Additional funds for flood affected New South Wales

The Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services, Julie Collins, today announced the Gillard Government will provide an additional $419,777 in Emergency Relief funding to two organisations in flood-affected areas of northern and western New South Wales.

The funding will be shared between The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul to deliver assistance to affected communities through more than 10 locations in Tamworth, Armidale and surrounding areas.

“This funding will enable The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul to assist more families and individuals as they embark on the recovery effort,” Ms Collins said.

“Ensuring that people in the affected areas can get help to meet their immediate needs is an important part of community recovery and service providers play a pivotal role in this process.

“The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul are already delivering Emergency Relief services in Tamworth, Armidale and surrounding areas and are able to quickly deliver assistance to those most in need,” Ms Collins said.

“Emergency Relief funds help community organisations provide people in need with essential items including food, transport, chemist supplies and help people find or pay for emergency accommodation.

“Today’s announcement is in addition to more than $9.9 million in Commonwealth disaster payments to individuals affected by floods in New South Wales,” Ms Collins said.

The Emergency Relief funding will be spread throughout the flood-affected areas of NSW including Parkes, Bourke, Lightning Ridge, Barham and the surrounding region.

More information about Commonwealth assistance for people impacted by flooding is available by visiting www.disasterassist.gov.au.