As the Queensland Government’s community recovery efforts get into full swing, community recovery hubs are opening in the Mackay and Rockhampton regions to provide financial assistance and support services to residents affected by bushfires.
Acting Communities Minister Shannon Fentimansaid four new hubs would open in these areas as the extent of the bushfire disaster was becoming clearer.
"We’re seeing devastating images starting to emerge from the disaster zones and it’s heartbreaking to see the destruction these bushfires have caused to our communities," Ms Fentiman said.
"Residents in these communities face challenging times ahead getting back on their feet and that’s why our community recovery operation is now in full swing to support their recovery.
"Hubs at Mackay and Gracemere will open today (30 November) and will be followed by hubs at Mirani and Sarina that will open on Saturday (1 December)."
"Residents can talk to community recovery workers, be connected with community organisations and other government agencies for assistance and apply for grants."
The community recovery hubs are located at:
Mackay
44 Nelson St, Mackay
Open date –
Friday 30 November - 3pm – 5pm
From Saturday 1 December - 9am-5pm daily
Mirani Council Building
20 Victoria St, Mirani
Open date – Saturday 1 December
Opening hours – 9am-5pm daily
Sarina
Surf Lifesaving Club
1 Owen Jenkins Dr, Sarina Beach Open date – Saturday 1 December
Opening hours – 9am-5pm daily
Gracemere Community Centre
Barry Street, Gracemere
Open Date – Friday 30 November
Opening hours – 9am-5pm daily
The Miriam Vale Community Recovery Hub also remains open.
Ms Fentiman said financial assistance that covers the costs of essential items such as food, clothing, medication and accommodation was available to local residents in activated areas who have been directly impacted by this disaster.
"Emergency Hardship grants of $180 per person, up to $900 for a family of five or more, have been made available through jointly-funded Commonwealth/State-Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements," she said.
"Other grants such the Essential Household Contents Grant, Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant and Structural Assistance Grant, which are income tested, are also available to eligible residents in these areas who are uninsured and have experienced certain loss or damage following this disaster."
People who are experiencing personal hardship due to the bushfires can download and use the Self-recovery app, go to www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au or contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
Anyone wanting to lend their own support to Queenslanders impacted by these unprecedented bushfires can do so through Givit. Givit is coordinating all donations on behalf of the Queensland Government and affected Regional Councils. A list of items needed and how you make donations, including support for our hardworking firefighters, can be found at www.givit.org.au
