Fire assistance grants now available

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, is urging local people affected by the bushfires to take advantage of the grants and assistance programs available.
Dr Sykes said assistance was available to primary producers, small businesses and householders.

“There are various criteria that have to be met, but there are dollars available that will help many people,” he said. “I urge people to take some time to look at the Rural Finance website for the details; it may well be worth it.”

Grants available include a Clean-up and Restoration Grant of up to $3,000 for primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profit organisations, while a supplementary grant of up to $12,000 can be applied for separately or as part of a combined grant/loan.

Concessional loans are also available to primary producers and small businesses whose properties have suffered loss or damage by the direct impact of bushfires.

Householders whose principal residence has been lost or damaged are also eligible to apply. Voluntary not-for-profit organisations which have suffered physical damage as a result of bushfire will be considered for a concessional loan. Further information for not-for-profit organisations can be obtained from Rural Finance.

The Clean-up and Restoration Grants and Bushfire Assistance Loans are being administered by Rural Finance and can be used for a variety of purposes.
These include clean-up costs, such as hire of equipment, materials and labour, removal of debris and damaged goods and materials, restoration, payment for safety inspections, repairs to buildings other than housing and fencing not covered by any other assistance.

Salvaging crops, grain and feed, livestock and poultry health and the purchase or hire/lease costs for equipment essential to the immediate resumption of farming can also attract funds, as can the cartage of water.

Dr Sykes said information about the various assistance was available on the Rural Finance website, www.ruralfinance.com.au or through the nearest Rural Finance office or from the DPI Fire Recovery Centre based in Benalla on 5761 1590. Bushfire relief information was also available through Local Government authorities.