Disaster assistance available for bush fire affected farmers

22 Feb 2017

Eligible primary producers affected by the recent devastating bush fires can now apply for assistance under the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

The assistance has been activated for the Kempsey, Mid Coast, Mid-Western Regional, Narrabri, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Upper Hunter, Queanbeyan-Palerang and Warrumbungle local government areas.

DPI’s State Emergency Coordinator, Simon Oliver said the fires that ripped through the seven local government areas have been absolutely devastating.

“The fires have caused significant damage to farming equipment and infrastructure, dryland agriculture and rangeland grazing enterprises,” Mr Oliver said.

“It is estimated that at least 138 properties have been partially or totally impacted, with approximately 5,700 km of fencing damaged and large numbers of dead or missing stock.

“This assistance will help affected farmers get back on their feet.”

Assistance for farmers under the NDRRA includes:

• Concessional interest rate loans of up to $130,000 are available for those in urgent need. These loans can be used for essential working capital replacement and repair of damage caused to the property and associated improvements. The repayment term is preceded by a two year interest and repayment free period.
• Freight subsidies for primary producers of up to 50 per cent of the cost of transporting fodder to an affected property and stock to/ from agistment are available. The maximum subsidy available is $15,000 per annum.

To apply for a concessional loan or freight subsidy, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority or by phone 1800 678 593.

Primary producers needing assistance with emergency fodder, livestock assessment or emergency water should call 1800 814 647.

Media contact: 02 6391 3686