Disaster assistance has been made available for the Hills, Hornsby, Parramatta, Campbelltown and Sutherland Local Government Areas which were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred from 13 December onwards.
Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Senator the Hon. Linda Reynolds, who has responsibility for Commonwealth disaster assistance, said the Commonwealth and New South Wales Government were working together to support recovery efforts following this significant period of severe weather.
"These storms and floods occurred over several days causing extensive damage to homes, power lines and other public infrastructure, which resulted in major disruption to communities," Assistant Minister Reynolds said.
"Through the DRFA, we are able to offer those most affected some peace of mind by providing financial support whilst they get back on their feet.
"A range of assistance is now available to help aid community recovery and to fund operational response activities."
NSW Minister for Emergency Services the Hon. Troy Grant said the storm and floods saw the deployment of extensive emergency service volunteers and other personnel, including those from the NSW State Emergency Service, the NSW Rural Fire Service, councils, police and Fire and Rescue NSW.
"As always, our first responders did a remarkable job protecting communities and I commend them for their efforts," Minister Grant said.
"The funding available through the DRFA will help cover the cost of clean-up and ensure that any damaged public infrastructure can be repaired."
Assistance measures available for those affected by the storms and floods in Hills, Hornsby,
Parramatta, Campbelltown and Sutherland Local Government Areas include:
- Assistance to help people who are uninsured, have sustained damage to homes or contents, and meet an assets and income test;
- Assistance to help councils in the affected Local Government Areas with the costs associated with cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets;
- Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses and not-for-profit organisations; and
- Grants to sporting and recreation clubs.
For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, contact the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 018 444. To apply for a concessional loan or grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
Information on disaster assistance available for this natural disaster can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the Emergency NSW website at www.emergency.nsw.gov.au.
