Govts fail the north – still waiting for relief
As North Queensland marks one month since record-breaking floods devastated the region, the answer is becoming more clear as to why Category D funding has taken so long to be activated.
It is standard procedure for state governments to request this funding from the commonwealth, and past disasters of this nature and magnitude have seen such requests approved almost immediately.
Mr Katter's office understands the state government only requested funding on Monday, March 3rd. So, why has the state government failed to act until now?
At a press conference today, Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter called out the premier for failing North Queenslanders by delaying essential funding for beleaguered farmers and communities.
Flanked by representatives from AgForce, Canegrowers, and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR), as well as KAP Deputy Leader and Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, Mr Katter shared the plight of the North's farmers.
"North Queensland is not some distant, irrelevant outpost; it is the beating heart of our nation's agriculture and resources," Mr Katter declared. "Our farmers and graziers are the ones who put fresh food on the tables of every Australian every day. To treat them as anything less than vital is an affront to the very fabric of this nation."
Today, QCAR also published an open letter to the prime minister[i], highlighting the situation faced by local producers, such as Caroline and Trevor Crisp of Helens Hill. The Crisps endured devastating losses, including the death of more than 50 cattle and extensive property damage. Their recovery costs will exceed $200,000.
Mr Katter has consistently called for disaster relief, urging the government to raise grants for flood-affected farmers from the current $25,000 to $75,000.
"It's truly beyond comprehension that in past disasters, the state government has recognised the scale of damage and responded, but now, when North Queensland is on its knees, we're being offered a pittance," Mr Katter said.
"The Queensland government has more than dropped the ball on this. This isn't just about fairness; it's about survival. If this goes on for much longer, many of these farmers will not recover."
The approach of Cyclone Alfred, which is set to impact south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, compounds the situation's urgency. While this weather event will require a significant response, Mr Katter warned that North Queensland must not be forgotten in the wake of fresh devastation in the south.
"Do it now—declare a Category D disaster, increase the grants, and show the North they are not the forgotten Australians," Katter stressed.
Mr Katter praised the ongoing efforts of AgForce, the Australian Banana Growers' Council, Canegrowers, and QCAR, for their advocacy and support during this challenging time.
"These groups have been the backbone of our communities, fighting day and night to ensure our farmers get the help they need," he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Katter noted the prime minister is already in Brisbane responding to the threat of Cyclone Alfred, yet still has not visited Ingham, which was inundated in early February. While the prime minister's presence in the south is timely, the lack of attention to the north is inexcusable.
ENDS
