It means joint Australian-NSW government assistance will be available to Edward River residents and businesses.
Disaster assistance measures are being provided by the Albanese and Minns Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and affords a range of financial assistance to natural disaster-declared areas.
Mayor Peta Betts and council have been working hard over the past week to obtain the natural disaster declaration.
“This is great news for the community and those who are struggling after the flash floods – firstly because it will enable insurance claims to be made more efficiently,” Cr Betts said.
“It will also be of great assistance to lower-income earners who experienced damage to their houses but are not covered by insurance; and will provide relief to businesses who received significant damage to their premises.”
Support through the DRFA includes:
• Grants for eligible residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain a basic standard of living.
• Grants for eligible residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition.
• Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets.
• Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, sporting and recreation clubs, and non-profit organisations to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property.
• Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.
Cr Betts applauded the announcement, saying it was a vital step in the recovery process after the flash floods.
“This support will help residents, businesses, farmers and not-for-profits to get back on their feet and return to business as usual more quickly,” she said.
For information relating to financial assistance, replacing lost documents, and more, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit www.nsw.gov.au.
To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.
15°C