COMMONWEALTH ASSISTANCE FOR LORD HOWE ISLAND STORM VICTIMS
22 April 2009
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today announced that the Commonwealth will provide financial assistance to those affected by recent severe storms on Lord Howe Island.
Assistance will be provided in cooperation with New South Wales authorities through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) administered by Emergency Management Australia.
“Many families have been affected by the severe storms and a large number of homes and businesses have been damaged,” Mr McClelland said.
Funding will include:
- Personal hardship and distress (PHD) grants to low-income earners whose principal place of residence has been damaged. Inquiries in relation to this assistance should be made to the NSW Department of Community Services on 1800 018 444;
- Concessional loans of up to $25,000 to voluntary non-profit organisations for the restoration of essential facilities. Inquiries in relation to this assistance should be made to the NSW Treasury on (02) 9228 5198;
- Concessional loans of up to $130,000 at an interest rate of 2.85% to eligible small businesses and primary producers affected by the disaster. Inquiries in relation to this assistance should be made to the NSW Rural Adjustment Authority on 1800 678 593; and
- Freight subsidies of up to $15,000 to assist primary producers for the carriage of livestock and fodder. Inquiries in relation to this assistance should be made to the NSW Department of Primary Industries on 1800 814 647.
“The Commonwealth is working closely with New South Wales authorities to ensure that residents of Lord Howe Island have all the support they need during this difficult time,” Mr McClelland said.
Media Contact: Adam Siddique 0407 473 630
