Financial assistance available for producers affected by the bushfires

Category B disaster assistance has been activated for primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations affected by the bushfires in the Southern Downs Regional Council and Scenic Rim Council areas.

The assistance includes concessional loans of up to $250,000 for those who suffered direct damage and concessional loans of up to $100,000 for those who did not suffer direct damage, but suffered loss of income as a direct result of the bushfires.

Freight subsidies of up to $5,000 for primary producers are also available to assist with recovery, including movement of stock, feed, machinery, fuel, water and building/fencing materials.

For more information on loans for primary producers, small businesses and not for profits in the Scenic Rim and Southern Downs phone Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority on 1800 623 946.

For information on the freight subsidies visit daf.qld.gov.au or phone the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Customer Service Centre on 13 25 23.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the Queensland Government’s Disaster Management website at www.disaster.qld.gov.au.