Wild weather: Trading through emergency

Throughout February and March this year, the east coast of Australia has been battered with severe thunderstorms, flash flooding and king tides. Many businesses, including nurseries, have been impacted by flood damage, landslips, ceiling collapses and evacuation orders. Thanks to many years of lobbying at both State and Federal level, your industry is eligible for support.

The Federal Government and the New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland State Governments have released the first phase of support packages to assist those who have been impacted by these extreme weather events.

New South Wales

The Federal and NSW Governments are providing $434.7 million of funding for flood-affected communities. Grants of up to $75,000 for primary producers and up to $50,000 for small businesses and not for profit organisations devastated by flooding will soon be available through NSW Government agencies, with registration now open through Service NSW.

Queensland

Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants are available for affected primary producers (up to $75,000) and small businesses such as garden centres or allied trades (up to $50,000) following South East Queensland rainfall and flooding. It can be used to hire or purchase equipment and materials, clean up, remove debris, replace fencing and other costs associated with the recovery process. The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority is delivering this relief, and they will also have subsidised loans available to help businesses get back to operation as quickly as possible.

Contact your state Nursery & Garden Industry (NGI) Association

If you need help, your state Nursery & Garden Industry (NGI) Association can provide guidance and assistance relevant to your state.

Nursery & Garden Industry New South Wales & ACT (NGINA)

Phone: 02 9679 1472
Email: info@ngina.com.au
Web: www.ngina.com.au

Nursery & Garden Industry Queensland (NGIQ)

Phone: 07 3277 7900
Email: info@ngiq.com.au
Web: www.ngiq.asn.au

If you are not an NGI member already, consider joining the association in your state. The NGI state associations are your local experts on the ground and do a magnificent job of supporting members at times like these.

Check in with your employees

Whilst your business may not have been affected directly by this wild weather, remember to take the time to see how your employees are faring. Some people have lost everything during this crisis and need help.

Need more help?

If you or anyone in your family has been impacted by this event and need help, please contact:

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 – Open 24/7