Prime Minister Scott Morrison and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian visited the Club Taree evacuation centre on Sunday to talk to people who were evacuated as a result of bushfires around the region.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Morrison and Ms Berejiklian were struck by the community spirit displayed by the evacuees and the various organisations helping them.
"I've heard stories of incredible community, where people have reached out, got people out of homes, made sure they've got to safety, looked after each others' livestock and animals, talking to each other, putting themselves in harms way for each other," Mr Morrison said.
"I've got to tell you as a Prime Minister I'm never more proud of Australians as I in moments like this. They just show incredible spirit, incredible heart, incredible generosity.
Ms Berejiklian was similarly moved by the feeling of community displayed at the evacuation centre.
"Today it just struck me the number of services that are here ... and also the generosity of the community, both locally and throughout the State, she said.
Mr Morrison announced that from midday today Disaster Recovery Payments of $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child would be available, and a Disaster Recovery Allowance for up to 13 weeks of income support where a person has lost income as a result of the bushfires.
Mr Morrison thanked all of the other States and territories for coming to NSW's hand to deal with the crisis.
Related reading:
