Families and businesses devastated by bushfires on the New South Wales central coast are set to receive urgent financial assistance from both the federal and state governments.
Government Announces Support Package
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed the support measures in an interview with the ABC on Sunday morning. The aid package is designed to help those most severely impacted by the recent blazes.
Small businesses, primary producers, and logistics and transport companies involved in the clean-up operations will be able to access crucial support. Local councils engaged in the recovery efforts are also eligible for assistance.
Hardship Grants for the Uninsured
A key component of the response is the provision of hardship grants for residents who have lost their homes and were not covered by insurance. Premier Minns expressed profound sympathy for the affected families, stating the situation was "the worst news imaginable" in the lead-up to Christmas.
The confirmed number of homes destroyed currently stands at at least 12 on the central coast, but authorities fear this figure will rise. There are already reports indicating up to 16 properties may have been lost as assessment teams get a clearer picture of the damage on the ground.
Recovery and Infrastructure Updates
Support services are now actively working with victims and local councils to manage the aftermath, with a focus on keeping essential roads open. In a piece of positive news, Premier Minns confirmed that vital transport links have been reconnected.
The rail line running from the Central Coast to Newcastle and Sydney is back operational as of today, a critical development for restoring transport and logistics in the region. The government has pledged to continue rolling out further support as needed in the coming days.
