Communities across Townsville that have been hard-hit by flooding over recent days are now able to apply for financial assistance and access support services.
Acting Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman said Townsville was experiencing some of the worst flooding in decades as monsoonal rains damage properties and isolate communities.
"Townsville residents are being significantly affected by this flooding and we are here to assist them with Emergency Hardship Grants to help meet their immediate needs," Ms Fentiman said.
"These grants, through jointly-funded Commonwealth and State Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements (DRFA) will help cover the costs of essential items – such as food, medication and clothing – for people in Townsville directly impacted by this monsoonal trough.
"Up to $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more, is provided to people experiencing genuine financial hardship as a result of flooding."
The suburbs and areas of Townsville that have been activated for financial assistance are:
- Bluewater
- Toolakea
- Black River
- Alligator Creek
- Nome
- Julago.
Ms Fentiman said face-to-face support would soon be available in the affected areas.
"Ready Reserve staff are being deployed to support locally-led community recovery efforts, with more expected to be deployed over the coming days," she said.
"They will be out in the community door-knocking homes as soon as floodwaters recede and it’s safe for them to travel to these hard-hit areas.
"In the meantime, affected residents can go to www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au or download the Self Recovery app for information or to apply for grants, including Emergency Hardship Grants.
"People without internet access can ring the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 to apply for grants and for advice on how to access to support services over the phone."
The Queensland Government is continuing to monitor and assess the needs of other communities affected by this weather event.
