QLD: PM visits worst-hit flood areas and pledges assistance

Posted: 2012-02-13

The weekend saw Julia Gillard stop by Roma and Mitchell - now both out of emergency states and beginning recovery and clean-up following flooding that took place earlier this month - to visit locals.

The prime minister commented on the feeling of community spirit and friendship she sensed between residents cleaning up their properties after a disaster that affected to many.

Discussions took place about the fast-tracking of the Maranoa River Bridge bridge project, which was intended to be finished in 2014; Maranoa mayor Robert Loughnan said Ms Gillard's visit was beneficial for the town's recovery.

"The prime minister expressed a desire to keep up to date with our flood mitigation strategy progress and has agreed to a follow-up meeting within two months to discuss flood mitigation options for the region," Mr Loughnan said.

This visit comes as the national government announces its $1.9 billion addition to flood relief funding for Queensland's worst-hit areas.

Assistance for damaged businesses is available - including concessional loans and freight subsidies depending on eligibility - but in any emergency situation, knowing what your commercial building insurance policy will cover first may help you decide how best to tackle a clean-up.