More time for flooded farmers to access assistance
Primary producers impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low in early 2025 now have an additional six months to apply for Disaster Assistance Grants up to $75,000.
The extension allows producers in 10 local government areas to access the grants up until 14 August 2026, with eligible LGAs including Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Charters Towers, Flinders, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Tablelands, Townsville, and Yarrabah.
Disaster Assistance Grants are provided by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA),
Farmers can be use the funding to cover the costs of clean-up and recovery activities, including:
- Purchasing replacement equipment and materials
- Disposing damaged goods
- Replanting crops
- Repairing or replacing fencing, buildings and infrastructure
- Covering additional labour costs
Over the past 12 months, many primary producers in the region have been affected by multiple disaster events.
Widespread impacts experienced by producers following the tropical low included damage to crops, fences and equipment.
Extending the deadline acknowledges the enormous challenges producers have faced in that time and allows them to concentrate on completing recovery works and accessing much needed support.
Primary producers are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply for the grants by visiting the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority’s website or by calling 1800 623 946.
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Industry Recovery and Resilience Officers (IRROs) are available to assist producers seeking additional support.
Contact details and Further information and contact details for IRROs are available on the DPI website or by phoning 13 25 23.