The NSW Government welcomes the Australian Government’s action to unlock further targeted financial support for workers and sole traders impacted by the severe storm event and subsequent power outages in Far West NSW.

Earlier today, the Australian Government announced that from 2pm AEDT, applications opened for the Disaster Recovery Allowance.

The allowance provides up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders who have experienced loss of income as a result of recent severe storms in the Broken Hill and Central Darling Local Government Areas, as well as the Far West Unincorporated Area.

The announcement bolsters existing support, which includes the activation of joint Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and a range of NSW Government-led actions, including the announcement of a $4 million financial support package for households and small to medium-sized local businesses, which will open for applications soon.

A Recovery Assistance Point managed by the NSW Reconstruction Authority has been open in Broken Hill since Tuesday.

People who are experiencing hardship, need food relief, legal and insurance advice, support replacing pharmaceuticals are encouraged to visit the Recovery Assistance Point where staff will be on hand to assist them.

Members of the community are encouraged to seek information regarding eligibility for the Commonwealth Government allowance and information on how to claim on the Services Australia website: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/natural-disaster.

Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“We extend our gratitude to the Australian Government for unlocking this additional support package for workers impacted by the energy emergency in our Far West.

“We’re focused on restoring permanent power supply, which is likely within the next 24 hours. At the same time, we’re doing everything we can to help households and businesses keep the shelves stocked and doors open."

Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said, “I want to thank our federal counterparts for their shared focus on backing in our Far West communities who have had lives and businesses turned upside down for the last fortnight.

“We all know that our regions are resilient and self-reliant, but it’s critical that we give them the support they need at the moment – and that’s exactly what all levels of government are doing.

“I urge residents and businesses to put your hands up to access the support that you’re eligible for.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said, “Any assistance the Federal or State government can give to Broken Hill and surrounding communities is welcome and I thank the Federal Government for this support.

“People continue to face terrible circumstances due to the power outage.

“I will continue fighting for small businesses and individuals as the recovery continues.”