Bushfire clean-up assistance for Tathra residents

The NSW Government will step in to facilitate the clean-up of Tathra homes destroyed by the bushfires, in partnership with insurers.

The $10 million clean-up package will assist with the removal of:

• asbestos-contaminated material released as a result of the bushfire
• all dangerous debris, including destroyed homes and trees
• concrete slabs.

The NSW Government's package ensures the cost of cleaning up properties in Tathra and its surrounds will not be deducted from funds available under residents’ insurance polices for rebuilding.

NSW Public Works will coordinate the clean-up operation, in partnership with insurers and Bega Valley Council, and will engage expert contractors regularly utilised in the aftermath of natural disasters.

This will help ensure that the clean-up operation takes place in an efficient and coordinated manner, and that clean-up and disposal standards are upheld.

The NSW Government has also agreed to fund the expansion of Bega Council’s tip to ensure hazardous waste from the fire can be disposed of safely.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she is relieved that nobody lost their life.

“With such devastating property loss and damage we need to help people rebuild and the community recover,” Ms Berejiklian said.

The appointment of Mr Euan Ferguson as Recovery Coordinator supports the range of assistance measures already available in nominated areas under the Natural Disaster Assistance Schemes, including grants for people on low incomes with no insurance, whose homes and essential household items have been destroyed by the bushfires.

Where Tathra residents can get help

Contact the Disaster Welfare on 1800 018 444 to facilitate the clean-up of your property (if you have not already been contacted by your insurer).

Visit the Office of Emergency Management website for information about disaster relief grants