COMMONWEALTH ASSISTANCE FOR FLOOD VICTIMS ON NEW SOUTH WALES MID-NORTH COAST
3 April 2009
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today announced that the Commonwealth Government will provide financial assistance for recovery efforts following the recent flooding of communities on the New South Wales mid-north coast.
This assistance will apply to natural disaster declared areas, including Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca and Clarence Valley.
Funding will be provided in cooperation with the New South Wales Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), which 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 $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;
- Concessional loans of up to $25,000 at an interest rate of 2.85% 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; and
- Road and rail freight subsidies of up to $15,000 to assist primary producers for the carriage of livestock and fodder The maximum subsidy available is $15,000 per annum. 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 affected communities have all the support they need during this difficult time,” Mr McClelland said.
Media Contact: Adam Siddique 0407 473 630
