Queensland Storm Rebuild Could Take Years: Premier
Queenslanders Face Lengthy Delays in Storm Recovery Efforts
Premier Steven Miles has warned residents of Queensland that the rebuilding process following recent storms and flash flooding could take years to complete. Severe weather conditions have caused significant damage to numerous properties in the region.
Premier Miles stated that 10 homes have been completely destroyed, while another 152 homes have sustained severe damage. An additional 406 properties have been moderately damaged, posing a major challenge for authorities overseeing the rebuilding process.
The construction market is facing challenges in terms of labor and supplies, according to Premier Miles. Some affected residents have been provided with emergency accommodation while their homes are being repaired. The housing department will continue to support those in need of temporary shelter during this time.
Energex, the electricity distribution company, is working to restore power to affected areas. Power has been successfully reconnected to most homes on the Gold Coast and Tamborine Mountain. However, some residents will need their houses certified before power can be restored. Operation Energise electricians will be available starting Monday to assist those still awaiting repairs.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt emphasized the scale of the recent weather events in far north Queensland and southeast Queensland. The government is fully committed to supporting residents throughout the lengthy recovery process, he assured.
Senator Watt announced that two additional forms of financial assistance would be available. Starting Monday, applications will open for a disaster recovery payment and a disaster recovery allowance. The one-off recovery payment, amounting to $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child, will be available to residents in 27 suburbs across southeast Queensland who have suffered significant damage or serious injuries due to the storms.
The recovery allowance will provide a 13-week payment at the JobSeeker level to individuals whose ability to reach their workplaces has been impacted by road damage or debris. This assistance will apply to residents of the Gold Coast, Logan, and Scenic Rim councils.
Gold Coast City Council has launched Operation Clean Up, which aims to clear storm debris and flood damage in severely affected areas, including the removal of green waste.
The recovery efforts in Queensland are expected to be arduous and time-consuming. The state and federal governments, along with the cooperation of affected residents, are crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by the storms and restoring Queensland to a state of normalcy.
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