How To Apply For Flood Mitigation Funding In Qld

Transcription

1 Joint Application Package Information Pack For Queensland disaster mitigation and resilience funding available through the: Royalties for the Regions Local Government Floods Response Subsidy Natural Disaster Resilience Program March 2014

2 Contents Section 1 Introduction and overview Introduction Key dates in How to apply Assessment process Successful projects... 2 More information... 2 Section 2 Flood mitigation funding State funding priorities in Flood mitigation funding Eligibility requirements Types of projects Assessment criteria... 5 Section 3 All Hazards Project funding (excludes flood mitigation projects) All hazards funding Funding priorities in Eligible applicants Types of projects Assessment criteria... 9 Section 4 Program guidelines Schedule 1 Royalties for the Regions Schedule 2 Local Government Floods Response Subsidy Schedule 3 Natural Disaster Resilience Program Schedule 4 Legal requirements Schedule 5 Glossary Schedule 6 Guide for structural works... 27

3 Section 1 Introduction and overview 1.1 Introduction The Queensland Government is working with local governments and other stakeholders to protect communities from future flooding and other natural hazards and to build more resilient communities. Enhanced preparation, improved flood security and better education about responses to natural disasters, ultimately will reduce expenditure on natural disaster reconstruction and recovery activities. In , the government is committed to an effective process to deliver disaster mitigation and resilience funding to Queensland communities. The joint application package provides applicants with a single application point for all disaster mitigation and resilience funding administered by the state government and offers a streamlined assessment process. This application package provides potential applicants with the necessary information on applying for funding, set out as follows: Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Introduction, key dates and how to apply Applying for flood mitigation funding Applying for all hazards funding (excluding flood mitigation) Program guidelines Schedule 1 Royalties for the Regions Schedule 2 Local Government Floods Response Schedule 3 Natural Disaster Resilience program Schedule 4 Schedule 5 Schedule 6 Legal requirements Glossary of terms Guide for structural works 1.2 Key dates in Applications open: 26 March 2014 Applications close: 12 May 2014 Announcement of successful projects: from June 2014 Applications must be received by the application closing date to be considered for funding. Applicants will be informed if there is a change in these dates. 1.3 How to apply To apply for funding: Submit one application for each project by using the smart application form and attaching supporting documentation. Scanned PDFs of the smart application form will not be accepted. The smart application forms are designed for information to be entered directly into the relevant fields. 1

4 Once the application form is complete, save the file and send it with supporting documentation to If you have any questions or need assistance with the form, contact In order to complete an application: refer to the relevant contents of this package download a copy of the Joint Application Package for Queensland Disaster Mitigation and Resilience Funding form, which is available on each of the respective departments websites submit each application electronically by the application closing date. Note: Applications will be assessed by all participating agencies. 1.4 Assessment process All applications will be assessed for eligibility under the available disaster mitigation and resilience funding programs administered by the state. Applications deemed eligible for more than one program will be assessed under each of the relevant programs. Funding recommendations will be made based on a single stage, competitive assessment process against all relevant programs. The Smart Application Form provides the basis for decisions on eligibility and strategic merit, as well as helping agencies assess the applicant s capacity to deliver the project and any risks associated with the project. All project proposals may be subject to due diligence, including financial and economic assessments. Further information may be requested from applicants for this purpose. Departmental agencies will provide information on applications received to their relevant Minister for decision. All applicants to this process will be advised of the outcome of their application. 1.5 Successful projects Successful applicants will be required to enter funding agreements with the Queensland Government and to meet any other program prerequisites prior to receiving funds. Projects approved for funding under more than one funding program will be implemented with an integrated funding agreement between the recipient and the State. More information Further information on the application and approval processes for each of the relevant funding programs is included in the funding program schedules. Please direct all enquiries on the Queensland Government joint application for disaster mitigation and resilience funding process to: Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience lgfundingunit@dlgcrr.qld.gov.au 13 QGOV ( ). All applications to be submitted as electronic documents to the address above. 2

