Natural disaster declaration in northern NSW

Summary

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, has declared a number of councils Natural Disaster areas following heavy rain across Northern NSW.

Local Government Areas affected by flooding to which the Natural Disaster Declarations apply are Moree Shire Plains, Armidale Dumaresq and Inverell Shire. Minister Gallacher said the significant rain, which had continued throughout the weekend, had caused damage to a number of roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure.

"I had the opportunity to tour areas affected by flood waters on Sunday and I saw firsthand how widespread the devastation is.

"There are many families and business owners who have been affected by these recent floods and these Natural Disaster Declaration's go a little way to ease the burden they face," Minister Gallacher said.

"The men and women of the State Emergency Service and other emergency service organisations have been outstanding in handling this natural disaster and communicating advice to residents. I applaud their efforts.

"This declaration unlocks a number of supportive measures under the NSW Disaster Assistance Arrangements.

"This Government will continue to monitor the situation to determine if further Natural Disaster Declarations are required in surrounding areas," Minister Gallacher concluded.

Anyone needing help from the SES should contact their local unit on 132 500. In life threatening emergencies, always ring triple zero (000).

Contact Name: Tess Salmon (Minister's Office)

Contact Phone: 0467 740 017