Based in Orange, NSW, we at pmwPlus are acutely aware of the devastation caused by the November 2022 flooding across New South Wales. Many of our clients have been affected, and we’re here to support you. Here’s a snapshot of the financial assistance available at the time and where to go for further help. (Note: this is an archived 2022 update – always check Service NSW and Services Australia for current programs and eligibility.)
Small business grants
Grants of up to $50,000 were made available to help impacted businesses and not-for-profits rebuild, with an upfront amount of $25,000 available within days of lodging an application with Service NSW for eligible businesses in the disaster declaration zone.
Disaster Recovery Payment
Services Australia offered the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment – a lump sum to help eligible people seriously impacted by the flooding. Eligible residents across declared local government areas (including Cabonne, Dubbo, Forbes, Parkes and others) could receive up to $1,000 per adult and $400 per child under 16, claimed directly with Services Australia.
Disaster relief grant
Low-income earners whose primary residence was affected and who did not hold insurance may have been eligible for a disaster relief grant covering essential household contents. Service NSW’s disaster assistance finder helped people locate the right support.
Help for primary producers and rural landholders
The Rural Assistance Authority offered a Special Disaster Grant (up to $25,000 upfront, $75,000 in total) for primary producers earning 50% of income from primary production, and a Rural Landholders Grant (up to $25,000) for landholders and oyster farmers not covered by other programs.
Further assistance
Other services included clean-up of flood debris from private land, replacement of ID and personal documents, and emergency fodder for livestock. The team at pmwPlus sent our thoughts to everyone in the Orange community during that difficult time.