QFF renews calls for recovery program following devastating floods

The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has renewed its calls for a ‘shovel ready’ government-assisted recovery program, as farmers begin their salvage process in the wake of the devastating floods that swept through the state last week.

The floodwaters, which have raged across Queensland since late last week, have left many houses and properties underwater and up to an estimated 500,000 cattle dead. CEO of AgForce, Michael Guerin, has called it a “humanitarian disaster”.

While the government acted rapidly in response to the unprecedented floodwaters, activating the jointly-funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to provide loans, subsidies and recovery grants to farmers, QFF President Stuart Armitage says that farmers need more immediate and targeted support.

“We are grateful for the $75,000 on offer to help the recovery process, but the damage caused by this event will require more than just money, and the on-farm problems farmers face differ across industries,’’ Mr Armitage said. “If the government acted quickly, they could utilise the Industry Recovery and Resilience Officers already in place from Cyclone Debbie recovery before this funding stops and the capacity is lost.”

Mr Armitage says the industry has also been calling for the deployment of Industry Recovery and Resilient Officers (IRROs) immediately after a natural disaster to provide support and advice to accelerate recovery.

“These officers are proven to help with strategic, long-term farm recovery that ensures farmers recover faster, stronger and are better prepared for future events,” he said. “Natural disasters are part and parcel of farming in Queensland, so it is essential that we learn from each weather event and ensure recovery processes and resilience across our sector continue to improve.”