Today’s announcement of Category C assistance for more flood-affected areas of the Richmond electorate is great news in what has been a difficult time according to the Nationals Duty Senator for Richmond John Williams.

He said the Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and the NSW Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant have announced more areas and sectors will be eligible for grants under the jointly-funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.

Senator Williams said grants of up to $10,000 will be available to eligible banana, beef and soybean growers in Ballina Shire and macadamia growers in Byron Shire. 

He said grants of up to $15,000 will be available to eligible banana and sugar cane growers in Byron Shire.

Senator Williams said the recovery grants can be used for such things as salvaging crops, replacing pasture, the purchase of fodder and the repair of damaged equipment and machinery.

“Help is also at hand for eligible small businesses and non-government organisations in Billinudgel, Burringbar, Upper Burringbar, Crabbes Creek, Dulguigan, Mooball, Mullumbimby, Tumbulgum, North Tumbulgum, Ocean Shores, Stoker’s Siding and The Pocket.

Grants of up to $10,000 will be available.

I saw first-hand the damage caused to crops, homes and businesses when the unprecedented flooding swept through everything in its path but it could not diminish the spirit of the communities.

These grants are a helping hand for people to try and get back to some form of normality.

Applications for funding should be directed to the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or raa.nsw.gov.au”, Senator Williams said.