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Residents in the McKinlay Shire Council area impacted by recent flooding can now access financial support after the activation of Personal Hardship Assistance by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government.
The assistance, delivered through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), provides immediate financial relief for people affected by flooding, helping cover emergency essentials and early recovery costs.
Eligible residents can access emergency hardship payments of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families of five or more to help pay for necessities such as food, clothing and medicine.
Additional grants may also be available for some residents, particularly those who are uninsured or on lower incomes. These include assistance to reconnect essential services, replace flood-damaged whitegoods and undertake urgent repairs needed to make homes safe and habitable.
The support has also been activated for other affected regions across Queensland, including Bundaberg, Carpentaria, Doomadgee, Douglas and Western Downs, as flood impacts continue to be assessed.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the government was working closely with the state to provide assistance to impacted communities.
“As the floodwaters recede and we learn more about the impacts, we’ll continue activating the support measures Queensland needs,” Minister McBain said.
“The financial assistance we’re announcing today will give people a start on their recovery journey and hopefully raise their spirits in the face of this adversity.
“This has been a tough start to the year for so many communities in Queensland and I want them to know that the Albanese Government has their back.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said expanding support for affected residents remained a priority.
“This disaster season has been tough for our state, but by swiftly activating support will ensure the recovery process can be smoother for those affected,” Minister Leahy said.
Residents can check eligibility or apply for assistance online at disaster.qld.gov.au or by calling the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
CAPTION: Several roads were cut by flood waters across the region, isolating residents in communities like those in McKinlay. Photo source: Facebook
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