Disaster loans activated for north Queensland

Queensland Ministerial Statement - 6 February 2025

Disaster hit primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits in seven northern Queensland council areas can now apply for concessional loans to assist with their recovery from the sustained rains and flooding endured the past week.

Loans have been activated for the local government areas (LGAs) of Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Townsville and Yarrabah, provided through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)

Disaster Assistance Loans up to $250,000 for eligible primary producers and small businesses and up to $100,000 for eligible not-for-profits will help re-establish operations by covering costs relating to:

• Repairing or replacing damaged plant and equipment

• Repairing or replacing buildings

• Resupplying stock or livestock

Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000 are available to help operators carry on business operations, including paying salaries or wages, creditors, rent or rates.

Primary producers can also access freight subsidies up to $5,000 for the movement of stock, feed, machinery, fuel, water, and building or fencing materials.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the assistance activated today is important to supporting the North Queensland community during this challenging time.

“Farmers, businesses and not-for-profit organisations are central to the North Queensland community, and we know that heavy rainfall and severe flooding has made it difficult for them to stay open.”

“We’re moving quickly to activate financial assistance for impacted communities.

“The Albanese Government will continue working hand in glove with the Queensland Government to support them through this event and into recovery.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said disaster loans provided a way forward for hard-working North Queenslanders in need.

“When disaster events strike, it’s often those who can least afford it who are most affected and unable to recover quickly,” Minister Leahy said.

“We have unlocked support for affected farmers and small businesses to help get them back on their feet.

“These loans follow the activation of Personal Hardship Assistance and council support for large parts of the region.

“Our government will continue working with the Commonwealth to extend further relief measures where required.”

For loan applications visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or call 1800 623 946.

Primary producers interested in freight subsidies can contact Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries on 13 25 23 or via www.daf.qld.gov.au.