Community & Business
17 January, 2024
Bushfire recovery program announced
Parts of Queensland affected by bushfires last year, including in the Toowoomba Region can access $5 million in Exceptional Circumstances Recovery Grants provided by the Queensland and Australian governments.
The Toowoomba Region is one of nine local government areas covered by the program.
Fires in the Toowoomba Region included several serious outbreaks in the Millmerran district.
Eligible primary producers who have suffered direct damage from the 2023 bushfires can apply for grants up to $75,000, to help with short-term recovery needs including pasture rehabilitation, fodder, replacing livestock, and repairs to infrastructure and equipment.
Grants will be administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) and
the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).
The package also includes a $1 million Local Recovery and Resilience Grant for Western Downs Regional Council, in recognition of the damage caused by the Tara fires.
The funding will help the Council address economic, social and community recovery needs and support future resilience measures.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said these new support packages build on the immediate assistance already rolled out to these areas, and will address some of the longer-term recovery needs.
“We will continue to work with the Queensland Government on what else may be needed to support recovery efforts,” Mr Watt said.
Other assistance currently available to bushfire affected Queenslanders includes the following:
Operational concessional loans for primary producers and small businesses – contact QRIDA on 1800 623 946 or visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au
Primary producer freight subsidies – contact DAF on 13 25 23 or visit www.daf.qld.gov.au
Grants for individuals through the Personal Hardship Assistance and Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Schemes – visit www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp
