Prime Minister must visit Debbie devastation area

Queensland Premier challenges PM to see the impact on Whitsunday, Mackay and Rockhampton himself

BLOWN APART: Airlie Beach residents Maika McDonald,15, Lauren Squires, Karen Gordon, and Katelin Gordon, survey the damage at Shute Harbour after cyclone Debbie. Picture: Liam Kidston

Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie had a devastating impact on communities across large parts of Queensland.

For the long-term recovery and reconstruction for those affected communities, I proposed to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull that his Government and mine each provide $110 million - a total of $220 million - for projects and programs.

We developed this proposal - for Category D Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements - with local councils.

After having the proposal for two months, Mr Turnbull has now replied that his Government would provide only $29.3 million and that other projects - in Whitsunday, Mackay and Rockhampton local government areas - "fall outside of the scope of the NDRRA or because there has not been enough evidence provided to establish the need for the measure."

I met with the Mayors of the three councils and the Local Government Association of Queensland this week.

I reaffirmed with the Mayors that my Government would honour its commitment of $110 million for recovery and reconstruction projects.

My Government recognised the devastating impact of this natural disaster and we will ensure those Queenslanders are supported through recovery and reconstruction.

I join the Mayors to urge Mr Turnbull and his Ministers to visit the region and see the need for additional funding for themselves.

Annastacia Palaszczuk

Premier of Queensland

Originally published as Prime Minister must visit Debbie devastation area