Media releases: 8 April 2025
Donations will support all regions impacted by disasters in 2025
FRRR (Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal) has expanded its call-out for donations to meet the recovery needs of the growing number of remote, rural and regional communities affected by recent severe weather events.
FRRR has supported remote, rural and regional communities across the country to prepare for and recover from disasters and extreme weather events since 2006.
We therefore know that recovery in these communities will take years and that’s why FRRR’s focus is on ensuring there is support in the medium to long-term. Donations to FRRR will be used to make grants to local not-for-profit groups for community-led projects that address the most pressing needs that emerge 12-18 months after a disaster event. People also have the option to donate to a longer-term investment fund, which will ensure community organisations have access to recovery grants, in the years that follow.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that 2025 has already proven a challenging year for remote, rural and regional communities across states and territories.
“In the space of just a few months, we’ve seen Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the associated flooding in South East Queensland and northern New South Wales; widespread flooding in Far North Queensland; and Ex Tropical Cyclone Dianne in Western Australia.
“In recent days, we’ve seen the devastating floods affecting western Queensland, which has impacted nearly 40% of Queensland’s land mass, despite only affecting around 1% of the population. This sparse population and isolation makes recovery all the more challenging for these small, remote communities.
“When remote and outback areas experience disasters, the impacts can be catastrophic for those communities on so many fronts. Yet they are often less visible and therefore, less supported. Impacts will include stock and property losses, isolation, disruption to economies and wider supply chains, and increased demand on not-for-profit organisations. All of which impact on mental health, wellbeing and the prosperity of those who work tirelessly to produce food and fibre for the world and the communities that support them.
“With our connections into these communities since 2000, FRRR is uniquely positioned to make sure these smaller, remote communities are supported and not forgotten. We know there isn’t a one-size-fits-all response and so we will provide funding that is flexible, allowing communities to recover at their own pace, and lead projects that are meaningful and meet the recovery needs of locals.
“Your donations will help to fund the medium to long-term recovery these communities, so that resources are available to meet needs that arise, long after the emergency relief money is expended,” Ms Egleton explained.
Click and donate to FRRR’s 2025 Disaster Recovery Appeal.
All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
