THE Governor-General's visit to the region coincided with an announcement by member for Barwon Kevin Humphries that NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell, had written to Prime Minister Julia Gillard requesting her support for the implementation of the Category C natural disaster declarations for the north western part of the state, including grants for the Moree, Gwydir and Narrabri shires.
"After visiting the region last week to see the extent of the damage first-hand, the premier and the minister for Police and Emergency Services Michael Gallacher have decided that Category C assistance is urgently needed," Mr Humphries said.
"As the floodwaters subside, the devastating extent of the damage is becoming increasingly clear.
"The NSW government has decided to seek the support of the Commonwealth government to activate vital additional assistance for those worst affected, particularly farmers and small business owners."
Mr Humphries said under Category C of the Commonwealth/State Government funded Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements, eligible farmers and small business owners would be able to apply for cash grants.
"Pending Commonwealth Government approval, the Rural Assistance Authority will administer and process applications for primary producer/small business grants," Mr Humphries said.
"The Department of Primary Industries will continue to assess and review damage reports for other Local Government Areas affected by the recent floods.
"From today a recovery coordination centre will also be operational in the Moree Town Hall, together with an additional 50 disaster relief support staff on the ground who will be available to help people access services or make claims."
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