NSW Farmers has welcomed the announcement of new Category D natural disaster assistance for primary producers severely impacted by floods and storms across the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions.
The joint support package from the Minns and Albanese Governments includes grants of up to $75,000 for eligible farmers to assist in recovery and rebuilding efforts following a series of extreme weather events.
NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the funding was long overdue. “We’ve heard many stories of extraordinary destruction and devastation from these regions, and it’s good to see our advocacy with government deliver this support to those who really need it,” Mr Martin said.
“These producers and their communities have endured multiple events in an extreme year, and they’ve been left waiting long enough for further help to arrive.”
Mr Martin urged affected producers to apply for the grants as soon as possible, adding that other forms of assistance remain available. “Recovery continues to place a huge burden on time and resources, but it’s vital that producers access the help on offer to get back on track,” he said.
“In addition to this new support, there are several disaster relief options available. We encourage producers to speak with the NSW Rural Assistance Authority to find out what assistance may be available for their situation.”
Disaster support is available for producers in the following local government areas:
Armidale, Bellingen, Central Coast, Cessnock, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, MidCoast, Muswellbrook, Nambucca, Newcastle, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Port Stephens, Singleton, Upper Hunter, and Walcha.
For updates and to apply, visit the NSW Rural Assistance Authority website or contact Service NSW or your nearest Recovery Centre.