Natural disasters declared in flood hit areas of NSW

Summary

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, has today declared a Natural Disaster for areas hit hardest by extreme weather on the State's Mid North Coast and Hunter regions.

Three days of heavy rain has impacted a number of townships with more than 1000 residents calling on the State Emergency Service (SES) for assistance.

"These calls have included assistance with evacuations, medical emergencies, water inundation and storm damage which includes leaking roofs and fallen trees," Minister Gallacher said.

Minister Gallacher said the Natural Disaster declaration applies to the areas of Clarence Valley, Upper Hunter, Bellingen Shire and Kempsey.

" These declarations make financial support available to persons directly affected by the flooding and severe weather.

"This is an important safety net for families, local businesses and primary producers," Minister Gallacher said.

"The NSW Government will monitor the situation to determine if further natural disaster declarations are required in surrounding areas.

"I applaud the efforts of the hundreds of SES members who are assisting the flood and storm hit areas.

The Minister also recognised Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) who have been instrumental in supporting the SES in making sure affected businesses and residents, including caravan park residents, have been moved to safety.

"I encourage people in flood and storm affected areas to call the SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero).

"It is also imperative people heed the advice of Emergency Service members to ensure their own safety," Minister Gallacher concluded.

Contact Name: Clint McGilvray (Minister's Office)

Contact Phone: 0413 285 186