As our local communities work through the mammoth clean up task following the events of last week, our team are working to find ways we can provide maximum support to our clients. To help, we’ve gathered a list detailing the latest support measures available to businesses and residents impacted by the floods.
Support for Business
QLD Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant of up to $50,000
QLD Government has released this grant for small businesses in defined areas to support those directly impacted by the rainfall and flooding. Key criteria includes:
• Small business defined as less than 20 employees (full time equivalent)
• Funding available to cover various flood related costs, including cleaning, repairs, hire of equipment or replacement stock
• Up to an initial $15,000 grant is available with evidence of quotes or invoices. A further $35,000 can be claimed with evidence of payment of flood related costs
• Applications close 5 September 2022
For full details you can download the grant guidelines here. Applications are submitted via Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).
NSW Government Flood Grants – not yet available
The NSW Government have announced they will be offering financial support to businesses or not-for-profit organisations impacted by the NSW disaster, however full details are yet to be released. We anticipate the support will be similar to the QLD Business Grant. To register your interest and get notified when financial support becomes available visit Services NSW here.
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Support for Individuals/Households
Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment
A lump sum payment of $1,000 per adult and $400 for each child younger than 16 are available for those severely impacted by floods e.g. serious injury, death, major damage to house or asset valued at more than $20,000. For more information on eligibility and details on how to claim you can visit Services Australia.
Australian Disaster Recovery Allowance (Income Support)
Available for individuals who lost income during the floods. To be eligible you need to earn less that $1737.10 per week in the weeks after you lost income. Access more information through Services Australia.
QLD Personal Hardship Grants
Personal hardship support is available in QLD. Eligible people can now apply for the commonwealth/state jointly funded assistance grants:
• Emergency Hardship Assistance – available for essential needs, food, clothing, medical, temporary accommodation (non means tested)
• Essential Services Hardship Assistance – available if lost power, gas, water or sewerage for more than 5 days (non means tested)
• Essential Household Contents, Structural Assistance, Essentials Services Reconnection Grants (these grants are all income tested)
• Transport and Motoring Assistance – waiver of late fees and surcharges for vehicle registrations, free replacement licence plates
More information and details on how to apply for these grants is available via the Queensland Government website.
NSW Disaster Relief Grant
For home and essential household contents that were damaged or destroyed by the natural disaster. Financial assistance is being offered to low income earners to help re-establish a basic standard of living. More information and full details of the application process are listed here.
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Other support
Brisbane City Council (BCC)
BCC is offering a $250 Rates rebate for flood impacted businesses and individuals. Registrations can be made online from 14th March, or you can register via phone now. Click here for more information.
NAB Financial Support
Various banks are providing help for customers affected by the natural disaster. National Australia Bank is offering$1,000 for their flood impacted business and personal customers. If you are severely impacted we recommend you contact your banking partner to discuss potential payment deferrals and fee waivers.
Chartered Accountants ANZ
Our governing body CA ANZ have developed a checklist to support small businesses with business continuity following a natural disaster. The guide provides practical tips on areas business owners should consider when planning their recovery. Click here to download the checklist.
As part of the Gill McKerrow community we are here to support you. If you need any assistance or would like more information on support available call our team on (07) 3378 7399.
This article contains general information only. It should not be relied on as financial advice. You should obtain specific, independent professional advice from a registered financial planner in relation to your particular circumstances and issues.
