Nicholls flood emergency discussed in Canberra

By Tyler Maher

Oct 30, 2022

Advocating: Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell (right) with Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt.

Moira Shire has been added to the list of local government areas eligible for the Australian Government’s Disaster Recovery Payment.

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Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell spent last week in Canberra highlighting the needs of flood-affected communities across the region.

After seeing the flood damage and meeting with residents, farmers and business owners first-hand on the ground in Rochester, Seymour, Mooroopna, Nagambie, Shepparton, Undera and Murchison, as well as hearing the needs of the Echuca and Moira Shire communities, Mr Birrell took the concerns to Parliament House.

Mr Birrell said he was pleased people in Moira Shire were now able to apply for immediate financial help.

“I won’t let regional residents be left behind and miss out on this immediate, essential one-off payment of funds,” Mr Birrell said.

“Moira Shire residents who’ve had flood water cause major damage to their home or a major asset at their home are eligible for a $1000 payment per adult and $400 payment per child.”

Mr Birrell also called on the Labor minister to provide flood-affected business owners and primary producers with funding grants to help with the clean-up and rebuild of their businesses.

“The floods have ripped through communities across Nicholls and business owners need to be provided with financial relief to rebuild,” Mr Birrell said.

“Small businesses and primary producers provide significant input into our local economies.

“They employ hundreds of locals, service the needs of our people and draw visitors to our towns.

“They need to be supported in repairing damage to ensure they can return to service and help our region prosper following these devastating floods.”

Mr Birrell called on the Federal Government to provide the relief sooner rather than later.

The sitting week also included a number of speeches by Mr Birrell explaining the impact and scale of the damage, while also recognising the strength and generosity of the people of Nicholls.