Upper Lachlan Shire Council has welcomed a declaration by the Federal and State Governments that formally recognises the July storms and flooding as a natural disaster.
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It follows an application from the council, lodged earlier this month, requesting the declaration for the weather event, which caused about $1 million damage to council roads and infrastructure.
Upper Lachlan Shire Council general manager John Bell said the declaration would allow the council, as well as impacted residents, small businesses and primary producers, to apply for assistance under the joint Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.
“The storms and flooding, which impacted the Shire in July, caused significant damage, particularly in the northern half of the Upper Lachlan Shire,” Mr Bell said.
“Council experienced considerable damage to creek crossings and roads and landowners suffered stock losses and damage to property, including fences.
“Council welcomes today’s declaration, announced by Federal Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant.
“[It] will allow Council and those impacted by this unprecedented weather event to apply for much-needed funding to aid in the clean-up.”
If approved, the council intends to use the funding to repair crossings washed out by flooded creeks and damaged roads, in consultation with NSW Roads and Maritime Services experts and authorities.
More information on assistance available can be found at disasterassist.gov.au and emergency.nsw.gov.au.
For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, including advice on eligibility, please call the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 018 444.
To apply for a concessional loan, grant or freight subsidy, please call the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit raa.nsw.gov.au.
