 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) currently experiencing the latest rainfall and flooding event in Southern Queensland.
Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Personal hardship disaster assistance has been activated to help flood-affected residents in the Lockyer Valley and Southern Downs to cover the costs of immediate essential needs, such as food, temporary accommodation, clothing and medication.
In addition, the Brisbane, Fraser Coast, Gladstone, Gold Coast, Gympie, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, North Burnett, South Burnett, Southern Downs and Toowoomba LGAs have been activated for counter disaster operations assistance to cover the costs of the immediate clean-up efforts.
Minister for Emergency Management and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Recovery and Resilience, Bridget McKenzie, said that the Australian Government would always stand with Queenslanders after a natural disaster.
“This has been an unseasonal deluge and comes on the back of a long disaster season in Queensland but we will continue to work with the Queensland Government to ensure that people affected have the support they need,” Minister McKenzie said.
Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said it has been yet another far reaching weather system.
“Personal Hardship Assistance grants are now available for eligible residents in Lockyer Valley and Southern Downs who have suffered the impacts in those targeted areas, to alleviate personal hardship and distress.” Minister Ryan said.
“These grants of up to $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more, are available to those eligible who are still experiencing financial hardship because of the unfolding severe weather.
“There are a wide range of severe weather warnings and flood warnings in place and huge amounts of rain fall on already saturated catchments and I encourage people in these areas to listen to the warnings and always remember, if it’s flooded, forget it!
“The Commonwealth and Queensland Governments will continue to work closely to provide whatever support and assistance is needed as the situation develops.”
