The $741 million Resilient Homes Fund is jointly funded (50:50) by the Queensland and Australian governments under Category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Funding will be used to repair, retrofit, raise or buy-back eligible properties within local government areas impacted by these events as follows:
- Rebuild Program:
Funding to homeowners to repair or retrofit their homes to incorporate flood resilient design and materials in liveable rooms or areas within the Defined Flood Level, as defined by the relevant local government or the observed peak flood level from flood events since 2010–2011. - Home raising program
Funding to homeowners to raise their home to reduce the impacts of future flood events by elevating liveable rooms or areas of the dwelling above the Defined Flood Level, as defined by the relevant local government. This may also include moving the home on the same parcel of land—for example, moving it to higher ground. - Voluntary buy-back program
Funding to local governments for the voluntary buy-back of homes, where it is determined that repair, retrofitting or raising is not suitable. Buy-backs will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will take into consideration the risk to property and life experienced or likely at the location. The buybacks will follow the process used in the 2011 floods. It will require an independent valuation of the property and where agreement can be reached, there’ll be a transaction. The home will be demolished and also the land we are looking to rezone not for future urban habitation.
How does the process work?
Queensland Reconstruction Authority will review all of the registrations. Each community’s needs are very different and this registration of interest process will allow the QRA to develop guidelines so they can actually tailor the program to deal with those more vulnerable and those with the greatest flood risk. Each case will be assessed uniquely and the size of the grants will be tailored to the needs of the property. The money will then be used to fund government-contracted tradespeople to complete the works.
Register your interest here: https://yoursayhpw.engagementhq.com/resilient-homes-fund/survey_tools/form
What other assistance is available?
The Structural Assistance Grant (SAG) helps people who are uninsured, or unable to claim insurance, and who meet an income test, by providing a contribution towards repairs to their home to make it safe, secure and habitable following damage by a disaster. The Assistance Grants are available for up to $50,000. For more information visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/money-finance/types-grants/structural-assistance
