Suncorp support fund for Queensland flood-affected repairers

Suncorp and the Motor Trades Association of Queensland have launched a hardship support fund for smash repairers who been professionally or personally affected by the flooding in Queensland, with grants of up to $5000 available.

Suncorp executive general manager of claims Jason McCracken said the grants were available to all repairers in Queensland regardless of whether they were MTA-Q members or worked with Suncorp.

?Smash repairers are an integral part of the motor insurance industry and we want to support those who?ve been affected,? he said.

?Working with the MTA-Q, who are a vital partner to the smash repair industry in the state, will help ensure the grants get to those in need.?

Richard Payne, principal policy director of the Motor Trades Association, Queensland, said that many repair shops were just starting to recover from the global financial crisis when the floods and cyclone hit.

?We think it?s fantastic that Suncorp has set up a fund to assist SME repair businesses through this difficult period,? Payne said.

?Whether it?s for reconstruction, replacement of equipment or interest payments on a loan as a consequence of the disaster, the financial support provided by Suncorp will greatly assist businesses on their road to recovery.?

McCracken said the sheer scope of the flooding and the number of people affected was unprecedented, with more than one million square kilometres declared a disaster zone in Queensland alone.

?It?s going to be a very busy 12 to 18 months across the country,? he said. ?While the work has only just begun, I?d like to thank all the home and motor repairer partners who will be helping us get our customers back on their feet.?

More information on applying for the grants can be obtained by speaking to the MTA-Q, visiting the MTA-Q website, speaking to a Suncorp repairer development manager or by emailing repairers@suncorp.com.au.