In the wake of the recent severe weather events in Queensland, the Australian and Queensland Governments have announced significant support measures for small businesses, primary producers, and not-for-profits affected by the South East Queensland (SEQ) storms and Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

Disaster Assistance for SEQ Storms

The SEQ storms, which struck on Christmas night, have led to the activation of Disaster Assistance and Essential Working Capital Loans for small businesses, primary producers, and not-for-profits in the City of Gold Coast, Scenic Rim Regional Council, and Logan City Council areas. These loans are designed to assist with the repair and recovery of essential equipment and to compensate for the loss of income. Additionally, freight subsidies are available to primary producers, easing the costs of moving stock and operating materials.

The assistance is provided through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and complements the personal hardship grants and other support previously announced for the affected local government areas. To further understand the impact of the SEQ weather event on small businesses, the Queensland Government has launched the SEQ Natural Disaster Business Survey on the Business Queensland website.

In a move to support small businesses in resolving leasing disputes, the Office of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC) is waiving all fees for mediation for eligible SEQ small business tenants and their landlords, effective from 25 December 2023.

Tropical Cyclone Jasper’s Impact and Assistance

Tropical Cyclone Jasper, which affected Far North Queensland, has prompted the provision of extraordinary disaster assistance grants of up to $50,000 for small businesses in the Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Cook Shire, Douglas Shire, Hope Vale, Mareeba, Tablelands, Wujal Wujal, and Yarrabah Council areas. These grants are part of a $64 million package, jointly funded through the DRFA, aimed at aiding clean-up, restoration, and recovery activities.

The Queensland Small Business Commissioner has also exercised the power to waive mediation fees for eligible parties affected by Tropical Cyclone Jasper, promoting access to mediation and helping resolve leasing disputes quickly and affordably. This waiver is in effect from 13 December 2023 to 13 June 2024.

For those affected, it’s crucial to reach out and take advantage of the available support.

In the wake of these severe weather events, MEA has assembled some vital resources for electrical contractors and consumers – you can access them here.