The Central Coast has been added to the list of those regions eligible to apply for assistance under the Disaster Recovery Funding program jointly provided by the State and Federal governments.
Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said practical support, financial subsidies and mental health services were now available to victims of the bushfires, with a one-off payment of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children available.
The news came as the Three Mile fire continues to threaten properties around Mangrove Mountain and Kulnura. “As residents return to their properties and survey the damage, this recovery assistance is being made available to people whose homes have been destroyed or severely damaged, including smoke damage, ” Crouch said.
“This is the largest bush fire disaster relief funding package in NSW history. “Over recent weeks we have seen hundreds of firefighters, 38 trucks and multiple aircraft fight the blazes.
“Fire conditions can change quickly. “Wherever you live on the Central Coast, please stay up to date using the RFS Fires Near Me app. ” The $48.25M funding includes: $25M to facilitate the clean-up of homes destroyed or damaged; $15,000 individual grants for primary producers and small businesses to assist with clean-up and the replacement of infrastructure; $4.05M for mental health services; and, the waiving of replacement fees for personal documents at Service NSW.
Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management, David Littleproud, said there were now 40 areas of the state eligible for assistance. Central Coast Council could also be eligible for assistance in cleaning up and restoring any public assets damaged by the fires. Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, said the news couldn’t have come at a better time, with Central Coast homes and properties still under threat. “In times like these, we have to work together and look out for each other, ” she said.
Source: Media release, Dec 6 Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks Media release, Dec 8 Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch Media release, Dec 11 Department of Human Services