COMMONWEALTH ASSISTANCE FOR NORTH-WEST NEW SOUTH WALES FLOOD VICTIMS
31 December 2009
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today announced that the Commonwealth Government will provide financial assistance to communities affected by floods in north-west New South Wales.
Commonwealth assistance is being provided to New South Wales through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) and will apply to natural disaster declared areas, including Brewarrina and Narrabri.
Funding will include assistance for the restoration of essential public infrastructure and relief operations, as well as:
- personal hardship and distress (PHD) grants to low-income earners whose principal residence has been damaged. Enquiries should be directed to the Community Services' Disaster Recovery Centre on 1800 018 444;
- concessional loans of up to $130,000 for small businesses and primary producers. Enquiries should be directed to the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593;
- concessional loans of up to $25,000 for voluntary, non-profit organisations and up to $10,000 for sporting clubs. Enquires should be directed to NSW Treasury on (02) 9228 5198;
- and road and rail freight subsidies of up to $15,000 to assist primary producers for the carriage of livestock and fodder. Enquires should be directed to Industry & Investment NSW- Primary Industries on 1800 814 593.
The Commonwealth, through Emergency Management Australia, will continue to work closely with New South Wales authorities, local government and community organisations to ensure that affected communities have all the support they need during this difficult period.
Media Contact: Adam Siddique 0407 473 630
