AAP

NSW flood victims to get federal funds

AAP November 9, 2009, 8:24 am

People affected by floods that hit the mid-north coast and Northern Rivers region of NSW will be eligible for disaster relief payments of up to $1,000.

Emergency services have begun mopping up after torrential rain left 200 people cut-off by flooding.

Community Services Minister Jenny Macklin said people adversely affected by the floods would be eligible for one-off payments of $1,000 for adults and $400 for each child.

The payments would be made to people who were seriously injured, whose principal place of residence was destroyed or significantly damaged, who were unable to return home or who were isolated by the floodwaters for a period of 24 hours or more.

People can apply for the payments from Monday.

Almost 5,000 residents were isolated by the floods caused by torrential rain in the 48 hours to early Saturday morning (AEDT).

On Sunday morning the Bellinger, Hastings and Nambucca rivers were below minor flood level.

The Orara River, north-west of Coffs Harbour, is still above minor flood levels and was expected to peak at Coutts Crossing on Sunday afternoon.

"We will continue to work with the NSW government and the local community to support individuals and families to recover from a year of enormous stress and disaster," Ms Macklin said.

The federal government was also considering information provided by the mayors of Coffs Harbour and Bellingen Shire Council on residents who continue to be affected by the March floods in the same region.

Those affected by the floods are urged to contact government's NSW November 09 Floods Hotline on 180 2333 or visit their local Centrelink office.

More information is available at www.disasterassist.gov.au.

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