Category C extended to Walgett Shire
2nd March 2012Minister's media release
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Michael Gallacher has today announced the Category C declaration implemented for Moree, Narrabri and Gwydir last month has been extended to include the Local Government Area of Walgett Shire.
"Information provided to my department has revealed extensive damage to primary producers in the Walgett Shire as a result of the recent severe flooding," Minister Gallacher said.
"As a result, the NSW Government has sought to extend the Commonwealth Government's Category C declaration for Moree, Narrabri and Gwydir on Tuesday 7 February 2012 to today include the Walgett Shire.
"It is vital we ensure assistance is made available to those worst affected by the floods," Minister Gallacher said.
Local Member Kevin Humphries has welcomed the extension of the Category C declaration.
"The floods have had a devastating impact on local farmers and small business owners and this will come as a welcome relief to them," Mr Humphries said.
Under Category C of the Commonwealth/State Government funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements, eligible farmers and small business owners would be able to apply for cash grants.
The Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) will administer and process applications for primary producer/small business grants.
The Department of Primary Industries will continue to assess and review damage reports for other Local Government Areas affected by the recent floods.
Farmers and small business owners seeking more information about the kinds of assistance they may be eligible for can contact the Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.
Category C extended to Walgett Shire (PDF 91KB)