The NSW Government is providing disaster recovery relief to help bushfire affected communities get back on their feet as soon as possible.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott have committed up to $25 million to facilitate the cleanup of homes and properties damaged and destroyed by the recent fires.
“Having witnessed firsthand the devastation these bushfires have inflicted on local communities, it is vital the Government acts right away to provide assistance as quickly as possible,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Our tremendous volunteers are still on the fire ground battling these blazes, and while this mammoth effort continues, the recovery is already underway.”
Mr Barilaro said the funding will help pay for the cleanup of hazardous materials including the removal of asbestos-contaminated material released as a result of the bushfires, concrete slabs and all dangerous debris including destroyed homes and trees.
“Regional NSW is going through an incredibly difficult time with the drought biting hard and ferocious bushfires across the state and this funding is an important step towards helping communities get back on their feet,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Homes and lives have been destroyed and this Government will do everything we can to help regional families rebuild and recover for the long run.”
The NSW Government will also waive waste levy fees for residents disposing of bushfire-generated waste at nominated facilities saving households thousands of dollars. Building materials, furniture and any other bushfire-generated waste is included.
Mr Elliott said the NSW Government would be part of the disaster recovery for the long term and more support will be made available as the extent of the damage becomes clear.
“Communities are hurting right now and we hear their calls for assistance. We still have fire fighters on the frontline saving lives and property but we are already fighting to save livelihoods,” Mr Elliott said.
“We are in it for the long haul and by your side every step of the way.”
The next step in disaster recovery will involve additional funding for rebuilding and repairing infrastructure but the true of extent of the damage won’t be known until it is safe to enter all affected areas.
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