Help for North Queensland small businesses after devastating floods

If the recent North Queensland floods have hit your business, support is on hand to help you recover. The federal and Queensland governments have announced more than $100 million in grants to assist small businesses, farmers, and not-for-profits rebuild and get back to business.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasised the importance of acting quickly. “Our focus is getting North Queensland back on its feet – fast. We’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those affected by the disaster to ensure they can recover quickly and come back stronger than ever.”

What’s available?

The disaster assistance package includes:

• Up to $25,000 for flood-affected small businesses and not-for-profits to help cover clean-up and recovery costs.
• Up to $10,000 for rural landholders who’ve suffered direct damage but don’t qualify for other disaster relief funds.
• $72.7 million for primary producers to assist with rebuilding and repairs.
• $1 million in Emergency Fodder Support to help sustain livestock affected by the floods.

The grants are designed to cover immediate needs like equipment replacement, structural repairs, and other essential recovery efforts.

Who’s eligible?

The grants are open to small businesses, not-for-profits, primary producers, and rural landholders in the following local government areas:
Burdekin
Cairns
Cassowary Coast
Hinchinbrook
Palm Island
Townsville
Yarrabah

Primary producers in Charters Towers and Flinders are also eligible for the Emergency Fodder Support Package, which provides funding for purchasing and transporting fodder to sustain livestock.

Minister for Small Business Julie Collins said the grants are crucial for helping businesses recover and rebuild. “Grants like this can make all the difference in ensuring North Queensland farmers and small businesses can get back on their feet faster,” she said.

How to apply for flood relief

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is managing applications, with staff ready to help businesses, farmers, and not-for-profits navigate the process.

To apply or check eligibility:
Call QRIDA on 1800 623 946
Visit: qrida.qld.gov.au

For Emergency Fodder Support, primary producers should contact the Department of Primary Industries on 13 25 23.

Recovery takes time

Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister acknowledged the tough road ahead for small businesses. “Recovery can take time. Our government is here for the long haul. These grants will help businesses and farmers as they move towards recovery, providing essential support for stock feed, repairs, and operational recovery.”

If you’re struggling after the floods, don’t wait. Get in touch with QRIDA and see what assistance is available to help you get back on track.

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