There is now additional support for flood-affected primary producers in NSW, as part of the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Recovery grants to help with the immediate clean-up and recovery costs and to repair extensive damage have been increased from $25,000 to up to $75,000 for primary producers. Rural landholders can now also apply for grants of up to $10,000.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the New England had been hit hard by recent weather events and this support is greatly welcome.

“We have to make sure our producers in the New England are back on their feet as soon as possible and, can return to work seamlessly.”

“Access to this funding will help them do just that, as well as provide much needed support heading into the Christmas period,” Mr Joyce said.

The grants are available in all the local government areas (LGAs) that have been disaster declared since 14 September. A full list of eligible LGAs is available on the NSW Rural Assistance Authority’s (RAA) Declared Natural Disasters webpage. 

Local Government Areas eligible in New England include Glen Innes Severn, Gwydir, Liverpool Plains, Tamworth, Upper Hunter and Walcha.

Primary producers are encouraged not to self-assess and should consult with their local Rural Financial Counselling Service or apply for the scheme so that the RAA can determine eligibility. 

For more information, or to lodge an application, visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au or call the RAA on 1800 678 593. If you are a farmer or a member of the community requiring an emergency response regarding livestock or animals, call 1800 814 647.