The federal government’s peak emergency agency has named four new zones in northern NSW to a key list of communities in urgent need of support, clearing the way for more disaster assistance payments for the Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Tweed local government areas.
The National Recovery and Resilience Agency made the most on Thursday afternoon after a political row over earlier advice that limited the additional help to the Richmond Valley, Lismore and Clarence Valley local government areas.
Piles of flood ruined belongings line the streets in Ballina, where residents are now eligible for additional disaster payments.Credit:Janie Barrett
With Labor accusing the government of favouring Coalition electorates with emergency cash worth up to $3000 for every adult, the formal recommendation means the same funding could flow to voters in the neighbouring Labor electorate.
The National Recovery and Resilience Agency said it had decided the need was so great in the four additional shires – Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Tweed – that residents would need two weekly disaster payments automatically paid to those who have already claimed and received the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment.
“These payments will be made from 22 March,” the agency said.
Emergency Management Minister Bridget McKenzie said the government had agreed to add additional disaster payments for the Northern Rivers region.
“As the full scale and impact to these areas in northern NSW is being realised, the Liberal and Nationals government is implementing this extra support as quickly as possible,” Senator McKenzie said in a statement.
“While people in northern NSW aren’t able to work, are still clearing out their homes and businesses, the extra two $1000 payments we’re rolling out to eligible families and individuals will support our communities as they start to rebuild their lives.
“The additional two $1000 payments for adults and $400 for children will automatically apply for AGDRP recipients in the Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Tweed LGAs, so there is no need for people to re-apply.”
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