Turf QLD Industry Alert |QRAA DROUGHT RELIEF

QRAA DROUGHT RELIEF

Despite Tropical Cyclone Debbie’s devastation of a significant part of Queensland, much of the state is still feeling the effects of the drought. QRAA has received an extra $15 million in funding from the Australian Government for Drought Assistance Concessional Loans, boosting the total funding for the program to $50 million. These loans of up to $1 million have an interest rate of just 2.47% and can be used to restructure debt, restock and replant, or invest in future drought preparedness. With the scheme closing 30 June 2017, contact your local Regional Area Manager and start the discussion about how these loans can help you.

QRAA has established a new online grants portal (accessible through QRAA’s website) where applicants can directly complete and submit applications and supporting documentation. Alternatively, applicants or their advisors can download the grant application form and guidelines from QRAA’s website to  submit via email or post.

Financial Help for Those Impacted by Tropical Cyclone Debbie

Follow the tips below to make sure your application for assistance is submitted correctly: • Visit www.qraa.qld.gov.au for full information on the grants and loans available, including FAQs, declared areas, the online application portal, application forms and scheme guidelines • Talk to QRAA on Freecall 1800 623 946 (8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday) for application queries or to speak directly with a QRAA representative in your region • Check if you are in a disaster declared area by reviewing the most recent natural disaster activation notice, available on QRAA’s website • Make sure you provide evidence of the direct damage with your grant application, such as photos and quotations, and tax invoices and receipts for the subsequent grant amount • Remember the closing date for grant applications is 13 October 2017.

Applicants simply need to provide evidence of the direct damage, such as photographs and quotations, although tax invoices and official receipts are to be supplied if available.  Subsequent grant amounts up to a total of $20,000 to assist with additional cleaning and reinstatement costs can also be accessed – this further funding requires full evidence of completion of works and payment. Eligible costs include purchasing, hiring or leasing equipment or materials to clean premises or property or to immediately resume farming activities, removing or disposing of debris, repairing or replacing fencing and repairing or reconditioning essential plant or equipment. Grants can also help cover the costs of contractors or additional employee wages to assist with clean-up work,  as well as additional fuel, oil and other costs incurred in the use of their own equipment.

QRAA CONTACT

www.qraa.qld.gov.au

Freecall 1800 623 946