Disaster support package unveiled to assist Far North Queensland

The federal and Queensland state government have announced a jointly-funded disaster recovery package to assist communities in the heavily impacted Far North Queensland region in the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. 

The newly announced funding will target several areas, including investing in clean- up activities, helping boost local tourism, as well as the recruitment of specialised recovery and resilience staff. Among the measures announced are:   

• A $24 million Tourism Recovery and Resilience program to provide grants to  Far North Queensland tourism operators impacted by the disaster. A portion of this funding will also be used to fund a tourism and marketing campaign aimed at encouraging tourists to return to the region;  
• A $20 million cleanup program for affected communities in Far North and South-East Queensland;  
• Dedicated resources in the form of resilience officers will be appointed to the region who will work with industry, councils and the local community to support risk reduction approaches to recovery;  
• Additional direct funding to assist impacted local councils with resourcing constraints.  

A 24/7 Lifeline support service has also been established in a bid to provide emotional support for those affected in the state’s far-north and south-east areas.  

This Lifeline service exists to provide emotional support, in addition to Community Recovery Hubs that have already been set up to assist the local community. 

“This beautiful place has been ravaged by this disaster, and we want to help Far North Queensland get back on its feet as soon as possible,” said PM Anthomy Albanese in a media statement.  

“Disaster recovery at this scale will take time so it’s vital we keep making these investments so that Far North Queensland can bounce back faster and stronger.” 

Queensland Premier Steven Miles urged affected people and businesses to reach out for assistance to help them get back on their feet.  

“People are hurting both emotionally and financially as a result of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in the far north of the state and severe thunderstorms that have rocked parts of the south-east since Christmas Day,” he said. 

“If you are feeling the strain and want to speak to someone about how you are feeling, then please call our dedicated Lifeline support service on 1800 116 671. 

“You can also access face-to-face support at Community Recovery Hubs where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.”