$9.1 million boost to help flood-affected communities

25 July 2023

The Albanese and Minns Governments have launched a $9.1 million grant program for community organisations and non-government organisations as they help flood-affected regions on their road to recovery.

The NGO Flood Recovery Program funding will go to service providers and non-government organisations in the Western, Murrumbidgee, Far West and New England districts as they continue to rebuild following the floods which began in August-September 2022.

The grants are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The grants will provide a range of support, including staffing costs to meet increased demand for help, operational costs, and funding to help people remain safe during recovery:

• $6.5 million will go to community and volunteer-based non-government organisations across the Western, Murrumbidgee, Far West and New England districts.
• $1.5 million will be allocated for administration and local support, including on-the-ground flood support officers deployed on the ground to support grant recipients throughout the life of the grant.
• $1.1 million will be available for applications from current NSW Department of Communities and Justice service providers.

Further information on how to apply is available at: https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/service-providers/grants/ngo-flood-recovery-program.html

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Murray Watt said:

“We are providing support for local and non-government organisations as they help lift communities back on their feet after these disasters.”

“This funding is another way the Albanese and Minns Governments are investing in much-needed recovery services delivered through community-led social recovery programs across the state.”

NSW Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington, said:

“Flood affected communities have shown a great deal of resilience and courage dealing with the major flooding events of 2022. This funding will help deliver more support to people still struggling.”

“Local services are crucial in supporting and strengthening communities during times of hardship. These grants will bolster their efforts in providing valuable assistance to families and businesses still recovering from the floods.”

NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said:

“While storms may last a few days, the recovery efforts can take several years, from rebuilding homes to reestablishing businesses.”

“Once emergency services leave disaster-affected areas, community and non-government organisations play a crucial role in helping people recover and rebuild.”

“It is important we support these on-the-ground organisations who assist NSW communities, and these grants will mean they can continue to provide vital services.”