Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor has welcomed confirmation today of disaster assistance for the local government areas of Wollondilly, Camden, Penrith (part of which is in the Hume electorate) and Wingecarribee shires.

Mr Taylor joined the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Minister for Justice Michael Keenan, Premier Mike Baird, and State MP Jai Rowell in Picton today for the announcement of financial support. A visit to a number of Argyle Street businesses, including the IGA supermarket owned by the Khan family, followed a flood briefing by police and the SES.

“Some of these areas in Hume have been absolutely ravaged by flooding, after last weekend’s heavy rain. The Federal and NSW Governments have reacted quickly and decisively to declare these areas natural disaster affected, allowing joint Federal and State assistance to be made available.

“The assistance includes for people whose homes or belongings have been damaged and who meet an assets and income test, assistance for councils in the affected local government areas with the costs associated with cleaning up and restoring damaged public assets, as well as concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers and not for profit organisations, freight subsidies for primary producers and grants for not-for-profit organisations.

“I welcome an assurance that the Federal Government is continuing to work closely with the NSW Government on the need for additional assistance.

“I know this is going to be much needed support at a time of great distress for local communities. For further information, residents can visit the websites www.disasterassist.gov.au and www.emergency.nsw.gov.au  For information on personal hardship and distress assistance please contact the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 018 444.” 

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