Local governments in Queensland have encouraged flood victims to register for government assistance ‘sooner rather than later’.
The $741 million Resilient Homes Fund is a jointly funded program administered by the Queensland Government and Federal Government.
The Resilient Homes Fund was developed following the 2021–22 disaster season and applies to directly flood-affected residential properties within 39 local government areas (LGAs) activated for Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Funding will be used to repair, retrofit, raise or buy-back eligible properties. The program recognises there is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach.
Different options for homeowners will be considered on a case-by-case basis, which will be specific to their level of flood damage, future flood risk and property type.
Qualifying homeowners could be entitled to a contribution of $50,000 to cover repairs or retrofits and $100,000 towards the cost of raising a home.
The city of Ipswich — one of the 39 LGAs to qualify for assistance — has encouraged ratepayers to take advantage of the scheme.
Local Disaster Management Group Chair and Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding, said close to 600 homes and 300 businesses were damaged by floodwaters earlier this year.
“So far, 384 homeowners in Ipswich have been deemed eligible for assistance through the fund,” Mayor Harding said.
“This includes 76 people interested in raising their home, 88 interested in a resilient rebuild, 143 in the voluntary buyback program and 77 people who are, understandably, still unsure about which option to pursue.
“More Ipswich homeowners may be eligible to receive assistance, and while it’s not too late to register, homeowners should do so sooner rather than later.”
For more information on eligibility and assistance criteria, or to register your interest, visit:
https://yoursayhpw.engagementhq.com/resilient-homes-fund-register-interest
