When the government announced natural disaster relief for Kyogle and Tenterfield LGAs because of the bushfires this month, two council areas were not included.
State MP Richie Williamson wants Richmond Valley and Clarence Valley communities to be eligible for that relief.
“I am seeking the same level of disaster assistance that was recently extended to Kempsey, Mid-Coast, Port Macquarie, Kyogle and Tenterfield and Inverell local government areas in response to the impacts of bushfires,” Mr Williamson said.
“Earlier this month firefighters spent several days trying to contain a large fire in Evans Head and crews have been called out to contain numerous other fires including at Lawrence, and Glenreagh.”
Mr Williamson said a natural disaster declaration is an important first step in offering support for local communities under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements which are jointly funded by the state and commonwealth governments.
The Federal Government has announced emergency assistance for Queensland communities impacted by fires where individuals could apply for $180 in emergency assistance, with up to $900 available for a family of five or more.
In NSW, the response has been different. Information is available at the Rural Assistance Authority website.
Bushfire impacted communities, landowners, farmers, and primary producers in Kyogle and Tenterfield LGAs will be supported in the clean-up and recovery.
Assistance available includes:
● Help for eligible people whose homes or belongings have been damaged
● Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets
● Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations and freight subsidies for primary producers.
● To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit here.
Quick recovery response for communities impacted by October bushfires
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