Large-scale disaster recovery efforts for flood-affected communities across north-west Queensland have been given a $38 million boost in a joint effort by the Australian and Queensland governments.
The bulk of the funding, secured through the through the joint commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, will comprise $21.5 million for the delivery of primary producer Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000.
A further $11.5 million has been allocated for critical repairs and increased flood resilience at Cloncurry Airport with the remaining $5 million representing a major increase to the previously announced emergency fodder package.
In a joint statement, the Queensland and Federal governments say the primary producer recovery grants of up to $75,000 are available to impacted farmers in Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Croydon, Flinders, McKinlay, Richmond and Winton Shires, including upfront payments of $10,000.
The Cloncurry Airport Recovery and Renewal Package will see $11.5 million of works rolled out to repair the damaged airstrip and increase the airport’s capacity to accommodate larger aircraft.
The $5 million increase in the Coordinated Emergency Fodder Support Package to $7 million is aimed at helping primary producers keep their stock fed in Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Flinders, McKinlay, Richmond and Winton.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the funding will provide immediate support to flooded communities in north-west Queensland.
“These disaster packages will make sure flood affected Queenslanders can recover and importantly build back stronger," says Albanese.
“We want all Australians to know that their government has their back.”
Acting Queensland Premier Jarrod Bleijie says the state government has “boots on the ground” across the state’s north and north-west to inform affected communities of the recovery and support being provided.
“It doesn’t matter what we’re up against, we’ll continue delivering for Queensland,” says Bleijie.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy says the local knowledge of mayors and industry bodies has been crucial in shaping the support measures announced.
“For our farmers, communities and families, we’ve listened and we’re getting on with the work," says Leahy.
Help us deliver quality journalism to you.
As a free and independent news site providing daily updates
during a period of unprecedented challenges for businesses everywhere
we call on your support