5 Section 2 Flood mitigation funding Note: Applicants need only submit one application per project. It is not necessary to identify a funding program in the application. 2.1 State funding priorities in The Queensland Plan (the Plan) is being developed with the intention of aligning government, business, industry, communities and individuals in working together to achieve real outcomes for the State. Applications under this funding program need to align with the relevant foundation areas and goals within the Plan as well as the guiding principles of the Queensland Strategy for Disaster Resilience. In , the state s priorities for flood mitigation funding are to support: projects that are supported and informed by the Queensland Flood Mapping Program and/or a completed flood management study and, where relevant, consider the potential impact of communities downstream projects that will achieve improved infrastructure and flood resilience outcomes (such as levees and detention basins) that protect people and property, and essential services such as water and sewerage treatment plants, hospitals and major transport facilities such as airports projects that reflect the needs of the catchment as a whole and provide evidence that they have been developed collaboratively across relevant councils or other organisations flood mitigation projects that address outstanding needs from the events of and January 2013 projects that are ready to proceed and can be delivered within the timeframe. 2.2 Flood mitigation funding Applications for floods mitigation funding will be considered for eligibility against the following three funding programs: 1. Royalties for the Regions (R4R) see Schedule 1 - $40 million for flood mitigation projects over four years ( to ) with $10 million available in administered by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning. 2. Local Government Floods Response Subsidy (LGFRS) see Schedule 2 - $40 million in state funds over three years ( to ) with $12.8 million available in administered by the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience. 3. Natural Disaster Resilience Program (NDRP) see Schedule 3 - $24 million available in joint State and Australian Government funding delivered under the National Partnership Agreement on Natural Disaster Resilience. - administered by the Department of Local Government Community Recovery and Resilience. 3

6 2.3 Eligibility requirements Table 1 provides a summary of organisation types and their eligibility for each funding program. Table 1: Organisation types and their eligibility Eligibility by funding program Organisation type All local governments Royalties for the Regions (R4R) Only those outside of South East Queensland plus Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley Regional Councils Local Government Floods Response Subsidy (LGFRS) Regional Organisations of Councils (ROCs) N Y Y River Improvement Trusts N N Y Government owned corporations (GOCs) N N Y Other government bodies, including Queensland Government departments and other government agencies within Queensland Incorporated non-government organisations (NGOs) including volunteer groups N N Y N N Y Queensland-based not for profits N N Y Refer to Section 4 Schedules for more information on eligible applicants and projects. Y Natural Disaster Resilience Program (NDRP) Y 2.4 Types of projects The types of flood mitigation projects that could be funded include, but are not limited to: flood mapping, flood management studies, reports and modelling infrastructure that mitigates against flood damage and inundation, such as levees, detention basins, floodgates and backflow prevention devices monitoring instruments/systems eg. flood, river and rain gauges. Schedules 1, 2 and 3 provide program specific information on eligible flood mitigation projects. Schedule 6 provides details on the technical requirements for flood mitigation projects and need to be read before developing a project proposal. Important: potential applicants are not required to nominate a funding program in their submissions. Applications will only be considered under programs for which they are assessed as eligible. Submitting an application through this single application point for all flood mitigation projects does not automatically qualify the project for funding across all three funding programs. Table 2 provides an at-a-glance summary of activity types that may be eligible under one or more of the three funding programs. This table is high level and does not include details of other eligibility requirements that qualify projects for funding under the three funding programs. As such, it should be used as a guide only. The eligibility criteria that govern each program are provided in the individual funding program schedules included in the application package. 4

7 Table 2: Flood mitigation projects and their eligibility under the three funding programs Natural Local Government Royalties for the Disaster Flood Response Activity type Regions Resilience Subsidy (R4R) Program (LGFRS) (NDRP) Mapping or studies, such as flood mapping or flood management studies Mitigation infrastructure that protects residents, essential infrastructure and other assets, or improves resilience against future flooding Community preparedness / resilience, such as community education programs and volunteer capability building Y Not applicable Y Y Structural works only, where consistent with R4R funding program schedule Not applicable Not applicable Y Y 2.5 Assessment criteria To assist applicants in preparing applications under the one application process, assessment criteria are grouped below: 1. The project informs development of appropriate mitigation strategies such as flood management studies, mapping and modelling complements, where relevant, existing flood studies and mapping (such as mapping undertaken by the Queensland Flood Mapping Program) addresses an identified area of need which has been impacted historically and considers all communities within a catchment the project improves information on flood inundation and overland flow to meet urban land use planning and disaster management needs incorporates consultation with neighbouring council. 2. The project provides infrastructure that builds resilience for the community and achieves improved mitigation outcomes supported by a recent flood management study that clearly demonstrates why it is a preferred option and has considered the impact of the infrastructure on the other communities in the catchment evidence of need for the project demonstrated through the historical impact of flooding events demonstrates that the infrastructure will reduce the impacts of flooding to the built environment and in particular will protect lives and property and/or essential infrastructure improves flood mitigation infrastructure and enhances liveability and community resilience. 3. The project is collaborative and based upon a regional catchment approach the project demonstrates a regional or catchment area approach to mitigation evidence that consultation has occurred with relevant affected and neighbouring councils. 5

