Corindi community to get extra support eight weeks after devastating storm destroyed properties

Almost two months on from a freak storm event which destroyed houses and agriculture on the Coffs Coast, new measures to help victims will become available from Monday.

Images from residents in Corindi who were impacted by the major storm event on Thursday February 25, 2021.

Almost two months after a 1-in-500 year storm event devastated the Coffs Coast town of Corindi, the Federal Government has announced it will be offering more financial support to residents.

On February 24 almost 300mm rain fell in parts of Corindi, causing widespread flash flooding which destroyed properties and farm infrastructure in a matter of hours.

One mother and her children had to take refuge on a kitchen bench as floodwaters rose in her home, with emergency services powerless to assist.

It was estimated up to 12 properties may have to be rebuilt and the same storm caused thederailment of a goods train at nearby Nana Glen, which closed the line for ten days as 16 wagons and a locomotive were removed and the track was repaired.

While assistance through Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery funds were made available in early March, the Federal Government has announced residents in Corindi Beach, Upper Corindi and Red Rock affected by the storm will be able to access the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment and Disaster Recovery Allowance from Monday.

Jayde and Tim McKenzie's Corindi property was severely damaged after a storm on February 25.

“Our community has been lashed by wild weather, so this extra cash will allow people to begin their recovery journey,” Page MP Kevin Hogan said.

“One-off payments of $1,000 per adult and $400 per child through the AGDRP will help those who have suffered significant loss, including a severely damaged or destroyed home.”

“We’re also making the Disaster Recovery Allowance available to people who have lost their income because of this flooding event.”

People eligible for DRA can access income assistance for up to 13 weeks, equivalent to the maximum rate of JobSeeker or Youth Allowance.

Equivalent financial assistance will also be available to eligible New Zealand citizens (‘non-protected’ Special Category Visa, subclass 444 holders) affected by the floods.

To access assistance call 180 22 66 or visit www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.

More information on Australian Government disaster assistance is available at www.disasterassist.gov.au.