Published on 22 January 2026
Small businesses across the Whitsunday region impacted by recent severe weather may be eligible for a range of disaster recovery assistance now available through the Queensland Government.
Support is available to help businesses recover from impacts associated with the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, Associated Tropical Cyclone Koji, and severe weather, including assistance for clean-up, repairs, replacement of damaged stock, and maintaining day-to-day operations during recovery.
Eligible small businesses may be able to access the following support through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA):
Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $25,000 To support clean-up and repairs, replacement of damaged stock or infrastructure, and other recovery costs.
Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $250,000 To assist with repairing or replacing damaged assets, premises, or stock.
Essential Working Capital Loans of up to $100,000 To help with ongoing operating expenses such as wages, rent, rates, fuel, fodder, water, and transport.
Businesses can check their eligibility and apply online via the QRIDA website.
The Queensland Government’s Small Business Action Plan also provides a wide range of services and programs to support small businesses at every stage of their journey - from start-up through to growth and recovery.
Programs and support available to all small businesses, including those impacted by recent weather events, can be accessed through Business Queensland at www.business.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
Available support services include:
Free mentoring for recovery and business support
Free one-on-one small business wellness coaches
Free small business financial counselling for businesses experiencing, or at risk of, financial hardship
Advice on making an insurance claim after a natural disaster
Assistance with leasing disputes and mediation
Council encourages eligible businesses to explore the support available and apply as soon as possible.