March 3, 2026

Disaster Support Extended To Cassowary Coast Not-for-Profits After Flooding

Disaster recovery assistance has been extended to support flood-affected communities across the Cassowary Coast, with not-for-profit organisations now eligible to apply for disaster loans of up to $100,000.

The expanded support follows recent severe flooding across parts of the state and is being delivered through the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Cassowary Coast is one of 13 local government areas where impacted not-for-profit organisations can now access disaster loans to help restore cashflow, repair damage and return to normal operations.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor, Mayor Teresa Milwood encourages local organisations needing support to submit loan applications to contact Council on 1300 763 903 for guidance.

“Flooding doesn’t just impact homes and businesses, it affects our grassroots organisations,” Mayor Milwood said.

“Many of our not-for-profit community groups operate on tight budgets and rely on volunteers, so access to disaster loans and financial support is essential to help them recover quickly and continue supporting our community.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the assistance reflected the scale of the disaster and the needs of affected communities.

“We have 46 LGAs receiving disaster assistance following the devastating summer floods and we’re making sure we continue extending support where it’s needed,” Minister McBain said.

“The disaster loans for community not-for-profits will provide grassroots organisations with vital cashflow to guide their recovery and return to regular operations. We’ve also co-funded more than $66 million in extraordinary recovery assistance for primary producers, small businesses, flood clean-up and mental health support, and we’re looking at more targeted support packages for the future.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the flooding had required a large-scale response.

“As tough as Queenslanders are, they need our support now, and we will continue to be with them every step of the way through their recovery journey,” Minister Leahy said.

“Our focus remains on ensuring every necessary assistance measure is available to those hardest hit by these floods. Whether you’re a farmer in the remote north-west or run a sporting club in a regional centre, the support we’re announcing today will help keep you afloat through this challenging period of recovery.”

Local organisations seeking assistance can find information on disaster grants and loans through QRIDA, with further support available via local councils and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.

Flooding in Innisfail. Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council