FUNDING TO BE FAST TRACKED

NSW GOVERNMENT SHOULD FAST TRACK GRANTS FOR SMALL BUSINESS AND PRIMARY PRODUCERS

The NSW Opposition is calling for Category C funding to be fast tracked for communities impacted by the devastating flooding event in the state’s north. 

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer, said an immediate declaration would deliver grants to small businesses and primary producers across our electorate, so they can begin the recovery process as soon as possible. 

“The situation on the ground right across our region is really tough for everyone from families to businesses owners. Some farmers have lost their livelihoods in the blink of an eye and are in urgent need of extra assistance,” Mr Dwyer said.

“As the water recedes, we are getting a better understanding of what the full impact will be. There’s no question the devastation is severe, and many businesses are still suffering from Cyclone Alfred. They don’t want loans but they need a helping hand in the form of grants to get back on their feet, so the Premier and Prime Minister need to make this happen now.”

Shadow Minister for Emergency Services and the North Coast Gurmesh Singh also called for more Australian Defence Force (ADF) Personnel to be activated to help with the immediate clean up.

“We know about 70 personnel are on the way and that is welcome but more boots on the ground will be vitally important to help our communities bounce back faster while the situation is still unfolding,” Mr Singh said. 

“Some communities are still cut off and we know it will take quite some time to repair the damage caused, not only to property, but also to road infrastructure and supply chains, and the faster we start that process the better.” 

Shadow Minister for Flood Recovery Geoff Provest said a Category C declaration would ensure assistance gets out the door. 

“Removing the red tape and making these grants available immediately is the right thing to do for our regional communities that are the backbone of NSW,” Mr Provest said. 

“Businesses and producers on the North Coast have already been left in the lurch in the aftermath of the cyclone, and they simply can’t afford to wait months to get the help they desperately need.” 

Mr Dwyer also called on the Government to commit to better mental health support including continuing funding for the Liberal and Nationals Farm gate counselling services in the upcoming budget, along with the establishment of ‘safe havens’ in the region which proved extremely successful after the Lismore floods in 2022.