Australian Red Cross is concerned that some farmers in the Somerset region of south east Queensland are missing out on vital flood recovery support.
Red Cross Queensland Recovery and Preparedness State Coordinator Antoine Chandonnet said he feared some isolated farmers were unaware of available support or didn't believe they were eligible for or deserving of it.
"Red Cross is working with Somerset Regional Council and other government and non-government organisations to help people in flood-hit areas get support that they are entitled to," Mr Chandonnet said.
"We've been able to help many people take their first steps on the road to recovery, through offering psychological first aid and help with grant applications, linking them with appropriate support agencies, and providing resources that help on the recovery journey.
"But we are concerned that others are missing out, some because they see assistance as charity, and so they don't ask for the help that's available.
"The reality is that people do need help to get back on their feet after devastating flooding, and help is a hand up, not a hand-out," he said. "Any money they receive is likely to be spent within their own community anyway, right where it is needed."
"And it is likely that some people are not aware of the support that is available to them, particularly as communication channels have been damaged and community connections frayed due to the flood."
Flood-affected people are encouraged to call 07 5424 4000 to speak with a business recovery officer, visit Somerset Regional Council at 2 Redbank St in Esk, or go online Somerset Regional Council Grant Finder (grantguru.com.au).
