COMMONWEALTH ASSISTANCE FOR NEW SOUTH WALES FLOOD AFFECTED COMMUNITIES
17 February 2010
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today announced that the Commonwealth Government will provide financial assistance to New South Wales communities affected by recent flooding in the south coast and far west.
Commonwealth assistance is being provided to the New South Wales Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) and will apply to disaster declared areas on the south coast including Bega and Eurobodalla Shires as well as Central Darling and Cobar Shires in the far west.
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 NSW Department of Community Services 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. Enquires should be directed 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. Enquiries should be directed to the NSW Industry and Investment office on 1800 814 647.
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
