Cyclone Jasper recovery grants extended

This decision, which extends applications until 30 June 2025 – well after the 2024 harvest season has concluded – will provide sugarcane growers and communities across far north Queensland with the time necessary to recover and rebuild following the cyclone’s widespread devastation.

The Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants program has been a lifeline for those impacted, but many growers have faced challenges accessing funding due to the scale of damage, ongoing contractor shortages, and delays in completing essential recovery work. With heavy rain again falling in the Far North the stress of tyring to recover from one disaster before we face another one is profound.

CANEGROWERS has actively highlighted these difficulties to government decision-makers, ensuring grower concerns were heard and addressed.

“This extension is a practical response to the realities faced by growers across far north Queensland where contractors are in extremely short supply,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

“It will give farming communities the breathing room they need to complete vital recovery works and secure funding that will help them move forward after such a challenging time.”

Cyclone Jasper, which struck in December 2023, caused widespread flooding and damage to homes, farms, and infrastructure across the region.

Many growers are still grappling with the impacts of this disaster, especially in areas like Mossman, where the distress has been deepened by broader industry uncertainties following the local mill’s closure.

The extended grant application period offers hope and security to those working to restore their livelihoods.

“This isn’t just about financial assistance,” Mr Galligan said. “It’s about recognising the extraordinary resilience of growers and regional communities, and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to rebuild stronger and more sustainably for the future.”

CANEGROWERS encourages all eligible growers and businesses across far north Queensland to take advantage of the extended application period by visiting the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website at qrida.qld.gov.au.