SENATOR THE HON ANNE RUSTON
Minister for Families and Social Services
Manager of Government Business in the Senate
THE HON MICHELLE LANDRY MP
Federal Member for Capricornia
Assistant Minister for Children and Families
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia
MEDIA RELEASE
The Morrison Government is providing an immediate funding injection to Central Queensland charities and community organisations to support locals in the wake of the coronavirus economic downturn.
As part of the Government’s new Community Support Package, charities and community organisations in Central Queensland and the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region will receive additional funding assistance.
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the Government understands this continues to be a trying time for relief providers facing rapidly increasing demand, while dealing with challenges in maintaining the workforce and distribution lines needed to operate.
“This funding injection will enable Central Queensland organisations to streamline supply chains, increase workforce capacity and help increase local support and outreach services,” Minister Ruston said.
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the investment would assist locals batting the devastating impacts of the coronavirus.
“There are many people in our community doing it tough right now, which is why I am pleased the Morrison Government will deliver this much-needed funding to support emergency cash payments, food, everyday bills, transport and school supplies,” Ms Landry said.
“Many people reaching out to these services may have never needed this type of assistance before, so we need to make sure we have the right supports in place to help people through this period and bounce back stronger when it’s over.”
Ms Landry said the Commonwealth funded providers would be working with other local organisations to ensure people can access services quickly.
“I encourage local organisations to work with the Commonwealth funded providers in their area to ensure people who need support are able to get it, when and where they need it,” Ms Landry said.
Contact details for funded providers can be found on the Department of Social Services’ directory at https://serviceproviders.dss.gov.au/
Overall across the country the Morrison Government is providing an immediate $100 million to Australian charities and community organisations.
Service Providers to receive assistance*
| Service Provider | Region/s | Total Additional Funding 2020-21 |
| Anglicare – Central Queensland Limited | Central Queensland | $105,530 |
| CQ Financial Counselling Association Inc. | Central Queensland | $22,072 |
| Emerald and District Social Development Association Inc | Central Queensland | $26,487 |
| Bowen Community Council Inc | Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday | $17,881 |
| Clermont Community Housing and Other Services (CCHAOS) Inc. | Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday | $9,279 |
| George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. | Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday | $30,901 |
| St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland** | Central Queensland Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday | $772,092 |
| The Salvation Army** | Central Queensland Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday | $3,363,731 |
*Funding has been allocated to providers at the state level to allow greater flexibility within stakeholders and ensure money is distributed where it is most needed.
**Funding provided for multiple SA4 areas.
