DISASTER assistance is now available in the Walgett, Brewarrina, Bourke Local Government Areas following the impact of flooding.

The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and New South Wales Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Support includes assistance for impacted residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation and grants for low income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.

Grants are also available for low income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition as well as 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 are available as well as grants to sporting and recreation clubs to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property.

Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder are also available.

The NSW SES, NSW Reconstruction Authority and other services are on the ground assessing impacts and providing support.

To apply for a concessional loan or freight subsidy, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.

Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said flooding has had a significant impact on the communities of Bourke, Brewarrina, and Walgett.

“The waters may have finally receded, but people still need help,” she said.

“Recovery has a long tail, and it takes time, but the NSW Government will be working with our partners in the Commonwealth to make sure that communities in the far west are heard, and that they get the support they need.”