Bellingen Chamber of Commerce

09 Nov 2009

Federal Government Action Welcomed

The announcement by Jenny Macklin, the Federal Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, that people affected by the November 5 floods on the Mid North Coast can apply for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment has been welcomed by Bellingen Shire Mayor, Councillor Mark Troy, and Coffs Harbour City Council Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades.

The Mayors, co-chairs of the Recovery Committee set up in the wake of the March 31 storm, have praised Ms Macklin for her swift action.

“This is great news for those people who are facing the trauma of dealing with the aftermath of yet another flood event on the Coffs Coast,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades. “Having some immediate financial relief will be a godsend to our communities. We know only too well from our previous experience that having this payment will help ease the financial problems faced by residents hit by this latest natural disaster,” he said.

Ms Macklin said that the Australian Government is currently considering the information provided by the Mayors of Coffs Harbour and Bellingen Shire Council on residents who continue to be affected by the March floods in the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers region.

“The Australian Government is examining this information as a matter of priority to identify possible gaps in assistance. We will respond quickly and are continuing to work cooperatively with the local Mayors,” said the Minister.

Cr Mark Troy said the Minister deserved congratulations for immediately stepping in and assuring the Coffs Coast communities that they would be able to apply for the Disaster Recovery Payment.

“It’s also very pleasing to see that this latest disaster has not meant that the Government has taken its eye off the ball as far as continuing to look for assistance for those people hit by March 31 storm,” he said.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment will be provided to eligible people adversely affected by the November 5 floods in the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers. Those eligible will receive a one off payment of $1,000 for adults and $400 for each child.

This payment will provide financial assistance to people who were seriously injured, whose principal place of residence was destroyed or significantly damaged, who were unable to return home or who were isolated by the floodwaters for a period of 24 hours or more. People can claim the payment during the next six months.