Disaster assistance announced post Cyclone Jasper

Disaster assistance has been announced for key regions of the Far North impacted by Cyclone Jasper. Read the details.

Disaster assistance has been announced to support individuals and councils impacted by Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

The federal and state governments have activated jointly-funded support under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to cover the costs of response operations and repairs for councils.

The councils of Cairns, Cook, Douglas, Hopevale and Wujal Wujal will receive support to assist with counter disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential public assets, while Yarrabah council can use funding for counter disaster activities as well.

Residents of Douglas and Wujal Wujal can also apply for grants in the Personal Hardship Assistance scheme, with $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more available to cover the costs of essentials like food, clothing and medicine.

A large high tide and strong winds combined with the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland to flood Williams Esplanade at Palm Cove, Cairns. Picture: Bronwyn Farr

Other provisions in the scheme include temporary accommodation for those directly impacted by an eligible disaster and replacement and repair of household contents like beds, linen and whitegoods that have been damaged or lost.

The Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme is also available to help homeowners in those areas to help reconnect electricity, gas, water or sewerage.

Deputy Premier and minister responsible for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Steven Miles praised the effort and co-operation between government agencies, emergency services, local councils and communities.

David Eagan has returned home to begin the cleanup after flooding caused by TC Jasper, Mossman. Picture: Liam Kidston

“Now the immediate danger of has passed we can get on with the recovery works, and these DRFA measures we’re announcing today will help the region clean-up and get back to their daily life,” he said.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the activation of this assistance was meant to relieve councils of financial pressure

“The impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper are still being determined but we want to give communities the best opportunity to respond and recover quickly,” he said.

Originally published as Disaster assistance announced post Cyclone Jasper