Southern NSW farmers and small businesses affected by severe flooding across eight local government areas are now eligible for additional assistance and grants of up to $15,000.

 Under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements, small businesses and primary producers in Griffith, Leeton, Lockhart, Murrumbidgee, Narrandera, Urana, Wagga Wagga and Young local government areas can now access grants for flood clean-up and restoration costs.

Farmers and small businesses should contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority (NSW RAA) to discuss the assistance measures and their eligibility for funding.

To be eligible to receive this funding, the majority of the applicant’s income must be earned from their farm or small business.

The grants are for reimbursement of immediate business cleanup and restoration costs.

Potential applicants are urged to call the NSW RAA on 1800 678 593 to find out more about the application and payment procedure.

Additional staff have been deployed to assist with the processing of applications and by calling the NSW RAA straight away eligible applicants can get the process underway immediately.

While the clean-up has begun in some towns, many downstream areas are still bracing themselves for major flooding as the water makes its way through the Murrumbidgee, Lachlan and Darling River systems.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Livestock Health and Pest Authorities continue to work around the clock to provide assistance to affected rural communities and primary producers.

NSW authorities have responded to over 1,200 calls for assistance and aircraft continues to operate in southern NSW to assist with stock lifts, fodder drops and stock surveillance.

Farmers can report flood damage and stock losses to NSW DPI on 1800 814 647 24-hours.

Farmers in need of assistance, including fodder, livestock and other assistance should call the SES hotline on 132 500.