Suncorp will provide $316,822 in grants for medium- to long-term resilience projects in regional communities hit by disasters between 2019 and last year.

The insurer and its community partner, the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, will provide two rounds of funding.  

The first will include more than $227,000 to be shared across NSW, SA, WA and Victoria for investment in critical equipment, infrastructure and education.  

Projects include a one-day flood preparedness session in the NSW Northern Rivers community of Main Arm, teaching residents sandbagging techniques, chainsaw safety and UHF radio use, and providing information on flood-resilient home retrofitting.  

The second round will back three projects helping community organisations upgrade infrastructure. 

Suncorp consumer insurance CEO Lisa Harrison says the program looks to recognise and empower local recovery groups.  

“Grassroots organisations do such important work to build resilience and disaster preparedness in their communities, and to support ongoing recovery,” she said.  

One project involves a $49,000 investment in the Tasmanian town of Ellendale’s community hall, aimed at improving its weatherproofing, bedding, insulation and internet access.  

“Facilities like the Ellendale Hall are critical community infrastructure and they need to be fit for purpose, sustainable and resilient,” the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s disaster resilience and recovery lead Nina O’Brien said.  

Find out more about the program here.

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