A month after the waters have receded and roads have reopened, the response to the recent severe weather event has stepped up a gear with increased support for primary producers and businesses and a focus on preparing for future events for households.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the changes delivered on the state government’s promise to community members and representative groups.
“In my role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, I signed off on the boost to grants for primary producers and small business last week,” Mr Last said. “That addressed concerns raised with our government by representatives and follows the inclusion of re-planting (sugar cane) as an activity eligible for government support.”
“Authorising those changes was bitter-sweet because it meant one of our key industries had been severely impacted. At the same time, ensuring the funding was available meant that those industries would receive the support they need.”
“I’m not interested in making a song and dance of support for people affected by severe weather. I’d rather just make sure the support is actually available because those industries need results, not sideshows.”
“The weather event has also had a major effect on several areas in our river systems and work is underway now to identify the best response. I would encourage landholders to work with groups like the River Trust in an effort to ensure the betterment strategy is implemented when it comes to our rivers.”
Mr Last said that additional assistance for households in flood-prone areas would assist those who had suffered damage while also focussing on preventing future damage.
“There are areas in our region that are exposed to flooding quite frequently and the government is committed to include those people as we push towards betterment,” Mr Last said. “Relatively minor works can make a huge difference for those people when it comes to any future events.”
“Rather than replacing the same infrastructure and items over and over again, the Stronger Homes Grants allow homeowners to rebuild with confidence and break the cycle of repeated recovery costs. For example, raising the height of a switchboard or relocating appliances now means that when the next event occurs, the recovery is quicker and there is less of a financial impact.”
“The state government is 100% committed to betterment for homes, for primary industry, for small business and for infrastructure. The reason for that is simple; when we build back stronger, we not only focus on saving lives, but we also focus on saving livelihoods and key industries.”
“I signed off on the grants and loans because I believe, and the state government believes, our communities and our industries deserve the opportunity to not just survive, but to thrive.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
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