Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

Disaster Recovery Payment for people affected by south-west Queensland floods

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) will be provided to eligible people adversely affected by severe flooding in the Balonne, Quilpie and Western Downs council areas in south-west Queensland.

Those who are eligible will receive a one-off payment of $1,000 for adults and $400 for each child to help them recover.

This payment will provide financial assistance to eligible people who were seriously injured, or whose principal place of residence was destroyed or significantly damaged or who were unable to return home, or were isolated by the floodwaters for 24 hours or more, or who experienced a utility failure for 48 hours or more.

This announcement follows the activation of the AGDRP on 4 March 2010 for eligible people adversely affected by flooding in Murweh and Maranoa council areas in south-west Queensland.

The flooding in south-west Queensland has caused considerable disruption, including the evacuation of many people from their homes.

This payment will go some way to helping people get back on their feet as they get on with the job of rebuilding their lives and cleaning up.

This payment is over and above the support being provided by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), which is providing financial and practical assistance to people affected by this flooding.

Information about the AGDRP can be obtained through the Australian Government’s south-west Queensland floods hotline on 180 2122. People can claim the payment during the next six months.

Individuals requiring assistance through the NDRRA should contact the Queensland Department of Communities’ Disaster Relief Assistance Scheme hotline on 1800 173 349.