8 4. The project is financially sound and is ready to be delivered a project budget is provided that gives a breakdown of costs the project is financially sound, including demonstrated value for money and a plan for the viability of the project (such as applicant s ability to manage, operate and maintain the infrastructure following construction) the applicant has the capability to deliver the project, such as appropriate staff expertise and capacity to manage the implementation of the project (capability may be sourced externally) all factors in relation to the site details for infrastructure projects have been considered the project can be delivered within approved timeframes the project will comply with applicable legislative, industry or regulatory requirements the project s effectiveness will be evaluated by the applicant post completion the applicant has the capability to deliver the projects (where applicable). 5. The project has demonstrated community support. the application includes evidence of community consultation regarding the project the application includes evidence of a priority need and clear benefits to the community. 6

9 Section 3 All Hazards Project funding (excludes flood mitigation projects) An All Hazards project is a project that provides resilience against a natural disaster event other than a flood. It also includes any project that provides volunteering support or improves community education and preparedness for natural disasters. For example, mapping or risk management studies relating to bushfires and training and education programs for volunteers or communities. This information needs to be read in conjunction with the Section 4, Schedule 3 Natural Disaster Resilience Program All hazards funding To apply for funding for an All Hazards Project, please complete one Certification Form and one All Hazards Project Application Form. All Hazard Project applications will be assessed against the NDRP Guidelines. NDRP is a competitive grants program jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian Governments under a National Partnership Agreement on Natural Disaster Resilience. The program is administered by the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience. NDRP funds mitigation and resilience projects relating to all types of natural disaster hazards. Potential recipients include councils and non-government organisations such as volunteering groups and not-for-profits. NDRP projects are funded on a cost sharing basis between the applicant, Queensland Government and the Australian Government. Each contributes an equal share (one-third). Therefore the maximum allocated subsidy rate is 67 per cent of the eligible project costs. The Minister may determine an alternative rate for an approved project. Under NDRP, eligible project costs are the total project cost minus ineligible components and any other funding contributions to the project. Other funding contributions include: funding from partners, government grant funding received or applied for, and in-kind contributions. 3.2 Funding priorities in The funding priorities of NDRP are to: mitigate against or build resilience to Queensland s highest natural hazard risks as identified in the 2012 State-wide Natural Hazard Risk Assessment (in order of highest damage): flooding (including flash flooding) tropical cyclone winds and storm surge thunderstorm wind gusts, downbursts and tornadoes hail storms bushfires 7

10 landslides, earthquakes and tsunamis enhance community preparedness for natural events through community education and awareness training build partnerships between sectors and encourage a regional and catchment area approach to mitigation and resilience providing support to emergency management volunteers contribute towards the action themes of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience Eligible applicants Organisations considered eligible for NDRP funding are: local government bodies constituted under the Local Government Act 2009 and the City of Brisbane Act 2010 Regional Organisations of Councils River Improvement Trusts government bodies, including Queensland Government departments and other government agencies within Queensland government owned corporations incorporated non-government organisations (including volunteer groups), and Queensland-based not-for-profits. Partnerships between organisations are encouraged and an eligible organisation may submit an application with an ineligible organisation. Other entities may be deemed by the Minister as an eligible applicant for the purposes of the NDRP. Ineligible organisations include: small businesses, for-profit volunteer groups, organisations based outside of Queensland, and any other group not specified as eligible in these guidelines. 3.4 Types of projects Under NDRP, proposed projects must: demonstrate a clear link to the NDRP aim, objectives and priorities address one or more of Queensland s highest natural hazards listed under the NDRP funding priorities, and demonstrate a contribution to at least one of the seven key action themes of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience Applicants wishing to be considered for flood mitigation funding under either of the other joint application package programs as well as NDRP, should ensure they also meet the priorities and eligibility criteria of those programs. Eligible NDRP projects include: All hazards 8

