CANEGROWERS calls for urgent action on disaster funding

With applications set to close next week, many growers have still been unable to carry out critical repairs to farming infrastructure, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

“Growers and communities across far north Queensland are still grappling with the widespread destruction caused by Cyclone Jasper,” Mr Galligan said.

“The government’s disaster assistance program is a critical source of support, but many growers are unable to complete essential recovery work required to apply for funding due to the unavailability of contractors.”

CANEGROWERS has repeatedly highlighted this problem with government decision-makers. However, with the current application deadline looming, a decision on extending the application process is yet to be announced.

“The severe lack of available contractors is a reality that cannot be ignored. Without an extension, many growers will lose access to vital disaster recovery funding, threatening their ability to rebuild their farms and livelihoods,” Mr Galligan said.

The cyclone and subsequent flooding in late-2023 and early-2024 had a profound impact on hundreds of kilometres of Queensland coastline, from the Daintree to Innisfail, and even inland to the Atherton Tablelands.

In areas such as Mossman the natural disaster was compounded by local industry challenges, including the closure of the Mossman mill.

“The government must act now and provide growers with the breathing room they desperately need,” Mr Galligan said.

“This isn’t just about granting more time – it’s about recognising the scale of the challenges faced by growers and giving them a fair opportunity to recover.”

CANEGROWERS encourages all eligible growers and businesses to prepare their applications and continue seeking updates from the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority at qrida.gov.au.