A big-scale Queensland project geared toward “constructing again higher” following this 12 months’s devastating floods disaster was launched in the present day, with residents invited to use for buy-backs or grants to boost, restore, or retrofit their residence.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says the $741 million Resilient Homes Fund, which insurers have been consulted on, will assist make properties extra flood resilient.
“That is the biggest residence resilience program of its type to ever be delivered in Australia,” she stated.
“We are able to’t cease floods from occurring, however we are able to take steps to cut back their affect.”
The scheme can be collectively funded by the Commonwealth Authorities. Prime Minister Scott Morrison initially declined to assist fund it however was pressured right into a u-turn following criticism of that call.
Deputy Premier Steven Miles says Queensland is probably the most disaster-impacted state in Australia, with flooding being the best danger to communities.
“This isn’t nearly constructing again, it’s about constructing again higher,” he stated.
“We all know from preliminary assessments following the South East Queensland floods that there have been almost 7000 homes with some extent of injury and greater than 3600 of those had been uninhabitable.
“That’s why we fought so onerous to make sure we may present as a lot assist to as many flood-affected Queenslanders as doable.”
Minister for Public Works Mick de Brenni says this system is “nation-leading”.
“It’s a vital program and we’re working with councils, trade and insurers to make sure the best help is supplied to maximise the profit to each affected house owner,” he stated.
“We’re now asking flood-affected Queenslanders throughout the eligible native authorities areas who’re inquisitive about a voluntary buy-back, home elevating or retrofitting for resilience following the floods, to return ahead, register their particulars and that may set off the beginning of the method.”
Click on right here for particulars on registration.
