The NSW Government has today announced the establishment of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation to recognise the extraordinary response efforts during the major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023.

The citation will be awarded to organisations such as the members of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), other emergency agencies, defence force personnel and other community-based organisations.

It also includes individuals who were part of local ‘Tinny Army’ groups, who played a role in responding during flood emergencies across many parts of the state in an informal or spontaneous way.

The citation honours those who were part of the operational response during those challenging times, including those who assisted with evacuations, or helped people or animals trapped by floodwater.

This recognition is particularly significant given the unprecedented scale and duration of the operational response, with some regions experiencing over 100 consecutive days of emergency activities.

The Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation will be administered by the NSW SES and includes the following specific events:

• Southern and Western NSW floods: 9 November 2021 – 21 February 2022
• Northern NSW and Hawkesbury Nepean Valley floods: 22 February 2022 – 8 April 2022
• Greater Sydney and Hunter Valley floods: 27 June 2022 – 17 July 2022
• Southern and Western NSW floods: 2 August 2022 – 8 March 2023

Recipients of the citation will receive a letter and certificate co-signed by the NSW Premier, NSW Minister for Emergency Services and the NSW SES Commissioner, along with a citation pin.

The NSW SES will contact eligible organisations directly to submit nominations on behalf of members.

Informal or spontaneous volunteers whose efforts were not as part of an eligible organisation can self-nominate.

This initiative follows the Bushfire Emergency Citation, ensuring that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during emergencies are recognised.

While the NSW Government remains focused on helping the communities recover and rebuild, the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation underscores the Government’s commitment to also acknowledging the dedication and resilience of those who served the community in times of crisis.

To nominate as an individual, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/premiers-department/citation.