Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said financial assistance is now available to those suffering distress or hardship as a result of the Discovery Coast and Central Queensland bushfires.
Emergency Hardship Assistance of $180 per person (up to $900 for a family of five or more) has been made accessible from midnight last night for people who are unable to meet their immediate essential needs for temporary accommodation, food, essential clothing and medication.
Mr Bennett said there is also Essential Household Contents assistance of $150 per person available.
“This assistance is for people who are directly impacted by the loss of one or more essential service (e.g. electricity, gas, water or sewerage) for more than five days,” he said.
“There is also help in the way of an Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant to help owner-occupied households reconnect essential services that were damaged by a disaster and Structural Assistance Grants.
“These are one-off payment towards the cost of repairs to uninsured, owner-occupied homes to ensure the home is habitable, secure and safe. Up to $10,995 for single adults and up to $14,685 for couples/families.
“I’m urging those effected by these bushfires and who are in need of immediate assistance to contact the Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349 or visit the website, www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au as soon as possible.”
A community recovery Hub will also open from 10 am today at the Miriam Vale Community Centre, 41 Blomfield Street.
Mr Bennett said it’s now more important than ever that the community bands together.
“The conditions are terrifying and emergency services tell us today will be one of the worst days,” he said.
“I’m pleading with everyone in the emergency declared area to listen to the authorities.
“Do not take risks. Get out and stay safe.”
28.11.18