Assistance for regions impacted by disaster

DISASTER assistance is now available to southern Queensland regions affected by flashflooding.

Toowoomba, Somerset, Southern Downs, Western Downs, Goondiwindi, Gold Coast and Logan councils can access funding to repair roads and other infrastructure.

Assistance is provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said while it was good to see the rain, the clean-up from the flood was a cost these councils could do without.

“The images of flooded creeks and rivers coming out of towns like Dalby and Warwick are astonishing to see after the long drought,” Mr Littleproud said.

“It’s important that the impacted local councils know that the Federal and State Governments are there to support their clean-up efforts.

“This announcement means the flood affected communities will recover sooner.”

Qld Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said the funding would help councils restore damaged public infrastructure and the cost of cleaning up.

“Communities that just a few short months ago were dealing with terrifying bushfires are now coping with torrential rain and flooding,” Mr Crawford said.

“But Queenslanders are a resilient mob, and we’ll face these challenges together.

“I am proud of the joint

DRFA that is there to stand with disaster impacted communities and help them through the tough times such as now.”

Toowoomba Regional Council general manager infrastructure and services group Mike Brady said the council was in the process of assessing the full extent of damage that had taken place.

“Through initial inspections we’ve encountered scouring and damage to sections of our roads and drainage structures in many parts of the region,” Mr Brady said.

“The council is grateful to the Federal and State Governments for providing disaster assistance to help repair the damage that has taken place.

“With the recent rainfall, many areas across the region have saturated ground conditions and additional rain could result in further damage.

“The community is to be thanked for its cooperation and understanding.

“It’s important we all exercise care when driving on our roads during any rain event and remember if it’s flooded – forget it.”