February 15, 2013
South Burnett Mayor Wayne Kratzmann has received a letter of support from Prime Minister Julia Gillard assuring him that the Federal Government is “absolutely committed” to supporting the South Burnett after the Australia Day weekend floods.
Prime Minister Gillard said the government would stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” with the people of the South Burnett during the recovery and rebuilding process.
She detailed the support available in the area, including Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payments (AGDRP) for individuals of $1000 for adults and $400 children, and Category C assistance for primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations.
A “Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy” has also been activated for individuals who have lost their income.
Ms Gillard encouraged Cr Kratzmann to contact Senator Joe Ludwig directly if he thought there was any area where further Commonwealth assistance was necessary. Senator Ludwig has been appointed Minister assisting on Queensland Floods Recovery.
Mayor Kratzmann told southburnett.com.au today he was very grateful to receive the letter of support from Ms Gillard.
He said he would be lobbying the Federal Government for Category D assistance for some parts of the South Burnett that really need a greater level of aid.
Cr Kratzmann said he was disappointed about changes to Category C assistance since the 2011 floods. This time around, farmers are forbidden from using any of their grant money to buy seed to replant, even though a crop had been washed away.
“Some want to replant, and that is a real issue,” he said.
Cr Kratzmann said approvals for funding to purchase seed should be made on a “case-by-case” basis.
