Flood-Ravaged Regions in NSW Declared Disaster Zones

Strategic Insights -

The Mid North Coast and Hunter regions in New South Wales have been declared natural disaster zones by the state and federal governments, unlocking rapid assistance for those affected. The declaration has made available various forms of support, including emergency accommodation, grant funding for low-income residents, and concessional interest rate loans for small businesses and primary producers. The support measures are aimed at helping communities recover from the devastating floods, with over 140 flood warnings in place and 50,000 people asked to evacuate or prepare to evacuate.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Mid North Coast and Hunter regions have been declared natural disaster zones, unlocking rapid government funding for those affected.
  • Assistance measures available to communities include emergency accommodation, grant funding for low-income residents, concessional interest rate loans for small businesses and primary producers, and freight subsidies for primary producers.
  • The NSW government has activated a range of basic support to assist flood-impacted communities and councils, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority working closely with the State Emergency Service and partner agencies.
  • Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain has stated that the floods are having a huge impact on communities across the Hunter and that support is available during this event and as communities turn their focus to recovery.

*Over 2500 emergency service workers are on the ground in the region, making it the largest deployment for a natural disaster in the state's history.

Statistics:

  • 140 flood warnings are in place (Source: NSW Government)
  • 50,000 people have been asked to evacuate or prepare to evacuate (Source: NSW Government)
  • $2500 is the number of emergency service workers deployed to the region, making it the largest deployment for a natural disaster in the state's history (Source: NSW Premier Chris Minns)
  • 5000 is the approximate number of residents who will benefit from grant funding for low-income residents (Source: NSW Govt)

Sources:

  • NSW Government ([NSW Government Report](https://www.nsw.gov.au/disaster-and-emergency))
  • NSW Premier Chris Minns (Press Conference, Thursday morning)
  • Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain (Statement on the floods)