July 23, 2013
The cut-off date for farmers affected by the floods earlier this year to apply for natural disaster assistance has been extended to the end of November.
This extension applies to Category C and D assistance under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
Agriculture Minister John McVeigh said the eligibility period was due to end on August 30 but many producers and small businesses needed more time to find suitable contractors and finalise their applications.
“Applicants now have until November 29 to lodge their applications with the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority (QRAA),” Mr McVeigh said.
“Many farmers are still cleaning up and are struggling to complete repair and recovery activities before the start of the next wet season.”
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Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said she was pleased the cut-off date had been extended.
Mrs Frecklington said she had been lobbying the Agriculture Minister and was glad it has been approved.
“I have received a lot of feedback from primary producers highlighting the fact that they were unable to secure contractors before the original deadline of August 30, as well as the fact that in some places it is just still too wet to carry out any works,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“So far, 286 South Burnett farmers have accessed more than $3.7 million in Category C Special disaster Assistance Grants.
“With the extension, I’m hoping even more farmers take the opportunity to see if they’re eligible and access this funding.
“I am also pleased to advise that Farm Financial Counsellor Mr Alan Broome will continue to be available through DAFF throughout July and following this he will move into a contract with the Federal Farm Financial Counselling Service.
“A new adviser, Mr Ian Buck, is also available during the next few months for producers in the South Burnett. Contact him on 0428-880-645.”
[UPDATED July 24, 2013]
