Commonwealth assistance is being provided to New South Wales through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) and will apply to the natural disaster declared areas of Wagga Wagga and Central Darling Shire.

“Many people and businesses have been adversely affected and there has been extensive flood damage to roads and other infrastructure,” Federal Attorney-General Robert McClelland said.

Funding will include assistance for the restoration of essential public infrastructure and relief operations, including:

· personal hardship and distress grants to low-income earners whose principal residence has been damaged. Enquiries should be directed to the NSW Department of Community Services on 1800 018 444;

· concessional loans of up to $130,000 for small businesses and primary producers. Enquiries should be directed to the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593;

· concessional loans of up to $25,000 for voluntary, non-profit organisations. Enquires should be directed to NSW Treasury on (02) 9228 5198; and

· road and rail freight subsidies of up to $15,000 to assist primary producers for the carriage of livestock and fodder. Enquiries should be directed to the Industry and Investment NSW office on 1800 814 647.