11 Flood mitigation project is informed by a completed study or risk assessment incorporating consideration of the potential impact on other communities in the region/catchment natural hazard risk assessments and studies research and/or development projects community preparedness, education and training programs evacuation plans local volunteer capacity building. project is informed by a completed flood management study incorporating consideration of the potential impact on other communities with the catchment flood mitigation infrastructure such as levees, detention basins, floodgates, backflow prevention devices that mitigate against flood damage in areas of identified need flood mapping, flood management studies, reports, modelling. 3.5 Assessment criteria Under NDRP applications will be assessed against the NDRP aim, objectives, eligibility criteria and how the proposed project meets the NDRP funding priorities address one or more of the NDRP objectives address one or more of Queensland s highest natural hazards risks demonstrates a contribution to at least one of the seven key action themes of the Strategy the project demonstrates a regional or catchment area approach to mitigation evidence that consultation has occurred with neighbouring councils enhance community resilience by building partnerships between sectors/regional or catchment areas the project provides value-for-money the project is ready to proceed and can be delivered with approved timeframes the applicant has the capability to deliver the project, such as appropriate staff expertise and capacity to manage the implementation of the project (capability may be sourced externally) the project has demonstrated community support and provides evidence of priority need and clear benefits to the community The applicant s proven ability to delivery previous Queensland Government funded projects, where applicable. 9

12 Section 4 Program guidelines Schedule 1 Royalties for the Regions Program outline Royalties for the Regions is a Queensland Government initiative to invest in regional community infrastructure, roads and floodplain security projects. This initiative helps regions hosting major resource developments and regional areas significantly impacted by flooding, to receive real long-term royalty benefits through better planning and targeted infrastructure investment. The program will help resource communities better manage the consequences of resource sector development, seize economic opportunities and encourage growth. 2. Program objectives The Royalties for the Regions program helps regions receive real, long-lasting royalty benefits through improved planning and targeted infrastructure investment. The program contributes to building community capacity and economic sustainability through: infrastructure that improves the liveability and amenity of regional communities; making places more attractive for people to live and work economic development and resilience of regional communities development consistent with Queensland regional economic or planning priorities increased private sector investment in resource communities. 3. Funding Royalties for the Regions funding is allocated in rounds. A total of $10 million of Royalties for the Regions funding has been allocated for the financial year for flood mitigation projects such as building levees, flood bypasses, flood mitigation dams, flood retention basins and other key projects to protect Queensland communities from flooding. This schedule refers to flood mitigation projects only. 4. Eligibility 4.1 Eligible applicants The following local governments are eligible to apply for funding for flood mitigation projects through the Royalties for the Regions program: Local governments outside of South East Queensland Toowoomba Regional Council Lockyer Valley Regional Council. 4.2 Eligible projects For an infrastructure project to be eligible for funding assistance, it must be: located in a flood prone community where there is a demonstrated historical impact of flooding events developed by a council eligible for this program for structural works that protect the community from the physical effects of a natural disaster and mitigate the impacts of future flooding events ready to commence construction within six months of signing the funding agreement, with all necessary approvals in place by the time the funding agreement is signed. able to demonstrate value-for-money. 10

13 Local governments are required to provide evidence that ongoing operation, maintenance and replacement costs of the project can be funded. Financial assistance is intended to assist with the construction costs of approved projects only. Feasibility studies and pre-construction stages of a project will not be funded by the Royalties for the Regions program. Construction is deemed to begin when changes are made to the project site. Eligible project costs may include contingencies (up to 15 per cent), as well as remuneration of technical, professional, and/or administrative staff for time directly related to project managing the construction of approved works (excluding any executive duties and general overhead changes) as a reasonable proportion of overall project costs. Local governments will be required to coordinate any necessary regulatory approvals, however the Queensland Government may assist local governments by utilising powers under existing legislation such as the State Development Public Works Organisation Act 1971 or the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Act Proposals that relate to State Government infrastructure may be considered if there is evidence of increased community need and the relevant agency is supportive. For example, proposals could include: upgrading existing infrastructure bringing forward planned infrastructure to meet growth demand. If the project is on Queensland Government-owned land and/or facilities, the application must be supported by the relevant Queensland Government agency. 4.3 Ineligible projects Projects that are ineligible for funding under Royalties for the Regions include: works not constructed on council owned or controlled land except where the project is for works on Queensland Government-owned land and/or facilities and the application is supported by the relevant Queensland Government agency (applicants to note that tenure for the land would need to be secured prior to signing the funding agreement) feasibility and planning studies flood warning systems projects that would otherwise normally be funded through another existing Queensland Government program. While generally projects may not be eligible if there is an alternative Queensland Government funding source, there may be exceptions such as where there is a high level of demand for the project and funding from Royalties for the Regions will bring project construction forward. Royalties for the Regions is intended to cover actual construction works. Ineligible project costs include: costs related to any activities incurred prior to the signing of a funding agreement temporary works, other than those required to complete the proposed project land acquisition official opening expenses conceptual design community consultation ongoing costs for local government administration, operation, maintenance or engineering vehicle purchase or leasing development approvals legal expenses costs of preparing a Queensland disaster mitigation and resilience funding or Royalties for the Regions application material. This list should not be interpreted as either prescriptive or comprehensive. If there is any doubt about eligible projects or costs, please contact: 11

