Council moves into Recovery Phase Following Ex-TC Koji

Published on 24 January 2026

Livingstone Shire Council has confirmed that, as conditions continue to improve following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, the Shire is transitioning from response activities into the recovery phase.

This shift reflects the easing weather conditions across much of the Shire. While immediate risks have reduced, Council acknowledges that significant impacts remain in some areas, particularly across rural and northern communities.

Mayor Belot said Council’s focus is now firmly on supporting recovery where it is most needed.

“While the worst of the weather has passed, we know recovery will take time — especially for communities that experienced isolation, flooding, and damage to roads and other critical infrastructure,” Mayor Belot said.

“To help ease some of the immediate pressures, the Queensland Government’s Personal Hardship Assistance Scheme has now been activated for residents in Stanage Bay and Canal Creek, providing vital support to those directly impacted.

“The Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant is available to help with essential needs such as food, medication, clothing and temporary accommodation.

“This grant may be available to people who live in, or were stranded in, the affected area and who are experiencing personal hardship and are unable to meet their immediate essential needs.

“Eligible residents may receive $180 for individuals, or up to $900 for families of five or more.

“I encourage anyone affected to reach out and find out if they are eligible for this support.”

Residents can apply for the Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant:

• online through the Community Recovery Portal: https://www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au/

• by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349

• or in person when Livingstone Shire Council and other support services are in Stanage Bay on Tuesday 27 January 2026, at the Stanage SES Facility, 131 Banksia Road, Stanage, from 9.30am to 3.30pm

Mayor Belot said Council wanted to ensure residents had access to face-to-face assistance as part of the recovery effort.

“We want to make sure people have a place to come for guidance and support, and an opportunity to speak directly with staff who can help them access the assistance available,” he said.

Council continues to prioritise recovery planning and coordination, with dedicated teams working to assess damage, restore access, and identify support options for affected residents, businesses and primary producers.

Mayor Belot also encouraged rural and agribusiness operators to report impacts through the Queensland Department of Primary Industries Disaster Impact Survey, which plays a key role in determining recovery assistance.

“Our rural and agribusiness communities are incredibly resilient, but it’s important that impacts are formally reported so the full extent of damage is understood,” he said.

This information directly influences the recovery support and funding that can be made available.”

Council will continue to monitor conditions, particularly across the Fitzroy River catchment and northern parts of the Shire, and will provide updates as recovery efforts progress.