After a week of devastating storms, Tasmanian councils will now be able to seek financial assistance to rebuild their communities.
Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) were activated today, in a jointly-funded State and Federal government agreement.
Of the State’s 29 councils, 18 are eligible to apply for assistance.
Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) President, Mayor Doug Chipman, said the funding is welcome news for council’s hit hard by flooding.
“In the case of a major disaster, providing emergency relief services and implementing recovery actions for affected communities can place a major strain on council staff and resources,” said Mayor Chipman.
“Many council staff and a great deal of council resources will be directed towards restoring communities, engaging with communities, coordinating activities across agencies, and coping with increased demand for services such as removing fallen or dangerous trees from roadsides, or repairing damaged roads and bridges.”
As the floodwater subsides, costs are being tallied; the State Government has estimated damage could top $100 million.
Mayor Chipman said financial assistance would enable councils to proceed with recovery arrangements with confidence.
“The costs to the most impacted councils and communities will be significant and therefore the activation of the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements is most welcome.
“The Local Government Association of Tasmania and councils will continue to work closely with the State Government in relation to both immediate recovery work and the funding for restoring communities.”
