Farmers across the Hunter and Mid North Coast of New South Wales are still waiting for confirmation of disaster assistance from the state government, following record flooding that has devastated rural communities.
NSW Farmers Vice President Rebecca Reardon said growers remain uncertain about what support, if any, will be provided to help them recover. "This flood has come just months after Cyclone Alfred, and the cumulative effect of these disasters has left nothing but devastation for farmers and their families," she said.
While the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, Reardon estimated losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars. "Farmers prepared as much as possible, but fences and infrastructure have been swept away, paddocks washed out, roads cut and destroyed, livestock affected, oyster farms wiped out, and pastures, orchards, and crops submerged," she explained.
At present, Category B concessional loans and transport subsidies are available for affected farmers in the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions. However, Reardon stressed the need for urgent escalation of support measures.
"Category C disaster assistance must be rolled out immediately, with Category D support to follow," she said. "Current supports simply don't cut it—the devastation is just immense, whether you're in Dorrigo, Kempsey, or anywhere through to the Hunter."
Reardon urged affected farmers to report damage through the official flood survey when possible. "We know time and connectivity are limited, but if you get the chance, please report your flood damage. It's the only way we can demonstrate to the government the scale of destruction and the level of support we need."
For more information:
Eliza Fessey
NSW Farmers
Tel: +61 (0) 427 411 220
Email: [email protected]
www.nswfarmers.org.au