Disaster assistance is now available to five flood-impacted local councils following heavy rainfall and flooding across Western and Southern Queensland from 10-13 November 2021.
Assistance to repair roads and other essential public infrastructure is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) in the local government areas of Barcoo, Blackall-Tambo, Boulia, Diamantina and Southern Downs.
Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said the disaster assistance will provide these communities with the financial support they need as they mop up after the widespread deluge.
"The wild weather uprooted trees, snapped powerlines and flooded waterways. Flash flooding caused damage to public infrastructure and there were road closures across much of southern and central interior of Queensland," Minister McKenzie said.
"As the impacts continue to be assessed, the Australian and Queensland Governments will work together to ensure all impacted communities receive the recovery support they need."
Queensland Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said today's funding announcement will help these rural councils restore damaged public infrastructure and alleviate the financial burden on these impacted communities.
"In Stanthorpe, more than 80mm of rain was dumped on the region in less than three hours on Wednesday night. Quart Pot Creek broke its banks and inundated several streets in the town, while just north of Stanthorpe a culvert on Glen Niven road was destroyed by floodwaters," Minister Ryan said.
"As our disaster season kicks off with the first of what is likely to be several extreme weather events over the summer, it's important to know that all impacted areas are being supported with assistance to clean-up and recover."
DRFA assistance is now available in five local council areas: Barcoo Shire Council, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, Boulia Shire Council, Diamantina Shire and Southern Downs Regional Council.
Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority's website at www.qra.qld.gov.au.
