Friday 8th May 2015 – Harness Racing New South Wales would like to inform participants of government assistance programs that are available as a result of the severe storms and flooding in the Hunter Valley. HRNSW provided emergency feed packages to participants last week but CEO John Dumesny advised those affected should check what government help is available.
"Participants that have suffered losses as a result of the storms and flooding in the Hunter Valley could be entitled to government assistance on top of the help HRNSW has provided," Dumesny said.
"Websites and information lines have been set up by the government and I would encourage those in need of help to use these services."
The Australian Government Emergency Information Line – 180 22 66
Disaster Recovery Payment (DRP) – provides one-off financial assistance at a rate of $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child.
Disaster Recovery Allowance – provides income support payments to employees, primary producers and sole traders who can demonstrate they have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the NSW East Coast Storms and Flooding.
Disaster Welfare Assistance Line – 1800 018 444 operating 7 days a week, 8:30am – 5pm
For information about disaster relief grants for contents and structural repairs, available to low income earners with no insurance contact the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line.
Financial Assistance under this grant does NOT
Replace food spoiled as a result of power outages
Replace insurance
Provide compensation for losses
Cover insurance excess
Personal Hardship and Distress Assistance
The Ministry for Police and Emergency Services can provide disaster relief grants to eligible individuals and families whose homes and essential household items have been destroyed or damaged by a natural disaster. People with limited financial resources and no insurance may be eligible for assistance for essential household items and structural repairs to the home.
Inquiries about the disaster relief grants and the eligibility criteria may be made by calling 1800 018 444.
Dumesny confirmed participants that have been affected would continue to receive assistance from HRNSW and expected to make a further announcement in relation to more help for the region early next week.
Greg Hayes
