The Wide Bay Burnett Community Legal Service is urging local residents impacted by flooding to take action now to protect their legal rights.

WBBCLS Principal Solicitor Ray Hill said Legal Aid Queensland and community legal centres can help with crisis legal needs and are also around for problems that emerge after the event.

“Queenslanders who were flooded can be facing more than they know”, he said.

“These types of disasters cause legal problems and make some worse, like housing, family law, and child protection arrangements.”

Actions flood victims can take now to protect their legal rights include:

• Take photos and lodge an insurance claim, even if your insurer says you are not covered for flood.
• Talk to your bank or lender, local council, telephone, internet and utility companies to ask for financial hardship help.
• Ask the Department of Human Services if you are eligible for any government assistance.
• Get legal advice if your parenting and personal relationships have become unsafe or complicated.

“If you or someone you care for is unsure about legal rights, has been given confusing information, refused help or treated unfairly, contact Wide Bay Burnett Community Legal Service on 07 4194 2663," Ray said.

"We have a solicitor available to help you specifically with flood related issues, and we can see you at Maryborough, Gympie, Hervey Bay or by telephone. Legal Aid may also be able to assist you, by calling 1300 527 700.”

Face-to-face appointments are available on Mondays at Gympie Community Place and Tuesdays at Maryborough Community Centre.

Further information about Community Legal Centres can be found at https://www.communitylegalqld.org.au/find-legal-help/ or by calling 07 3392 0092.