Additional assistance is now available for NSW North Coast communities affected by flooding in February 2021.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud and NSW Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for disaster recovery John Barilaro said recovery grants of up to $75,000 for primary producers and up to $50,000 for small businesses are now available in Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kyogle, Lismore, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Richmond Valley.
Previously, support was available for communities impacted by major storms and flooding from March onwards, however this support will see the same support offered to communities across seven LGAs which were impacted in February.
The assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Minister Littleproud said the heavy rainfall from this event caused significant damage to a number of primary producers and small businesses.
"It's heartbreaking to see communities affected by such devastating events, particularly when they are affected again by floods only a few weeks later," Minister Littleproud said.
"Primary producers and small businesses are vital to the Australian economy and these grants will help drive their recovery."
Mr Barilaro said communities experienced significant losses and disruption due to flash flooding and severe weather.
"From day one we have said that we will not leave any flood-affected community behind and this extension of funding is part of our commitment to helping victims get back on their feet," Mr Barilaro said.
"Our agriculture sector which was already recovering from bushfires and drought was devastated by the recent floods. The storms caused at least $3.5 million in damage across an area of 701 hectares, impacting infrastructure, livestock, horticulture and aquaculture.
"Small businesses in Corindi were particularly badly affected, with reports of damage or loss of tools, business vehicles, machinery and infrastructure."
The assistance being announced today will help cover the costs associated with reinstatement activities, such as repairs to premises and replacement of stock, or repairs to damaged farm infrastructure and equipment.
Further information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the NSW emergency information and response website at https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/floods
