Recovery funding doubled

MORE than $720 million in flood-recovery cash will start flowing to help rebuild roads, recreation assets, help with accommodation as well as mental health and economic measures after the late February disaster, almost doubling a commitment from just over a month ago.

It was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on Wednesday night, following consultation with Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, ensuring the money will go out regardless of who wins Saturday’s poll.

The state and federal governments only just announced $771 million in flood-recovery funding in early April, after Mr Morrison faced significant pressure, including from his own Brisbane-based MPs.

Each level of government will fund $360 million through the category C and D Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The new investment brought the federal government’s total financial support for Queensland’s flood recovery to more than $1.76 billion.