Free structural assessments, demolition and waste removal for critically damaged homes
Press release from Deputy Premier, Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Friday 8th April
[Yesterday] the Federal Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience Bridget McKenzie [announced] the Australian and NSW governments co-funded Property Assessment and Demolition Program will meet the full cost of demolishing structures that are uninhabitable and beyond economical repair.
“This package will help ease the burden on owners who face months, and even years, of repairing and rebuilding their properties damaged or destroyed by these catastrophic floods,” Mr Toole said.
“Covering all costs related to the assessment of damage, and demolition if required, means uninsured owners will have one less thing to worry about, and people with insurance can put more money towards their rebuild.”
Mullum Cares contacted the government appointed contractor John Lyng
As soon as the announcement was made Sasha from Mullum Cares contacted the John Lyng group (they answered the phone promptly and were very friendly and helpful) to lobby to include Flood Resilient Advice in the reports that deem buildings repairable. After the 2017 floods, Lismore property owners of homes at significant risk were offered government funding to significantly subsidise the cost of lifting their homes. The program had little uptake as there were many barriers to success so whilst we applaud the multi level government co ordination we support Mullum Cares call for more assistance to be provided other than simply telling people their home is repairable.
Facebook resources for sharing flood adaptation information and giving and receiving donations
If you use Facebook here are some pages and groups involved with the community flood response:
Mullum Cares has created a group specifically to share information like this blog post and for community to contribute their ideas and experience of flood resilient building materials and furniture:
Build Back Better Northern Rivers
If you have donations in great condition Facebook marketplace and these Fb groups are great ways to not just donate the item but also the time and effort required to get a donation from you into the hands of a person in need.
Unconditional Giving & Receiving Byron & Byron Shire Urgent Flood Assistance
The Library of Stuff is offering FREE memberships to flood impacted locals and are always keen to receive donations of items in great condition that are helpful to people to borrow for a week or two at a time. All info can be found on their website libraryofstuff.org.au or Fb:
