Due to the generosity of the Australian community, struggling Southern Downs residents can now access more than $10 million raised by the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Appeal Help Aussie Farmers to assist with household expenses, including Council rates.

Those in drought affected areas can apply for assistance of up to $5000 from the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA), who have been given the job of distributing the financial support through their Public Rural Crisis Fund. The funds are available in the form of store vouchers, store credit or unpaid bills, accounts such as vehicle maintenance, school expenses, electricity, gas, phone expenses, dental or medical expenses.

Southern Downs Mayor Tracy Dobie said the QCWA funds would be of great help to local families. “I’d encourage all those affected by the drought to apply for assistance. These funds are here for those who need them,” said Mayor Dobie, saying for anyone struggling with their income, general household bills could become a real burden. “This support is in place to ease that burden and take some of the stress out of day to day life for those doing it tough. Please jump online or give them a call and apply for the assistance that is so generously being offered.”

For questions about the relief funds, eligibility and application process, please visit QCWA.

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