Once again the Minns Labor Government has demonstrated their wrong priorities, failing the flood-affected communities of the Northern Rivers by failing to convene a single meeting of the Advisory Board of the Reconstruction Authority.
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services and the North Coast Gurmesh Singh said the Government’s inaction was inexcusable, as local residents continue to suffer while they wait for help to arrive.
“Minister Jihad Dib told ABC Radio National today that ‘circumstances have changed’ and ‘a reset is important’,” Mr Singh said.
“The Minister also confirmed the worst fears of the community by saying that the total number of buybacks and home retrofits is now limited to just 2,000 homes.
“It is extremely disappointing that on top of all this, the Reconstruction Authority Advisory Board hasn’t even met yet.
“The Minister claimed today that the board is still awaiting appointments before convening. However, the previous Coalition Government appointed enough members for the board to meet in March this year – more than four months ago.
“The Federal Labor Government is responsible for nominating the remaining two members to sit on the Board and we’ve heard nothing from them either.
“I agree with Minister Dib this is not a blame game, but the flood-affected communities of the Northern Rivers expect certainty, better lines of communication and a higher degree of transparency moving forward.
“The Opposition are calling on the Minns Labor Government to commit to funding a full recovery package which doesn’t neglect housing, and which also supports the business and tourism sectors.”