Joint media release with the Hon Jihab Dib MP
Disaster assistance is now available in the Muswellbrook Local Government Area (LGA) following impacts of multiple earthquakes between 23 August 2024 and 12 November 2024.
The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and NSW governments through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The support includes assistance for Muswellbrook Shire Council to help with the costs of restoring damaged essential public assets.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said the 4.7 magnitude earthquake caused damage to homes and businesses and left thousands without power.
"The Australian and NSW governments are fully committed to assisting the Muswellbrook community as they begin the recovery process following the disruption this challenging event has caused," Minister McAllister said.
"The series of earthquakes across the region created disrupted communities and created anxiety across the region. While we are relieved nobody was injured, the assistance we're jointly activating today will support works that will make infrastructure more resilient."
NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the NSW Government is committed to helping the Muswellbrook Council repair and rebuild essential public assets after these earthquakes.
"The NSW Reconstruction Authority has been working closely with Muswellbrook Council to ensure the cumulative impacts of the earthquakes is assessed to allow vital repairs to get underway," Minister Dib said.
"A number of earthquakes across the area has resulted in damage to essential infrastructure and assets. This declaration will unlock assistance for the council so it can repair eligible community buildings, roads and bridges that have been impacted."
Emily Suvaal MLC, Labor spokesperson for the Upper Hunter, said the NSW and Commonwealth governments are committed to assisting the Muswellbrook community with its recovery in the wake of natural disaster.
"This assistance is crucial to supporting our regional communities, particularly as we head into the busy holiday season. I welcome the collaboration between the NSW and Commonwealth Governments in providing much-needed support to the Muswellbrook community," Ms Suvaal said.
Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi welcomed the announcement, saying it's an important step toward recovery for the region.
"This is a challenging time for the Muswellbrook community, and I've seen firsthand the impact these earthquakes have had on homes, businesses, and infrastructure," Mr. Repacholi said.
"This disaster assistance will go a long way to helping the community get back on its feet. I'm proud to see the Federal and NSW governments stepping up to provide this support."
Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government's Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.
