Queensland is to have the country’s first permanent disaster recovery agency, under legislation approved by the State Government.

The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) had been due to wind up on June 30 but will instead be made a permanent government agency.

“We will work with... communities, local governments and businesses to help them get back on their feet, to rebuild strong and vibrant towns,” Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said.

It comes after Cyclone Marcia, the latest natural hazard to hit the state, left a trail of destruction.

The QRA – set up after the 2011 floods – manages and co-ordinates the state’s disaster recovery programs in affected communities.

The Insurance Council of Australia says business claims from Marcia have taken insured losses above $403 million.

“I saw first-hand how this cyclone turned lives upside down and I recognise that many of these communities have suffered from multiple extreme weather events,” Ms Trad said.

“Our Government will bring together government agencies, councils, industry and the community to identify key tasks, milestones and completion dates of work to be undertaken.”