The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has welcomed the activation of Category D assistance for farmers beginning the recovery process following damage caused by recent floods and cyclones.
Farmers in the Goondiwindi, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands local government areas are eligible for grants of up to $75,000, in addition to the freight subsidies, concessional loans and grants already available, through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
QFF CEO Dr Georgina Davis acknowledged the Queensland and Australian Governments for their timely response, as farmers begin the process of rebuilding after the destructive weather events.
“Queensland farmers are no strangers to natural disasters and weather extremes, but these events have come on the back of several years of ongoing drought exacerbating the impact meaning the road to recovery will be a long one,” Dr Davis said.
“As more information comes to hand, QFF will continue working closely with government to ensure the appropriate levels of support are available to farmers.”
“QFF is in the process of creating an Industry Support Network of people with knowledge of farm practices and business processes, to take on a supporter role to galvanise those who have experienced loss or disruption as a result of a disaster like the recent floods and cyclones, and who need a helping hand as they recover.”
“In the meantime, we encourage impacted farmers to contact their relevant industry body or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) to complete an impact assessment.”
The Category D recovery grants are available from QRIDA at qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 946.