20 September 2017: TC Debbie grant deadline extended as assistance nears $12 million
20 September 2017
Primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations affected by Cyclone Debbie which now have an additional three months to apply for Category C Natural Disaster Recovery Grants, of which almost $12 million have been approved so far.
The deadline to apply for the grants, which provide up to $25,000 for the clean-up and restoration of affected operations, is now 12 January 2018.
Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority’s Craig Turner said the organisation is thrilled to be keeping applications open for those who need more time to complete repairs and finalise claims.
“To date we’ve approved over 1,600 Category C grants, and with the new closing date now in place I look forward to seeing even more Queenslanders assisted,” he said.
“Of these, more than 1,200 grant applications worth $9.4 million have been approved for primary producers – mostly in sugarcane, beef and horticulture growers.”
“No two operations suffered the same damage and the journey to recovery can look very different, so our team will continue to provide support on the ground in affected areas and on the phone, ready to walk you through the application process and answer any questions.”
The extension is particularly welcome news for sugarcane producers who have indicated they won’t know the full extent of the damage suffered or have repairs fully completed until after the harvest season.
An initial grant of $5,000 can be obtained with evidence of direct damage, with subsequent amounts of up to $20,000 available on proof of payment for cleaning and reinstatement costs.
Mr Turner reminds those who have already received the first $5,000 that the further assistance may be available.
“If you’ve undertaken more recovery work since receiving your first grant, don’t hesitate to speak to our team about what you may be eligible for,” he said.
“Once that work has been paid for in full, applications for subsequent amounts can easily be lodged through our online portal using the client number you were assigned on your first claim.”
QRIDA delivers this financial assistance on behalf of the Queensland and Australian Governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
In addition, 25 Category B disaster loans worth almost $2.2 million have been approved. The Natural Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $250,000 and Natural Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans of up to $100,000 close to application on 30 June 2019.
To find out more about these grants and the application process, visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or Freecall 1800 623 946
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For more information, contact:
Craig Turner, Manager Client Relations – 0427 000 722