Financial assistance and support services are now available to residents in parts of the Scenic Rim, Southern Downs Noosa and Sunshine Coast who have been directly affected by bushfires over recent days.
Eligible residents in Canungra, the Beechmont township, Binna Burra, Sarabah, Applethorpe, Illinbah (Tabletop Road only), Marcus Beach, Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Peregian Springs and Weyba Downs can now access Emergency Hardship Assistance grants.
These grants of up to $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more, are now available to eligible people experiencing genuine financial hardship as a result of the bushfires to help cover the costs of essential items, such as food and clothing.
Other income tested grants such the Essential Household Contents Grant, Structural Assistance Grant and Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant are also available to eligible residents who are uninsured and have experienced certain loss or damage following this disaster.
Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-Queensland Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Grant applications can be completed through the Community Recovery online portal at www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au.
Alternatively, residents can ring the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 to apply for grants and for advice on how to access to support services over the phone or visit the community recovery which has been established at the Peregian Beach Community House, 255 David Low Way (Cnr Woodland Drive) Peregian Beach. It will be open from Thursday 12 September 9am – 5pm.
People can also download the Self Recovery app for information or to apply for grants.
Ready Reserve staff have been deployed to some of the hardest hit parts of the Scenic Rim and Southern Downs to support locally led community recovery efforts.
Additionally, Australian Red Cross and UnitingCare Queensland (Lifeline) staff are in affected communities providing psychological first aid and welfare support.
