The Australian Government has established a new agency to help farmers recover from the devastating north Queensland floods in February.

The North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency will develop a long-term plan to rebuild the livestock industry, including new funding programs to help with restocking herds and rebuilding farm infrastructure.

The Agency represents the Government’s commitment to stand by north Queensland and rebuild the sector.

The Agency will be led by Shane Stone AC QC. Mr Stone will be supported by an advisory board that will include representatives of the northern cattle industry and local governments.

The Agency will provide advice to the Prime Minister on how existing and new Commonwealth policies and programs can best contribute to the reconstruction.

For more information about the Agency and funding measures to support farmers in north Queensland, read the Prime Minister’s announcement.