14 Royalties for the Regions Secretariat Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Phone: (07) or 13 QGOV ( ) 5. Assessment criteria To be considered for Royalties for the Regions flood mitigation funding, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria (for applicants, projects and costs) listed in section 4. Applicants must provide all required documentation to be considered for funding. Eligible applications will be assessed and prioritised, according to the extent that they meet the following criteria: 1) The project will improve floodplain security with clear benefits for the community a) there is demonstrated need for the project as identified through the historical impact of flooding events b) the project will improve flood mitigation infrastructure and enhance liveability and community resilience 2) The project supports reduced risks to the built environment a) the project can demonstrate that the infrastructure will reduce the impacts of flooding to the built environment 3) The project makes sense financially and is ready to be delivered a) the project makes sense financially, including demonstrated value for money b) there is a plan for the viability of the project, such as a local government plan to manage, operate and maintain the infrastructure following construction c) the applicant has the capability to deliver the project, such as appropriate staff expertise and capacity to manage the project (capability may be sourced externally) d) the project is supported by appropriate flood investigations/studies or relevant agencies. 4) The project has community support a) the project has demonstrated community support. 6. Successful applications Local governments with successful projects will receive an offer of financial assistance. If the local government accepts the offer, it will be required to enter into a formal funding agreement with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning on behalf of the State of Queensland within three months of funding announcements. The agreement provides details on general and specific conditions of funding associated with the delivery of the program. An agreement is valid for the duration of the approved project and once signed by both parties is a legally binding agreement. Key features of the agreement include: information about the funding recipient details of the approved project conditions of funding, such as timeframes for project completion how funds will be spent accountability and acquittal processes forecast claim dates reporting requirements acknowledgement of government funding. 12

15 All applicants will receive a letter stating the outcome of their application. Feedback on unsuccessful projects will be available for all eligible applications lodged. In certain cases where projects are not approved in the current round (e.g. where further development work is necessary or sufficient funding is not available), local governments may be advised to resubmit for consideration in subsequent funding rounds. 7. Industry involvement 7.1 Local Industry Participation Plans To encourage and support local industry growth and benefit from infrastructure and other major projects, the Queensland Government has a local industry policy Project proponents are to ensure that they fulfil the requirements of this policy if it applies. Information is available at Industry support Resource companies are able to contribute directly to the Royalties for the Regions funding pool for projects that help mitigate the social impacts of their resource activities. These projects can be cobranded, promoting the financial contributions of the applicable companies, in addition to any Royalties for the Regions funding received. 8. Funding acknowledgement and branding Local governments that receive funding through the Royalties for the Regions program are required to appropriately acknowledge the Queensland Government s contribution. Further information is available in the Royalties for the Regions Funding Acknowledgement Guidelines and the funding agreement template. These documents are available upon request. 9. Resources and contacts Further information on the Royalties for the Regions program, including projects previously awarded funds, is at Officers from the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning are available to assist local governments. Enquiries may be directed to the Royalties for the Regions program on (07) or 13 QGOV ( ) or via at royalties@dsdip.qld.gov.au Where an infrastructure project involves a Queensland Government owned or controlled facility, local governments should consult with the relevant Queensland Government agency. 13

16 Schedule 2 Local Government Floods Response Subsidy Program outline The Queensland Government has committed $40 million over three years, commencing in , to assist Queensland councils in implementing relevant recommendations of the Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry (Floods Commission). This funding commitment, the Local Government Floods Response Subsidy (LGFRS) is administered by the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience (the department) as a component of the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP). In , the government is launching a joint application package to provide a single point for application and assessment for disaster mitigation and resilience funding administered by the state. The LGFRS is being delivered as part of this joint application package. 2. LGFRS aims The LGFRS aims to: assist Queensland councils in implementing relevant recommendations of the Floods Commission support delivery of improved infrastructure and flood resilience for the community and achieve mitigation outcomes target funding to meet the state s flood mitigation funding priorities. 3. LGFRS objectives The objectives of the LGFRS are to support: flood mitigation projects highlighted as a priority following the impact of the January 2013 disaster event on Queensland communities and infrastructure, as well as unaddressed needs identified following the events of councils to identify, manage and respond to future flood risks through flood management studies, modelling and flood mapping councils to deliver key flood mitigation infrastructure projects, such as levees and detention basins to protect lives, property and essential infrastructure, that are informed by a completed flood management study which incorporates consideration of the potential impact of the project on communities downstream projects that have been developed collaboratively by councils to address flood mitigation needs on a river catchment basis. 4. Funding A total of $12.8 million in LGFRS funding is allocated in the financial year to subsidise delivery of flood mitigation projects. 5. Eligibility 5.1 Eligible applicants Eligible applicants under the LGFRS are local government bodies constituted under the Local Government Act 2009 and the City of Brisbane Act Other entities may be deemed by the Minister as an eligible applicant for the purposes of the LGFRS. 14

