Following the extraordinary flood recovery efforts of the Deputy Premier’s multi-agency Strike Force comprising of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Fire and Rescue NSW, the NSW Government’s Public Works Advisory (PWA) will now work with councils to pick up the bulk of the remaining clean-up and waste removal work and continue specialised recovery efforts in NSW.
Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for Disaster Recovery John Barilaro said the Strike Force has wrapped up and PWA will diligently continue to work closely with local emergency authorities and councils until the clean-up is complete.
“We know the clean-up effort is an ongoing process, so this is by no means the end of recovery. As we have done with the bushfires, PWA will now take over the coordination and work with councils until the remainder of the work is complete,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This will include ongoing clean-up requirements and the removal of difficult or hazardous waste that is not yet completed. We will not rest until every flood-affected community gets the help they need, with people back in their homes and local businesses up and running.”
Mr Barilaro said the Strike Force has worked around the clock to provide immediate relief to victims and thanked them for their efforts.
“On behalf of the NSW Government, thank you for the amazing work of the emergency services sector, councils and the countless volunteers who came together to contribute to this vast effort,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW together deployed more than 50 strike teams, more than 4500 personnel and completed over 3000 tasks including moving rotten furniture out of homes and clearing access to impacted sites. There has also been more than 1100 skip bins provided to communities.
“The ADF deployed 850 personnel, removed 900 tonnes of waste, cleared 170 kilometres of roads, and helped hundreds of residents and business owners do an initial clear out after the floods.”
All storm and flood-impacted households, primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations will receive assistance, regardless of insurance status. Council costs associated with removal and disposal of storm and flood debris will be met.
