Disaster assistance has been activated by the Albanese and Minns Governments for NSW communities recovering from the severe weather and widespread damage occurring between 14 and 19 January 2026.
A Natural Disaster Declaration (NDD) has been made for the Bellingen, Northern Beaches and Bega Valley Local Government Areas.
The declaration activates a suite of support measures for residents, businesses, primary producers and councils. People whose homes have been damaged may be eligible for immediate financial help as well as clean-up, rebuilding and recovery assistance.
The support is available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include:
For Individuals and Households:
- Emergency Needs: Assistance for eligible residents to meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation and essential items.
- Essential Content Grants: Help for low-income, uninsured residents to replace lost household items.
- Structural Repair Grants: Support for low-income, uninsured residents to undertake essential repairs to make homes safe and habitable.
For Small Businesses, Primary Producers, and Not-for-Profits:
- Concessional Loans: Low-interest loans of up to $130,000 for small businesses and primary producers.
- Sporting & Non-Profit Support: Concessional loans and grants for non-profit organisations and sporting clubs to repair damage.
- Freight Subsidies: Assistance for primary producers to help transport livestock, fodder, and water.
For Local Councils and Environment:
- Infrastructure Repair: Funding for the restoration of essential public assets, such as local roads and bridges.
- Counter Disaster Ops: Financial support for state agencies and councils to cover the costs of emergency works undertaken to keep the community safe.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain:
"These severe weather events have significantly impacted communities in Bellingen, the Bega Valley, and the Northern Beaches.
"I want to assure those communities that the Albanese Government is here to support them through the recovery process.
"We are working closely with the NSW Government to deliver practical support packages for those who need it most."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin:
"I know that for many in Bellingen, the Bega Valley, and the Northern Beaches, the impact of the severe weather earlier this year is still being felt every day.
"While it has taken time to work through the formal declaration process, I am pleased that this targeted support is now available to help those who ne ed it most.
"This assistance is designed as a safety net-offering practical help for low-income, uninsured residents to make their homes safe and habitable again and providing concessional loans to help our local small businesses and primary producers bridge the gap in their recovery.
"Recovery is a long process that continues well after the storm clouds have cleared. We remain committed to supporting these communities as they continue to rebuild."
