DPI Flood Frequently Asked Questions

Primary Producer Recovery Grants

March/April and May 2009 North Coast floods

Who is eligible?

Primary producers who have suffered direct damage as a result of the March/April and May 2009 floods.

What is the grant for?

The clean-up and immediate restoration costs as a result of the floods.

Do I need to keep receipts?

Yes. Payment of any assistance can only occur if a tax invoice or receipt for damages incurred is produced.

Can a company or incorporated body apply?

Yes. But as with individuals, the company must have a right or interest in the land used for the purpose of a farm enterprise and derive more than half of its income from the farm enterprise.

Do people have to complete all their expenditure before they apply in one application?

Multiple claims can be made – but the total of all claims for an individual must not exceed $15,000.

Does the damage include storm damage or just flood damage?

It is only for direct damage as a result of March/April and May 2009 floods – and does not include wind damage.

How do I know if my farm is covered?

Your farm must be in a Local Government Area that has been declared a natural disaster area for the flood events concerned. These include Ballina; Bellingen; Byron; Clarence Valley; Coffs Harbour; Kempsey; Kyogle; Lismore; Nambucca; Port Macquarie-Hastings; Richmond Valley and Tweed. If in doubt, check with your local Council.

When is the cut-off date for lodging applications?

September 30 this year. More than four months after the floods.

Does the grant cover loss of income as a result of the floods?

No.

What is covered?

Damage to farm buildings, crops and/or pastures, livestock disposal,

Fencing, equipment and/or plant and infrastructure.

What is NOT covered?

• damage to dwellings,
• damages covered by insurance and
• cost of using your own labour, your existing staff or your own equipment.

Are animals lost in the flood covered?
The disposal costs of dead animals together with their replacement cost are eligible.

Would sowing replacement pastures be covered?

Yes, if the crop or pasture that was there before the flood is lost and the same or similar crop or pasture is being re-established.

The requirement for 50% of income to be derived from primary production - how is this calculated?

This is based on copies of your latest personal and farm business taxation returns. The proportion is calculated on gross income from all sources.

How quickly will applications be progressed?

The aim is for a two-week turnaround including the receipt of payments.

Will a separate grant apply to each individual flood event?

No.

How do I apply?

Ring 1800 678 593 or visit the website http://www.raa.nsw.gov.au/ for an application form or advice.

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