Federal election 2022: Qld flood recovery cash doubled as Premier, PM play nice

In a rare show of bipartisanship on the eve of the election, the Premier and both prime ministerial candidates have reached a critical consensus.

More than $720 million in flood recovery cash will start flowing to help rebuild roads, recreation assets, help with accommodation as well as mental health and economic measures after the late February disaster, almost doubling a commitment from just over a month ago.

It was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk last night, following consultation with Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, ensuring the money will go out regardless of who wins Saturday’s poll.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Picture: Jason Edwards

The State and Federal governments only just announced $771 million in flood recovery funding in early April, after Mr Morrison faced significant pressure including from his own Brisbane-based MPs.

Each level of government will fund $360 million through the category C and D Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Mr Morrison said the new investment brought the Federal Government’s total financial support for Queensland’s flood recovery to more than $1.76 billion.

“My Government has always backed Queenslanders in good times and in difficult times, and today we extend that support further,” he said.

“The terrible floods that we saw earlier this year will take many months to rebuild from, and we’ll stand with resilient Queenslanders every step of the way on that journey to recovery.”

Ms Palaszczuk said the funding was welcome.

“I’ve always said we work best when we work together,” she said.

“I’m pleased the Federal Government has agreed to our request.”

Federal Emergency Management Minister Bridget McKenzie said the package included money for mental health, environmental measures and economic initiatives.

“Long after flood waters recede, continuing support from governments is needed and that’s what this package delivers,” she said.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk this week. Picture: Adam Head

It includes $121 million for accommodation, $24 million for community health and wellbeing, $150 million for small and medium business recovery loans $150 million for a community and recreational assets program and $150 million for roads and transport assets.

The earlier $771 million package was “biggest single disaster package” in Queensland’s history and including cash to rebuild homes and for buyback schemes.

As well as the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the federal government has paid out millions in Disaster Recovery Payments, which $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child, via Services Australia.

Originally published as Federal election 2022: Qld flood recovery cash doubled as Premier, PM play nice