BRISBANE, Queensland, Feb. 2 -- The Queensland Cabinet issued text of the following statement:

Published Yesterday at 05:59 PM

Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers

The Honourable Ann Leahy

More disaster assistance extended toNQ communities

* Personal Hardship Assistance payments expanded to eligible flood affected residents in Hinchinbrook and Palm Island Council areas, with flood affected Townsville and Gordonvale residents in targeted areas also eligible. * Includes Emergency Hardship Assistance Grants of $180 per person, up to $900 for a family of five or more. * Financial support also extended to Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook and Tablelands Councils for their response and...