17 5.2 Eligible projects Under the LGFRS, proposed projects must demonstrate a clear link to recommendations of the Floods Commission and meet the state s priorities. Eligible flood mitigation projects include: flood management studies, flood modelling and flood mapping in areas of identified need infrastructure projects such as levees, detention basins, floodgates and backflow prevention devices that mitigate against flood damage and inundation in areas of identified need, and are informed by a completed flood management study which incorporates consideration of the potential impact on other communities within the river catchment. 5.3 Ineligible projects Under the LGFRS ineligible projects include: Early flood warning systems 5.4 Eligible costs LGFRS is intended only to assist with the direct costs to applicants of an approved project as detailed in the application for funding. Under the LGFRS, eligible project costs are the total project costs from the application less any other funding contributions to the approved project, less any ineligible costs. Program funding may be used for the following: remuneration costs for technical or professional work time over and above 100 hours (excluding executive duties) on the planning, designing or construction (including technical supervision) of approved works the cost of administrative staff specifically engaged for the project, but does not include any portion of the remuneration of any other clerical or administrative staff of the council, or general overhead charges. These costs must be detailed in the application for funding. 5.5 Ineligible costs LGFRS applications must exclude costs not directly associated with the project. Ineligible costs include: 15

18 house raising legal costs in kind contributions official opening expenses ongoing operational and management costs work that has already commenced or been completed duplication of existing initiatives core business for an organisation purchase of core business capital equipment such as motor vehicles and office equipment temporary works, except where required as part of the construction of the eligible works remuneration of executive officers. These lists should not be interpreted as either prescriptive or comprehensive. Contact the department if you require clarification on the eligibility of the proposed project and costs. 5.6 Subsidy rate For projects approved funding under the LGFRS, funding will be allocated based on a subsidy rate of up to 40 per cent of the eligible project costs. The Minister may determine an alternative subsidy rate for an approved project. Under the LGFRS, eligible project costs are the total project costs minus ineligible components and any other funding contributions to the project. Other funding contributions include: funding from partners, government grant funding received or applied for and in-kind contributions. 6. Assessment criteria Under the LGFRS, applications will be assessed against how the proposed project meets the state s funding priorities LGFRS aims and objectives, including how the project is linked to and will deliver outcomes to support relevant recommendations of the Floods Commission flood mitigation assessment criteria detailed in section 2.5 of the joint application package. The department will consult with other agencies in assessing and prioritising the allocation of funding. 7. Successful applications Successful applicants are required to enter into a funding agreement with the department before commencing the project and making claims for payments. Projects approved for funding under more than one funding program will enter into an integrated funding agreement between the applicant and the relevant state agencies. 8. Funding period The funding period for an approved project is a maximum of 12 months from the date of approval. In certain circumstances the project complexity may require a longer funding period and this will be negotiated on a case by case basis. The grant recipient must ensure that: - all project works are completed within the funding period - all final reporting and claims for payment are submitted to the department within one month after the project completion date. 16

19 9. Claims for payment The funding agreement provides details of the payment schedule for each project. The LGFRS funding is administered on a 30:60:10 model. A first payment equal to 30 per cent of the approved funding will be made following the execution of the funding agreement for the project by both parties. In particular circumstances, the department may approve a different payment schedule. Once the first payment has been expended and acquitted, the funding recipient can then submit claims for progress payments at the approved subsidy rate against works completed (up to 60 per cent of approved funding), in accordance with the funding recipient s payment forecasts and project plan. A final payment of 10 per cent will be made on completion and acquittal of the project. Each claim for payment must be made on the prescribed form, with certification by the funding recipient that the works have been completed satisfactorily, and that expenditure of the amount stated has been properly incurred on the work for which funding was approved in accordance with these guidelines and the funding agreement. Certification must be made by an appropriately delegated officer of the funding recipient, or other persons as agreed by the department. The prescribed form for claiming payments is available on the department s website: Resources and contact Resources: Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience Queensland Reconstruction Authority - Floodplain maps Queensland Reconstruction Authority Contact: Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry For more information on the LGFRS, contact the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience. Brisbane Office lgfundingunit@dlgcrr.qld.gov.au phone: 13 QGOV ( ) Northern Region: Southern Region:

