Disaster assistance is now available with Natural Disaster Declarations (NDD) in the Mid-Coast Local Government Area (LGA), following the impact of the April storm/ flood event that occurred from 1 April 2024.
The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and New South Wales Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson said this extension will bring much needed support for many residents within the electorate.
“The inclusion of the Mid-Coast LGA comes as great news. Throughout our region the storm brought flash flooding, fallen trees and powerlines which has resulted in property and road damage.
“A waterspout, turned mini tornado ripped through Green Point, leaving a trail of devastation and many residents without power.”
After witnessing the damage at Green Point, Mrs Thompson said, “I can’t thank our local heroes enough – the State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Fire and Rescue NSW for their invaluable assistance during and after this disaster.”
Mrs Thompson said that under the Disaster Declaration, support is provided to aid individuals, small businesses, primary producers, non-profit organisations, and councils.
- For individuals, this assistance includes small cash payments, direct material aid for necessities like food and clothing, emergency accommodation, and clean-ups for homes with specific needs like asbestos removal.
- Grants are available for essential household contents and structural repairs to homes, with eligibility based on income and asset tests.
- Disaster Relief Grants are provided to those most in need, acting as a safety net for vulnerable individuals to return to a basic standard of living.
- Stamp duty relief is offered for the replacement of motor vehicles damaged in the disaster.
- Small businesses, primary producers, and non-profit organisations can access concessional interest rate loans and grants to aid in recovery efforts. Assistance is also provided to sporting and recreation clubs, including freight subsidies for primary producers.
- Councils receive support for clean-up costs and emergency works to restore public assets to an acceptable level.
For further details and assistance, individuals and organisations can contact Service NSW at 13 77 88 or visit a Service NSW location.
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 Governments Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au
