The state's peak farm body has welcomed the announcement of disaster relief support for farmers and communities affected by severe flooding across New South Wales.
On Tuesday, the Albanese and Minns Governments announced the release of disaster relief for farmers impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, as well as the most recent flooding and severe weather events in May. This disaster relief will provide farmers in 28 affected local government areas with grants of up to $25,000 to support clean-up, repairs, and immediate business recovery.
NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the grants were welcome news for farmers devastated by the flooding from both events. "Disaster relief to get our farming families through this time is the right decision, and we thank the government for listening to our communities on this," Mr. Martin said.
"There's no doubt they'll need more support to get through the devastation, but it's a start, and it's good to see our governments commit to getting our farmers back on their feet."
Mr. Martin encouraged flood-affected farmers to apply for the support as soon as they are able, and urged them to continue reporting flood damage through the official government survey to help secure additional support for severe damages. "It's going to be a long road to recovery, but you don't have to walk it alone," Mr. Martin said.
"There is real help available in this disaster, so please don't hesitate to use it—and keep an eye on our NSW Farmers communications for more information on where to access this assistance, as well as other support."
Recovery grants will be available for primary producers in the following local government areas: Armidale, Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Central Coast, Cessnock, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Glen Innes Severn, Kempsey, Kyogle, Lake Macquarie, Lismore, Lord Howe Island, Maitland, MidCoast, Muswellbrook, Nambucca, Newcastle, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Port Stephens, Richmond Valley, Singleton, Tenterfield, Tweed, Upper Hunter, and Walcha.
For more information:
Eliza Fessey
NSW Farmers
Tel: +61 (0) 427 411 220
Email: [email protected]
www.nswfarmers.org.au
