Flood-affected communities in north-west Queensland are set to receive a further $38 million in disaster recovery support, with the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments outlining a package aimed at farmers, regional infrastructure and immediate stock needs.
The funding, delivered through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, targets areas that continue to feel the effects of widespread flooding across the region. The largest portion, $21.5 million, has been allocated to Disaster Recovery Grants for primary producers, offering assistance of up to $75,000 per eligible business. Impacted farmers in Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Croydon, Flinders, McKinlay, Richmond and Winton shires can also access upfront payments of $10,000 to help meet urgent costs.
A further $11.5 million has been committed to repairs and flood resilience works at Cloncurry Airport. The investment is expected to restore the damaged airstrip and improve the airport’s capacity to handle larger aircraft, a move seen as important for both emergency access and longer-term regional connectivity.
Support for livestock producers has also been expanded, with an extra $5 million added to the emergency fodder package, lifting total funding to $7 million. The program is designed to help producers keep stock fed as recovery continues, with access coordinated through local councils.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the funding was intended to provide immediate relief while supporting longer-term recovery. He described the measures as a way to help communities rebuild after what has been a difficult period, while reinforcing that affected Queenslanders are not facing the aftermath alone.
Queensland’s Acting Premier Jarrod Bleijie said government teams were working on the ground across the north and north-west to shape recovery efforts and deliver assistance where it is needed. He said the focus remained on practical support for communities dealing with the impact of flooding.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, speaking during a visit to Cloncurry, said the floods had been devastating for farming families and regional industries. He said the latest funding reflected the role regional Queensland plays in the national economy and the need for sustained backing during recovery.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain acknowledged that recovery from disasters can take time, describing the funding as part of a longer process of rebuilding and support. Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said local councils and industry groups had helped shape the measures, reflecting local priorities and conditions.
Applications for primary producer recovery grants are open through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, while those seeking fodder support are advised to contact their local council. Broader disaster information and recovery assistance is available through the Queensland Government’s disaster information services and community recovery hotline.
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