Deadline nears for northern NSW flood assistance recovery grants

Operators of farms and small businesses in northern NSW which suffered flood damage in January and February 2012 have been encouraged to apply for grant assistance if they had not already done so, NSW Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) General Manager, Steve Griffith, said today.

"Grants of up to $15,000 are available to eligible primary producers and small businesses who suffered damage as a result of flooding and excessive rainfall in the Gwydir, Moree, Narrabri and Walgett local government areas," Mr Griffith said.

"All applications for assistance for this flooding event must be received by the RAA by 31 August 2012, however, the date for production of tax invoices or receipts for reimbursement has now been extended until 30 November 2012.

"Applications can be lodged with either an estimate, or quote of the damages suffered."

Mr Griffith said grants will then be paid to recipients on subsequent production of tax invoices or receipts.

"It is not necessary to wait until the clean-up and restoration works have been completed before lodging an application for assistance," he said.

"The Authority will assess the general eligibility and advise successful applicants of an ‘approval in principle’ in writing.

"This extra time is being provided due to continuing waterlogged soil conditions in many areas and a lack of available contractors."

To date, the RAA has approved grants of almost $7.5 million to more than 500 eligible primary producers and small businesses, in these local government areas.

Potential applicants should contact the RAA toll-free on 1800 678 593 to clarify eligibility criteria, or any other issues relating to this assistance, or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au

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