20 Schedule 3 Natural Disaster Resilience Program Program outline The Natural Disaster Resilience Program (NDRP) is a competitive grants program jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian Governments under a National Partnership Agreement on Natural Disaster Resilience. The program is administered by the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience. In , the Queensland Government is launching a joint application package to provide a single point for application and assessment for disaster mitigation and resilience funding administered by the State. The NDRP is being delivered as part of this joint application package. The joint application package also includes the Local Government Flood Response Subsidy and the Royalties for Regions programs. Both these programs provide dedicated funding for local governments toward flood mitigation and resilience projects. NDRP funds mitigation and resilience projects relating to all types of natural disaster hazards. Potential recipients include councils and non-government organisations such as volunteering groups and not-forprofits. On 5 March 2014, the Honourable Tony Abbott MP, Prime Minister, executed a new National Partnership Agreement that confirms NDRP funding for and NDRP funding priorities in The funding priorities of NDRP are to: mitigate against or build resilience to Queensland s highest natural hazard risks as identified in the 2012 State-wide Natural Hazard Risk Assessment (in order of highest damage): flooding (including flash flooding) tropical cyclone winds and storm surge thunderstorm wind gusts, downbursts and tornadoes hail storms bushfires landslides, earthquakes and tsunamis enhance community preparedness for natural events through community education and awareness training build partnerships between sectors and encourage a regional and catchment area approach to mitigation and resilience providing support to emergency management volunteers contribute towards the action themes of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience NDRP aim The purpose of NDRP is to: make Queensland communities more resilient in relation to natural disasters, and 18

21 contribute to delivering the strategic priorities under the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience whilst addressing Queensland natural disaster resilience priorities. 4. NDRP objectives The NDRP objectives are to: reduce Queensland communities vulnerability to natural hazards by supporting local governments and other stakeholders to build community resilience build partnerships between sectors and encourage a regional and catchment area approach to mitigation and resilience providing support to emergency management volunteers. 5. Funding A total of $24 million in NDRP funding is available in to support delivery of natural disaster resilience projects. This funding consists of $12 million each from the Queensland and Australian Governments. 6. Eligibility 6.1 Eligible applicants Organisations considered eligible for NDRP funding are: local government bodies constituted under the Local Government Act 2009 and the City of Brisbane Act 2010 Regional Organisations of Councils River Improvement Trusts government bodies, including Queensland Government departments and other government agencies within Queensland government owned corporations incorporated non-government organisations (including volunteer groups), and Queensland-based not-for-profits. Partnerships between organisations are encouraged and an eligible organisation may submit an application with an ineligible organisation. Other entities may be deemed by the Minister as an eligible applicant for the purposes of the NDRP. Ineligible organisations include: small businesses, for-profit volunteer groups, organisations based outside of Queensland, and any other group not specified as eligible in these guidelines. 6.2 Eligible projects Under NDRP, proposed projects must: demonstrate a clear link to the NDRP aim, objectives and priorities address one or more of Queensland s highest natural hazards listed under the NDRP funding priorities, and demonstrate a contribution to at least one of the seven key action themes of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience Applicants wishing to be considered for flood mitigation funding under either of the other joint application package programs as well as NDRP, should ensure they also meet the priorities and eligibility criteria of those programs. Eligible NDRP projects include: 19

