Joint Federal and NSW Government disaster funding is being rolled out to Goulburn Mulwaree Council under Stream 1 of the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund (BCRRF), which helps councils promote community well-being, social and future disaster resilience.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said that council would receive a $100,000 payment under BCRRF Stream 1.

“This funding will allow Goulburn Mulwaree Council to develop procedures and acquire equipment to assist with the operation of an emergency evacuation centre and to provide local community grants to facilitate bushfire recovery and resilience activities,” Mr Taylor said.

State Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the focus on a locally-led recovery is what will ensure the fire-affected community has improved capacity and capability to respond to future disasters.

“We are committed to supporting communities on the long road to recovery. We understand that locals know what they need best, so that’s why we are empowering local communities to make best use of this funding.”

Mayor Bob Kirk said the funding will be a huge help to the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC).

“During a natural disaster such as a bushfire or flood, the Goulburn Local Emergency Management Committee set up in the Council Chambers to ensure a coordinated response to the event. This funding is fantastic, and will be utilised to install technology and equipment that will make life much easier for the LEMC.”

Mr Taylor said the closing date for community applications for Stream 2 of the BCRRF will be extended to provide adequate time for applications to be submitted.

Applications for Stream 2 of the BCRRF program will now be accepted until 12pm on 11 December 2020 and can be submitted at www.emergency.nsw.gov.au.