More than 4,100 people in North-West Queensland communities affected by recent flooding have now benefited from around $750,000 in Emergency Hardship Assistance (EHA) grants.
Communities Minister Coralee O’Rourke said the need for this type of short-term financial assistance had now declined as people, families and communities focused on their long-term recovery.
“Applications for EHA grants will close in North-West Queensland communities tomorrow (7 March),” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“These grants, of up to $180 per person to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more, are available for individuals and families who need immediate assistance for food, clothing, medical supplies or temporary accommodation after a disaster.
“We know that many areas face a long recovery from this disaster and we will continue to support local communities as we move into a medium to longer-term recovery phase.
“People living across the North West, and particularly our farmers, have done it very tough after this disaster, and despite the heartbreak of property and stock losses they have still shown amazing resilience and community spirit.”
Applications for Emergency Hardship Assistance grants for people in these local government areas will close tomorrow:
- Burke Shire Council
- Cloncurry Shire Council
- Flinders Shire Council
- McKinlay Shire Council
- Richmond Shire Council
- Winton Shire Council
People in affected areas who have not already submitted applications can do so until 5pm tomorrow at a Community Recovery Referral and Information Centre, located in Cloncurry.
Applications will also be taken until 11.59pm tomorrow (7 March) via the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349, or via the online portal.
Mrs O’Rourke said applications for anyone who applied for this payment before the cut-off date would continue to be processed after the closure date.
“The Essential Household Contents Grants, Structural Assistance Grants and Essential Services Safety Reconnection Scheme Grants also remain available for eligible individuals and families affected by this widespread disaster,” she said.
These grants have been made available through jointly-funded Commonwealth/State-Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements.
For more grant information please visit
https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/queensland-disasters/fnq-monsoonal-trough
