Flood Relief Activated For Parts Of Mackay & Surrounding Regions

Flood-affected residents in Clermont, McKinlay Shire and parts of the Mackay region can now access Personal Hardship Assistance payments following severe weather across North Queensland.

The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have jointly activated financial support through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) after heavy downpours from ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough caused widespread flooding.

Emergency payments of $180 per person, up to $900 for families of five or more, are now available to help impacted residents cover essential needs such as food, clothing and medicine.

Eligible localities within the Mackay local government area include Broken River, Crediton, Dalrymple Heights and Eungella. Hardship assistance also remains open to disaster-impacted residents of Flinders, Richmond and Winton Shires.

Income-tested grants are also available to uninsured residents in Clermont, McKinlay, Flinders, Richmond and Winton to help replace essential household items, reconnect services and repair flood-damaged homes.

A further 13 councils – including Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday – have been activated to access DRFA funding for response and recovery activities. Disaster loans of up to $250,000 have also been extended to small businesses in several impacted areas.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said rapid action was critical.

“During prolonged disaster events like this it’s critical we’re acting swiftly and constantly to get support where it’s required,” Minister McBain said.

“We’ll continue monitoring the impacts of this evolving weather system so communities are cared for long after the clouds have cleared.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said recovery would take time.

“We know how important it is to help Queenslanders get back on their feet following disasters like this,” Minister Leahy said.

“Post disaster recovery isn’t a quick journey, but Queenslanders can take heart knowing we’re here to support them with every step forward.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the assistance would be vital for hard-hit communities.

“Clermont is a resilient community, but it hasn’t seen a weather event like this in over a century. They shouldn’t have to do it alone, and with this support, they won’t have to,” Mr Last said.

“This is about delivering practical help for those doing it tough after seeing their homes and livelihoods damaged by floodwaters.”

Applications can be made at www.disaster.qld.gov.au or by calling the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

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Photo source: David Crisafulli MP (Facebook)

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