What’s Happening?
Queenslanders have experienced three extreme weather events in recent months, leaving little of the state unscathed and many still reeling.
The Western QLD flooding event, the North QLD and Far North QLD Tropical Low and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred resulted in flooding greater than the size of Texas.
In the first week of February, Townsville received almost its entire annual rainfall, and rain hasn’t stopped. Many producers are still struggling with access, replanting delays, and disrupted stock movements due to damaged supply chains and high input demand.
Why It Matters
Although many producers won’t ask for help, AgForce urges Queenslanders not to forget the continued struggles in the north. “We must not forget that there are still producers in the north struggling to get access in and out of properties, have restricted or ‘no’ crop re-planting taking place, and have limited stock movements and supply chain access issues, exacerbated by high demand for inputs.”
Local Impact
The full extent of stock losses in North QLD remains unknown. Road, rail, and bridge access remains challenging following 120mm of rain in the past week, worsening already-damaged infrastructure.
The Bruce Highway is deteriorating rapidly. The Woodstock-Guru Road remains underwater. Hinchinbrook, Cassowary, Charters Towers, and Hughenden shires all report major road damage and limited access. Regional areas face a severe shortage of machinery, contractors, and workers needed for road repairs. AgForce warns that recovery could take months or years.
By the Numbers
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Townsville received nearly its entire annual rainfall in the first week of February.
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Flooding across QLD exceeds the size of Texas.
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$75,000 Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants and up to $250,000 in low-interest loans are available.
Zoom In
AgForce thanked the government for the Category D disaster declaration and reminded producers to register for QRIDA funds. Financial assistance includes:
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Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants up to $75,000:
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Initial Grant: Up to $5,000 with evidence of direct damage (photos, quotations).
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Subsequent Grant: Up to $70,000 with evidence of payment for recovery expenses.
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Disaster Assistance Loans up to $250,000:
For restoring operations, including equipment, livestock, or operating costs. -
Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000:
For paying wages, rent, purchasing goods, or covering other essential capital needs.
🧾 Download guides here: 👉 Forms & downloads | QRIDA
📞 QRIDA support: 1800 623 946 | 📧 contact_us@qrida.qld.gov.au
Zoom Out
Queenslanders are known for their resilience. But with infrastructure still underwater and support stretched across the state, questions remain about how long it will take the north to fully recover. AgForce acknowledges the toll: “Recovering from a disaster is tough – both financially and emotionally.” They are encouraging affected producers to seek mental health support and stay connected with their regional managers.
What to Look For Next?
QRIDA funding is now open for primary producers impacted by the Tropical Low from 29 January to 28 February 2025.
Support services are also available:
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TIACS: 0488 846 988
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Lifeline: 13 11 14
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Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
