More than 100 additional officers deployed to flood-affected parts of NSW will begin work today as the rescue and recovery operation continues.
The additional officers, from multiple metropolitan Police Area Commands and specialist units across the state landed in northern NSW late yesterday (Thursday 3 March 2022).
They will be deployed to support local police attached to Richmond Police District and Tweed/Byron Police District, covering the areas of Lismore, Tweed Heads, Ballina and surrounds.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said the extra police resources will make a significant contribution to the emergency response in flood-ravaged areas.
"These communities have faced some of the toughest times imaginable, but the stories of compassion and bravery from police, volunteers and entire communities rolling up their sleeves to pitch in have been incredible," Mr Toole said.
"Rest assured we are throwing every resource at this evolving situation, and deploying these extra officers will make a huge difference on the ground, not only in the immediate response phase, but also during the long road to recovery."
State Emergency Operations Controller, Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon, said the NSW Police Force would continue to do whatever was required to assist flood affected communities.
"I want everyone affected by this ongoing emergency to know we will support you in the coming weeks, months, and as long as it takes, to get you and your communities back on your feet," Deputy Commissioner Lanyon said.
"We will continue to work with the SES and all emergency service agencies and will not hesitate to deploy additional resources if required."
As the rescue and recovery operation continues, police would like to remind the community to stay up to date with the latest evacuation orders and warnings from the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) via their website: https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/.
For all flood-related assistance, please contact the NSW SES on 132 500, or visit nsw.gov.au/floods. Save Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies only.
Those in flood-affected areas are also urged to register their movements on the Australian Red Cross Register.Find.Reunite website: https://register.redcross.org.au/
Any other flood-related inquiries can be directed to the Public Information Inquiry Centre (PIIC), which is a 24-hour resource providing up-to-date information regarding the flood emergency on 1800 227 228.
