Joint media release with the Hon Ann Leahy MP
Disaster assistance has been activated by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments for five councils in Wide Bay-Burnett following a week of heavy rain and flooding in the region.
Sustained rainfall in the Fraser Coast, Gympie, North Burnett, Somerset, and South Burnett Regional Council areas has resulted in flash flooding, road damage and temporary route closures.
Councils can use assistance through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to cover expenses for emergency repairs and the reconstruction of essential public assets like roads and bridges. Councils will also be able to reclaim the costs of counter disaster operations undertaken in the immediate aftermath of the storms.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the assistance activated today will help councils recover and rebuild.
'This includes fixing damage to their road network, which is causing significant disruption, and ensuring community safety,' Minister McAllister said
'I thank all our responders and council workers who are doing a fantastic job in challenging circumstances.
'We are working closely with the Queensland Government to ensure communities can get the support they need as they get back on their feet.'
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the DRFA was a critical support mechanism during disaster season.
'The arrangements allow us to quickly unlock the funding communities need when severe weather arrives,' Ms Leahy said.
'Flooding, storms and bushfires have been regular unwanted visitors to our state this year, but our councils are well-versed in how to respond and recover effectively.
'This is also another reminder to all Queenslanders to put their disaster preparations in place. There is no better time than now.
'We all have a role to play during disaster season, and together we can all make a difference.'
For more on DRFA assistance visit Disaster Assist or Queensland Reconstruction Authority, and for tips on disaster preparedness go to Get Ready Queensland.