22 All hazards Flood mitigation project is informed by a completed study or risk assessment incorporating consideration of the potential impact on other communities in the region/catchment natural hazard risk assessments and studies research and/or development projects community preparedness, education and training programs evacuation plans 6.3 Eligible costs local volunteer capacity building. project is informed by a completed flood management study incorporating consideration of the potential impact on other communities with the catchment flood mitigation infrastructure such as levees, detention basins, floodgates, backflow prevention devices that mitigate against flood damage in areas of identified need flood mapping, flood management studies, reports, modelling. NDRP is intended only to assist with the direct costs to applicants of an approved project as detailed in the application for funding. Under the LGFRS, eligible project costs are the total project costs from the application less any other funding contributions to the approved project, less any ineligible costs. Program funding may be used for the following: remuneration costs for technical or professional work time over and above 100 hours (excluding executive duties) on the planning, designing or construction (including technical supervision) of approved works the cost of administrative staff specifically engaged for the project, but does not include any portion of the remuneration of any other clerical or administrative staff of the council, or general overhead charges. These costs must be detailed in the application for funding. Under certain situations an exemption or variation to the exclusion limit of remuneration costs for technical or professional work under 100 hours may be applied. Applicants should request and provide justification in their application if they wish to be considered for a variation to the eligible project costs. Contact the department if you require clarification on the eligibility of the proposed project and costs. 6.4 Ineligible projects NDRP applications must exclude costs not directly associated with the project. Ineligible costs include: house raising legal costs in kind contributions official opening expenses 20

23 ongoing operational and management costs work that has already commenced or been completed duplication of existing initiatives core business for an organisation purchase of core business capital equipment such as motor vehicles and office equipment temporary works, except where required as part of the construction of the eligible works remuneration of executive officers. These lists should not be interpreted as either prescriptive or comprehensive. Contact the department if you require clarification on the eligibility of the proposed project and costs. 7. National Strategy for Disaster Resilience Projects funded under NDRP are to contribute towards the fulfilment of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience NDRP applicants are advised to familiarise themselves with the strategy, and should demonstrate a contribution to at least one of the seven key action themes of the strategy: Leading change and coordinating effort Understanding risks Communicating with and educating people about risks Partnering with those who effect change Empowering individuals and communities to exercise choice and take responsibility Reducing risks in the built environment Supporting capabilities for disaster resilience. 8. Subsidy rate NDRP projects are funded on a cost sharing basis between the applicant, Queensland Government and the Australian Government. Each contributes an equal share (one-third). Therefore the maximum allocated subsidy rate is 67 per cent of the eligible project costs. The Minister may determine an alternative rate for an approved project. Under NDRP, eligible project costs are the total project cost minus ineligible components and any other funding contributions to the project. Other funding contributions include: funding from partners, government grant funding received or applied for, and in-kind contributions. 9. Assessment criteria NDRP applications must meet the eligibility criteria. Projects that meet the eligibility criteria will be assessed against: the NDRP aim and objectives how the proposed project meets the NDRP funding priorities addressing one or more of Queensland s highest natural hazards risks demonstrating a contribution to at least one of the seven key action themes of the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience

24 demonstrating a regional or catchment area approach to resilience evidence that consultation has occurred with neighbouring councils ability to enhance community resilience by building partnerships between sectors/regional or catchment areas the project provides value-for-money the project is ready to proceed and can be delivered within approved timeframes the applicant has the capability to deliver the project, such as appropriate staff expertise and capacity to manage the implementation of the project (capability may be sourced externally) the project has demonstrated community support and provides evidence of priority need and clear benefits to the community the applicant s proven ability to delivery previous Queensland Government funded projects. 10. Successful applications Successful applicants will be required to enter into a funding agreement with the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience before commencing the project and making claims for payments. Projects approved for funding under more than one funding program will be required to enter into an integrated funding agreement between the recipient and the State. Approve projects will receive the first 10 per cent of NDRP funding on execution of the funding agreement and submission of a project plan. Further payments will be made as progress claims are submitted. 11. Funding period The funding period for the approved project is a maximum of 12 months from the date of approval. In certain circumstances the project complexity may require a longer funding period and this will be negotiated on a case by case basis. The grant recipient must ensure that: all project work is completed within the funding period all final reporting and claims for payment are submitted to the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience within one month after the project completion date. 12. Claims for payment The funding agreement provides details of the payment schedule for each project. The department administers funding on a 30:60:10 payment model. A first payment equal to 30 per cent of the approved funding will be made following the execution of the funding agreement by both parties. In particular circumstances, the department may approve a different payment schedule. Once the first payment has been expended and acquitted, the funding recipient must then submit claims for progress payments at the approved subsidy rate against works completed (up to 60 per cent of approved funding), in accordance with the funding recipient s payment forecasts and project plan. A final payment of 10 per cent will be made on completion and acquittal of the project. Each claim for payment must be made on the prescribed form, with certification by the funding recipient that the works have been completed satisfactorily, and that expenditure of the amount stated has been properly incurred on the work for which funding was approved in accordance with these guidelines and the funding agreement. Certification must be made by an appropriately delegated officer of the funding recipient, or other persons as agreed by the department. The prescribed form for claiming payments is available on the department s website: 22