Small businesses, primary producers and not-for-profits impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in South East Queensland can now apply for concessional loans to support their recovery.
Loans have been activated for eligible operators across the Local Government Areas of Brisbane, Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Gympie, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Southern Downs, Sunshine Coast, and Toowoomba.
- Disaster Assistance Loans up to $250,000 for eligible small businesses and primary producers and up to $100,000 for eligible not-for-profits will cover the repair or replacement of damaged equipment and infrastructure, and restocking.
- Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000 are available to help business operations continue, including paying salaries or wages, creditors, rent or rates.
- Freight subsidies up to $5,000 are also available to impacted primary producers to move stock or produce, or to have essential supplies delivered to their farms.
This assistance is jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland Governments through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the assistance, which was activated on March 13, will support small businesses, farmers and community organisations, as they start their recovery.
“We’re moving quickly to activate financial assistance for impacted communities,” Ms McAllister said.
“These concessional loans will help operators to repair damage, restock shelves, and continue paying staff and rent.
“The Albanese Government will continue working hand in glove with the Crisafulli Government to support communities through this event and into recovery.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the disaster loans would help keep local economies moving and protect jobs.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to working with the Commonwealth to support South East Queenslanders as they get back on their feet following this devastating event,” Ms Leahy said.
“This assistance will benefit hard-working Queenslanders right across the South East, businesses and services crucial to our communities.
“It’s part of a growing suite of assistance measures we’ve now activated in response to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, including concessional loans, hardship grants for residents, and financial support for councils.”
Queensland Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said the joint funding for loans was another important step in the recovery for many businesses.
“Almost three-in-four small businesses in Queensland were in the ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred impact zone and many went without power or internet for several days,” Mr Minnikin said.
“We will continue to ensure we support our small businesses and provide ongoing support to get them back delivering jobs and economic benefits for their local communities.”
Applications can be made via the QRIDA website.
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