Young cherry growers eligible
for flood disaster assistance
PRIMARY producers including cherry growers and small businesses directly affected by flooding at Young in March are eligible for grants of up to $15,000.
Natural Disaster Relief Assistance is also available, says New South Wales Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) general manager, Steve Griffith.
The grants are available to eligible applicants to put towards flood clean-up, replacement of stock, damaged equipment, and other general repairs.
“I would like to remind farmers, cherry growers and small businesses to contact the RAA if they were affected by the significant flooding in Young during March so we can determine if they are eligible for assistance,” says Mr Griffith.
“A grant of up to $15,000 is available to all eligible primary producers who suffered direct damage as a result of the March 2012 flooding for clean-up and immediate restoration costs under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), announced by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments in March.
“To be eligible, the majority of the applicants’ income must be earned from their farm or small business and applications can be received and approved before the expenditure is incurred.”
Mr Griffith says Disaster Relief Assistance is also available to primary producers and small businesses as provided by the NSW Disaster Assistance Arrangements.
“Loans to eligible primary producers of up to $130,000, at a concessional interest rate, are available to those in urgent need,” says Mr Griffith.
“These loans may be used to meet carry-on requirements and the replacement and repair of damage not covered by insurance.
“The Natural Disaster Declaration was announced by the NSW Government in March.
“I urge potential applicants to call the RAA on 1800 678 593 to clarify their eligibility and find out about the application and payment requirements so we can get the process underway.
“We want to ensure that communities and producers receive the available assistance so they can get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
Applications for grants are to be received by the RAA on or before October 31.
Applications for loans under the natural disaster assistance are to be received on or before September 30.
Meanwhile, flood-affected producers including potato growers and small businesses in the Upper Lachlan Local Government are also eligible for Natural Disaster Relief Assistance.
Producers affected by the flooding can also phone Crookwell Rural Financial Counsellor Cath Carter on 0400 452 434 or Goulburn Rural Support Worker Dick Kearins on 4828 6614
Enquiries can be made to the RAA on 1800 678 593.
Further information at www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
Regional
