RESIDENTS on the Tablelands impacted by the raging bushfires can now apply for financial assistance from the State and Federal Governments to assist them and their families get back on their feet.
Impacted residents in Mareeba Shire Council and Tablelands Regional Council areas of Irvinebank, Watsonville, Herberton, Innot Hot Springs, Kalunga, Millstream, Moomin, Mount Garnet and Silver Valley are being offered assistance through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
The Personal Hardship Assistance Scheme provides $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more to cover the costs of essential items such as food, clothing and medicine.
Uninsured residents can also access income-tested grants up to $5,000 per household through the Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme to inspect and reconnect damaged services like electricity, gas and water.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the recent fires have had a drastic impact on residents.
“The fires prompted emergency alerts and the evacuation of residents from dwellings in Silver Valley and Watsonville on Wednesday, and Irvinebank and Innot Hot Springs on Friday,” he said.
“We understand the impact this has on communities, and the Federal and State Governments are continuing to work together to provide help those impacted by fires.
“This support will help impacted locals with emergency assistance to get back on their feet, including for food, clothing and reconnecting power and water at home.”
For more information on disaster assistance, eligibility and how to apply visit www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.
To learn more about DRFA support head to the Queensland Reconstruction Authority website.
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Improving connectivity ahead of natural disasters and New CEO for NQPHN.
